Posted on by lbarron

January 26- February 1, 2026

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. LET’S LOCK IN – Monday – Canceled
  2. CHI ALPHA GRAD COMMUNITY GROUP – Tuesday
  3. ALL-DAY WRITING RETREAT –  Wednesday
  4. 30-MINUTE CAREER BOOST FOR GRAD STUDENTS: CRAFTING ATS-FRIENDLY RESUMES – Wednesday
  5. GLC CAFÉ – Wednesday & Thursday
  6. ECE COLLOQUIUM – Wednesday
  7. VALUES & LOCUS OF CONTROL WHEN JOB SEARCHING – Wednesday
  8. CHI ALPHA GRAD LIFE GROUPS – Wednesday
  9. REUS PATHWAYS TO GRADUATE STUDY – Friday
  10. THIS IS HOME: FINDING BELONGING FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – Friday
  11. FRIDAY 15 WORKSHOP: RESUME WRITING – Friday

    Administrative Announcements:   

    1. UNIVERSITY STATUS – BLACKSBURG CAMPUS CLOSED MONDAY, JANUARY 26– 1st posting (1/1)
    2. 2026 GPSS RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM CALL FOR ABSTRACTS – 1st posting (1/2)
    3. APPLY TO BE THE NEXT BOARD OF VISITORS STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE – 1st posting
    4. ICAT STUDENT GRANT CALL FOR SPRING SEMESTER IS OPEN, DUE FEBRUARY 13 – 1st posting (1/2)
    5. NOMINATE A GRADUATE STUDENT LEADER FROM YOUR DEPARTMENT TO ATTEND THE GRAD LEADERSHIP RETREAT – 1st posting
    6. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT: BUILDING HEALTHY ROUTINES – 1st posting (1/1)
    7. APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR SPRING 2026 GPSS TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM – UP TO $500 AVAILABLE FOR CONFERENCE EXPENSES – 2nd posting
    8. OFFICE OF ENERGY MANAGEMENT – BREAK UP WITH YOUR SPACE HEATER – 2nd posting
    9. LAST CHANCE – LEADERSHIP COURSES – SPRING SEMESTER – *REGISTER NOW* – 2nd posting (2/2)
    10. RESEARCH COMPUTING WORKSHOPS SPRING 2026 – 2nd posting
    11. SUBSCRIBE TO UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES RESEARCH SERVICES NEWSLETTER – 2nd posting
    12. DCAP – ENTER TO WIN FREE TICKETS TO “CIRQUE MECHANICS” – 2nd posting
    13. UPCOMING CIRTL NETWORK EVENT SERIES EXPLORES TOPICS IN ACADEMIC HIRING AND CAREER PREPARATION – 3rd posting
    14. FREE ONLINE MICROSOFT 365 WORKSHOPS FROM DIVISION OF IT – 3rd posting
    15. TAKE YOUR RESEARCH TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH FREE LIBRARY WORKSHOPS –3rd posting

      Jobs:

      1. STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER GRADUATE ASSISTANT – 2nd posting
      2. ENERGY MANAGEMENT GRADUATE ASSISTANT – 3rd posting

      Funding Opportunities:

      1. ALEXIS TAYLOR BREAUX FUND FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDY – DEADLINE: JANUARY 30 
      2. APPLY TO BE A FUTURE LEADER IN FOOD & AGRICULTURE (FFAR) FELLOW – DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 22
      3. SUMMER CUNNINGHAM FELLOWSHIP – DEADLINE: APRIL 1, 2026

      Volunteers and research participants sought: 

      1. INVITATION TO JOIN RESEARCH ON FIRST-YEAR DOCTORAL STUDENT PERSISTENCE, SATISFACTION, AND BELONGING – 1ST POSTING
      2. CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS: AI ETHICS AND POLICY THROUGH APPLIED THEATRE WORKSHOPS – 1st posting
      3. BACK AND TREATMENT OF LOW BACK PAIN – 2nd posting
      4. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH STUDY ON SLEEP AND BRAIN–MACHINE INTERFACE LEARNING – 2nd posting
      5. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS’ USE OF INSTANT MESSAGING GROUP CHATS – 3rd posting

