SRAI's Odyssey Program

Great careers don’t happen alone. SRAI’s mentoring network fosters meaningful one-on-one relationships that promote learning, leadership, and long-term success in research administration.

Mentoring Matters

Have you ever wanted a mentor or been interested in becoming one? SRAI’s Odyssey Program offers the perfect opportunity for both.

Our mentoring program pairs experienced research administrators with new or developing professionals for a year-long, one-on-one mentoring experience. These personalized relationships offer support, knowledge, and encouragement—often growing into lasting professional connections.

The program’s name is inspired by Homer’s The Odyssey, where the character Mentor guided Telemachus through his journey. Just as in that classic tale, our mentors walk alongside mentees as they navigate their own professional paths.

Grow with Guidance

Mentees customize their experience by selecting focus areas that align with their goals and interests. Each pair is matched one-on-one, with the flexibility to meet on their own schedule and terms. Throughout the year, the program also offers exclusive networking events that strengthen relationships and foster professional growth.

SRAI Mentoring FAQs

Mentees: We are looking for people new to research administration, new to your role in research administration, or wanting to prepare for something new in research administration. If you need help with your current position or career path and feel like you could benefit from someone guiding you through the process of developing new skills, please consider applying. Mentees must be Full Members of SRAI.

Mentors: We need experienced members willing to keep in contact with their mentees throughout the year. While the pace and forum to communicate is at the discretion of each pairing, mentors will be expected to lead by checking in to answer mentee questions and prompting discussion about the mentee's goals. Mentors should have been in the field for a minimum of 10 years and must be Members of SRAI.

Yes, you must be an active SRAI member to participate in the Odyssey Program.

The Odyssey Program offers 1:1 pairings between mentors and mentees.

The means of communication is decided between the mentor and mentee, and can include meeting virtually, by email, telephone, and/or in person if able. The frequency of meetings is up to the mentor and mentee. They can decide what works best for their schedules and allows enough time to work on intended program goals.  

Applications for the 2026 Odyssey Program open September, 2025 and are due November 21, 2025. New cohorts start in January, 2026.

Three women engaged in conversation at an event.

Odyssey Program Applications - Open Now!

Applications for the 2026 program due November 21, 2025.

Mentee Applications

Mentor Applications

Questions?

Need more info about the Odyssey Program?


Contact Us