The Second Cycle of Charles University’s Mentoring Program for Postdoctoral Researche ****************************************************************************************** * ****************************************************************************************** February 2, 2026 Charles University (CU) is launching the second cycle of its mentoring program for early-c researchers. A total of 42 mentees from 13 faculties and units of CU is paired with experi a one-year period, aiming to gain valuable experience, support their career development, a professional networks. Compared to last year, when 28 mentees participated, this represent in the number of participants. The primary goal of the mentoring program is to support the professional development of po researchers at CU. Participants will have the opportunity to draw on their mentors’ experi key topics related to their careers, and explore new opportunities both within academia an program also emphasizes supporting women and promoting equal opportunities in science and 42 mentees this year, 27 are women and 15 are men. Mentoring pairs will meet both in person and online throughout 2026, allowing greater flex inclusion of international mentors. The program involves mentors not only from Charles Uni Czech universities but also experts working abroad. During the program, participants will take part in approximately five meetings, systematic on achieving their career goals and personal development. The program is designed to be fl content tailored to the individual needs and expectations of each mentoring pair. Motivations of Participants in the Second Cycle Postdoctoral researchers typically join the mentoring program at a stage when they face im about the direction of their careers. Many seek strategic guidance on long-term profession including preparation for habilitation and building their own research profile. Uncertainty about the next steps in their careers—particularly after returning from resear abroad or navigating the Czech academic environment—is another significant factor motivati Participants often mention the need to better understand research funding systems, grant o informal institutional expectations. A strong motivation is also support in writing grant applications and securing research fu is essential for achieving research independence. This closely relates to developing skill leadership, student supervision, and project management, which are critical for early-stag investigators. Equally important for mentees is finding a balance between professional and personal life. value having space to reflect on topics such as parenting, mental health, and returning fr or periods of heavy workload. Mentoring is also seen as an opportunity to gain an independent perspective, providing sup experienced mentors outside of their direct institutional hierarchy. This helps participan priorities, boost self-confidence, and make informed, sustainable career decisions. The launch of the new cycle would not be possible without the support of our mentors. We s everyone who participated in the first cycle, as well as those who will guide participants year—your time, experience, and willingness to share know-how are essential to the program continuously seeking new mentors interested in joining the program; anyone interested is e contact us [ URL "https://cuni.cz/UKEN-1515.html"] . For those who wish to participate in the future, a third cycle is planned for 2027. The ca will open in the fall of 2026. Current information about open calls for mentees and mentors will be shared on our website channels, LinkedIn [ URL "https://www.linkedin.com/company/postdoctoral-hub-%E2%80%93-char and Bluesky [ URL "https://bsky.app/profile/postdoctoralhub.cuni.cz"] . Obrázek s textem Po width=

N.B. Funded by the European Union. Views and o are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the Europe European Research Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority responsible for them.