      Upcoming Events:    

      1. GRADUATE RESOURCE FAIR – February 3
      2. LUNCH WITH THE DEAN –  February 5
      3. YOU ARE INVITED: PRESIDENT SANDS SPEAKING AT THE NEXT GPSS MEETING; PLEASE RSVP – February 5
      4. INTRODUCTION TO GEOSPATIAL MAPPING AND ArcGIS ONLINE – February 11
      5. FROM ACADEMIA TO INDUSTRY: INSIGHTS FROM 300 PHDS –  February 24


      0. Ongoing Services – updated October 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, Phone 540 231-8636 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 CABINET: 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. LET’S LOCK IN – CANCELLED
      Monday, January 26, 4-6pm APIDA + Center, Squires 140) recurs every Monday
      Looking for a weekly boost to stay on track with your classes? Let’s Lock In is open to all and meets once a week – every Monday – to give you a dedicated time and space to focus, get support, and make real progress. Join other students in a relaxed, productive environment where tutors are on hand to help with coursework, and other campus resources are all around. Think of it like study hall, but better: whether you’re tackling tough assignments, prepping for exams, or just trying to stay organized, Let’s Lock In is here to help. Drop in, get focused, and leave feeling accomplished.

      2. CHI ALPHA GRAD COMMUNITY GROUP
      Tuesday, January 27, 5:30-7pm, GLC Meeting Room D
      Join Chi Alpha’s Grad Community Group for a free meal and meaningful, deep conversations. It’s a welcoming space to slow down, share life, and connect with other graduate students beyond the surface. Come hungry—for food and for community! Submitted by Victor Lopez Lopezvic924@vt.edu

      3. ALL-DAY WRITING RETREAT
      Wednesday, January 28, 9am-4pm, Graduate Life Center, Blacksburg & virtually or in-person at the Virginia Tech Research Center in Arlington
      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. For more information about the Writing Series visit:  https://graduateschool.vt.edu/professional-development/professional-development-series.html. Register for the January 28th writing retreat in Blacksburg here. https://forms.office.com/r/ztNWnucH17 Register to participate virtually or in-person at the Virginia Tech Research Center in Arlington. If you wish to participate in-person in Arlington, please email dcgradschool@vt.edu, and indicate your interest. Coffee, snacks, and lunch will be provided to in-person participants.

      4. 30-MINUTE CAREER BOOST FOR GRAD STUDENTS: CRAFTING ATS-FRIENDLY RESUMES
      Wednesday, January 28, 12:30-1:00pm, Zoom
      Stand out in your job search with a resume built for today’s hiring process. This workshop covers the essentials: crafting an effective resume that gets past Applicant Tracking Systems, highlighting your graduate experience, and using generative AI tools to strengthen your writing. Get practical tips you can apply right away to stand out in your job search. Register at: https://vt.joinhandshake.com/events/1878810/share_preview

      5.  GLC CAFÉ
      Wednesday January 28, & Thursday, January 29, 3:30-5:00pm, 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).

      6. ECE COLLOQUIUM
      Wednesday, January 28, 4-5pm, Hybrid, Academic Building One, 3625 Potomac Ave, Alexandria, Virginia
      Our colloquium series is held once a week in Alexandria, VA for faculty, students, and guests. All colloquiums are held in-person at Virginia Tech Academic Building One with a Zoom option. Jan. 28: Phil Vansant ’05, Dominion Energy (ECE), Rolling the DICE in a Digital Age. As Dominion Energy Virginia’s service territory experiences growing demand from increased load and generation interconnections, the need for new substations has never been greater. To meet this challenge, Dominion Energy is reimagining how substations are engineered, fabricated, and tested to create a repeatable, standardized design based on IEC 61850. This approach centers on the Drop-In Control Enclosure (DICE), a fully digital solution that streamlines deployment with a first-of-its-kind facility. Registration: https://aimsbbis.vt.edu/tech-talks-2026

