Effective research mentoring relationships are critical to developing the next generation of researchers. Research & Graduate Studies and Build EXITO have partnered to invest in training from the Center for the Improvement of Mentored Experiences in Research (CIMER). A team of PSU faculty mentoring trainers leads the Mentoring Academy workshops using theoretically-grounded, evidence-based, and culturally-responsive techniques.
The Mentoring Academy offers learning experiences for mentors of research trainees across disciplines. Participants can register for any or all of the virtual courses. The workshops apply to those training undergraduates and graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and junior faculty. Mentors develop skills by participating in activities designed to engage productive, culturally responsive research mentoring relationships that optimize both mentors' and mentees' success.
The Mentoring Academy is a six-part series. Each 1.5-hour session introduces new content to support participants' development as mentors. Participants are encouraged to participate in the full series over time. Portland State faculty trained in this evidence-based mentor training curriculum facilitate the sessions.
The trainers' team will lead several workshops/discussions to help participants learn how to improve mentor/mentee relationships at all career stages and promote cultural change that values excellence in research mentoring as a critical aspect of diversifying the research workforce
The Mentoring Academy accelerates the process of becoming an effective research mentor by providing mentors with an intellectual framework, an opportunity to experiment with various methods, and a forum to solve mentoring dilemmas with their peers' help. By the end of the training, mentors will have articulated their style and philosophy of mentoring and have a toolbox of strategies to help mentor and mentees establish clear expectations.
Session topics include:
- Aligning expectations
- Addressing equity/inclusion
- Maintaining Communication
- Assessing understanding
- Promoting professional development
- Fostering independence