EMCA Mentoring Program
Welcome to the EMCA Mentoring Program
The EMCA Mentoring Program supports Early and Mid-Career Academics (EMCAs) across the Melbourne Medical School by connecting them with Mentors for supportive, career-focused conversations. The Program builds on insights from previous years and continues to foster reflection, encouragement, and shared learning - whether you're navigating uncertainty, building confidence, exploring leadership, or planning your next steps.
Mentoring in this Program is not about replicating someone else's path. Mentees don’t need to view their Mentor as a “future version” of themselves, and they don’t need to follow a traditional academic track to benefit. The value lies in honest conversation, fresh perspectives, and learning from each other’s experiences.
The Program offers value for both Mentees and Mentors:
- Mentees: A chance to connect with someone outside your immediate context who can help you reflect, clarify direction, and consider new possibilities.
- Mentors: An opportunity to contribute to a thoughtful, reflective conversation - sharing insight and experience, while often gaining fresh perspective in return.
I really benefited from the insights and experience of my mentor. I left each session feeling energised, positive, and clearer about my next steps. 2025 EMCA Mentee
Expressions of Interest are open!
Please complete the relevant EOI form by 4 March 2026:
Become a Mentor Become a Mentee
Key Documents
Who can apply?
Mentees
You’re eligible to apply if you:
- Hold an academic appointment at Level A, B, C, or D (honorary or salaried)
- Are willing to commit to the program from April to December 2026
- Have an academic appointment with the MMS until at least 31 December 2026.
Mentors
You’re eligible to apply if you:
- Hold an academic appointment at Level C, D or E (honorary or salaried)
- Have capacity to meet with mentees at least once a month from April to December 2026
- Have an academic appointment with the MMS until at least 31 December 2026.
What’s involved?
The Program is designed to be flexible and participant-led. Mentees are expected to take an active role in initiating contact and coordinating meetings, while Mentors provide perspective, insight, and encouragement based on experience. Further detail about how the Program works is available in the Welcome Pack.
- Mentors are usually paired with one or two Mentees
- Conversations may focus on career direction, confidence, leadership, or next steps
- Optional professional development sessions and opportunities for peer connection are offered during the year.
Key Dates
Dates are indicative and may be adjusted as the Program progresses.
- Expressions of Interest Open: 5 February – 4 March 2026
- Program Duration: April – December 2026
- Online Launch Event and Commencement: Late March 2026
- Program Conclusion: December 2026.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about the EMCA Mentoring Program, or need assistance with your Expression of Interest form, please get in touch:
Melbourne Medical School Research Support Team: mms-research@unimelb.edu.au