Mentoring Program

 
 
The IAPHS Mentoring Program seeks to meet the needs of members – at any career stage – who could use some advice on professional development issues.
 
Being a mentor is a deeply rewarding way to contribute to population health science.   It builds fruitful relationships that, for many, bring new insights and ideas to their work.  Most importantly, it offers the satisfaction of making a difference in the career of a next generation scientist. Listen to the mentors talk about their experiences in the video.
Being a mentee enables individuals to access advice and guidance from successful population health scientists, often from other disciplines and institutions. Entering a mentoring relationship helps to build professional networks and provides a helping hand in planning for – and meeting – career goals. Watch the video to hear mentees describe what they have gained!
See a list of mentors who have participated in the program here.

How the Program Works:

1. Sign up

To Get a Mentor

1. Sign up

To Be a Mentor

  

2. Get Matched

IAPHS will compare the needs and expectations of mentors and mentees. We can’t guarantee a match, but we’ll do the best we can!

3. Make A Plan

Talk with each other to establish a schedule for calls and initial expectations within 6 weeks of being matched. We’ve created a template that will help you develop specific goals. We encourage all pairs to post their plan on the program website and revise it as it evolves.

4. Connect and Learn from Each Other

IAPHS will support you with monthly emails that provide tips and resources to help you get the most out of your relationship.  But it’s up to you to keep in touch and to let the relationship evolve in helpful ways while honoring the expectations you’ve agreed to.

 

Resources for Mentoring or Being a Mentee

Other Program Information

  • Who is eligible?

    Mentees must be IAPHS members.  Join here to become a member.  Mentors are not required to be IAPHS members but are encouraged to join.  There are no restrictions on career stage for either mentors or mentees.

  • How will mentors be recognized?

    In recognition of the importance of mentoring for population health science IAPHS has established a new Mentoring Award. In addition, all mentors will be given special recognition at the annual conference. From time to time, mentor-mentee pairs will be highlighted in the IAPHS newsletter.

  • What topics or issues can be addressed?

    There are no constraints on the topics that mentors and mentees can agree to cover.  See a list of potential topics here.  We especially encourage pairs to address issues related to interdisciplinary careers and the translation of science to policy and practice.

  • How will mentors and mentees be matched?

    IAPHS will compare the mentee’s needs with the skills and interests of mentors and find the best possible match. Mentors and mentees will then confirm their willingness to work together; either may raise concerns about the appropriateness of the match at any time. Although every effort will be made, It may not be possible to address all mentee/mentor needs and to match all applicants

  • How long/often will we be in contact?

    It depends on what you agree to as a mentor/mentee pair. Most (but not all) pairs decide to meet every month and talk for an hour each time. Pairs can remain in the official program for up to 12 months and renew for a second year. After two years, pairs can continue to meet outside of the IAPHS program.

  • What are the expectations for participants?

    Mentors and mentees will adhere to the boundaries (number, timing of contacts, length of relationship) agreed upon by both parties unless modified by mutual consent.
    Mentors and mentees will adhere to the IAPHS Code of Conduct in their relationship.
    Problems will be reported to Suzanne Bevan, IAPHS Executive Director. IAPHS reserves the right to withdraw its support for any pair that violates expectations.

Questions? Contact Sue Bevan (sbevan@iaphs.org).