Posted on by lbarron

August 24 – 30, 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 June 2026   

This Week’s Events: 

  1. FIRST DAY DONUTS –  Monday
  2. AIMS OF EDUCATION ADDRESS FEATURING DR. SHANNON VALLOR, AI ETHICIST  – Monday
  3. GLC CAFÉ – Wednesday & Thursday 
  4. YOU’VE GOT A NEW RESEARCH PROJECT. HOW CAN THE LIBRARY HELP? – Wednesday
  5. IGNITING CONNECTIONS PARENT SERIES – HOME HABITS THAT HELP KIDS THRIVE – Thursday
  6. SVPE OFFICE HOURS – Thursday
  7. LISTENING SESSION FOR PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH – Thursday
  8. MOSQUITOES EAT NECTAR?? HOW FLOWERS FUEL MOSQUITOES – Thursday
  9. FIRST GPSS MEETING OF THE YEAR – Thursday
  10. DONUTS, DEANS, AND DOGS! – Friday
  11. GAC & YAP: LOOPING YOU IN FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS AND TEA – Friday
  12. PUTTING DOWN ROOTS – MAKE A PLANT PROPAGATION STATION – Friday

Administrative Announcements:   

  1. SUBSCRIBE TO UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES’ RESEARCH SERVICES NEWSLETTER – 1st posting
  2. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT – 1st posting
  3. ASSOCIATE TEACHING PROGRAM – CIRTL AT VIRGINIA TECH – 1st posting
  4. CAREER READY KICK OFF SERIES – 1st posting
  5. GRADUATE STUDENT PERMIT PARKING – 1st posting
  6. TEACHING-RELATED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES – THE CIRTL NETWORK – 2nd posting
  7. COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE FOR GTA INSTRUCTORS OF RECORD – 2nd posting
  8. RESEARCH TOOLS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS VIRTUAL WORKSHOP SERIES – 3rd posting
  9. GRAD 5124: RESEARCH SKILLS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – 3rd posting
  10. CHILD CARE SURVEY – 3rd posting
  11. REGISTER NOW FOR FALL 2026 LEADERSHIP COURSES – 3rd posting

Jobs

  1. COMMUNICATIONS INTERN IN SEXUAL VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND EDUCATION – 1st posting

Funding Opportunities:

  1. P.E.O. SCHOLAR AWARDS 2026 – DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 15, 2026

Volunteers and research participants sought: 

  1. APPLY TO REVIEW TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM APPLICATIONS – 1st posting (1/1)
  2. APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR GPSS RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM CO-CHAIR POSITION FOR 2026-2027 – 1st posting
  3. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR XR OBJECT-FINDING STUDY – 1st posting (1/1)
  4. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR AN EDUCATIONAL AI TOOL USER STUDY – 1st posting (1/2)
  5. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A STUDY ON ULTRASOUND IMAGING OF THE BACK AND TREATMENT OF LOW BACK PAIN – 1st posting
  6. VIRGINIA TECH STORYTIME STUDY – 2nd posting
  7. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A STUDY ON CYBER-ATTACK DETECTION IN AUTOMATED VEHICLES –  2nd posting
  8. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A USER STUDY OF SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT TASK SOLVING USING A GENAI TOOL – 2nd  posting
  9. FLIP THE FAIR 2026 – 2nd posting
  10. ADVERSARIAL AUDIO DISTRACTION IN MIXED REALITY – 3rd posting
  11. AI-EMBEDDED IMMERSIVE COMPUTATIONAL NOTEBOOK FOR EFFECTIVE ORGANIZATION – 3rd posting
  12. DETECTIVE IN VIRTUAL REALITY – 3rd posting

Upcoming Events:    

