When PES members are asked what most inspired them or helped them succeed in their careers, the most common response is: “I had a fantastic mentor.”

Fostering meaningful mentor–mentee relationships is a priority for PES. The PES Mentoring Initiative is led by the Research Affairs Council and designed to support professional growth through intentional, structured connections across research, clinical practice, industry, and leadership. An enhanced matching system is now available to better align mentors and mentees based on interests, goals, and experience.

Goals of the Mentoring Initiative:

  • Provide greater access to professional resources
  • Provide broader perspectives regarding potential career options
  • Provide advice on how to effectively spend non-clinical time and how to most effectively achieve research goals
  • Provide advice on changing research tracks
  • Provide advice on strategies to restart a research career after a break
  • Help develop a roadmap to help the individual pursue his or her career directions
  • Provide guidance on navigating the promotion process
  • Provide insights into achieving work-life balance
  • Help develop and refine leadership skills
  • Help the mentee to develop the skills to become a mentor of the future

Mentees: Mentees are typically trainees (fellows) and early-career faculty who are seeking guidance on career development, research, clinical practice, or leadership growth.

Mentors: We hope to recruit mentors who are willing to advise on careers in research, clinical practice, industry and government, career advancement, and work-life integration. Mentors play a critical role in shaping the next generation of PES leaders, and we welcome participation across diverse professional backgrounds.

While the program is designed to support individuals early in their careers, applications are reviewed with the goal of creating productive and appropriate mentor–mentee matches.

Program Structure & Timeline

The PES Mentoring Initiative operates on a cohort-based model. Recruitment for mentors and mentees occurs in advance of each annual meeting, with matching completed prior to the start of the cohort year.

  • Current recruitment: 2026–2027 mentoring cohort

  • Mentor–mentee assignments occur in early 2026

How to Participate

MEMBERS CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

We look forward to welcoming you to the PES Mentoring Initiative!

Thank you,

The Research Affairs Council (RAC)