About the Program

Compass is a training and mentoring program for early-career researchers across disciplines looking to employ effective leadership and management practices in their research teams. Compass is open to all early-career faculty (e.g., assistant professors, instructors) and postdocs in the United States, offering unique tracks for each career stage. Associate professors, staff scientists, and other leaders of research teams have also found Compass valuable.

A research career requires scientists to train team members to conduct excellent science while juggling the demands of supervising people, managing projects, writing papers and grants, and so much more – all while trying to build a satisfying career and a fulfilling life. Compass offers essential knowledge, skills, and tools for navigating these issues strategically and with intention.

Delivered remotely, Compass allows Scholars to practice and apply learning on the job. Compass also provides the opportunity to learn with peers and experienced mentors at institutions across the United States. Compass emphasizes sharing practices and advice, all while encouraging individual Scholars to identify their own leadership and mentoring style.

We believe that the essential skills and resources needed for career success should be available to all – not left to guesswork.

Scholars Will:

Create tailored research and career tools

Develop people management skills

Interact in peer mentoring teams

Reflect on personal values and career goals

Practice communication and conflict resolution skills

Learn essential career information proactively

Shape their mentoring and leadership styles

Receive tools, resources, and quick-reference guides

Collaborate in a supportive community

Our approach to learning is:

Practical

Our training focuses on the real-world responsibilities of leading a research lab or team. Compass gives Scholars practical information and tools that can be put into practice immediately. Faculty Track Scholars develop a personalized lab manual or research team handbook. Postdocs develop a career plan to guide their career development.

Collaborative

Navigating a research career can be a lonely endeavor. Input and support from colleagues can help to address challenges. Compass employs team-based peer mentoring to learn from others at the same career stage. Peer mentoring mimics the collaborative nature of contemporary research and leverages the way adults learn best: by doing.

Engaging

Our remotely delivered training offers flexibility and the opportunity to learn in cohorts with other researchers in varied disciplines across the United States. Compass offers self-guided learning and resources with opportunities to engage and practice skills. The cohort meets semi-regularly to converse about real-world challenges and bring topics to life.

Mentored

Compass provides advice from experienced researchers at varied universities. Mentors share insights about juggling the challenges of a research career and managing people. The Faculty Track includes live virtual “Fireside Chats” with experienced mentors. The Postdoc Track includes live virtual team coaching sessions with Compass leadership.