The UTS Early Career Academic Network (ECAN) Committee invite you to be part of a flexible initiative connects early career academics (mentees) with mid-career and senior academics (mentors) to support development in research, teaching, leadership, and career progression.
Be part of the 2026 Early Career Academic Network Mentoring Program
Why should you join?
Many early career academics have expressed a strong interest in gaining insights into research development, leadership, and innovative teaching practices from those with more experience.
Having access to perspectives and expertise from a mid-career or senior academic could make a significant impact in helping guide colleagues navigating their early academic journey.
Mentees have the opportunity to gain guidance and grow their academic career while mentors are able to share their experience and support their colleagues.
Member of the ECAN Committee and Lecturer at the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Dr Muhammad (Chuti) Chutiyami said the mentoring initiative provides an invaluable opportunity for both personal and professional growth, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment within our academic community.
“As an early career academic, I understand how valuable guidance from experienced mentors can be in navigating the challenges of academic life,” he said. “By connecting early career academics with experienced mentors, we can create a dynamic and nurturing space that enables new ideas, research, and teaching practices to thrive.”
One of last year's participants shared, "This is a wonderful program that supports early career researchers. I was paired up with a very approachable and supportive mentor."
A survey of 2025 mentees also indicated 86% would recommend the mentoring program to other early career academics, 71% were extremely likely to continue with the program in 2026, and all respondents (100%) said they felt comfortable reaching out to their mentor.
By connecting early career academics with experienced mentors, we can create a dynamic and nurturing space that enables new ideas, research, and teaching practices to thrive.
What is involved?
This mentoring initiative is designed to be flexible and low-pressure. There is no fixed structure or time commitment.
Mentoring pairs decide what works best for them, from a one-off coffee catch-up to ongoing conversations throughout the year.
Interested?
The ECAN Committee invite you to submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) by filling out a short 5-minute form.
EOIs are non-binding. Pairings will be based on interests and availability.
This is an initial expression of interest. The ECAN Committee will be in touch via email with more details, including when to commence the mentoring and proposed pairings, depending on your indicated availability and areas of interest.
- Fill out the Mentor EOI form: https://utsau.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8e7sFJ3h97CdMcm
- Fill out the Mentee EOI form: https://utsau.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2l5srXBpjthOOYC
The ECAN Committee truly values the collegiality and generosity that define our academic community at UTS and thank you in advance for considering this opportunity to support your ECA colleagues.
The ECAN Committee warmly encourage participation and would appreciate support in sharing this opportunity across networks to reach a wide range of potential mentors and mentees.
For more information or for any inquiries please contact ECANetwork@uts.edu.au.