  1. OPEN EATING DISORDER AND BODY IMAGE THERAPY GROUP – August 31
  2. WELCOME TO/BACK PICNIC: A WEEKS OF WELCOME EVENT WITH THE APIDA + CENTER AND NSFP – September 1
  3. GRADUATE RESOURCE FAIR – September 1
  4. GROCERY BINGO – September 1
  5. POPPING INTO PREVENTION – September 2
  6. MONTHLY TRAINING: HOW TO NAVIGATE INTERSTRIDE TO MAXIMIZE YOUR JOB & INTERNSHIP SEARCH – September 2
  7. LEARNING LUNCH FEATURING DR. LINSEY MARR – SEPTEMBER 4
  8. TOUR OF THE LYRIC THEATRE – FREE MOVIE PASS –  September 8
  9. WRITING RETREAT SERIES: SEPTEMBER 14
  10. DIGITAL STORYTELLING WITH ARCGIS STORYMAPS FOR RESEARCH AND TEACHING – September 16
  11. WRITING SUCCESSFUL STUDENT-INITIATED PROPOSALS –  September 21
  12. MOCKTAIL MONDAY: NETWORKING SKILLS –  September 28
  13. NAVIGATING IMPOSTER FEARS –  September 29
  14. PURSUING A POSTDOC PROACTIVELY 2026 – October 7

 0. Ongoing Services – Updated August 17, 2026

  • 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. FIRST DAY DONUTS
Monday, August 24, 9:00-10:30am, GLC 120
Welcome, new and returning students! Drop by GLC 120 to enjoy donuts and coffee on the first day of classes!  Grab and go, or stay to meet Graduate School staff, get answers to your questions, and learn about resources and support available for graduate students. No RSVP – donuts and coffee will be served on a first come, first-served basis while supplies last.

2. AIMS OF EDUCATION ADDRESS FEATURING DR. SHANNON VALLOR, AI ETHICIST  
Monday, August 24, 3:30-5:15pm, West Ambler Johnston Hall (720 Washington Street)
The Residential College at West Ambler Johnston presents the 15th Annual Aims of Education Address: “Cultivation, Fabrication, or Optimization? AI and the Future of Education.” Our speaker, Dr. Shannon Vallor, is the Baillie Gifford Chair in the Ethics of Data and Artificial Intelligence at the University of Edinburgh. A former visiting AI Ethicist at Google, Dr. Vallor is the author of _The AI Mirror: How to Reclaim Our Humanity in an Age of Machine Thinking_ (Oxford UP, 2024). The event will feature catered refreshments. It is free and open to the public, including VT faculty, staff, and students and the NRV community.  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1E5Y8bEV9Ux4mgVdnp-3ciIZAizZP9XU5/view?usp=drive_link. For more information or to request accommodations, email wajprincipal@vt.edu.

3. GLC CAFÉ
Wednesday, August 26, & Thursday, August 27, 3:30-4pm 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.

4. YOU’VE GOT A NEW RESEARCH PROJECT. HOW CAN THE LIBRARY HELP?
Wednesday, August 26, 4-5pm, Zoom,
You’ve been assigned a research project, and the assignment sheet tells you to use the library. But what does that mean? But who can help you at the library? How many books can you check out? What support does the library offer for data management? How can you get something the library doesn’t own? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this virtual session. By the end of this session, you’ll be able to locate research help at the University Libraries, navigate the library’s website, and identify library resources that can help you succeed in graduate-level research. https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/17221002

5. IGNITING CONNECTIONS PARENT SERIES – HOME HABITS THAT HELP KIDS THRIVE
Thursday, August 27, 12-1pm, Zoom, recurring event held the last Thursday of each month
Parents, we hope you will join us for our recurring Igniting Connections Parent Series this year!  Our first session, HOME HABITS THAT HELP KIDS THRIVE, takes place on August 27, we’d love to see you there! Please register and feel free to share this opportunity with colleagues who may be interested. Register here: Igniting Connections Parent Series. Learn more about caregiving at VT here: https://caregiving.vt.edu/childcare/programs.html

6. SVPE OFFICE HOURS
Thursday, August 27, 2-4pm, GLC 120
Additional SVPE Office Hours will be held Sept 29 2-4 pm; October 29 2-4 pm; Dec 3 2-4 pm. Need a break, have a question, or just want to stop by and say hello? Dr. Jennifer Leili of the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education will be hosting office hours in the GLC. Feel free to stop by GLC 120 on August 27th from 2-4 pm.

