Beyond mentorship: the promise and perils of sponsorship in health professions education research

Mentorship has long been regarded as foundational for academic advancement. However, the potentially transformative role of sponsorship remains underexplored in health professions education (HPE) research. Sponsorship, the proactive leveraging of influence to advocate for others, can offer critical support to early-career researchers. Yet, while sponsorship has clear benefits, it is neither universally necessary, nor free of potential challenges. This article offers a critical examination of sponsorship in HPE research, discussing its advantages, complexities, and potential risks. Drawing from social capital theory and identity frameworks, it explores how sponsorship can both promote and inhibit equity, and it outlines practical considerations for cultivating sponsorship practices that are ethical, inclusive, and sustainable.