What is the Institute on Teaching and Mentoring?

The Institute on Teaching and Mentoring, established in 1994, is a comprehensive initiative dedicated to preparing doctoral scholars for leadership roles in academia, government, and industry, developing highly skilled professionals ready for research and leadership roles in high-demand areas. This four-day conference offers workshops, skill and knowledge building, recruitment opportunities, and networking events designed to enhance professional development and equip participants with essential career skills.

The Institute fosters a supportive environment where doctoral scholars can exchange insights, build a strong professional community, and refine their research, mentoring, and teaching strategies. Through these experiences, participants gain the tools to successfully navigate graduate work and excel in their chosen careers.

What is the focus of the 2025 Institute?

The theme of the 2025 Institute is Collective Brilliance: Advancing Research, Mentorship and Leadership. Attending doctoral scholars and program graduates have research interests and expertise in fields of study that include Science & Technology, Social & Behavioral Sciences, Engineering, Math, Health Professions, Education, Business & Management, and the Humanities.

How are participants invited to the Institute?

Invitations to participate in the Institute are sent to institutions and organizations that have historically participated in the conference, which has included the SREB-State Doctoral Scholars Program, the Alfred P. Sloan Scholars Program, NASA, the National Science Foundation, the National Institute of Health, etc. These programs have varied targeted groups and goals, and the organizations provide a list of scholars they want to participate. The underpinning thread that ties them all together is encouragement, preparation and success in the pursuit of the doctoral degree. Guest scholars pursuing doctoral degrees, or who have an interest in doing so, are also welcome to attend. Word of mouth, especially from scholars and program graduates who have previously attended the Institute, is another important promotional tool that is used to generate Institute participants.

Who is the target audience?

The target audience consists of institutions or organizations that have scholars in Ph.D. programs and/or undergraduates who have an interest in pursuing graduate education and seek an academic career path or a research career supporting industry.

Who is allowed to participate in the Institute?

Anyone with a serious interest in pursuing doctoral education for undergraduates and an interest from doctoral scholars to teach at the higher education level or pursue research opportunities in industry.

Who is listed in the Scholar Directory?

The Scholar Directory is comprised of all SREB program participants (Doctoral and Dissertation Awardees) plus any doctoral scholars who attend the annual Institute on Teaching and Mentoring in the current academic year. Scholars are listed in the Scholar Directory by name, Ph.D. institutions, field of study, research interest, and graduation date.