Washington Update

Applications Open for 2026 FASEB LEAD Program

By: CJ Neely
Thursday, August 27, 2026
FASEB LEAD (Leadership Engagement and Appreciation of Differences), a component of FASEB’s workforce portfolio, is a bidirectional mentoring program that connects professionals with different experiences, perspectives, interests, and areas of expertise. FASEB is now accepting applications for the 2026–2027 cohort of LEAD. 

Participants form one-on-one mentoring partnerships. They exchange personal views and workplace perspectives in an open, respectful, confidential, and trusting environment. Both participants serve as learners and contributors. Each brings experiences and perspectives that promote professional growth, strengthen leadership skills, and enhance decision-making.

The program draws participants from across the biological and biomedical research community. This includes early-career researchers, society staff, and senior-level professionals. FASEB matches mentoring partners based on professional goals, interests, and the perspectives they hope to gain or share.

Who Can Participate
Applicants must meet at least one of the following eligibility requirements:
  • Be a member in good standing of one or more FASEB Full Member societies
  • Be employed by FASEB or a FASEB Full Member society
Visit the FASEB Member Societies webpage to review the current list of Full Member societies. 

Program Commitment
Participants commit to a 12-month partnership from December 2026 through November 2027. This includes attending orientation, completing a partnership agreement, meeting monthly with their partner, and participating in quarterly cohort activities and program assessments.

Key Program Dates
  • Application Deadline: September 28, 2026
  • Participant Matching: October 2026
  • Orientation and Program Launch: November 2026
  • Mentoring Partnership: December 2026–November 2027
Apply to LEAD
The application takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes to complete. Applicants will be asked about their professional experience, interests, learning goals, availability, and the knowledge and perspectives they hope to contribute to a mentoring partnership. Interested applicants can also join a virtual information session to learn more and ask questions:  Learn more about FASEB LEAD and submit your application.