As an editorial team, we believe it is essential to give our time and expertise to support researchers from less supportive or resource-limited backgrounds to publish their research and ultimately contribute to the body of knowledge in their field.

You can also download the programme’s information here ➡️ BOSEM – Mentorship Programme

1. Programme vision

The programme offers authors mentorship by members from our editorial team, writing support, and statistical assistance.

Acceptance into the mentorship programme does not, in any way, guarantee acceptance for publication nor a guaranteed waiver of publication fees.

A minimum standard of methodologically robust data is a requirement for acceptance.

2. Who can submit

We encourage applications from researchers or research teams from (but not limited to):

• Low- and middle-income countries / or resource-limited countries; and/or
• Research teams with a female majority; and/or
• Other marginalised or resource-constrained contexts (for example, limited academic resources or expertise to support the authors during the research process).

3. Requirements and acceptance into the programme

Authors may apply regardless of the manuscript’s completion stage – on the condition that methodologically sound data have already been collected.

The BOSEM editorial team will decide on a case-by-case basis and the availability of support staff to accept the applicants into the BOSEM Mentorship programme.

Applicants will be required to write a (2-3 page maximum) motivation letter. The letter should be sent to info.bmjsem@bmj.com and include:

• The reasons for seeking mentorship
• The areas/sections of the manuscript or study in which they feel they require support
• The research question, study methodology, proof of ethical approval and proof of study protocol registration when appropriate (e.g., randomised controlled trials)

4. Operational structure

The mentorship programme is overseen by the inclusivity and diversity committee, which will reach out to editorial board members to assist the mentees based on their expertise and availability.

Should Editorial Board members accept a role as a mentor, their editorial duties will be minimised for the duration of the mentorship process.

Although we believe in supporting individuals with limited opportunities, we will not analyse data on behalf of the authors.