On May 27, three CEPLAS early career researchers were recognised with certificates during the annual reception of the SelmaMeyerMentoring Programme, held in the Community Center Bilk, Düsseldorf. The certificates, presented by HHU president Prof. Dr Anja Steinbeck—patron of the programme—acknowledge the researchers' successful participation in this structured initiative coordinated by HHU's Equal Opportunity Office.

This year, Dr. Franziska Fichtner (Group Leader) took part in SelmaMeyerProf, while doctoral researchers Mary Njeri Ngigi and Laia Segura Broncano participated in SelmaMeyerWiss as mentees.

The SelmaMeyerMentoring Programme runs for 18 months and combines a variety of career development workshops and networking opportunities with a one-on-one mentoring relationship with a senior scientist. While the programme offers long-term benefits, participating also requires time and commitment — especially alongside ongoing lab work and research activities. This speaks to the participants’ dedication to their professional development and thoughtful career planning.

Programs like SelmaMeyerMentoring (HHU), Cornelia Harte Mentoring or IFS Mentoring (UoC) have become an established and valuable tool for supporting the career development of women in science. CEPLAS actively encourages early-career women researchers to participate by covering program costs and highlighting mentoring as a meaningful step in professional growth.

As the participants themselves shared, the programme provided valuable space to reflect, plan, and connect. Their experiences underline the importance of structured mentoring in building confidence, expanding networks, and navigating the early stages of a research career.

“The SelmaMeyerProf program was a highly valuable experience. Sharing insights and experiences with fellow senior postdocs and group       leaders was both encouraging and inspiring. The workshops were particularly beneficial, helping me to strengthen my leadership skills and enhance my career development” (Dr. Franziska Fichtner, HHU)

“Through the organized workshops and one-on-one meetings with my mentor, I gained a clearer perspective on planning and navigating an academic career as an early-stage researcher. These experiences also inspired me to reflect on my strengths and skills that I can apply in my next career steps. ” (Mary Njeri Ngigi, CEPLAS Gradschool Student, HHU)

“Participating in the SelmaMeyerMentoring Programme was an excellent opportunity to network with early career researchers. The program      fostered open discussions about the challenges faced at our academic stage and provided tools to help us navigate our journey. The workshops and interactions with my mentor helped me to envision the career path I would like to pursue, and define clear steps towards my goal.”(Laia Segura Broncano, CEPLAS GradSchool member, HHU)

Of course, mentoring relatinships wouldn't be possible without the dedication of committed mentors. CEPLAS is fortunate to have a number of senior researchers who generously share their knowledge and experience with early-career colleagues. This year, Prof. Dr. Laura Rose (HHU) and Prof. Dr. Ute Höcker (UoC) joined the programme as mentors. In previous years, many other women researchers at CEPLAS—both at HHU and UoC—have also contributed their time and expertise to support mentoring initiatives.

Reflecting on their motivation to participate, they say:

 “Through my regular meetings with my mentees, I learned a lot about leadership and communication. The mentees showed me a special perspective that you don’t get through the typical supervisor-student interactions. These interactions allowed me to recognize ways I can improve my own supervision style and strategies I can apply in my research group.” (Prof. Dr. Laura Rose, HHU)

 “I enjoy these interactions with the next-generation scientists. It helps me see the challenges that this generation faces“. (Prof. Dr. Ute Höcker, UoC)

Mentorship is often one of the less visible academic tasks — a volunteer effort that plays a key role in shaping future female leaders. Many women scientists dedicate time to guiding and supporting their early-career colleagues, and this contribution deserves to be recognised. We want to make this effort more visible and express our appreciation for the time, insight, and commitment our mentors provide. We are proud to see CEPLAS researchers engaged on both sides of the mentoring relationship. Their commitment not only supports individual career development but also drives broader institutional change. Together with other much-needed structural programmes, these efforts play a vital role in fostering a more equitable research environment and in shaping a more inclusive university.