Posted on by lbarron

September 2 – 7, 2025

To see full descriptions for any item in the summary list, please click on the continue reading link below the list.

0.   Ongoing Services – updated August 2025    

This Week’s Events: 

  1. GET YOUR RESUME READY: ESSENTIALS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – Tuesday
  2. DROP-IN RESUME REVIEW WITH CAREER AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT – Tuesday
  3. FINDING RESOURCES FOR LITERATURE REVIEWS IN THE BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES – Tuesday
  4. ENGINEERING EXPO CAREER FAIR PREP WORKSHOP + EMPLOYER PANEL – Tuesday
  5. CHI ALPHA GRAD COMMUNITY GROUP – Tuesday
  6. ALL-DAY WRITING RETREAT – Wednesday
  7. INTRODUCTION TO GEOSPATIAL MAPPING AND ARCGIS ONLINE – Wednesday
  8. INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH DATA MANAGEMENT – Wednesday
  9. NEW FACULTY HIRE CONVERSATION: MEGAN VOGT – Wednesday
  10. CHI ALPHA GRAD LIFE GROUP – Wednesday
  11. GLC CAFÉ – Thursday
  12. GET TO KNOW GAC (GRADUATE ARTS COUNCIL) – Thursday
  13. FIRST MEETING OF QUEER GRADS, PROFESSIONALS, AND ALLIES – Thursday
  14. TEA AT TWO – Friday
  15. ENGINEERING FACULTY SEARCH COMMITTEE PANEL – Friday 

Administrative Announcements:   

  1. LEADERSHIP GRADUATE CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE – 1st posting
  2. DCAP – ENTER TO WIN A FREE TICKET TO “STEP AFRIKA!” – 1st posting
  3. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT – 1st posting (1/1)
  4. COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE FOR GTA INSTRUCTORS OF RECORD – 3rd posting
  5. CIRTL NETWORK TEACHING-RELATED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES – 3rd posting
  6. ALCE 5884 – INTERNATIONAL COURSE: SOCIAL CHANGE COMMUNICATION – 3rd posting

Jobs:

  1. APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR GPSS RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM CO-CHAIR POSITION FOR 2025-2026 – 3rd posting

Funding Opportunities:

 None at this time

Volunteers and research participants sought: 

  1. VOLUNTEERING WITH IMMIGRANTS AND REFUGEES – 1st posting (1/1)
  2. CALL FOR GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL (GPSS) STUDENT SENATORS – 1st posting
  3. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A STUDY ON ULTRASOUND IMAGING OF THE BACK AND TREATMENT OF LOW BACK PAIN – 1st posting
  4. CHERRY TOMATO SENSORY EVALUATION THIS WEEK – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – 1st posting (1/1)
  5. RECRUITING PARTICIPANTS: USER STUDY ON LLM-SUPPORTED GRAPHIC REPORTING SYSTEM – 2nd posting (2/2)
  6. CALL FOR SCIENCE WRITERS: FOOD, WATER, COMMUNITIES STORYMAPS – 2nd posting
  7. SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR AN EDUCATIONAL AI RESEARCH STUDY – 2nd posting (2/2)
  8. SEEKING SOIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTISTS TO COMPLETE 5-MINUTE SURVEY  – 2nd posting (2/2)
  9. LOOKING FOR SECOND AND FIFTH GRADERS TO PARTICIPATE IN A VIRGINIA TECH LEARNING STUDY (IRB PROTOCOL #24-1349) – 3rd posting
  10. RECRUITING FOR A PAID RESEARCH STUDY ON USING GESTURES FOR LEARNING – 3rd posting
  11. RIPPLES OF CHANGE ARTIST CALLS FOR ONLINE GALLERY – 3rd posting
  12. SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR AN ONLINE USER STUDY ON EVALUATING QUESTION-ANSWER PAIRS – 3rd posting
  13. MENTHOL SMOKING STUDY – 3rd posting

    Upcoming Events:    

    1. DIGITAL SCHOLARSHIP COLLABORATION HOUR – September 8
    2. PHYSICAL SCIENCES FACULTY SEARCH COMMITTEE PANEL – September 8
    3. PREPARING FOR THE ACADEMIC JOB MARKET SERIES – September 9
    4. FREE WORKSHOP: TIPS & TRICKS FOR LITERATURE REVIEWS IN ENGINEERING – September 9
    5. GEAR UP! CLIFTON STRENGTHS SESSION – September 10
    6. FREE WORKSHOP: GETTING STARTED WITH ZOTERO – September 10
    7. GRADUATE STUDENT RESOURCE FAIR – September 11
    8. NON-ACADEMIC CAREERS IN HIGHER ED – September 12
    9. DISABILITY ALLIANCE AND CAUCUS MEETINGS – September 12
    10. COMPS, QUALS, & PRELIMS, OH MY! – September 15
    11. HANDS-ON DIGITIZING TEXTS WITH MACHINE LEARNING AND AI – September 16
    12. BRIDGING CULTURES: BUILDING INTERCULTURAL AWARENESS IN GRADUATE COMMUNITIES – September 16
    13. INTRO TO R AND RSTUDIO  – September 18
    14. DEAR UNDERGRAD ME: LESSONS ON GRADUATE SCHOOL – September 18
    15. DEFENSE PRACTICE OPPORTUNITIES FOR GRADUATING STUDENTS  – September 19
    16. FLIP THE FAIR 2025 – September 25
    17. OMBUDS FORUM: SETTING EXPECTATIONS- OCTOBER 22

