The program brings together groups of mentees and mentors in two tailored project streams:

1. Quality-Driven Research Stream

"From Insight to Impact: Shaping Nephrology Through Quality Research"
This stream focuses on real-world, patient-centred projects that improve clinical care, quality, safety and outcomes. Example project types include audits, workflow optimisation, patient education initiatives and clinical quality improvement activities.

2. Data-Driven Research with Publishing Focus

"From Data to Discovery: Publishing the Future of Nephrology"
Designed for participants interested in evidence generation and academic development, this stream supports systematic reviews, registry-based analyses, data-led investigations and projects with a strong publication focus.

Participants meet regularly throughout the year in small project groups (maximum five mentees and five mentors), supported by the Mentorship Oversight Committee. The model encourages shared learning, diverse input and sustained progress.

The program is open to all clinicians involved in kidney care, including:

• Nephrologists and physicians
• Trainees
• Nursing clinicians
• Allied health professionals
• Researchers and scientists

Eligibility notes:

• ANZSN membership is required (membership can be arranged at the time of application) .
• Mentees generally have ≤7 years of experience in nephrology; mentors generally have ≥7 years, though self-identification is welcomed as career pathways differ
• Applicants may join as mentors, mentees, or both, depending on experience and interest.

Applications are now open!

To apply, prospective participants must:

1. Complete the online Expression of Interest survey, which captures: 

• Your chosen stream (Quality-Driven or Data-Driven); 
• A project idea or outline; 
• Your background and interests; 
• Any preferred mentors, if applicable.

2. Submit a brief project description, including aim, background and methodology.

3. Confirm your availability to participate in group mentorship meetings held throughout the year.

The Mentorship Oversight Committee reviews all submissions, organises projects into streams and forms mentorship groups based on interest, expertise and mentor availability.

The ANZSN Mentorship Program is designed to:

• Strengthen professional relationships across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand
• Build a culture of collaborative clinical and academic development
• Improve kidney care through targeted, practical research and quality initiatives
• Support publication, innovation and evidence generation in nephrology
• Provide structured pathways for early-career clinicians and researchers to gain guidance, skills and confidence
• Advance ANZSN's strategic goal of improving education and supporting the nephrology workforce across the region

By the end of each cycle, participants will have progressed or completed defined projects and contributed to improved clinical care, research knowledge or system outcomes within nephrology.