EGU Peer Support programme enhances first-time attendees' conference experience with personalised mentoring

Each year, the European Geosciences Union (EGU) runs a Peer Support programme during its annual General Assembly designed to assist first-time attendees in navigating the complex and dynamic environment of a large geoscience conference. This initiative aims to foster connections between novice researchers and experienced participants from Earth, planetary, and space science communities, enhancing networking opportunities, professional development, and the overall conference experience.

The programme pairs novices—those attending the EGU General Assembly for the first time—with experienced attendees who have participated in at least two previous assemblies, including past virtual editions. Matches are made with close attention to shared scientific interests and availability to maximise the relevance and value of interactions. Prior to the assembly, participants are encouraged to meet virtually to set objectives and plan how to make connections beneficial throughout the conference. After the event, a follow-up meeting can help maintain these newly formed professional relationships long term.

Participation is flexible, allowing mentors and novices to decide how often they meet and which conference sessions or special events to attend together. This flexibility means the programme imposes minimal time constraints while still delivering meaningful engagement. The EGU also offers training workshops before the assembly to help mentors and mentees prepare for productive interactions.

Beyond these personalised pairings, the Peer Support programme organises dedicated networking events at the General Assembly, including receptions and meet-ups both onsite and online. These events provide additional structured opportunities for first-timers to broaden their networks and integrate into the community.

Past participants consistently speak to the programme's rewarding nature. One mentor reflected that being paired with a first-time attendee sharing close scientific interests led to a friendship that extended beyond the conference. Another mentee credited the mentoring they received with enhanced interactions with prominent scientists and a more confident navigation of the conference environment. Such testimonials underline the tangible benefits the programme offers in building both professional capability and collegial rapport.

The Peer Support programme is part of a wider EGU commitment to mentoring as a key tool for career development in the geosciences. Additional resources, including webinars and blog articles, highlight the importance of mentoring for early career scientists, addressing gaps in access to mentorship and encouraging active participation from both mentors and mentees. Mentoring benefits not only the newcomers but also experienced scientists, who gain from exchanging ideas, expanding their networks, and contributing to community growth.

Registration for experienced attendees to take part in the Peer Support programme for EGU26 is open until mid-March 2026, with novice registration opening earlier in January and closing at the same deadline. While the EGU strives to match all participants effectively, it notes that not every pairing can be guaranteed to perfectly align with specific fields. Participants are encouraged to take ownership of their mentoring experience to maximise its value.

In an era where large scientific meetings can be overwhelming for new attendees, the EGU Peer Support programme provides a vital framework for integrating early career researchers into an international scientific community, helping them to not only learn but also to build enduring professional connections.