Balancing an academic career with family responsibilities presents a significant challenge for many professors. This is where the strength of mutual support and constructive dialogue proves indispensable.
The “Faculty Family Care Mentoring” program creates a space for dialogue between colleagues who have personally experienced these challenges and developed effective good practices, and those who are newly facing – or will soon face – similar situations. By sharing experiences and perspectives, the initiative aims to strengthen and foster a culture of work–family compatibility within the university, supported by realistic and encouraging role models.
With this initiative, TUM continues its commitment to cultivating an academic environment that is inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to the different life phases of its members.
As a mentor, you support professors who are facing the challenge of balancing family responsibilities with an academic career. Your experiences and proven strategies offer valuable guidance and help strengthen the confidence that a scientific career and a fulfilling family life can indeed be compatible. Through your commitment, you promote a culture of work–family balance and contribute to a family‑friendly environment within the university.
Requirements: Professors who have successfully combined their own family responsibilities (e.g., parenthood, caregiving duties) with their academic career — or are currently doing so — and who are willing to share their perspectives with colleagues.
Registration process: If you are willing to encourage colleagues by sharing your journey and support them in finding their individual pathways to balancing career and family, please register as a mentor using the following registration form.
Would you like to balance your academic career with family responsibilities? In our mentoring program, experienced colleagues who have mastered similar challenges are there to support you. Through confidential and constructive conversations, you will work together to develop sustainable ways to combine professional responsibilities with family life.
Requirements: Professors from tenure‑track level and above who are in a phase where family responsibilities and professional development unfold simultaneously. You are looking for orientation, exchange, and practical impulses to better align the demands of an academic career with family responsibilities.
Registration process: If you are striving to balance the parallel demands of family and professional growth and are looking for guidance along the way, please contact us at familienservice@tum.de. We will be happy to assist you in finding a suitable mentoring match.
The guidelines provide a concise introduction to the Faculty Family Care Mentoring program. They explain the roles of mentors and mentees, describe the structure of the program, and include helpful information for participating.
If you have any questions or need support, the Family Service or Faculty@TUM will be happy to assist you.