           0. Ongoing Services – updated May 2025 

          • GRADUATE SCHOOL: Graduate School hours: In-person advising, drop-off or pick-up of documents and materials, and a space to study and take a break! Visit 120 GLC for walk-in hours, 9am-4pm, Monday-Friday, Phone540 231-8636 or email grads@vt.edu. If you prefer Zoom advising: request one-on-one assistantship or academic advising by using our online request form to set-up a Zoom session.   
          • CAREER ADVISING: schedule a career advising appointment via https://career.vt.edu/job-search/Handshake.html.
          • COOK COUNSELING: Students can call 540-231-6557 to schedule an appointment with the embedded counselor with their program, or other Cook counselors.  
          • FOOD SHARE PANTRY: Located in GLC Wellness Room (Room G). Accessible to graduate students 24/7 byswiping in with your Hokie Passport
          • WRITING CENTER SERVICES: Schedule an appointment at https://vt.mywconline.com/   
          • GRADUATE OMBUDSPERSON: contact for appointment at gradombud@vt.edu, 540-231-9573   

          This Week’s Events   

          1. GET YOUR RESUME READY: ESSENTIALS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS
          Tuesday, September 2, 1-2pm, Zoom
          A well-polished resume is an important step toward getting an interview. Start preparing early to be ready for both career fairs and the job search. This workshop will provide tips for crafting an effective resume. The session will also include information on Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and the use of generative AI tools to support your writing process. https://vt.joinhandshake.com/events/1778763/share_preview

          2. DROP-IN RESUME REVIEW WITH CAREER AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
          Tuesday, September 2, and Friday, September 5, 1-4pm, APIDA + Center (Squires 140)
          The Cultural Community Centers, in collaboration with Career and Professional Development, will offer free resume reviews for all students. Polish your resume with help from professionals from Career Development and College Relations at Virginia Tech. Stop by the APIDA + Center to prepare for the upcoming Fall career fairs. Light refreshments will be provided.

          3. FINDING RESOURCES FOR LITERATURE REVIEWS IN THE BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
          Tuesday, September 2, 3:30-4:30pm, Zoom ‘
          You’ve been assigned to write a literature review in the social sciences…but how do you get started? What kinds of literature reviews are there? Where should you search? How do you know what search terms to use? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this interactive workshop. By the end of this session, you’ll be able to: Identify different types of literature reviews; Find relevant databases; Create effective search terms. This workshop will focus on research in the social and behavioral sciences, such as education, communication, human development, psychology, and sociology. Register here:  https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/14919882

          4. ENGINEERING EXPO CAREER FAIR PREP WORKSHOP + EMPLOYER PANEL
          Tuesday, September 2, 5:30pm, Zoom (link in Handshake)
          Need guidance on preparing for and navigating Engineering Expo and all the other career fairs this fall? Attend Career & Professional Development’s (CPD) career fair prep workshop and employer panel on September 2nd at 5:30 pm! During this session, you’ll learn how to navigate career fairs, prepare your elevator pitch, and make a positive impression. Employers participating in Engineering Expo will also share their advice on successfully connecting with recruiters at a career fair. Submitted by faculty member Anya Work (awork@vt.edu). Register through Handshake: https://app.joinhandshake.com/stu/events/1793482

          5. CHI ALPHA GRAD COMMUNITY GROUP –
          Tuesday, September 2, 5:30pm, GLC meeting room C
          Join Chi Alpha’s Grad Community Group for a free meal and deep conversation Tuesday at 5:30pm in GLC Meeting Room C! Submitted by graduate student Victor Lopez Lopezvic924@vt.edu

          6. ALL-DAY WRITING RETREAT
          Wednesday, September 3, 9am-4pm, Graduate Life Center or Virtual
          Designed for graduate students in a writing phase at any level!
          This series offers a variety of structured and flexible sessions to support your writing journey. Whether you’re seeking a structured writing period, a focused environment, or the freedom to drop in as needed, our offerings cater to diverse needs. From facilitated workshops and Pomodoro sessions to quiet, open writing spaces, this series allows you to develop skills, boost productivity, and bring your ideas to life. Embrace the chance to write, connect, and grow in a community dedicated to creative and academic excellence. Submitted by staff member William Hutton  (wdh@vt.edu)

          7. INTRODUCTION TO GEOSPATIAL MAPPING AND ARCGIS ONLINE
          Wednesday, September 3, 2-4pm, Zoom
          The Introduction to Geospatial Mapping and ArcGIS Online session will focus on introducing the concept of geospatial mapping covering the basics of what Geographic Information Systems (GIS), geospatial data, and geospatial mapping are. It will also cover geospatial data types, sources, and file formats, and introduce participants to different types of geospatial mapping tools and software. The presentation will demonstrate and walk you through the steps on how to create your own maps using ArcGIS Online, add data layers, visualize information effectively, and share your creations (maps) with others within Virginia Tech or outside! The session caters to anyone, whether you are a student, faculty, researcher, or simply curious about mapping. No prior experience is required. https://profdev.tlos.vt.edu/browse/teachingandlearning/courses/lib173-090325

