Call for Applications – Publication Mentorship Initiative

IWRA was pleased to invite early-career water professionals to submit applications for the second Publication Mentorship Initiative, which aims to facilitate and encourage mentoring junior water professionals through the development of articles that are publishable in academic journals. 

Launched in 2020, the IWRA Publication Mentoring Initiative (PMI) aims to support and guide junior water professionals in creating articles that meet the standards for publication in academic journals. The PMI’s previous installment achieved notable success, including the publication of two articles in Water International and the acceptance of two additional articles, with others currently under review or revision. Through this initiative, each selected junior professional will be paired to a senior expert in the field and receive close mentorship from them, resulting in articles that may be co-authored by both parties. The articles will be initially submitted to Water International for consideration, and if not selected, they can be submitted to other journals. 

The theme for this iteration of the PMI is “at the interface of science and policy.” To that end, articles that are primarily scientific should address, to some extent, the policy implications of and for the science involved, and articles with primary focus on policy should address the implications for science of the policy involved.

Objectives & Purpose of the Inititiave

The objective of the IWRA PMI is to have junior professionals publish their work in Water International. In some cases, it is possible that the work product may not be suitable for Water International due to subject matter, scope, peer-review feedback, etc. Water International will have the right of first refusal. If the work product is not appropriate for Water International, the author(s) will be encouraged to submit the article to another appropriate publication.

The specific purpose of this initiative includes:

  • To provide junior water professionals with an avenue to work and network with established professionals/experts, experience a unique mentorship experience, and have
    an exceptional publication opportunity.
  • To expand opportunities within IWRA for junior professionals to engage with the Association and its members.
  • To help train the next generation of water professionals

     

Submission Process

Applications should include all of the following and must be submitted to mentoring@iwra.org no later than August 15, 2023.

  • Extended abstract (750 words max) providing insight into the proposed paper’s topic, thesis, methodology, and the applicant’s English writing skills.
  • Paragraph (200 words max) discussing research, data collection process, and current stage of the project.
  • Cover letter describing motivation for applying, short-term and long-term career objectives, and how participation in PMI will contribute to career goals.
  • Brief paragraph (100 words max) describing current affiliation/profession and status.
  • Name, affiliation, and contact information of project supervisor/advisor, with a brief explanation of their mentorship role (100 words max).
  • Name, affiliation, and contact information of project collaborator(s), with a brief explanation of their respective roles (100 words max)

For complete information on the initiative and submission requirements, please download the Terms of Reference. 

Thank you for your submissions!