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Women of influence

This mentorship scheme pairs exceptional scientists with leading businesswomen to provide early career researchers with support from outside of academia at a critical time in their development.

Supporting women in research

We aim to build and retain a strong network of our scientists across the UK to ensure more women in research reach the top of their careers. 

Many of the barriers women face in the research workplace are not unique to academia. By partnering with some of the UK’s leading businesswomen, the scheme provides researchers with additional insight into the experience and wisdom of those at the top of their respective fields who are facing similar challenges and decisions. 

Our mentoring relationships are informal and flexible and are shaped by the goals of each pair.

For mentees

Eligibility

Currently, mentoring is available to women who are funded by us and fellows or postdoctoral scientists aiming to transition to a group leader position. 

Benefits

  • Get support and fresh perspectives from outside academia.

  • Be part of a community – join other researchers and mentors, plus the wider Cancer Research UK community.

  • Benefit from talks and skills workshops.

Register your interest to become a mentee

A photo of Ximena Raffo Iraolagoitia facing the camera wearing a green jacket and glasses.

My mentor helped me to prioritise better, reduce self-doubt and be more assertive.

- Ximena Raffo Iraolagoitia, Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute

For mentors

Eligibility

We are also asking eligible UK-based women with substantial experience in a senior management or executive position to become new mentors for this programme. We're seeking mentors from diverse backgrounds and geographical locations across a range of professional sectors. If this sounds relevant for you, please register your interest.

Benefits

  • Contribute to our aim of beating cancer sooner by supporting and empowering women in research.

  • Be part of a community of women tackling barriers in the workplace.

  • Gain a unique insight into the work of our scientists. 

Register your interest to become a mentor

A black and white photo of Alice Choi smiling with long dark hair.

I have thoroughly enjoyed being a mentor for the Women of Influence initiative. It’s been great to spend time with my mentees and learn more about the opportunities and challenges they are facing, and work on practical solutions together.

- Alice Choi, mentor

Stay in touch

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Contact us

Interested in joining Women of Influence as a mentor or mentee? Our research careers programme managers are here to support you and answer any questions to might have before getting involved.

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Research careers column 

Our columnists are getting into the weeds of what makes research careers more productive, more rewarding and more successful. 

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