      7. VALUES & LOCUS OF CONTROL WHEN JOB SEARCHING
      Wednesday, January 28, 5-6pm, Virtual
      Job searching can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to take over your well-being! Join Career and Professional Development and Hokie Wellness for an interactive workshop on managing stress during the job hunt. We’ll explore how your values can guide your career choices and how understanding your locus of control can help you feel more empowered and grounded throughout the process. Come to learn strategies to stay balanced, focused, and confident as you navigate your next career step. This event is open to all students and all majors! Register here: https://vt.joinhandshake.com/stu/events/1896311

      8. CHI ALPHA GRAD LIFE GROUPS
      Wednesday, January 28, 7pm, 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.

      9.  REUS PATHWAYS TO GRADUATE STUDY
      Friday, January 30, 11am-12:30pm, GLC Room B
      Do you know any undergraduate students who are curious about research or who are planning for graduate school? Please encourage them to join us for a dynamic webinar exploring Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs).  Attendees will learn where to find REU opportunities and how to showcase REU experiences in their grad school applications. Registration requested:
      https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjegopL1BGoxVPpxA-NeUMvptUN1NOMkU5T01KQlZINzJCVTZOSEUzVjhFMC4u&route=shorturl. Cosponsored by the Graduate School and the Office of Undergraduate Research.

      10. THIS IS HOME: FINDING BELONGING FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS
      Friday, January 30, 12-1pm, GLC Room C
      Join us for a luncheon focused on belonging and learning how to thrive right where you are. Our guest speaker is Melody Warnick, author of If You Could Live Anywhere and This Is Where You Belong: Finding Home Wherever You Are. Discover practical, intentional ways to cultivate a sense of belonging in your community and your graduate experience. Registration is required for this event: https://forms.office.com/r/nRWgSXiVd8

      11. FRIDAY 15 WORKSHOP: RESUME WRITING
      Friday, January 30, 1:30-1:45pm, Zoom
      This quick 15-minute session delivers top tips for highlighting your graduate experience and getting past ATS. Register at: https://vt.joinhandshake.com/events/1878850/share_preview.

      Administrative Announcements   

      12. UNIVERSITY STATUS – BLACKSBURG CAMPUS CLOSED MONDAY, JANUARY 26– 1st posting (1/1)
      Due to inclement weather, the Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg will be closed today, with in-person classes, events, and activities canceled. All online classes and events will be held as scheduled. Residence halls and dining centers will remain open. Dining hall schedule information and any schedule changes can be found online. Schiffert Health Center will be open from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Monday for urgent care needs only. Visit ridebt.org for the latest Blacksburg Transit information. All Rec Sports facilities will remain closed for Monday. Snow routes remain in effect. Please keep designated streets clear for snow removal. For more information: https://www.vt.edu/status.html

      13. 2026 GPSS RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM CALL FOR ABSTRACTS – 1st posting (1/2)
      The 42nd Annual GPSS Research Symposium will be held on March 25, 2026, in the GLC, and we invite students from all disciplines to submit presentations/posters for the symposium! This year’s theme is “Better Together: Collaborating Beyond Boundaries.” Whether your work is beyond academic boundaries and forwards inter/transdisciplinary ways of thinking, crosses methodological borders and engages in a variety of modes of collecting data, or focuses on the boundary/border/line crossings of plants/animals, culture, and people, we invite you to join and showcase your work! We also invite the submission of work that is not explicitly boundary-crossing in method or context and encourage projects in a variety of stages of completion, from proposed studies and research-in-process to fully analyzed dissertation/thesis work.You can find more details on the abstract submission form here: https://forms.office.com/r/H2cWgB3xH5.
      Abstract Review Interest Form: https://forms.office.com/r/k8JNXPpzC.

