Current Information:
Do you still have questions after reading the information pages, or would you like to find out more about particular aspects of the program? Then please contact the head of the program . You will find the contact details on the MeTra homepage.
How is the MeTra Program structured?
The MeTra Program is based on the building blocks of Mentoring, Training, and Networking and usually runs for a period of twelve to fifteen months. This basic structure is the same for all lines of the program. The content of the training courses is tailored to the respective target groups.
One-to-One Mentoring
One-to-one mentoring refers to the regular personal exchange between a mentor and the early career researcher (mentee). The aim of this exchange is to support the mentee in her professional development and academic career planning, to make it easier for her to establish professional contacts and to impart informal knowledge of the academic system. Issues relating to the compatibility of academia, career and family can also be addressed.
Mutual trust and tolerance, openness and commitment are important for the development and success of the mentoring relationship. The mentors and mentees agree on regular meetings or discussions. The frequency depends on the physical distance and the time available to the mentors. The structure of the collaboration is determined by the participants themselves.
The head of the program provides support and advice in the search for suitable mentors. The initial inquiry to the mentor is usually also made by the head of the program, who is then also available for any queries from the mentor. Not only academics from the University of Bonn can be considered as mentors, but also academics from other universities.
Training Program
In addition to mentoring, various workshops and training events form another important component of the MeTra program. Currently, four two-day workshops are held over the course of approximately one year, some of which are supplemented by individual coaching sessions.
The content of the workshops is tailored to the respective qualification level and covers topics such as:
- Project and time management
- Career planning with individual coaching sessions
- Acquiring third-party funding and research funding
- Development of leadership skills
- Conflict management
- Presentation of research results
- Preparation for appointment procedures
- Networking as part of career planning
Strategic thinking and future-oriented action
The workshops are led by experienced trainers who are familiar with the academic system and specialize in teaching key career-relevant skills.
More information on can be found under the respective program lines.
Peer Networking
Regular network meetings are held approximately once a month to enable mentees to exchange ideas with each other. The meetings serve to get to know one another better, to discuss common topics or to consolidate what has been learned in the workshops.
The interdisciplinary composition of the groups offers participants the opportunity to exchange ideas with early career researchers from other disciplines and faculties, to gain an insight into their research interests, working methods and specialist cultures and/or to develop joint project ideas or collaborations.
The network meetings are coordinated and organized by the mentees themselves. They can take place online or in person according to the wishes of the group.
Guests from various areas of the university can also be invited to the meetings. The head of the program is available to provide advice and support if needed.