Navigating Academia & Science: Dr. Janine Lupo On Mentoring

Janine LupoJanine Lupo, PhD, shares insights from her experience as a mentor. Her research lab, part of the Surbeck Laboratory for Advanced Imaging, focuses on the development and application of novel MR imaging data for patients with brain tumors and neurological diseases. She is a professor in the UCSF and UC Berkeley Graduate Program in Bioengineering, and a member of Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, Institute for Computational Health Sciences, Quantitative Biosciences Institute, and the Neuroimaging Research Group in the UCSF Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging.

How has being a mentor enriched your own experience?

Helping others grow and succeed is incredibly rewarding. Beyond the immense satisfaction of positively impacting someone’s life, I’ve learned a great deal from my mentees, including new perspectives and approaches they bring to a project.

Why is mentorship so valuable to develop a fulfilling career?

When navigating academia and science, professional guidance and advice can make a world of difference. Whether applying for funding, submitting an advancement packet, or handling delicate situations, knowledge of these unwritten rules is essential for success, no matter how smart you are or impactful your research.

Mentors should advocate for their mentees by recommending them for invited talks and other opportunities, introducing them to key individuals in their field, and opening opportunities for collaboration and recognition. 

What are key aspects of a successful mentor-mentee relationship?

There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to mentoring. It’s crucial to recognize that different people have different styles, and what works well for you may not work for your mentee. Help them find what is effective for them. It’s important to have an open door for communication—the mentee should feel comfortable contacting the mentor any time something comes up, and the mentor should be willing to make time. And of course, maintaining confidentiality is crucial for building trust and creating a safe space for open communication.  

 

By Arleen Bandarrae