Mentoring Scheme

2025 Society for RSE mentoring scheme

This runs for 9 months with a suggested mentoring meeting every 4 weeks, and we have mentoring across all levels of experience. This includes a training session for mentors and mentees, plus check ins and de-briefs. From getting into research software or are leading a group we’ve represented all levels of experience.

The only requirement is that you are a paid up member of the Society of RSE

Why be a mentor or mentee?

The mentoring scheme is available to all society members and is designed to create new connections among people working in Research Software Engineering (RSE) across many different institutions. 

Mentors are usually more experienced and willing to share their knowledge and guide early-career RSEs. They play a role in offering support, encouragement, and insights to mentees, helping them explore their career paths and long-term goals, while mentors can benefit from developing leadership skills and professional growth.

Mentees are members looking for guidance to address specific challenges, broaden their perspectives or develop their careers. Their role involves active engagement, openness to feedback, and a focus on their personal and professional development.

Ultimately, this scheme is designed to support and enrich the RSE community by encouraging collaboration among members and making new connections in the community!

Timeline

  • Information sessions about the mentoring scheme and Q&A
  • 2025-02-01: Applications open for mentors and mentees
  • 2025-02-14: Applications close
  • 2025-02-28: Pairs are notified of their matches
  • Training sesions
    • 2025-03-06: 10am GMT Mentee briefing (1 hour)
    • 2025-03-06: 2pm GMT Mentor briefing (1 hour)
    • 2025-03-11: 10am GMT Mentor briefing (1 hour)
    • 2025-03-11: 2pm GMT Mentee briefing (1 hour)
    • 2025-03-13: Mentor practice session (30 min)
  • Check-in and training session
    • 2025-07-01: 10am BST Mentees (1 hour)
    • 2025-07-01: 2pm BST Mentors (1 hour)
  • Wrap up and moving on session
    • 2025-11-25: 10am GMT Mentees (1 hour)
    • 2025-11:25: 2pm GMT Mentors (1 hour)

FAQ

What RSE experience should I have to apply?

The entire range of experience. For the last few years we’ve had people in the scheme ranging from those wanting to start a career in RSE, through to heads of RSE groups.

Can I be both a mentor and a mentee in the same cohort?

Yes, we’re happy for people to sign up twice – once as a mentee and once as a mentor if they would like to.

How much does it cost to join?

Its free for all members of the Society of Research Software Engineering

How are mentors and mentees paired?

They are matched based on their preferences, we make sure that it is with someone outside of their organisation.

Who can I contact if I have questions, I have an unresponsive partner or other problems?

Best bet is to drop an email to us at [email protected] and we’ll get back to you within 1-5 working days.

Can I pre-register my interest outside of the signup window?

Of course, drop us a line at [email protected] and we can make sure we email you when the next cohort runs.

Can I register from outside of the UK?

Yes!

What is the deadline to apply?

Applications to the programme close on the 14th February 2025.

What advice have previous participants in the scheme given?

  • I’d say give it a try 🙂
  • If you’re a mentee set aside time to make sure that you can make use of the resource.
  • Be really clear about what you want to get out of this and make sure to communicate this properly up front.
  • It gives an opportunity to learn as a mentor (or develop as a mentee, I might like to try that too some time) and that it is personally rewarding.
  • Be clear about the type of mentor that you want and have some clear goals that you want help with.

Want to join or have questions?

Contact us at [email protected]