      14. APPLY TO BE THE NEXT BOARD OF VISITORS STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE – 1st posting
      Are you looking for a leadership role that will help you foster change for graduate and professional students at Virginia Tech? Apply to be the next Graduate/Professional Student Representative to the VT Board of Visitors! The BOV rep has unparalleled access to VT’s highest governing body, which provides ample opportunities for professional development and advocacy. Learn more at a hybrid info session on Wednesday, Feb. 4th at 4:30 or Monday, Feb. 9th at 5:00 in DDS 240 and on Zoom. See bov.vt.edu/StudentReps  for more information or reach out to Katie at kdd20@vt.edu.

      15. ICAT  STUDENT GRANT CALL FOR SPRING SEMESTER IS OPEN, DUE FEBRUARY 13 – 1st posting (1/2)
      ICAT is accepting proposals for its Roger and Debbie West Student Grants, due on February 13, 2026, at midnight Eastern. These grants are for student‐led transdisciplinary projects—especially ones that foster creativity, innovation, experimentation, and discovery. For students who are collaborating across disciplines while pursuing new ideas, this funding opportunity is a chance to make those ideas a reality. These grants are for student-led teams with a diverse departmental/college representation, for up to $1,000. Teams must be comprised of students from at least two different schools/department, and one team member must represent arts and/or design. https://.icat.vt.edu/funding/roger-and-debbie-west-student-grant-call-for-proposals.html

      16.  NOMINATE A GRADUATE STUDENT LEADER FROM YOUR DEPARTMENT TO ATTEND THE GRAD LEADERSHIP RETREAT – 1st posting
      Do you know a student leader from a graduate student organization (GSO), assembly (GSA), or department role? Are you a grad student leader? Attend the inaugural Graduate Leadership Retreat on February 21st. This prestigious event will allow leaders to share success stories, challenges, and grow their community. Nominations (or self-nominations) are open now! Complete this form: www.tinyurl.com/vtgradretreat. Please reach out to Katie (kdd20@vt.edu) with any questions.

      17. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT: BUILDING HEALTHY ROUTINES – 1st posting (1/1)
      Connections that Count from the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education (SVPE) 
      Connections that Count: Building Healthy Routines
      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 healthy 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!  Starting the semester can feel overwhelming, but small, intentional steps can make a big difference. Remember, it’s okay to take things one step at a time. You’ve got this!

      18. APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR SPRING 2026 GPSS TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM – UP TO $500 AVAILABLE FOR CONFERENCE EXPENSES – 2nd posting
      Graduate students presenting research conducted at Virginia Tech are eligible to apply for the Spring 2026 Travel Fund Program! Grants may cover registration, lodging, meals, abstract fees and other costs of presenting at an in-person or virtual conference with a start date from April 1-June 30. Students from all disciplines are invited to apply, even if your conference abstract has not been officially accepted. Applications due February 16th at 11:59 PM. Please e-mail Megan Grey at greym@vt.edu with any questions, and visit https://gpss.vt.edu/programs/tfp.html for full details and instructions.

      19. OFFICE OF ENERGY MANAGEMENT – BREAK UP WITH YOUR SPACE HEATER – 2nd posting
      The Division of Facilities Office of Energy Management invites the Virginia Tech community to “break up” with their space heaters. Space heaters use substantial amounts of electricity and pose a fire risk when they are left unattended! Break Up with Your Space Heater encourages Virginia Tech faculty, staff, and students to stop using space heaters and utilize more sustainable forms of heat such as a blanket, scarf, hand warmers, and more.  The program will run from January 20 to February 27. On February 11, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., turn in your space heater to the Office of Energy Management, in Squires Student Center Information Booth B.  Space heaters can be traded in for an alternative form of heat and will be donated to the New River Valley Women’s Resource Center and New River Community Action.   For questions or more information, please contact the Office of Energy Management at energymanagement-g@vt.edu or call (540) 231-7834.  