          8. INTRODUCTION TO RESEARCH DATA MANAGEMENT
          Wednesday, September 3, 3:30-4:30pm, Zoom
          You’re about to collect or already have data for your research project…now what? How do you manage it? What do you name the files? How do you share it? Learn the answers to all of these questions and more in this session, which will present an introduction to research data management, including the following topics:  Data management planning; File naming conventions/organization; Backing-up research data; Documentation (metadata); Data sharing; Data security; How the library can help. Register here: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/14919883

          9. NEW FACULTY HIRE CONVERSATION: MEGAN VOGT
          Wednesday, September 3, 4-5pm, Zoom
          Megan Vogt is a new assistant professor of biology at Western Carolina University. She earned her Ph.D. in integrative molecular and biomedical science from Baylor College of Medicine and worked as a postdoc at Virginia Tech prior to WCU. She will share her advice on navigating the faculty job market and answer questions during this informal conversation open to graduate students and postdocs. Submitted by staff member Chris Smith christsmith@vt.edu. Register here: https://virginiatech.zoom.us/meeting/register/Swx9pPpgSG2zJRbOOuBowg

          10. CHI ALPHA GRAD LIFE GROUP
          Wednesday, September 3, 7 pm, Location varies by group
          Join fellow grad students for a time of fellowship, discussion, and growing deeper in faith together. We’ll gather weekly to study the Bible, share life, and encourage one another in our academic and spiritual journeys. All graduate students are welcome! You can sign up online for more information!.    https://vtxa.com/lifegroups.  Submitted by graduate student Victor Lopez Lopezvic924@vt.edu

          11. GLC CAFÉ
          Thursday, September 4, 3:30-5:00 pm, GLC Reading Room
          Enjoy free coffee, tea, and cookies in the company of your grad student and Grad School colleagues. Relax, network, and load up on caffeine and/or carbs. Bring your own mug if you can. If you have any questions, please contact Lindsay Barron (lbarron@vt.edu).

          12. GET TO KNOW GAC (GRADUATE ARTS COUNCIL)
          Thursday, September 4, 5-7 pm, Henderson Lawn across from Squires
          Come on out at the beginning of the semester to meet the Graduate Arts Council! Snag a slice of pizza, flex your creativity with tie-dye, and meet other graduate students interested in the arts. White clothing for tie-dye will be available. RSVP here: https://gobblerconnect.vt.edu/event/11304719. If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Bria Weisz at (561)314-5444 or gradartscouncil@gmail.com during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

          13. FIRST MEETING OF QUEER GRADS, PROFESSIONALS, AND ALLIES
          Thursday, September 4, 5:30 pm, Pride Center
          QGPA provides LGBT-friendly services, events, and activities for the graduate and professional community of Blacksburg. Join us for community and fun with the queerest grad group on campus! For more information, or to join the QGPA GroupMe and listserv, please contact William Hernández at whernandez@vt.edu or Isaac Riddle at isaacriddle@vt.edu.

          14. TEA AT TWO
          Friday, September 5, 2-3:30 pm, recurs every Friday through the semester, Squires Student Center, Room 140
          Searching for cozy activities? Want to make some new friends while sipping tea? This weekly collaborative program with Cook Counseling and its PALs (Peer Assistance for Learning) Team, Tea at Two, invites students to slow down and take some time to reflect and be in community with one another. Join us for journaling, paper crafts, collage, and much more! Bring your current projects to work on and slow down for self-care. Light refreshments will be provided.

          15. ENGINEERING FACULTY SEARCH COMMITTEE PANEL
          Friday, September 5, 2:30-4 pm, Zoom
          Come hear from Virginia Tech faculty members who have served on faculty search committees regarding what they look for when evaluating applicants. Panelists will include: 1) Ali Butt, Professor and Associate Department Head of Faculty Development, Computer Science
          2) William Devenport, Alumni Distinguished Professor, Aerospace and Ocean Engineering
          3) Amy Pruden, University Distinguished Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering
          Submitted by staff member Chris Smith (christsmith@vt.edu). Register here:https://www.research.vt.edu/about/postdoctoral-associates/postdoctoral-events-programs/2025/faculty-search-committee-perspectives-panels.html

          Administrative Announcements   

          16. LEADERSHIP GRADUATE CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE – 1st posting
          Start today to increase your Leadership capabilities! Collaborative Community Leadership and Problem Solving for Leading Change are two certificates in leadership available to all graduate students. Demonstrated competency in leadership is in high demand from prospective employers. By completing a certificate in leadership, you can increase your employability in a wide array of positions. Options for in-person and on-line completion for these certificates exist. For more information see additional links on https://www.alce.vt.edu/student-info/graduate.html. Or contact Dr. Jerald Walz, jhwalz@vt.edu.