7. LISTENING SESSION FOR PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH
Thursday, August 27, 5-6pm, GLC Multipurpose Room/ZOOM\
The Presidential Search Committee wants to hear directly from graduate and professional students. Join the listening session on Thursday, August 27 at 5:00 PM in the Graduate Life Center Multipurpose Room or via Zoom to share what you want in the next Virginia Tech president. Come ready to talk about the opportunities and challenges ahead, how we should measure the next president’s success, and what the university needs to sustain, improve, or start doing. This is a rare chance to shape a decision that will affect graduate students for years. The session runs right before the first GPSS meeting of the semester, so you can attend both in one trip. The Zoom link, calendar invite, and a form for submitting input if you can’t attend are ALL available at the link https://gpss.vt.edu/index/email-announcements.html

8. MOSQUITOES EAT NECTAR?? HOW FLOWERS FUEL MOSQUITOES
Thursday, August 27, 5:30-6:30pm, Rising Silo Brewery, 2351 Glade Road, Blacksburg
Mosquitoes are best known for biting animals and spreading disease, but that isn’t all they do. Join us to learn from James Moloney, a PhD student in Virginia Tech’s Department of Biochemistry, about mosquitoes’ lesser-known source of energy: plants! He’ll explain how mosquitoes use nectar from flowers in your garden to get the energy they need to bite. Think you know a lot about mosquitoes? Test your knowledge afterwards in a round of trivia! https://www.facebook.com/share/1GTaZR1RFv/


9. FIRST GPSS MEETING OF THE YEAR

Thursday, August 27, 6 – 7:30pm, recurs every other week, GLC Multipurpose room

Join the Virginia Tech Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS) for the first Senate meeting of the 2026–27 academic year on Thursday, August 27, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. in the Graduate Life Center Multipurpose Room, with a Zoom option available. All graduate and professional students are welcome to attend, whether or not you are a senator. Come hear updates, learn what GPSS is working on, connect with student leaders, and find ways to get involved in advocacy, programs, events, committees, and university governance. Free food will be available for in-person attendees. https://gpss.vt.edu/index/email-announcements.html

10. DONUTS, DEANS, AND DOGS!
Friday, August 28, 10-11am, Burchard Plaza
You’re invited to join us for one of our favorite annual Weeks of Welcome traditions—Donuts, Deans, and Dogs! This relaxed and high-energy event brings together students, Deans, and our beloved Therapy Dogs to kick off the semester in a fun and welcoming way. It’s a great opportunity to connect with students, enjoy a donut, and be part of the excitement as we welcome our newest Hokies to campus. We would love to have you there and encourage you to share this invitation widely with fellow deans and colleagues across your college. We would love to have representation from every college this year! Please RSVP here: https://forms.office.com/r/FAREW9Zcdm

11. GAC & YAP: LOOPING YOU IN FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS AND TEA
Friday, August 28, 2:30pm, GLC room D
This month our GAC (Graduate Arts Council) and yap study break event is friendship bracelet making! We will provide beads and string, just bring yourself to get “in the loop” 🙂 about creative opportunities for grad students and community members. As always, no prior experience required, we hope to see you there! We will have tea to share. You can find us on GobblerConnect and Instagram @vt_gac

12. PUTTING DOWN ROOTS – MAKE A PLANT PROPAGATION STATION
Friday, August 28, 3:00-4:30, GLC Room C
Putting down roots when you have moved to a new place means making new friends and joining new activities, to develop community so you feel at home. Drop by and craft a plant propagation station (activity takes 15- 30 minutes) with plant cuttings while learning about campus resources. Light refreshments will be served. If you are headed to Gobblerfest, you can leave your propagation station with us and pick it up next week in GLC 120.  Register here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/AbjxHXScTM

Administrative Announcements  

13. SUBSCRIBE TO UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES’ RESEARCH SERVICES NEWSLETTER – 1st posting
Subscribe to the University Libraries Research Services Newsletter. The monthly University Libraries Research Services newsletter is designed specifically for faculty and graduate students who conduct research. The newsletter highlights upcoming research and data management workshops, library services and resources, and news researchers can use to increase their work’s global impact and dissemination.
Make the most of University Libraries’ expertise and resources. Subscribe today!
https://t.send.vt.edu/lp/ulrs-subscribe

