At CERes, we support the initiation and facilitation peer support groups where early career researchers can network across disciplines, share experiences, discuss challenges, and strengthen one another in their development. Depending on the group, meetings take place regularly or as needed – upon request, accompanied by our advisors, who help create a trusting atmosphere and can provide methodological and facilitative support. CERes invites you to explore new perspectives, gain inspiration, and connect with peers in a similar stage of life – for more exchange, motivation, and sense of community throughout your qualification phase.

Peer support groups complement traditional mentoring formats in meaningful ways, as they can strengthen motivation, confidence, and overall well-being (e.g., John et al., 2018). In addition, structured peer support formats foster a sense of accountability, reflection, and long-term engagement with one’s own academic goals – factors that contribute to greater satisfaction and professional development over time (e.g., Dickson et al., 2021). When researchers collaborate on equal footing, mutual feedback and collegial support can also enhance productivity (e.g., Merga & Mason, 2021).

Why not experience these benefits yourself – by co-founding or shaping a peer support group?

How it works

Peer support groups often emerge naturally after participants attend events together. To build on this momentum, CERes supports the organisation of an initial meeting in which participants clarify expectations, set shared goals, and develop a group agreement to ensure mutual commitment. Participation in this constitutive session is mandatory. Participants who join existing groups commit to adhering to the previously established group agreement.

Peer groups can participate in up to three structured sessions accompanied by CERes advisors. Afterwards, the groups are equipped to continue meeting independently – either in a structured format or in a more informal setting.