On 24 October, academics from seven leading universities came together for a Cross-Institutional Speed Mentoring session focused on career and professional development.

This innovative event, hosted in collaboration between the Universities of Bath, Cambridge, Kent, Oxford, Oxford Brookes, Sussex and King’s College London, provided a unique opportunity for early career researchers (ECRs) to connect with experienced mentors from a variety of backgrounds, with an emphasis on making connections across disciplines. The group included three ECRs and three more senior academics from Sussex.

What made this event special?

The session used a ‘speed mentoring’ format, with 17 mentees rotating between 21 mentors in a series of focused, 15-minute conversations. This setup created a dynamic environment for exchanging ideas and exploring solutions to professional challenges.

Mentees sought advice on a wide range of topics, including:

• Planning their careers and taking the next steps
• Writing successful grant applications
• Building productive research networks
• Balancing work and personal life
• Exploring opportunities at the intersections of disciplines and sectors

With mentors coming from multiple institutions and working in different fields, the session offered ECRs fresh perspectives and valuable insights beyond what could be learned from colleagues within their immediate research environment.

What participants had to say

Feedback from the event was overwhelmingly positive, with mentees and mentors alike gaining something meaningful from the experience.

For mentees, the event provided clarity, encouragement, and practical advice. Many shared how the session inspired them to:

• Build confidence and believe in their strengths
• Take a more proactive approach to seeking support and mentoring
• Start applying for grants early and even aim for large ones as co-investigators
• Expand their networks and collaborations
• Prioritise personal interests and long-term goals

One mentee summed it up perfectly:
“This was an incredibly valuable session. I got to speak with four experienced researchers who were eager to help. They were kind, understanding, and gave me plenty of ideas to think about for the next stage of my career.”

Mentors, too, found the session rewarding. They enjoyed helping others navigate their paths and valued the chance to connect with ECRs from different fields. Many appreciated the mentees’ thoughtful questions and the enriching conversations that followed.

One mentor described the session as:
“Very well-organised. I just had to show up and listen—it was a real treat!”

Why events like this matter

The speed mentoring session wasn’t just about giving advice—it was about fostering connections, sharing experiences, and helping participants see new possibilities for their careers.

Organisers are thrilled with the success of this round and are already looking ahead to the next event. Whether you’re a mentee seeking guidance or a mentor looking to share your expertise, these sessions are a fantastic way to grow, learn, and build meaningful relationships.

For more details about the event and future dates, visit the Speed Mentoring webpage.

We’d love to see you next time!

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