14. CONNECTIONS THAT COUNT – 1st posting
Brought to you by the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education (SVPE). Connections that Count: Intro to the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education (SVPE). Welcome to the start of the 2026-2027 school year! Connections that Count is an SVPE initiative designed to bring simple but meaningful ways to build connections within your relationships and community. The SVPE mission is to promote a culture of respect and safety at Virginia Tech by cultivating healthy and supportive relationships on an individual and collective level. Ways you can connect with us: Interactive workshops for organizations and classes on topics related to healthy relationships, boundaries, bystander intervention, and more. Follow us on Instagram: @SVPE_VT. Email svpe@vt.edu for more information
Join our Listserv: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfUAz3gUe1P_tE-28PtgnwBB1XWSOE-W9FnIFzdaFelozwYkQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=117625786834326897593

15. ASSOCIATE TEACHING PROGRAM – CIRTL AT VIRGINIA TECH – 1st posting
Co-sponsored by the Graduate School and the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL), the CIRTL at Virginia Tech Associate Teaching Program is designed for graduate students and postdoctoral associates to learn about effective teaching practices. Participants engage in programming focused on foundational knowledge about teaching and complete a teaching philosophy activity. The program is open to current graduate students and postdoctoral associates regardless of teaching experience or responsibilities. Multiple completion options are available, and an application is required. After completion, participants earn a digital badge. To learn more and apply, visit https://cirtl.vt.edu/teaching-program.html. To learn about CIRTL and its network of research universities, visit https://cirtl.net/. (Completion of the Associate Teaching Program is also an eligibility requirement for the Practitioner Teaching Program; https://cirtl.vt.edu/practitioner-teaching-program.html) 

16. CAREER READY KICK OFF SERIES – 1st posting
Check out Career and Professional Development’s Career Ready Kick-Off series https://career.vt.edu/fallkickoff/ for workshops, drop-in résumé reviews, and group appointments during the first three weeks of the semester. Events in this series are designed to help you prepare for career fairs and the job or internship search. Open to all students.
Graduate students can also schedule one-on-one career advising appointments through Handshake. Workshops specifically for graduate students begin September 2. View the collection in Handshake to register https://app.joinhandshake.com/edu/collections/38645  (click on the events tab).

17. GRADUATE STUDENT PERMIT PARKING – 1st posting
Please note the Graduate designated parking spaces that were previously located in the Squires parking lot have been removed.  Graduate-only parking is very limited and is currently available in designated spaces at the Graduate Life Center (GLC) Circle. A Graduate permit allows parking in spaces designated as: G — Graduate-only; C/G — Commuter and Graduate; C — Commuter; R — Resident.  Please visit the Parking Services webpage on Permit Classifications, Permit Types, and Permit Pricing for more information: https://parking.vt.edu/permits.html

18. TEACHING-RELATED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES – THE CIRTL NETWORK – 2nd 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 events for graduate students and postdoctoral associates preparing for higher education teaching careers. Fall 2026 CIRTL Network programming includes Writing an Effective Teaching Philosophy Statement, The College Classroom, Exploring Career Paths with CIRTL Alumni, and more! The programs are available online and at no cost. Participants from CIRTL institutions receive priority registration for capped programming, which typically reaches capacity quickly. The full programming schedule, including descriptions and registration information, is available at https://cirtl.net/events/. To learn more about CIRTL, visit https://www.cirtl.net/ or email cirtl@vt.edu.

19. COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE FOR GTA INSTRUCTORS OF RECORD – 2nd posting
The GTA Instructor of Record Community of Practice (CoP), co-hosted by the Graduate School and the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL), provides GTA instructors of record from across the university with an opportunity to connect and build community. 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 2026-2027 meeting times, are available on the CoP sign-up form at https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/ABwvJn72bU.  If you have questions about the CoP, contact CETL at teaching@vt.edu.