      20. LAST CHANCE – LEADERSHIP COURSES – SPRING SEMESTER – *REGISTER NOW* – 2nd posting (2/2)
      The following Leadership courses are available for ALL graduate Students in Spring 2026: LDRS 4514 Skills for Nonprofit Leaders (CRN 17221), Learn the skills to lead complex nonprofit organizations successfully; LDRS 5454 Leadership Diverse Contexts (CRN 17227), Understand the theories behind leadership to become world-class leader; LDRS 5544 Leading Teams through Change (CRN 21526), Know how to develop teams and implement leadership strategies for driving community change; Questions? Contact Dr Jerald Walz at jhwalz@vt.edu.

      21. RESEARCH COMPUTING WORKSHOPS SPRING 2026 – 2nd posting
      Advanced Research Computing (ARC) is offering a series of high-performance computing workshops designed to help users of all experience levels enhance their skills in high-performance and data-intensive computing for use in research, teaching, and learning. Sessions are open to all graduate students as well as faculty, and include topics ranging from introductory computing concepts to advanced technique. Weekly workshops are held via Zoom, on Fridays at 12 noon, starting Jan. 23. There’s also a Spring Break Boot Camp for a deeper dive into HPC topics. See schedule & registration info here: https://news.vt.edu/notices/it/2026/01/arc-spring-research-computing-workshops.html

      22. SUBSCRIBE TO UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES RESEARCH SERVICES NEWSLETTER – 2nd posting
      Learn about research resources, workshops, and services available to you from University Libraries. Subscribe today! https://t.send.vt.edu/lp/ulrs-subscribe

      23. DCAP – ENTER TO WIN FREE TICKETS TO “CIRQUE MECHANICS” – 2nd posting
      Cirque Mechanics returns to Blacksburg with Tilt, an inventive new adventure set in the backlot of a fantastic theme park. Amid roller coasters and Ferris wheel lights, discover the characters who keep the thrills alive through astonishing feats of strength, balance, and daring. Praised by The New York Times as “intelligently conceived and expertly executed,” this performance celebrates American ingenuity with soaring acrobatics and spectacular staging. Limited tickets are available exclusively for graduate students, with special EXTRA tickets for your children. This event takes place on Wednesday, Feb 11, 2026, 7:30 PM at Center for the Arts, 190 Alumni Mall, Blacksburg. Students with a valid VT ID (Hokie Passport) who are randomly selected will receive information about 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/cirque

       24.  UPCOMING CIRTL NETWORK EVENT SERIES EXPLORES TOPICS IN ACADEMIC HIRING AND CAREER PREPARATION – 3rd posting
      This semester, the Center for the Integration of Research, Teaching, and Learning (CIRTL) Network is offering “The Joyful Journey: Graduate Student and Postdoctoral Scholar Professional Development Series.” Sessions in the series include “Finishing your Diss/Thesis,” “Panel(s) of Early Career Faculty,” “CVs for the Academic Job Market,” “Cover Letters for the Academic Job Market,” and more! You can find the full event series schedule, including session descriptions and registration information, at https://cirtl.net/events/tag/the-joyful-journey-graduate-student-and-postdoctoral-scholar-professional-development-series-spring-2026/. The events are offered online and at no cost. To learn more about CIRTL and its network of research universities, visit https://cirtl.net/.  To learn more about CIRTL at Virginia Tech, visit https://cirtl.vt.edu or email cirtl@vt.edu.

      25. FREE ONLINE MICROSOFT 365 WORKSHOPS FROM DIVISION OF IT – 3rd posting
      The Division of IT is offering a series of online courses designed to introduce users to Microsoft 365 tools available at Virginia Tech, including Outlook, Teams, and Copilot AI. Each 1-hour course will include an overview of the tool, explore its features and benefits, and demonstrate its various uses for collaboration within research groups, classes, and projects. Sessions start 1/26. Sign up through the TLOS Professional Development Network! Schedule and registration links here: https://news.vt.edu/notices/it/2026/01/spring-microsoft-365-workshops.html

