Supporting the next generation of researchers is one of NEOLAiA’s key priorities. Through the ESR (Early-Stage Researcher) Mentorship Programme, the Alliance offers PhD students and postdoctoral researchers an opportunity to expand their professional networks, gain valuable career guidance, and connect with experts from across Europe.
The programme is open to early-stage researchers from all NEOLAiA universities and is designed to support participants as they navigate the different stages of their academic and professional journeys. Whether they are considering a career in academia or exploring opportunities in industry, public institutions, or other sectors, mentees benefit from personalised guidance tailored to their interests and aspirations.
A distinctive feature of the programme is its international dimension. Each mentee is paired with a mentor from another NEOLAiA university. This cross-institutional approach encourages the exchange of knowledge, perspectives, and experiences while strengthening collaboration across the Alliance. Mentors provide advice on research topics, share insights into career development, and help participants build meaningful professional connections beyond their home institution.
The ESR Mentorship Programme is primarily delivered online, making it accessible to researchers across all partner universities. At the same time, it includes at least one in-person activity, giving participants the opportunity to meet, collaborate, and strengthen the relationships established through mentoring.
The programme complements the broader range of opportunities available to early-stage researchers within NEOLAiA. Alongside the mentorship initiative, the Alliance organises dedicated ESR seminars covering topics such as research publishing, Open Data, research funding, ethics in science, science communication, career planning, proposal writing, leadership, innovation, and intercultural collaboration. Together, these initiatives help researchers develop both discipline-specific expertise and transferable skills that are essential for successful and impactful careers.
By fostering collaboration across institutions, regions, and cultures, the ESR Mentorship Programme reflects NEOLAiA’s commitment to building an inclusive and connected European research community, one where early-stage researchers can grow professionally, broaden their horizons, and contribute to addressing the challenges of the future.