20. RESEARCH TOOLS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS VIRTUAL WORKSHOP SERIES – 3rd posting
There’s a lot to learn in graduate school, and the library can help! This fall, 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, AI tools for researchers, and more. For registration links and detailed information about each workshop, visit guides.lib.vt.edu/gradworkshops

21. GRAD 5124: RESEARCH SKILLS FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS – 3rd posting
Take your research to the next level! GRAD 5124 (Research Skills for Graduate Students) is an asynchronous, one-credit, fully-online course offered by the University Libraries in Fall 2026. Students will develop skills that will prepare them for research in graduate school and beyond. Three discipline-specific sections are offered, so read the course descriptions in Hokie SPA to select the best option for you. Any questions should be directed to Lisa Russell at lisab5@vt.edu.

22. CHILD CARE SURVEY – 3rd posting
The Virginia Tech Center for Economic and Community Engagement, along with VT Early Childhood Initiatives, the Community Foundation of the New River Valley, and OnwardNRV, is surveying parents and guardians across the New River Valley Region. Please take 10-15 minutes to share your anonymous feedback so local needs and barriers can be better. Survey Link: https://virginiatech.qualtrics.com/jfe/

23. REGISTER NOW FOR FALL 2026 LEADERSHIP COURSES – 3rd posting
Leadership courses available Fall 2026: LDRS 5464 (CRN 87396) in-person: LEADERSHIP IN GLOBAL SOCIETY Identification and development of the personal and professional competencies required for effective leadership in an increasingly global society. LDRS 5534 (CRN 87397) virtual: LEADING WITH COGNITIVE DIVERSITY Theoretical perspectives, processes and techniques utilized in problem solving, both adaptively and innovatively. Individual cognitive preference for working to effect change. LDRS 4454 (CRN 92117) TOXIC LEADERSHIP Toxic leadership, impacts and outcomes on leaders, followers, and the organizational environment. ALCE 5224 (CRN 92116) virtual: TEAM SCIENCE COOPERATIVE WORK Theoretical and conceptual basis for thinking about, guiding, and supporting team science and cooperative processes for interdisciplinary research, programming, and outreach. Questions? Contact Dr Jerald Walz at jhwalz@vt.edu.

Jobs   

24. COMMUNICATIONS INTERN IN SEXUAL VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND EDUCATION – 1st posting (1/2)
Assist in creating and scheduling content for social media platforms, newsletters, and promotional content. Support marketing campaigns and outreach efforts across departments or programs. Research trends, audience engagement, and best practices. Qualifications: Graduate student at Virginia Tech. Knowledge of social media platforms and development tools (Canvas, Adobe, Microsoft Teams, Google Drive). Creative mindset and willingness to learn. This position is for 10 hours per week. Email letter of interest and resume to the SVPE team SVPE@vt.edu by September 1, 2026.

Funding Opportunities: 

25. P.E.O. SCHOLAR AWARDS 2026 – DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 15, 2026
P.E.O. Scholar Awards provides merit-based awards for women who are citizens of the U.S. or Canada and pursuing doctoral-level degrees at an accredited college or university. The award amount is $25,000. P.E.O. Scholars are those at the top of their fields who will have a positive impact on society. They have demonstrated abilities to make significant contributions in their field of study, having assumed leadership positions in university academics, scientific research, medicine, law, performing arts, economics, history, literature, government or other demanding fields. If interested in applying, please send a personal statement describing your research, impact on society, and your future career goals as well as your CV to cklauer@vtti.vt.edu by September 15th. We will notify you whether you have been selected for an interview which will be scheduled before November 1st. More information regarding this opportunity is at: peointernational.org

Volunteers and Research Participants Sought 

26. APPLY TO REVIEW TRAVEL FUND PROGRAM APPLICATIONS – 1st posting (1/1)
Want to give back before the new school year begins? Want to know where graduate students are presenting their research? (spoiler: they are literally traveling the world!) If so, please consider being a reviewer for the Travel Fund Program (TFP)! The TFP review period is from August 19th-August 26th, and each application only takes 5 minutes to review. Each application needs 2 reviewers, meaning that  the program relies on dozens of students generously volunteering their time to run. Please consider being a reviewer for this amazing and impactful program. Fill out the application here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/iv4y1QtaCh. Any questions can be directed to Bria Weisz, GPSS Director of Programs, at bria@vt.edu. Thank you!