          17. DCAP – ENTER TO WIN A FREE TICKET TO “STEP AFRIKA!” – 1st posting
          Exciting opportunity for graduate students! The Dean’s Cultural Awareness Program (D-CAP) provides graduate students with tickets for performances at the Center for the Arts through a lottery system. This month, the Dean’s Cultural Awareness Program is thrilled to offer free tickets to the upcoming performance of Step Afrika! at the Center for the Arts. Known worldwide as the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping, Step Afrika! delivers an electrifying performance that blends percussive dance styles, South African traditions, live drumming, and dynamic storytelling. This event takes place on Saturday, September 27, at 6:30 PM. Students with a valid VT ID randomly selected will receive information on the ticket pick-up location. Only one entry per student per performance. If you have questions, please email grads@vt.edu. Register for a chance to win a free ticket at: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/t/AYic7Z66u9

          18. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT – 1st posting
          Connections that Count: Settling into the Semester 
          Whether you are new to Virginia Tech or continuing on, it can be an adjustment to get into a new  -routine at the start of the semester. Here are 3 tips to get you started: 
          Develop a routine: make sure to include time to meet basic needs like eating and sleeping 
          Connect with new people: spend time with people in your class or lab, meet with your professors. Know your resources: graduate students have access to a wide variety of resources; learn about and use them! Submitted by Jennifer Leili (jenniferl25@vt.edu), Assistant Director, Office for Civil Rights Compliance and Prevention Education

          19. COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE FOR GTA INSTRUCTORS OF RECORD – 3rd posting
          The GTA Instructor of Record Community of Practice (CoP) is co-hosted by the Graduate School and the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) to provide time to connect with other GTA instructors of record from across campus. If you are a GTA instructor of record with full teaching responsibility for a course and would like to engage in discussions about effective teaching and shared experiences with your colleagues in a university-wide community, this CoP is for you! If you are a GTA with significant course responsibilities under the supervision of a faculty member instructor of record, you are also welcome to join. Additional details about the CoP, including fall semester meeting times, are available on the CoP sign-up form at https://forms.office.com/r/YpUi1T8qgB. If you have questions about the CoP, contact CETL at (teaching@vt.edu).

          20. CIRTL NETWORK TEACHING-RELATED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES – 3rd posting
          Virginia Tech is a member of the Center for the Integration of Research, Teaching, and Learning (CIRTL) Network, which offers teaching-related professional development opportunities for graduate students and postdoctoral associates. This fall, CIRTL Network programming includes workshops, non-credit-bearing courses, and an event series for graduate students and postdoctoral associates preparing for higher education teaching careers. Fall 2025 CIRTL Network programming is available online and at no cost. Participants from CIRTL institutions receive priority registration for capped programming, which typically reaches capacity quickly. The full CIRTL Network fall programming schedule, including descriptions and registration information, is available at https://cirtl.net/events/. To learn more about CIRTL and its network of 45 research universities, visit https://www.cirtl.net/. For more information about CIRTL at Virginia Tech, visit https://cirtl.vt.edu/  or email cirtl@vt.edu.

          21. ALCE 5884 – INTERNATIONAL COURSE: SOCIAL CHANGE COMMUNICATION – 3rd posting
          Taught by Dr Van Crowder in collaboration with faculty at the Ghana University of Media, Arts, and Communication and the University of Cape Coast, the course has guest presenters from a range of development organizations and covers social change theories, strategies, and campaigns; culture, politics, gender, youth; traditional media, new media, internet access, and digital divides; and communication in international development, agriculture, food security, rural livelihoods, and environment. VT students participate in-person and Ghana students remotely. Submitted by faculty member Loy Van Crowder vcrowder@vt.edu.

          Jobs   

          22. APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR GPSS RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM CO-CHAIR POSITION FOR 2025-2026 – 3rd posting
          Prior to the event, held March 25th, co-chairs will work together to hire a speaker for the event, handle the bulk of necessary planning, and coordinate the event. Planning will include coordinating the keynote speaker, providing food for attendees, collecting abstracts, finding judges, and marketing the event. Applicants must be enrolled in a graduate education program and able to complete work over two semesters: Fall 2025 and Spring 2026, the period of appointment runs September 15- April 1. Applicants must be able to attend the Graduate Research Symposium (March 25th). This position is not an assistantship but does offer a stipend. To apply: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjemwoOeWNbx9Gj4WZgb_1I_xUQkNRT1YwMVpIOENZTzNSWkVTNUM0V0owQi4u

          Funding Opportunities:

          None at this time.

