One of my duties as a professor at the University is to mentor graduate and undergraduate students. This is also a great pleasure and probably what gives the most meaning to my work as a scientist. The unique one-to-one relationship with another individual is both challenging and invigorating, as it brings the energy and enthusiasm from interacting with motivated young people, and the fulfilment of contributing to their development through the sharing of one’s unique experiences.
Over the years, I have mentored several brilliant young scientists, and these interactions have taught me much. My mentoring style has evolved over time, influenced by the experiences that have shaped my life over the last two decades. While my mentoring practices will undoubtedly continue to evolve, one constant remains: I take every mentee seriously and strive to guide them on their scientific path in the best way possible.
Mentoring is an extremely demanding practice that consumes a significant amount of my energy, which is one reason I do not accept many mentees at a time. If you approach me with a project request, rest assured that I will do my utmost to respond to your needs, although this may not necessarily mean I will be your thesis advisor. I will hear your case and provide you with my honest feedback.
Because mentoring is such an intensive and time-consuming process, I must be selective. I am committed to supporting and respecting all diversities and will make every effort to provide you with the guidance and support you need. At the same time, I am best suited to work with mentees who are fully committed and prepared to put in the necessary effort to achieve their goals, and I will be unable to take on mentees who are not ready to invest the same level of energy and dedication that the process demands from me.
Please feel free to contact me for any additional information.