EJE Rising Stars Award 2026-2028
Do you shine in the field of scientific research? Want to make an impact and help publish exciting research and topical debate? Are you looking to develop your career with the support of a dedicated editors mentorship programme?
The EJE Rising Stars Reviewer Board Award and Mentorship Programme may be for you!
Applications for the 2026 to 2028 cohort are now open
Deadline Friday 16 January
Founded in 2022, the EJE Rising Stars Reviewer Board Award and Mentorship Programme is presented to those showing exceptional promise as independent leading clinical and translational endocrine researchers, with high potential to serve as future editors of the European Journal of Endocrinology (EJE).
The Award consists of membership of the EJE Rising Star Reviewer Board for two years, reviewing on average one EJE paper per month; a dedicated mentorship programme for future editors of EJE, informing about all editorial roles including triage, review commissioning and commentary writing, including sessions with EJE Lead Editors, the EJE publisher and shadowing sessions with a deputy editor and an associate editor matched according to your scientific expertise; and a travel bursary for attendance at the European Congress of Endocrinology (ECE) 2026 and 2027, including the annual EJE Editorial Board meeting and networking lunch
We anticipate that many EJE Rising Stars may be considered as candidates for EJE associate editor posts once they have completed the programme (when an associate editor post suited to their scientific specialism becomes available).
The programme is a two year programme, working remotely, with travel bursary for attendance at ECE.
- A dedicated mentorship programme for future editors of EJE.
- Membership of the EJE Rising Star Reviewer Board for two years.
- A travel bursary for attendance at ECE and the EJE Editorial Board meeting held at ECE.
- Supported by experienced communications professionals from the ESE Office, the EJE Publisher and EJE Lead Editors.
- Ideally looking for mid-career, candidates at advanced postdoctoral stage, who have completed their PhD and early postdoctoral academic training and, if applicable, their clinical specialist training in endocrinology and diabetes.
- Holding your first academic faculty position or a prestigious career development /career establishment fellowship and leading their own emerging research group.
- Having achieved an already significant publication record of original research including senior/corresponding author papers.
If you would enjoy collaborating with fellow researchers, selecting interesting topics for lively discussion and gaining access to experienced EJE publisher and lead editors, then please find the award application below and complete the online form by Friday 16 January. Successful applicants will be informed by end of February 2026 and be invited to attend the Editorial Board meeting at the European Congress of Endocrinology (ECE) in May 2026.
As part of the application process you will be asked to provide your CV. Here is an outline of what the EJE Editorial Board is looking for in your CV to help and guide your submission.
ESE is committed to equal opportunities and the promotion of equality, diversity, and inclusion and where possible the Rising Stars Reviewer Board will follow the principles of ESE’s Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy.
EJE Rising Stars
We gathered some perspectives from mentors and recipients in the 2024−2026 cohort of EJE Rising Stars.
Felix Beuschlein. EJE Editor-in-Chief and Rising Star Mentor. Professor of Endocrinology and Director of the Department for Endocrinology, Diabetology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Switzerland
- What has been your experience of the EJE Rising Star initiative?
It has been a very rewarding experience, particularly as it has brought me into contact with many exceptionally talented young endocrinologists, with whom I might otherwise not have crossed paths. While the programme is primarily intended to expand the network of the selected candidates, it has equally broadened my own professional network within the next generation of leaders in endocrinology.
- Why should people aspire to be an EJE Rising Star?
Being selected offers early recognition by the European endocrine community and provides visibility for promising researchers at a formative stage of their careers. It also facilitates networking and engagement with the journal and the Society, which can be highly beneficial for future academic development.
Bjørn Olav Åsvold. EJE Deputy Editor and Rising Star Mentor. Professor of Epidemiology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, and Consultant Endocrinologist, St Olav’s Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital
- What has been your experience of the EJE Rising Star initiative?
It has been an inspiring opportunity to engage with emerging leaders who bring fresh ideas and high scientific ambition to the field of endocrinology. It enriches the journal by highlighting innovative research and strengthening connections across the international endocrine community. I look forward to seeing EJE Rising Stars as future editors of the journal.
- Why should people aspire to be an EJE Rising Star?
Being selected provides visibility, mentorship and a platform to influence the future of endocrine research. It is a unique opportunity to accelerate one’s academic development while contributing meaningfully to a leading international journal.
Mirjam Christ-Crain EJE Associate Editor and Rising Star Mentor. Head, Department of Endocrinology, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland
- What has been your experience of the EJE Rising Star initiative?
It has been very positive and rewarding. The programme provides a valuable platform to engage with talented early- to mid-career researchers who are highly motivated to deepen their understanding of the editorial process. I particularly appreciate the opportunity to share insights into peer review, decision making and the broader responsibilities of an editorial role. At the same time, the interactions are not one-sided − the Rising Stars bring fresh perspectives, curiosity, and thoughtful questions, which often lead to stimulating discussions.
- Why should people aspire to be an EJE Rising Star?
Being an EJE Rising Star offers a unique opportunity to gain first-hand insight into the editorial and peer review process, which is an essential but often under-explored area. Participants benefit from direct interaction with experienced Editorial Board members, allowing them to better understand how high-quality research is evaluated and communicated. Also, the programme provides valuable mentorship.
Mirela Ilie EJE Rising Star 2024−2026. Early-Career Clinician-Scientist, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- How have you most benefited from being an EJE Rising Star?
The greatest benefits have included the knowledge and experience I have gained, which have given me confidence in editorial work. Equally valuable has been the opportunity to connect with and learn from world-leading experts, who have also proved to be generous mentors. - Why should other people aspire to be an EJE Rising Star?
It offers an excellent opportunity to advance one’s career in a stimulating and enjoyable environment. The mentorship programme also provides a supportive and inspiring setting that is ideal for both professional and personal growth.
Julie Refardt EJE Rising Star 2024−2026. Internist-Endocrinologist, Medical Specialist and Research Group Leader, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- How have you most benefited from being an EJE Rising Star?
It has been a great opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at a successful academic journal and gain a better understanding of how the editorial process and peer review work. This not only improved my skills as a reviewer and potential future editor, but also provided an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas with experienced researchers and build professional connections.
- Why should other people aspire to be an EJE Rising Star?
It offers a unique chance to learn from the best and to gain insights into how a leading journal maintains high scientific standards. It is also an excellent networking opportunity that allows early-career researchers to connect with editors, reviewers and colleagues while further developing their expertise as reviewers and future editors.