          Volunteers and Research Participants Sought    

          23. VOLUNTEERING WITH IMMIGRANTS AND REFUGEES – 1st posting (1/1)
          Check out the many opportunities to volunteer with immigrants and refugees in southwest Virginia, across the US, and internationally, through VT’s Center for Refugee, Migrant, and Displacement Studies and the affiliate Student Org.  Volunteers can be from any major, and no knowledge of a second language is required. Learn more here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bAMV-Yb1CdGqPVnoDBl_bSGwaNmb6sPz68XlTgTdOXM/edit?usp=sharing

          24. CALL FOR GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL (GPSS) STUDENT SENATORS – 1st
          The Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS) is looking for students to serve as Senators for 2025–26! They represent the graduate and professional students in their department, share student input, help shape policies, and keep their constituency informed about GPSS events, programs, advocacy efforts and funding opportunities. Each department can send 2 senators. You can be elected/nominated through your Graduate Student Organization (GSO) or nominated directly by your department. If you’re interested, ask your graduate coordinator or GSO president to send your name to gpss@vt.edu or fill out the form below. Feel free to reach out to the same email with any questions.
          https://forms.office.com/r/gmwC1u7nWA. 

          25. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A STUDY ON ULTRASOUND IMAGING OF THE BACK AND TREATMENT OF LOW BACK PAIN – 1st posting
          Our research team is recruiting participants with and without low back pain for a study involving ultrasound imaging of the thoracolumbar fascia (a soft-tissue covering over the top of your muscles) and treatment of low back pain. We are looking for individuals between the ages of 18 and 50 with a BMI under 30, no history of spinal surgery within the past year, and cannot be pregnant or breastfeeding. Some participants may see improvement in pain relief, range of motion, and general body function if enrolled in a treatment group. Some compensation will be provided to participants at study completion. Link to flyer with more information and how to participate:
          https://wanglab.beam.vt.edu/content/dam/wanglab_beam_vt_edu/2025%20TLF%20Flyer%20v6%205-12-25%20Final%20Stamped.pdf

          26. CHERRY TOMATO SENSORY EVALUATION THIS WEEK – VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – 1st posting (1/1)
          The VT Sensory Evaluation Lab (VT SEL) is conducting a study on cherry tomatoes and we need your help! Participants will be asked to evaluate cherry tomato samples in one single 30-minute session. This study aims to understand the consumer acceptance to cherry tomatoes grown in different environments. This is part of a research study, and the results may be published.
          When: Thursday Sept. 4th and Friday Sept. 5th , 2025 from 10am-5pm. Walk ins are welcome.
          Time Commitment: One ~30-minute session.
          Where: Sensory Evaluation Lab, Room 205, HABB1 Building, Virginia Tech (1230 Washington St SW)
          We are recruiting volunteers who are:18 years or older; Not currently pregnant; Have no known allergies or sensitivities to cherry tomatoes/tomatoes; Interested in tasting cherry tomatoes. Participants will not receive compensation but will be offered a snack after their session and can enjoy the experience of tasting and describing cherry tomatoes. Submitted by Graduate Student Isabel Gutierrez Forbes isabelg@vt.edu

          27. RECRUITING PARTICIPANTS: USER STUDY ON LLM-SUPPORTED GRAPHIC REPORTING SYSTEM – 2nd posting (2/2)
          The InfoViz group invites you to participate in a research study on Large Language Model (LLM) technologies. Our team is investigating how to enhance LLM-supported analysis report writing through visual workspaces similar to Miro. Study will take place in Room 466, Data and Decision Sciences, 727 Prices Fork Rd, Blacksburg, VA 24060. Participants will be given two tasks involving LLM-supported report writing of intelligence analysis and travel planning. The participants will try to solve the cases with an LLM-powered system while seated in an indoor environment within 90 minutes. Compensation $20 for upon completion of the study. Participant qualifications: Proficient in reading and writing in English; at least 18 years old; No known recent exposure to, or symptoms of COVID-19. Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis. Please contact Xuxin Tang at xuxintang@vt.edu to schedule a session. The project is supervised by Dr. Chris North in Computer Science Department.  VT IRB #24-803.

          28. CALL FOR SCIENCE WRITERS: FOOD, WATER, COMMUNITIES STORYMAPS – 2nd posting
          Have a story to share about a community and natural resources? Looking for a science communication opportunity to share said story to a wide audience? The editor of the Food, Water, and Communities blog, sponsored by the VT’s Center for Communicating Sciences, is currently recruiting graduate students to share their stories about a community that has faced a natural resource challenge, and which have inspired their graduate work. Interested writers should email Bria Weisz, bria@vt.edu, by Friday, September 12th with a 3-5 sentence description of their story. If selected, writers will be contacted to contribute a 500-700 word story for the StoryMaps. Open to graduate students at Virginia Tech. For more information and to view previous stories, visit https://arcg.is/10aLCi or email Bria Weisz at bria@vt.edu with any questions.

          29. SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR AN EDUCATIONAL AI RESEARCH STUDY – 2nd posting (2/2)
          We are seeking graduate students with teaching experience to participate in a study evaluating different tools for configuring AI tutoring agents. This research aims to understand how educators can effectively set up and validate AI teaching agent to match their pedagogical teaching style. During this study, participants will: Configure an AI tutoring system using different tools/methods. Test their AI configuration to ensure it matches their teaching style. Complete surveys about their experience and confidence in the AI system. Participate in a brief interview about the configuration process. Time commitment: 60-75 minutes via Zoom. Compensation: $25 upon completion.Participant qualifications: Graduate students with teaching experience (TA, instructor, or tutoring experience). To sign up please fill out this form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfXfd8K6DPyv7NEfNYBhd5joekhOaA-ovfL-4H1W-DNUINx8Q/viewform?usp=dialog, Submitted by Graduate Student David Barron dbarron410@vt.edu.

