The RMS Mentoring and Application Scheme: Nurturing Microscopists across the world

The RMS mentoring scheme is unique as it is crafted by microscopists for microscopists.Indeed, this is the reason why it came about in the first place, as we aimed to address the distinctive needs of individuals in this specialised field.Originating from conversations among Joelle, Scott, Georgina, Paul, and Alex, aka "the Mentoring Working Group", we recognised the lack of microscopist-focused guidance.Given the niche nature of our roles, seeking career or specialist advice often means looking beyond our immediate workplace or even country, and building such networks can be challenging.So, in 2022 and 2023 we conducted a pilot of the mentoring scheme.This provisional programme encompassed 1) personal mentoring for soft skills and 2) application mentoring pairing microscopists with specific instrument or software expertise.Drawing on their professional connections, the Mentoring Working Group matched together eight pairs, catering to early career as well as more established microscopists that were looking for a range of diverse goals, from transitioning to industry to developing core facility management skills.The feedback was very positive, with some examples overleaf…