The purpose of this programme is to provide PGRs with a mentor – another PGR further along in their studies – with whom they can have supportive, non-judgemental conversations about their experiences of postgraduate research, as well as their professional and career development. PGR peer mentors can advise mentees about community and development within PGR study. Discussions may include: building networks; personal organisation and workload management; working effectively with supervisors; balancing work and life commitments and managing the demands of personal and professional responsibilities.
The scheme is designed to benefit both mentees and mentors. For mentees, it offers valuable support and a sense of connection. For mentors, it provides opportunities for personal and professional growth. More broadly, the initiative aims to strengthen collaboration and mutual support within the PGR community.
In 2026/27 we will be establishing a pool of PGR mentors, who we will aim to match with mentees from November 2026 onwards. Mentors and mentees can also join the scheme at any point in the year via an EOI form. This will ensure that all students have the opportunity to benefit from a mentoring relationship as soon as possible after enrolment. Mentors will be given training ahead of being matched with a mentee and will be supported by regular cohort group drop-in sessions and check-ins with the RIDA team.
It is expected that the mentoring relationship will last for 3-6 months and can last up to a year or more if agreed by both mentor and mentee.
Quotes from previous participants in the PGR Peer Mentoring Scheme
“My mentor has been really friendly, supportive and happy to share useful insights and information. It’s been a very positive addition to my PhD experience.”
“It was a lovely experience and I was lucky enough to make friends through the scheme.”
“I’ve found it (being a mentor) very rewarding.”
Read a PGR Peer Mentor’s thoughts on the benefits of the PGR Peer Mentoring Scheme.
For further information please see the following pages:
How to take part in the scheme
Express your interest in taking part PGR Peer Mentoring Scheme Expression of Interest 26/27
PGR Peer Mentoring Scheme Briefing sessions for 2026/27:
21 October 2026 | 10.30-11am | Online
24 February 2027 | 10.30-11am | Online
See the RIDA Blackboard site for slides from the sessions.
Mentoring Process for 2026-27 Academic Year
Sheffield Hallam PGR Peer Mentoring Handbook 2025-26 (This document will be updated for 2026-27)
The Sheffield Hallam PGR Peer Mentoring scheme is coordinated by the Researcher and Innovator Development Academy rida@shu.ac.uk.
Thank you to Nick Russell for guidance and the use of resources developed by the Sheffield Hallam Skills Centre.