Mental Health and Well-being of Biomedical Researchers series
Webinars and small group discussions focused on various topics, bringing the entire research community together for important discussions.
On this page
About the series
The goal of this series is to have an open and honest dialogue focused on mental health and well-being to decrease stigma and explore new tools to support ourselves and others in the biomedical research community. The series is open to all trainees, fellows, and staff at NIH and elsewhere who wish to join this important conversation.
In addition, we host in-depth conversations about practical tools related to the topic at our Thriving Thursday drop-in groups (12:00 -1:00 pm ET) the day after each session. If you are interested in diving deeper into a particular topic, you can find more information and register in Upcoming OITE events.
Series components
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Burnout Prevention and Recovery for Biomedical Researchers
Register for this sessionWednesday, February 12, 2025, 4:00-5:00 pm ET
Burnout, commonly characterized by feelings of exhaustion, detachment, and reduced effectiveness, can profoundly impact work performance, mental health, and overall well-being. For scientific researchers, burnout is especially concerning, as it can hinder creativity, productivity, and the ability to collaborate effectively — crucial elements in advancing scientific knowledge. This lecture and discussion will explore the risk factors that contribute to burnout, particularly in biomedical researchers, as well as protective factors that can help prevent it. Additionally, we will cover strategies for managing burnout symptoms, ensuring researchers can maintain their passion for discovery while safeguarding their health and well-being.
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Myths of Science Culture: False or Exaggerated Beliefs That Lead to Burnout
Register for this sessionWednesday, March 12, 2025, 4:00 – 5:00 pm ET
This talk will address common misconceptions in science culture that contribute to burnout and perpetuate unhealthy stress. The lecture will explore the belief that being productive is synonymous with intense exhaustion and overwork. It will also separate burnout from productivity and explore several myths including the beliefs that constant work is necessary to obtain professional success, perfectionism is a key to achievement, and that extreme personal sacrifice is unavoidable. Attendees will learn how to critically question these myths and adopt strategies for maintaining well-being while achieving professional success.
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Institutional Keys for Decreasing Workplace Burnout and Increasing Engagement
Register for this sessionWednesday, April 9, 2025, 4:00 – 5:00 pm ET
Burnout, classified as an occupational phenomenon by the World Health Organization, is “a syndrome thought to be resulting from chronic workplace stress that not been successfully managed.” It consists of feelings of exhaustion or energy depletion, increased cynicism about one’s job and reduced professional efficacy. Workplace burnout is prevalent in biomedical science. Though it is often key for the institution to have programming that supports engagement and reduces burnout for its individuals, the responsibility is too often transferred each of us, while ignoring larger systematic solutions. This talk examines six key areas at the institutional level that can positively decrease work burnout.
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Cultivating and Finding Psychological Safety in the Biomedical Research Environment
Register for this sessionWednesday, May 14, 2025, 4:00 – 5:00 pm ET
Psychological safety in the workplace is the sense of security wherein individuals feel safe to express themselves without fear of negative consequences. It is characterized as feeling comfortable contributing ideas, trying new methods, asking questions, admitting mistakes, and expressing concerns without fear of negative consequences. Research shows that psychological safety reduces the risk and impact of burnout. The benefits are far-reaching including increased commitment and engagement, openness to learning, innovation, and productivity. This talk will address workplace dynamics that promote psychological safety and their application to the biomedical research environment.
Additional resources
You can find additional recorded seminars on the OITE YouTube channel.
Contact
Reach out to us at oite@nih.gov with questions.