      26. TAKE YOUR RESEARCH TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH FREE LIBRARY WORKSHOPS – 3rd  posting
      There’s a lot to learn in graduate school, and the library can help! This spring, the library will offer a series of free workshops (offered live via Zoom) to help you develop the research skills you need to succeed in graduate school. Learn about literature reviews and database searching, citation management, data management, developing your scholarly presence, and more. For registration links and detailed information about each workshop, visit: http://guides.lib.vt.edu/gradworkshops 

      Jobs   

      27. STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER GRADUATE ASSISTANT – 2nd posting

      Responsibilities: Train, mentor, supervise peer educators: Plan/support events and programming; Represent the SSC at university events; Assist with marketing; Analyze/communicate Center data; Attend meetings and trainings, present seminars.  Required Qualifications: Maintain regular weekly office hours – Monday to Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., occasional evening /weekend hours may be required; Excellent oral/written communication skills; Organized and effectively manage time; Strong initiative and ability to work independently;  Strong interpersonal skills and ability to support team members.  Preferred Qualifications: Experience working and communicating effectively with undergrads; Understanding of college students’ academic development and needs; Microsoft Office: Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word; Familiarity with Navigate, Banner Time Entry, Canvas, SharePoint, Canva, and GroupMe. Experience tutoring, teaching, peer education; Excellent public speaking skills; Social media content creation, account management, or marketing plans; Data analysis or visualizations. For more information about the Student Success Center (SSC)  in the Office of the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Academic Affairs, visit: www.studentsuccess.vt.edu. To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to studentsuccess@vt.edu.

      28. ENERGY MANAGEMENT GRADUATE ASSISTANT – 3rd posting

      The Energy Management Graduate Assistant will assist with the analysis, planning, and implementation of projects and programs that advance campus energy performance, efficiency, and sustainability. Position will start on or around August 10, 2026. Minimum qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Apply here by the application deadline of February 5, 2026: https://app.joinhandshake.com/public/jobs/10613941?utm_source=web&utm_campaign=job_share&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_content=emp-copy_link-all_jobs_page

      Funding Opportunities:

      29. ALEXIS TAYLOR BREAUX FUND FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDY – DEADLINE: JANUARY 30, 2026

      The Breaux fund is to provide support for study abroad opportunities for graduate students and to enhance international experiences at Virginia Tech.  Eligibility Requirements:  Must be a Virginia Tech graduate student enrolled full-time in a graduate degree program; Student must be engaging in a formal study abroad program; Financial need: Funds are available for 7 awards of $500. Nomination: Student must submit an Application  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1lSlKEKwrWjHDWw5EalUyiLUHTnavmtHrQOK3UFrlXZs/viewform?edit_requested=true&pli=1  by January 30.

      30. APPLY TO BE A FUTURE LEADER FOR FOOD & AGRICULTURE (FFAR) FELLOW – DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 22 & APRIL 15, 2026

      Two fellowship categories are available in 2026: Stipend plus Professional Development and Professional Development only. Applications for the Stipend plus Professional Development category are due February 22, with acceptance notifications sent by March 15. Applications for the Professional Development category are due April 15, with notifications sent by May 15. Students from any U.S. or Canadian university may apply for either category. Funding is provided through equal matching sponsorship between FFAR and non-federal partners, including industry, NGOs, commodity organizations, or other approved sources. Sponsorships may be combined to meet required totals. The three-year match requirement is $97,500 for stipend fellows and $15,000 for professional development fellows. In-kind support is not permitted. Applicants must secure committed sponsors before submitting a full application. Stipend applicants must have at least 50 percent of funds from a non-academic sponsor. Professional Development applicants are encouraged, but not required, to have non-academic support. https://ffarfellows.org/apply/

      31. SUMMER CUNNINGHAM FELLOWSHIP – DEADLINE: APRIL 1, 2026
      In combination with the Cunningham Doctoral Scholarship and the Graduate School Annual Fund, we are delighted to announce the availability of summer fellowships in the amount of $8,000 each. This supplement will be awarded as a lump sum fellowship payment through payroll at the beginning of the summer. This is a one-time award, cannot be renewed, and is awarded without the expectation of any additional work on your part. Awardees must be current PhD students (have passed their Preliminary Examination) who are working on their dissertations during the summer months. This award cannot be combined with other Virginia Tech funding sources. Priority will be given to those:

