This summer marked a significant milestone in my PhD journey: I had the opportunity to mentor an intern for the first time. As a 2nd-year YCEDE-funded Biomedical Science PhD student working in the Boucher and Spicer labs at the University of York, I’ve spent most of my time deeply focused on refining technical skills and conducting experiments at the bench. Stepping into a leadership role felt both exciting and daunting — but ultimately, it has been one of the most valuable experiences of my PhD so far.
Hosting a YCEDE summer internship challenged me to develop project and people management skills — two areas that are often overlooked in academic training but are essential for any aspiring scientist who hopes to lead their own team one day.
Over the summer, the intern and I worked together on a sub-project closely related to my thesis work. One of the most rewarding challenges was learning how to translate complex scientific concepts into clear, digestible ideas. This skill is crucial not only for mentoring but also for communicating science to broader audiences, whether that be colleagues in different fields, collaborators, or the public.
An unexpected learning curve came from the recruitment process itself. For the first time, I was on the other side of the table: reviewing CVs, shortlisting candidates, and conducting interviews. This experience gave me valuable insight into what makes an application stand out and how to assess a candidate’s potential beyond their academic achievements alone.
Key Takeaways
Mentorship is a two-way street. While the intern gains hands-on lab experience, the mentor also grows — learning to manage time, adapt communication styles, and think critically about project design and execution.
However, successful mentorship doesn’t happen automatically. Without thoughtful planning and active guidance, an internship can easily become unproductive for both parties. I learned that it’s crucial to create an environment that encourages curiosity, supports learning from mistakes, and celebrates small wins along the way.
By the end of the summer, seeing my intern grow in confidence and independence was incredibly rewarding. Collaborating with enthusiastic and engaged students not only enhances the research itself but also reignites your own excitement about the work you’re doing.
Looking back, I’m grateful for the chance to support an emerging scientist and, in doing so, grow as a mentor and researcher myself. I look forward to carrying these lessons into future collaborations — and to hopefully inspiring the next generation of researchers along the way.