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With approximately 254 million students enrolled in post-secondary education globally, this population represents a significant portion of young adults navigating a critical developmental period. Many of these students face unique academic, social, and financial challenges that can negatively impact their well-being. In response to the rising concerns of student mental health, the Global Student Mental Health Research Network was founded in 2021. Composed of students, staff and faculty from institutions around the world, the network aims to build collaborations, identify opportunities for research partnerships, and to share best practices in student mental health research. This commentary aims to highlight pathways for post-secondary students to take leadership roles in student mental health research, supporting the development of the next generation of researchers in this field. In June 2023, members of the Global Student Mental Health Research Network gathered in-person for a three-day conference. A primary goal of the conference was to develop recommendations to increase pathways for students to lead post-secondary mental health research. Using the World Café method, participants identified 15 recommendations, organized into four themes: Communication, Increasing Awareness, Supporting Professional Development, and Reducing Barriers. Recommendations emphasize establishing shared values among students, staff, and faculty, and the importance of institutional investment in resources and opportunities. These steps aim to cultivate emerging student researchers who will advance the field and contribute to addressing the pressing issue of post-secondary student mental health. With around 254 million people enrolled in post-secondary education around the world, students make up a large group of young adults going through an important stage of life. Many of them face challenges, like school stress and social pressures, that can lead to increased stress and lower well-being. In response to the growing concerns about student mental health, the Global Student Mental Health Research Network was founded in 2021. Composed of students, staff and faculty from institutions around the world, the network aims to facilitate research partnerships and develop best practices to support student mental health research. This commentary highlights ways to increase opportunities for students to take leadership roles in mental health research, helping to train the next generation of researchers in this field. In June 2023, members of the Global Student Mental Health Research Network met in-person for a three-day conference. One of the main goals was to create recommendations to help more students move into leadership roles in mental health research. These leadership roles, where students take the lead on research projects, offer valuable experience for skill development and to build future careers in the field. Using collaborative workshops, participants developed 15 recommendations grouped into four themes: Communication, Increasing Awareness, Supporting Professional Development, and Reducing Barriers. The recommendations highlight the need for students, staff, and faculty to work together to support the next generation of student mental health researchers. Ongoing support from institutions is essential to meet students’ mental health needs and build lasting progress in the field.