REBECA Explorer.

REBECA EXPLORER is an innovative peer mentoring programme based on a group approach that supports early career researchers in developing their careers through mutual learning and shared commitment. Over a five month period, participants meet regularly to reflect on their values, explore career opportunities, define professional goals, and take concrete steps towards achieving them, while supporting one another with the guidance of a trained facilitator. 

Piloted between May and July 2025 by FECYT in collaboration with the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), and funded by the European project ERA TALENT (Grant Agreement No. 101103476), the programme has demonstrated a strong positive impact on participants. It has enhanced their confidence, career planning skills, and ability to navigate diverse professional paths, while fostering proactive behaviours such as networking, career exploration, and informed decision making.

We selected 27 Early Careers Researchers (R1-R2), who have not defended the thesis later than 8 years, out of 56 applications received from researchers working at CSIC. The programme brought together 27 participants, with a slight female majority (57%). Most are in the doctoral stage (57%), while 43% are postdoctoral researchers. Participants mainly come from Life Sciences, followed by Natural Sciences and Engineering.

Four groups were formed with 5-6 researchers each.

The programme has had a strong positive impact on participants’ confidence, career readiness, and practical career management skills. Participants report improved ability to make informed career decisions, identify and communicate their competencies to employers, and adapt to different professional sectors. Specific skill development includes career planning, CV writing for the non-academic sector, building professional networks, and researching new job opportunities. In addition, participants have strengthened key behaviours such as proactively exploring career options, engaging with peers, and seeking insights from professionals in diverse fields. Overall, the programme has enhanced both self-awareness and the ability to actively manage career progression.

The programme strengthened participants’ understanding of their career motivations, values, and professional identity. It supported them in reflecting on what defines a fulfilling career, clarifying their goals, and gaining a clearer sense of direction. Participants developed greater self‑awareness and confidence in shaping their future pathways, moving from uncertainty to more informed and intentional career decisions.

The programme significantly enhanced participants’ confidence in key career management skills, including career planning, exploring new professional opportunities, building networks, and preparing application materials for non‑academic roles. It also fostered more proactive behaviours, with participants regularly engaging with peers, investigating different career paths, and seeking insights from professionals. Overall, participants became more active, confident, and strategic in managing their careers.

If you have any question about this programme, please reach the REBECA Team at euraxess-spain@fecyt.es

If you are a Research Performing Organization or a University and want to implement a peer mentoring programme, here there is a toolkit ready to use:

Peer mentoring programme toolkit