      • toward the end of their program
      • with personal financial need
      • and with a strong record of accomplishment from previous funding

      Applications will be accepted until April 1, awards will be announced soon thereafter, https://script.google.com/a/macros/vt.edu/s/AKfycby4VdRhVSe3aq-h9HIjK1tX3TJQ1u5a-CGae1YK4sBLUDFKnqWTGFAr02wziG-322kZ/exec?v=start

      **Fellowships are not considered employment; no taxes are withheld and you will not receive a W2 form at the end of the year. Fellowships will show on your 1098-T from the university and may have to be reported to the IRS on your 1040 form. However, different tax rules apply to international students. For them, the university is required to collect taxes on the fellowship and to report those amounts at year-end to the IRS on form 1042S. For more information, please refer to the following Scholarships and Fellowships: Important Tax Information for Students .

      Volunteers and Research Participants Sought    

      32.  INVITATION TO JOIN RESEARCH ON FIRST-YEAR DOCTORAL STUDENT PERSISTENCE, SATISFACTION, AND BELONGING – 1ST POSTING

      All doctoral students who began their program in Fall 2025 should have received an e-mail inviting them to participate in meaningful research focused on understanding the drivers of doctoral student persistence—what gets you through your studies? Years of educational research in the U.S. have found links between undergraduate student persistence and sense of belonging. Yet what are the relationships between sense of belonging, institutional satisfaction, and academic persistence among first-year doctoral students?  Participants are asked to complete a 6-10 minute survey. At the end of the survey you will be asked if you are willing to participate in an optional follow-up 1-hour interview over Zoom. If you answer “yes,” we may follow up to schedule an interview. Participant qualifications: Began doctoral program in Fall 2025  Compensation: 10 participants who complete the survey will be chosen at random to receive a $10 gift card!  If you believe you qualify, and did not receive an e-mail, please contact Kacy Lawrence at klawr5@vt.edu.

      33. CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS: AI ETHICS AND POLICY THROUGH APPLIED THEATRE WORKSHOPS – 1st posting

      Looking for new perspectives and ways to talk about AI? Unpack and envision its potential future and ethical implications through storytelling, improv, and dynamic dialogues. Workshops will take place Feb 13, 20, 27, and Mar 6, from 1-4 p.m. in Theatre 101 (200 College Avenue). Attendance at all four sessions is encouraged, but not required for participation. AI Ethics and Policy Through Applied Theatre has been made possible in part by a grant from Virginia Tech’s Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology. Qualifications: Open to all. Experience in computer science or computer engineering is recommended but not required. Participants will receive a $15 Amazon digital gift card for every session that they attend. https://forms.office.com/r/mTX4x7nPGg

      34. BACK AND TREATMENT OF LOW BACK PAIN – 2nd 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. https://wanglab.beam.vt.edu/content/dam/wanglab_beam_vt_edu/2025%20TLF%20Flyer%20v6%205-12-25%20Final%20Stamped.pdf

      35. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH STUDY ON SLEEP AND BRAIN–MACHINE INTERFACE LEARNING – 2nd posting

      This Virginia Tech study (VT IRB # 17-860) aims to uncover what events occur in the brain during sleep that help facilitate the learning of a new task. To meet this goal, we utilize a number of physiological recordings in the lab, such as EEG, EMG, and EOG recordings. The Brain-machine interface learning translates neural data into commands to control external software or hardwire, like controlling a moving ball on a computer screen with your thoughts. Participants who are assigned to the experimental group must sleep in the lab, either by taking a nap or by sleeping overnight. If you are assigned to the control group, you will watch a documentary during nap. Total study time is approximately 11 hours for overnights or 5 hours for naps. Participants should have washed and dried hair (without using conditioner) prior to the study. No other hair products should have been used. Participant qualifications: People between 18 and 65 years with no history of significant chronic neurological disease, diabetic problems, severe mental illness, or any DSM-IV axis I disorders, and no hearing or sleep disorders. Compensation is $50 (overnight) or $25 (nap) cash upon completion of the study. For more information email: ndnestudies@gmail.com.