          30. SEEKING SOIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTISTS TO COMPLETE 5-MINUTE SURVEY  – 2nd posting (2/2)
          The VT Soil Survey Laboratory is seeking graduate students and professionals with a soil or environmental science background to complete a 5-minute survey regarding the color requirements for mollic and umbric epipedon classification. Anyone with experience performing soil descriptions is encouraged to participate. The survey can be found here: https://forms.office.com/r/Cz1S1dbFKA. Submitted by Graduate Student William Hernandez whernandez@vt.edu

          31. LOOKING FOR SECOND AND FIFTH GRADERS TO PARTICIPATE IN A VIRGINIA TECH LEARNING STUDY (IRB PROTOCOL #24-1349) – 3rd posting
          Participants needed for Virginia Tech Human Development and Family Science study (IRB # 24-1349). This research is to learn more about second and fifth graders’ literacy, math, self-regulation, executive function skills, how those skills are related to each other, as well as the role stress plays in the development of those skills so educators and/or parents can better support children’s development and literacy and math learning. Eligible individuals will participate in one 60-minute in-person video recorded session either on the Virginia Tech Blacksburg campus, their home, or a community-based location in Roanoke. Participant qualifications: Parent/guardians of a rising second grader or rising fifth grader during the 2025 summer, both parent/guarding and child are able to speak and read English. Compensation: $20 upon completion of the session and surveys. For more information: https://bit.ly/VTLearningStudy. Submitted by graduate student Isabel Valdivia isabelvl@vt.edu.

          32. RECRUITING FOR A PAID RESEARCH STUDY ON USING GESTURES FOR LEARNING – 3rd posting
          The Mind Music Machine Lab at Virginia Tech is seeking individuals to participate in a study to determine how gestures can improve the acquisition of algorithmic interpretation skills. During this study, participants will: Complete a demographic survey. Learn an algorithmic language either with or without accompanying hand gestures over the course of three 30 minute sessions. Take two tests in a fourth 30 minute session which assesses acquisition of various algorithmic interpretation skills. Take a short 10 minute semi-structured interview. Compensation of $20 will be given for participating in the four 30 minutes sessions (2 hours total, divided across at least four days). Qualifications: Are over 18 years old; Have normal hearing, vision (or correct-to-normal vision) and fine motor skills; Cannot program without significant help. For more information please contact Jacqueline Bruen jacquelineb@vt.edu.

          33. RIPPLES OF CHANGE ARTIST CALLS FOR ONLINE GALLERY – 3rd posting
          We are calling for artists to submit their work to @ripplesofchangeart on instagram! Send us a photo of your work plus a description that supports the following mission: This gallery brings together art and science communication in an interdisciplinary showcase that highlights the innovative and inspiring work happening at local, regional, and global levels in environmentalism, environmental justice, and global change. Our goal is to spark connection, motivation, and action – inviting our community to celebrate and build upon the incredible efforts of individuals and groups already making a difference.
          We are accepting art of all media! Photographic, paintings, video, sculpture, etc. https://www.instagram.com/ripplesofchangeart/. Submitted by graduate student Maria Popescu mariapopescu100@vt.edu.

          34. SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR AN ONLINE USER STUDY ON EVALUATING QUESTION-ANSWER PAIRS – 3rd posting
          A research study focused on evaluating Question-Answer pairs generated by large language models (LLMs) and traditional search methods. Your insights as someone with experience in academic content, particularly theses and dissertations, will be valuable for this research. If you are interested in participating, please complete the form. Participant qualifications: Current graduate students, undergraduate students with research experience, faculty members, or researchers; Adults(18+). Compensation: $15 Amazon gift card. Participation interest survey:   https://forms.office.com/r/AvHCLci5Ut.
          Submitted by graduate student Satvik Chekuri satvikchekuri@vt.edu

          35. MENTHOL SMOKING STUDY – 3rd posting
          We are seeking volunteers for a study on menthol use and tobacco. Participant qualifications: Be 21+, smoke menthol cigarettes. Up to $75. Link to screen: https://freitaslemoslab.ripplescience.com/survey/66nezxFQyKkg8nEon/qQMGvv1B6mTaK0zpB/ form. Submitted by graduate student Laure Bruckner laurab99@vt.edu.

