The Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP) is an in-service, on-the-job mentored training program designed to build the capacity of public health professionals in disease outbreak investigation, surveillance system strengthening, and applied epidemiological research (1–3). Unlike traditional academic programs, FETP emphasizes experiential learning, enabling trainees to work directly within health departments, applying epidemiological methods in real-world settings under the guidance of experienced mentors. Following the learning-by-doing approach (4, 5), FETPs allocate 75% of training time to field placements, ensuring that participants gain hands-on experience under mentor supervision (6). FETP graduates play a pivotal role in global public health efforts, contributing significantly to disease control (7–13).

Mentorship is a cornerstone of professional development in FETPs. Effective mentorship not only enhances technical competencies but also fosters critical thinking, leadership, and problem-solving skills essential for responding to public health threats. Strong mentorship expands professional networks, creates career development opportunities, and boosts trainees’ confidence and resilience (14, 15). By providing guidance, support, and knowledge transfer in real-world settings, mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping future epidemiologists.

Research has consistently shown that high-quality mentorship improves career satisfaction, fosters professional growth, and enhances workforce retention (15, 16). Given FETPs’ strong emphasis on the learning-by-doing approach, mentors are central to the success of these programs. Mentors play a vital role in developing trainees’ analytical and investigative skills, ensuring they become proficient in data collection, analysis, and interpretation to support evidence-based public health decision-making (14–17). They oversee trainees’ progress, support them in conducting field investigations, and guide them in preparing the necessary outputs to complete program requirements (17). Mentors ensure that their mentees develop core competencies to detect, prevent, and contain infectious disease threats, safeguarding both human and animal health. Additionally, mentors serve as career advisors, role models, and facilitators of professional networking opportunities. Their willingness to involve mentees in outbreak investigations or other fieldwork experiences is often crucial to trainees’ professional development.

Despite the recognized importance of mentorship in public health training, research on the specific competencies required for FETP mentors remains limited (15). Most existing studies on mentorship focus on medical residency programs or academic institutions, with fewer addressing mentorship in field-based applied epidemiology programs. Despite its significance, mentorship within FETPs—particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR)—remains underexplored. There is limited understanding of the characteristics, experiences, and challenges faced by FETP mentors in the region. To address these gaps, this study assessed the demographic and professional profiles of FETP mentors, their mentorship practices, challenges, and training needs within the EMR. The findings are expected to inform the design of targeted mentorship training programs, improve institutional support mechanisms, and enhance the overall effectiveness of mentorship in FETPs. This study will contribute to the growing body of literature on public health mentorship, offering insights relevant to workforce development in applied epidemiology programs worldwide.