The GW4 Mathematical Biology Mentoring Programme launched with a full-day workshop at the University of Bath on 24 November 2025, bringing together researchers from Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, and Exeter.

The workshop included 63 registered participants. This event marked the beginning of a collaborative mentoring initiative designed to strengthen skills, foster community, and support career development across the GW4 mathematical biology ecosystem.

Participants engaged in a dynamic programme featuring research presentations, skills-focused sessions, networking opportunities, and discussions with senior academics.

Agenda highlights included:

• morning research flash talks (approx. 20 short presentations across two sessions)
• guest lecture by Professor Alan Champneys (University of Bristol) on Overcoming the Imposter Syndrome
• networking lunch

The afternoon saw a series of career-development workshops, run by researchers representing each of the universities:

• How to get the best out of a mentoring partnership - led by Ruth Bowness (University of Bath)
• Developing a research pitch - led by Katerina Kaouri (Cardiff University)
• Effective networking - led by Kyle Wedgwood (University of Exeter)
• Panel discussion on diverse career paths in mathematical biology

The comments received as part of the feedback reflected not only satisfaction with the day but a strong appetite for continued engagement within the GW4 mathematical biology community.

The momentum and enthusiasm generated at the kick-off event provide a powerful foundation for a thriving, collaborative GW4 Mathematical Biology community.