      36.  PARTICIPANTS NEEDED: INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS’ USE OF INSTANT MESSAGING GROUP CHATS – 3rd posting

      REACH Lab is conducting a research study (IRB 25-811) to investigate how international students engage with instant messaging applications in terms of perceptions, experiences and practices. Interested participants must: Be 18 years or older; Be an international student in the United States; Actively use Instant Messaging platform groups to communicate with friends and or family. What participation involves: Approx. 90-minute interview (via Zoom) about your experiences; A short demographic survey after the interview; Participants will receive a $25 gift card in appreciation of their time. Your participation is voluntary, and all information will be kept confidential. If you are interested, please email Ed Amanor (eamanor8@vt.edu) or complete the intake survey below to confirm your eligibility: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5ioT33jhUcU8dWm

      Upcoming Events   

      37. GRADUATE RESOURCE FAIR

      Tuesday, February 3, 2:30-4:30pm, GLC Multipurpose Room

      Free food, free drinks, and free resources! Explore offering from more than 20 VT offices and organizations. Tailored specifically for graduate and professional students but open to everyone. Reach out to Katie (kdd20@vt.edu) with questions. https://drive.google.com/file/d/16xAs287o6pELAPEnIdLiKu6vK0AtkfdL/view?usp=sharing

      38. LUNCH WITH THE DEAN

      Thursday, February 5, 12:00-1:00pm, GLC room C

      Please join Dr. Aimee Surprenant, Dean of the Graduate School for a casual lunch from Roots Natural Kitchen and conversation about the graduate school journey. New and returning graduate students are welcome! Spots are limited, and food has to be ordered, so please only sign up if you can attend. Register here! https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjepevaFUBOatNi_cyklXTkCBUMUM2MDMwUlE1UFNXQTdRNjBRMzk4WTJWOS4u

      39. YOU ARE INVITED: PRESIDENT SANDS SPEAKING AT THE NEXT GPSS MEETING; PLEASE RSVP Thursday,  February 5, 5-7pm, Hybrid: In-person – Multipurpose Room, GLC and Zoom Link: https://gpss.vt.edu

      Join us for a special Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS) meeting on February 5th with VT President, Dr. Tim Sands, as our guest speaker! Hear directly from the President about the University’s exciting Strategic Plan and the role the graduate and professional students play in it. Free food will be served after the meeting while supplies last! Please RSVP so we can plan accordingly – https://forms.office.com/r/8ZVYdzg1e8. Spread the word. Don’t miss this chance to be part of the conversation!

      40. INTRODUCTION TO GEOSPATIAL MAPPING AND ArcGIS ONLINE

      Wednesday, February 11, 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.  Finally, I 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/lib173-021126

      41. FROM ACADEMIA TO INDUSTRY: INSIGHTS FROM 300 PHDS

      Tuesday, February 24, 11am-12pm, Zoom

      Are you a PhD student interested in landing an industry career? Join us to learn from Ashley Moses as she shares insights from her work as a career coach at Stanford as well as her interviews with 300 PhDs who successfully transitioned from academia to industry. This event will: share how they found opportunities, built meaningful connections, and approached applications strategically. demystify the often-overlooked hidden job market and how most roles are found through people, not postings. Explain how to network effectively, prepare standout application materials, and craft a compelling story for industry roles – all while realizing the power of people in landing your future position. The first 50 students to register *and attend* this workshop will receive free access to the PhD Paths Portfolio – a database of 300 PhDs, their industry careers, and interviews sharing how they found their current positions. Register here: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjegopL1BGoxVPpxA-NeUMvptUMFVINVlKVkdCRjFLWDZVVlVLQ0g4UDI0Ui4u&route=shorturl