DS Mentorship Programme 2025-26
The Design Society Mentorship Programme is concluding its second successful year, with preparations now underway for the 2025–26 cycle, launching in September 2025.
This initiative was developed to support professional development, knowledge exchange, and community-building across all career stages within the DS membership. It is open to all members, from early-career researchers and PhD students to experienced academics and industry professionals.
Deadline: 15 August 2025
What is the DS Mentorship Programme?
The programme pairs mentors and mentees for a year-long collaboration, offering structured guidance, mutual learning, and a platform to discuss academic, research, and career development goals. The mentorship is flexible and self-directed, allowing each pair to decide how often and in what format they meet (e.g., virtual meetings, email exchanges, or in-person meet-ups).
Key benefits for mentees include:
- Career guidance and networking
- Research and publication advice
- Support in navigating academic or professional challenges
Mentors benefit by:
- Sharing knowledge and experience
- Strengthening leadership and coaching skills
- Contributing to the growth of the design research community
How to Join
If you’re interested in joining as a mentor or mentee, please contact Sophie Isaksson Hallstedt (sophie.hallstedt@chalmers.se) and Julie Le Cardinal (julie.le-cardinal@centralesupelec.fr) by 15 August 2025.
Join Us at ICED25
Participants are encouraged to connect in person at ICED25, where current mentor–mentee pairs and prospective participants will have the opportunity to meet and exchange ideas.
Programme Launch
The official launch of the new mentoring year will take place at the end of September 2025, with guidance materials and onboarding support provided to all participants.