          Upcoming Events   

          36. DIGITAL SCHOLARSHIP COLLABORATION HOUR
          Monday, September 8, 12-1pm, recurring weekly on Mondays, Newman Library 126, Athenaeum Collaboration Room or on Zoom
          Are you working on a digital humanities or digital scholarship project? Are you looking to upgrade your scholarly toolbox? Want to learn more about digital scholarship and media production resources? All are welcome to come chat, collaborate, and work with an interdisciplinary group of scholars with interests in the diverse fields of digital humanities and digital scholarship. Join in person or via Zoom by registering on the Library Events page, https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/15043501.  Please reach out with any questions you might have about the collaboration hour or digital humanities and digital scholarship more broadly to dhlibsupport@vt.edu and check out the Digital Humanities Library Guide at https://guides.lib.vt.edu/dh

          37. PHYSICAL SCIENCES FACULTY SEARCH COMMITTEE PANEL
          Monday, September 8, 2:30-4pm, Zoom
          Come hear from Virginia Tech faculty members who have served on faculty search committees in chemistry, physics, and geosciences regarding what they look for when evaluating applicants. Panelists will include:
          1) Adrian Figg, Assistant Professor, Chemistry
          2) Steve Holbrook, Professor and Department Head, Geosciences
          3) Patrick Huber, Professor and Director of the Center for Neutrino Physics, Physics
          Register here: https://www.research.vt.edu/about/postdoctoral-associates/postdoctoral-events-programs/2025/faculty-search-committee-perspectives-panels.html

          38. PREPARING FOR THE ACADEMIC JOB MARKET SERIES
          Tuesday, September 9, 12-1pm, Zoom (series held weekly on Tuesdays from 9/9 through 9/30, 2025)
          This series, organized by the Graduate School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill but open to Virginia Tech graduate students and postdocs, will provide participants with strategies for effective academic job searches and provide guidance on generating effective application materials. The sessions will include opportunities for self-reflection, analysis of example application materials, and opportunities to create or improve one’s own set of materials. https://www.research.vt.edu/about/postdoctoral-associates/postdoctoral-events-programs/2025/preparing-for-the-academic-job-market-series-2025.html

          39. FREE WORKSHOP: TIPS & TRICKS FOR LITERATURE REVIEWS IN ENGINEERING
          Tuesday, September 9, 3:30-4:30pm, Zoom
          You need to write a literature review for your research or project… but how do you get started? What type of review do you need? What about AI tools to save time? We will go through the answers to these questions and more in the workshop! By the end of the workshop, you will learn how to: Get started on your own literature review; Be effective and efficient in searching engineering literature; Use tools to help you throughout the process; Whether you are new to literature reviews or even outside of engineering, all are welcome to attend this workshop! Register here: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/14919932

          40. GEAR UP! CLIFTON STRENGTHS SESSION
          Wednesday, September 10, 2-3:30pm, Gilbert 2101
          Join us for a CliftonStrengths training to determine your leadership and work styles and how to apply them in various collaborative settings. This session is interactive, and is intended to encourage self-reflection around your participation in professional environments. Submitted by staff member Ann Guo (aguo@vt.edu). Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/eXPfmjSuye

          41. FREE WORKSHOP: GETTING STARTED WITH ZOTERO
          Wednesday, September 10, 2-3:15pm, Zoom
          Zotero is a free, easy-to-use citation manager that can help researchers save time and frustration. In this workshop, you will learn the basics of Zotero, including adding references to your library, organizing your library, and using Zotero to cite references within a document (both Word and Google Docs). To get the most out of the session, you should have Zotero downloaded to your computer already. Information on how to download the software is available at guides.lib.vt.edu/citationmanagers/Zotero. Register here: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/14919935. Submitted by faculty member Lisa Russell lisab5@vt.edu

          42. GRADUATE STUDENT RESOURCE FAIR
          Thursday, September 11, 3-5pm, GLC Multipurpose Room
          Are you interested in free food, free raffle prizes, and free VT resources? Drop in to the Fall Graduate Student Resource fair on September 11th in the GLC! More than 25 VT organizations will be sharing resources for graduate students. Snacks and drinks will be provided as a replacement for GLC Cafe. Also, come play Bingo to win one of many raffle prizes! Submitted by Graduate Student/BOV representative Katie Drinkwater Gregg (kdd20@vt.edu) Click this link for the flyer: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1k3FFWBiUYmAXG69GqtgWjhsz2OobaIlS/view?usp=sharing

          43. NON-ACADEMIC CAREERS IN HIGHER ED
          Friday, September 12, 11:30-1:30pm, Black Cultural Center
          This event is meant to expose students to non-academic professions in higher education. Positions like finance, administration, or even program coordination are crucial to the workings of higher education institutions. Students will learn about the diversity of career paths in the field and speak with mentors about their journeys into the professional space. Submitted by staff member Ann Guo (aguo@vt.edu). Please register at the link provided. https://forms.office.com/r/UfAK37D7TG

          44. DISABILITY ALLIANCE AND CAUCUS MEETINGS
          Friday, September 12, 12-1pm, meets weekly on Fridays,Hybrid (Zoom + Newman Library)
          Are you looking for disability community at Virginia Tech? Join DAC! The Disability Alliance (students) and Caucus (employees) meet jointly every Friday from 12pm-1pm on Zoom. We welcome all community members, forms of disability, chronic illness, neurodivergence, self-diagnosis, and allies. Our meetings include community building, social support, and disability activism. Our meetings alternate weeks, with the next General meeting on 9/12 (with a hybrid option in Newman Library) and the next Social meeting on 9/19. Even if you can’t attend meetings, please sign up for emails as this is our primary communication mechanism! Questions? Reach out to our Caucus Co-Chair Juno Bartsch at junob@vt.edu.

