Program Overview

Introduction to the VetMENT Mentoring Program

The VetMENT Mentoring Program is an initiative of the Vetsuisse Faculty, designed to provide targeted support to early-career researchers. The program aims to foster the academic careers of doctoral students, postdocs, residents, and assistants by offering individual mentoring, networking opportunities, and skill development.

Objectives of the VetMENT Program

The program has four primary objectives:

• Career Planning: Mentees are supported in planning their careers and learning to recognize and utilize opportunities.
• Networking: The program facilitates connections between mentees and experienced researchers from national and international institutions, promoting access to existing networks and the development of new ones.
• Skill Development: Workshops and retreats provide practical skills and prepare participants for academic careers.
• Inter-Faculty Networking: The program connects early-career researchers from the Bern and Zurich faculties, enhancing academic culture and scientific networking.

Program Structure

The VetMENT program consists of several key elements:

One-to-One Mentoring

Mentees are paired with experienced academic or professional mentors for individual guidance over the program duration. This mentorship is ideally independent of hierarchical structures, allowing for open discussions about career questions, strategic decisions, and the unwritten rules of the academic environment. Mentors share their knowledge, introduce their networks, and help mentees visualize development paths.

Mandatory Framework Program

The program includes three obligatory workshops:

1. An introductory event where mentees meet, learn about successful mentoring, and receive important information on career planning.
2. A 1.5-day retreat for intensive networking and skill development, with costs covered by the program.
3. A final workshop for experience exchange and program evaluation.

• Flexible Additional Offers: Further courses or workshops can be organized based on participants' needs.

Peer Mentoring

Peer mentoring is a crucial component, where mentees network among themselves. The project coordinator organizes a joint lunch every two months, allowing for informal exchange and discussion of specific topics. Participation is voluntary.

Time Frame

The mentoring cycle starts on January 21, 2026, and lasts approximately two years, concluding with a final event in autumn 2027.

Participation Requirements

Eligible participants include:

• Doctoral students/PhDs
• Postdocs
• Residents
• Assistants/Oberassistierende Requirements for participation include a timely and complete application and a willingness to actively contribute to the program. Participation is free, with the program covering:
• Travel costs for mentor meetings up to CHF 400
• Meals, accommodation, and workshop costs for the 1.5-day retreat
• Costs for peer mentoring lunches

Application

The application deadline is December 15, 2025. The number of places is limited, and in cases of oversubscription, the program managers decide on the selection.

Program Details

• The program is designed to support early-career researchers in their academic and professional development.
• It offers a unique opportunity for networking and skill development, tailored to the needs of the participants.
• The program's focus on individual mentoring, peer networking, and skill development makes it an attractive option for those seeking to advance their careers in academia and research.