The Tandem Scheme was an initiative of CONNECTS-UK designed to support the integration of EU researchers in the UK. It paired EU researchers that had recently moved o were about to move to the UK, called Explorers, with established EU researchers who had already built their careers and networks in the UK, called Guides. Together, they created a space for knowledge-sharing, cultural exchange, and mutual support, strengthening both individual experiences and the wider community.
The purpose of the scheme was threefold:
To support integration by helping Explorers adapt to the UK’s research environment, professional opportunities, and cultural setting
To foster connections by encouraging collaboration and dialogue between different generations of EU researchers
To build long-term value by generating shared resources and strengthening the EU research diaspora in the UK.
In this first edition, the scheme successfully linked 5 Explorer-Guide pairs, laying the groundwork for what we hope will become a broader and more sustained effort.
We believe the Tandem Scheme has strong potential to grow through partnerships with EU research diaspora organisations across Europe.
A Terms of Reference for the scheme is available for those wishing to learn more about its structure, eligibility, and goals.
What participants said
The impact of the Tandem Scheme is best understood through the experiences of those who took part. Below, participants on their experience in the programme:
“My overall experience as a mentor in the programme has been very positive. I have genuinely enjoyed supporting my mentee and seeing their confidence and understanding of the UK HE sector grow over time. Many aspects of our discussions felt natural and easy to tackle, we managed to build a rapport, having open conversations about a number of aspects that we discussed during our first planning meeting and reflect on her goals. It has been a very rewarding experience.”
A Guide participating in the Tandem Scheme
“I have immensely benefited from the scheme as prior to meeting with my mentor I was very confused about the UK academic organisation and the specifics of UK higher education system. I feel like now I have a much better understanding of career options, current financial standing of HE, and cultural differences between the UK and the EU.”