          45. COMPS, QUALS, & PRELIMS, OH MY!
          Monday, September 15, 3-4pm, GLC F and virtual (additional monthly sessions offered)
          Students curious about Comprehensive, Qualifying, and Preliminary Exams are invited to join this workshop to receive information on the different formats, tips on how to prepare, and advice from a panel of students who have successfully passed these academic milestones. Virtual and in-person options. Contact the Graduate School at grads@vt.edu if you have any questions. Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/45fTzWDXuJ

          46. HANDS-ON DIGITIZING TEXTS WITH MACHINE LEARNING AND AI
          Tuesday, September 16, 9am-12pm, Newman Library 207A
          Are you interested in extracting text from scanned images—even poor-quality images—and learning more about new advances in optical character recognition (OCR)? Join us on Tuesday, 16 September, 9am–12pm for a 3-hour workshop on utilizing machine learning and large language models to programmatically OCR images of text. The workshop will take participants through running Python code in collaborative notebooks to access a variety of tools used to OCR texts, including texts that might be poorly scanned or otherwise difficult to read. This is a participatory workshop, and you will have the opportunity to practice along with the instructors, as well as applying skills in exercises on your own. The workshop is open to all VT community members. Some experience with Python is recommended. Register here: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/15041273

          47. BRIDGING CULTURES: BUILDING INTERCULTURAL AWARENESS IN GRADUATE COMMUNITIES – Tuesday, September 16, 1-3pm, GLC room B
          Join us for an interactive intercultural learning workshop designed specifically for graduate students. Together, we will create a supportive space to openly explore cultural identities, surface and address misunderstandings, and build skills for navigating challenging conversations with respect and care. Participants will practice asking sensitive questions, deepen awareness of microaggressions, and develop constructive strategies for responding thoughtfully. This workshop is an opportunity to strengthen both self-awareness and graduate community connection. Submitted by staff member William Hutton wdh@vt.edu. Register here: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjeiM8V5QSSkBKrBof5AQL_eJUNzBFMDBTRldBTDZNOEpSTUoxSEtMRVVZMC4u&route=shorturl

          48. INTRO TO R AND RSTUDIO
          Thursday, September 18, 9am-12pm, Zoom
          Interested in improving your data and computing skills for conducting open and reproducible research? Join us for hands-on workshops for data analysis in R on Zoom. The Library is hosting a set of two workshops on getting started with data analysis and visualization in R on 18 and 25 September. You can take the workshops as a series or choose one that best fits your experience and needs. The workshops are open to all VT community members. You do not need any experience with the software to participate, but you will need access to a Windows, Mac, or Linux computer. Register here: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/15078686

          49. DEAR UNDERGRAD ME: LESSONS ON GRADUATE SCHOOL
          Thursday, September 18, 5-6pm, Black Cultural Center
          This graduate school panel is meant to bring students from all academic levels together to talk about the experience of participating in a graduate degree. Panelists will talk about admissions, writing theses, and research. This session will be an opportunity for graduate students to share the day-to-day of being in academia and the challenges of working in the profession. Submitted by staff member Ann Guo, aguo@vt.edu. Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/kVumAvXvyT

          50. DEFENSE PRACTICE OPPORTUNITIES FOR GRADUATING STUDENTS 
          Friday, September 19, 10am-12pm, In-person and virtual location options, additional dates offered throughout the semester. Students defending in Fall 2025 are invited to present a 20-minute practice version of their final defense to a small group of Graduate School staff, other students, and faculty from a variety of programs and receive constructive feedback from them. Those attending the session and providing feedback may or may not know the presenter(s) and may or may not be from a related field or discipline, so feedback is focused less on content and more on presentation structure, clarity, style, coherence, etc.  Spots are limited, so please only register for one date and we will let you know the details once your participation is confirmed. Virtual and in-person options. Contact the Graduate School at grads@vt.edu if you have any questions. Registration: https://forms.office.com/r/jRM4gCf3LR

          51. FLIP THE FAIR 2025
          Thursday, September 25, 8am-2pm , Melrose Branch Library, Roanoke, VA
          Join us for Flip the Fair 2025! Flip the Fair is a flipped science fair where graduate students and post-docs present their research science-fair-style on tri-fold poster boards, and 5th graders judge them! Prizes awarded to the best presenters! This year’s event will be held at the Melrose Branch of the Roanoke Public Library on Sept. 25th from 8am-2pm.  As added value, presenters also are given the opportunity for communication skills training at a professional development workshop in preparation for the event.
          Want to participate but don’t have time to do a poster?  Sign up to volunteer at the event instead! We are looking for undergraduates, graduates, post-docs, faculty, and staff to assist at the event. There are several shifts to choose from. Questions? Contact (amandaah@vt.edu).

          52. OMBUDS FORUM: SETTING EXPECTATIONS – INTEREST FORM
          Wednesday, October 22, 12pm, location TDB,
          This Ombuds Forum is a community-based space to share common issues affecting graduate students, including funding and financial wellness, advisor relationships and agreements, and interpersonal dynamics. Please fill out the interest form below to indicate your questions and time preferences for this event. https://forms.office.com/r/6AU7Tv9CnR.