Early Career Group

The Early Career Group Program (ECG) was launched in 2022 to support the growth and development of young professionals in the field of child and adolescent mental health. Overseen by the Secretary General of IACAPAP, the program provides:  

• A scientific and academic backbone for young IACAPAP members 
• A collaborative platform that enables early-careers to connect, learn, and share knowledge across international borders.  
• An engaging hub that cultivates competitive opportunities for research fellowships and professional development. 
• A culture of active learning that promotes growth and development, allowing members to benefit from mentorship provided by a global pool of teachers and experts. 

The program offers two-year membership that facilitates flexible, variable-paced growth, tailored to the needs of participants. This adaptability allows members to engage at their own pace and from their own hometown while building strong professional connections and collaborating with peers. ECG Members will access the dedicated ECG section of the member portal to connect and share resources with other participants.  

Additionally, the program provides an ongoing opportunity for connection and growth for professionals and academics completing intensive IACAPAP programs, such as the Donald J. Cohen Fellowship (DJCF) and the Helmut Remschmidt Research Seminar (HRRS). This ensures continued engagement and development beyond the program experience. 

Since its inception, the Early Career Group Program has brought together over 32 participants from over 17 countries, creating a diverse, global network of emerging leaders in the field. The program is committed to advancing knowledge, fostering international partnerships, and empowering the next generation of professionals and academics in the field. 
 

Key criteria of becoming a member of Early Career Group (ECG)

• A member of IACAPAP 
  • Individual Members
  • Individual within IACAPAP Full Member organisations and Affiliate Member Organisations);
• Any trainee of child and adolescent psychiatry, general psychiatry or allied profession;
• A child and adolescent psychiatrist, general psychiatrist or allied profession within seven (07) years of qualification;
• Undergraduate student of child and adolescent psychiatry or allied profession.

Below is the list of supporting documents required to complete your application: 

1. A copy of your CV.
2. A copy of proof of within seven (07) years of qualification verified by the head of department;
3. A copy of student certification (for student only).
4. A proof to verify your active membership status in the national organisation (Apply for Individuals within IACAPAP Full Member organisations and Affiliate Member organisations).

There are two ways to submit your application: 

The Early Career Group Coordinators play a vital role in processing ECG applications and coordinating the mentorship program in collaboration with the IACAPAP Executive Officer. They meet quarterly with the IACAPAP Secretary-General to review the program's progress and provide annual reports at the IACAPAP Executive Committee Meeting. 

Committed to supporting ECG members, the coordinators actively seek opportunities for professional development and engage with members regarding their initiatives. Their efforts ensure that the program remains responsive to the needs of its participants, fostering a vibrant community of early-career professionals in child and adolescent mental health. 

The currently appointed Early Career Group Coordinator are:

Here can add links to ECG articles in the IACAPAP Bulletin:

1. Article: IACAPAP's Early Career Group Mentorship Program has started! 
2. Article: Howard Cooper Travelling Fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry – An Enriching Experience