FraMeS - Women's Mentoring Program in Siegen

Through FraMeS, female doctoral candidates, postdoctoral researchers, and junior professors receive personalized career counseling, acquire key skills—such as self-management, conflict resolution, and team management—in seminars and networking events, and expand their professional networks. One-on-one mentoring by a professor of their choice over the course of a year forms the core of the program.

Apply now for the program starting in March 2027!

Application deadline: November 9, 2026

Online information session about the program:

October 12, 2026, 12:00 PM–1:00 PM

Registration: here

Why FraMeS?

Our program offers you these benefits

1:1 Mentoring
Exchange and Networking
Sharing of valuable expertise and insider knowledge
Raising awareness of and activating one’s own strengths and potential
Workshops led by experienced trainers and coaches
A safe space to address your issues

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

We charge a materials fee. This fee is a one-time payment of 30 euros for doctoral students and a one-time payment of 40 euros for postdoctoral researchers and assistant professors.

The program begins every year in March. We alternate between English and German each year.

No. We don’t have a pool of mentors. FraMeS offers one-on-one mentoring with a mentor of your choice. The program coordinator will facilitate the initial contact.

We’ll help you create your list of your top 3 preferred mentors.

You may submit all documents in German or English.

Statements from Participants

Dr. Swathi Naidu, Alumna 11th cohort

Professional Growth and Personal Resilience in Academia

"Being part of the FraMeS program felt less like a course and more like joining a support group of peers who truly understood the challenges of academia. I remember how, during our sessions, sharing small victories—like successfully reaching out to a senior researcher or collaborating on a draft paper—gave us a collective sense of confidence. FraMeS didn’t just teach us how to network; it created the very network we needed, connecting us with mentors and colleagues who continue to support one another long after the program ended. Since my time in 2020, the program has only grown stronger and is now offered in both English and German, which speaks volumes about its inclusive nature. Over the past five years, I’ve had friends and colleagues join the program every year, and each one raves about how wonderful the experience has been, always keeping it on their “must-share” list. That sense of community, combined with practical strategies, made the journey feel less isolating and more empowering, laying the foundation for both professional growth and personal resilience in academia."

Prof. Dr. Sandra Afflerbach, Alumna 11th cohort

Targeted Support

"The FraMeS program provided me with support tailored to my specific career goals while also creating valuable opportunities for reflection, exchange, and strategic development. The three pillars—mentoring, networking, and individual coaching—complement each other in a unique way and contribute significantly to professional development. I am therefore very happy to recommend FraMeS."

Prof. Dr. Kristina Lemmer, Alumna 9th cohort

Fundamental confidence in one's own path

"FraMeS has given me the space to grow both professionally and personally. What I found particularly valuable were the open dialogue, the mutual support, and the realization that academic work doesn’t have to be perfect from the start, but rather grows through continuous learning and development. This fundamental trust in my own path stays with me to this day—and has had a lasting impact on my journey to becoming a professor."