The ASCEPT Mentoring Program, designed specifically for those with qualifications and experience or interest in the pharmacological and toxicological sciences, was launched on 17th November at the ASCEPT Career’s Symposium as part of the 2008 AHMR Congress in Brisbane.

The Mentoring Program, a complimentary benefit available to ASCEPT members, provides the opportunity for more junior members to get support, information and advice, and share professional and personal skills and experiences with more senior members.

“The value of mentoring programs is increasingly being recognised and we see huge potential and great value in offering this initiative. I believe the program will be of particular interest to students, new investigators and those looking for a change in direction,” said Dr Lynette Fernandes, ASCEPT Mentoring Program Convenor. “I have been fortunate in my career in having both official and unofficial mentors, who have been instrumental in giving sage advice, providing informal support as well as being a sounding board. These relationships have helped me enormously in building my career. During the course of developing a career we often recognise the need to increase our skills and knowledge, broaden our networks and talk to someone about options for professional development.  A mentor, who is independent from our day-to-day lives, is ideal for offering this advice,” added Dr Lynette Fernandes.