27.APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR GPSS RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM CO-CHAIR POSITION FOR 2026-2027 – 1st posting
The Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS) is seeking two students to serve as co-chairs for the annual research symposium that will be held on March 24th. Co-chairs will work together to hire a speaker for the event and handling the bulk of necessary planning. 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 2026 and Spring 2027, the period of appointment runs October 15 – April 1. Applicants must be able to attend the Graduate Research Symposium (March 24th). This position is not an assistantship but does offer a small stipend. To apply please complete this form by September 20: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/qbWGeFQUy8

28. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR XR OBJECT-FINDING STUDY – 1st posting (1/1)
The XRAI Lab at Virginia Tech is conducting a research study investigating how different visual guidance techniques in extended reality (XR) can help people locate and retrieve everyday objects. We are recruiting participants who are 18 years of age or older, proficient in English, have normal or corrected-to-normal vision, not pregnant, and are able to safely walk and move around while wearing an XR headset.
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/NYaqN02DQv.

29. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR AN EDUCATIONAL AI TOOL USER STUDY – 1st posting (1/2)
This study aims to improve the experience of providing programming feedback in large-scale programming courses. Participants will test a tool for viewing students’ code submissions and giving feedback at scale. We are looking for participants who have teaching experience (eg. instructor, GSI, TA, tutor), and have experience in Python. The study session would be in-person in Blacksburg (220 Gilbert). Participants will be compensated $30 for their time and effort upon completion of the user study. https://forms.gle/NS1A8Qbdu713Z2Yp8

30. 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 (with and without low back pain) 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

31. VIRGINIA TECH STORYTIME STUDY – 2nd  posting
Study participation involves a 75-minute visit to our lab on the Blacksburg campus of Virginia Tech or two Zoom sessions (Session 1: 40 minutes, Session 2: 35 minutes). During your visit, you and your child will read two storybooks using the interactive platform and answer questions. The session will be audio/video recorded for research purposes. We are looking for children aged between 4 to 6 years and their parents who speak English to participate in a NEW Virginia Tech Storytime Study (IRB# 23-748). The purpose of this study is to evaluate an interactive book reading platform designed by our team, to enhance the joint reading of eBooks by using AI. Families will be compensated with a $25 USD Amazon gift card for their time upon completion of the visit and survey. Please complete the interest form here: https://bit.ly/TaleMate3

32. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A STUDY ON CYBER-ATTACK DETECTION IN AUTOMATED VEHICLES – 2nd posting
The Mind Music and Machine Lab (Industrial and Systems Engineering department) at Virginia Tech is looking for participants for a research study on cyber-attack detection in automated vehicles. This study examines how different types of training influence people’s ability to recognize cyber-attacks and distinguish them from non-attack events while monitoring an automated vehicle. During the study, you will: • Receive one type of training related to cyber-attack detection • Take part in a simulated automated driving session • Observe vehicle interface information during the drive • Decide whether events are cyber-attacks or non-attacks • Complete brief questionnaires about your experience. Qualifications: • Are 18 years or older • Have a valid driver’s license • Have normal or corrected-to-normal vision and hearing • Fluent in English. Time & Compensation & Location • Duration: Approximately 45 minutes • Compensation: $10 per hour (cash). Pro-rated if you withdraw early. • Location: Whittemore Hall, 568 To participate, please scan the QR code below or visit: https://bookings.cloud.microsoft/book/GayoungBan1@VirginiaTech.onmicrosoft.com/?ismsaljsauthenabled=true  This study has been reviewed by the Virginia Tech Institutional Review Board IRB25-1287. This study is being conducted under the supervision of Dr. Myounghoon Jeon (myounghoonjeon@vt.edu).

33. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A USER STUDY OF SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT TASK SOLVING USING A GENAI TOOL – 2nd posting
This research study explores how people use generative AI (Google AI Studio) to solve and learn software engineering (SE) development tasks (IRB#26-220). Throughout the session, participants will complete a pre-survey, three SE-related tasks, a post-survey, and a brief semi-structured interview, which take about 120 minutes. Participants will be compensated $30 for their time upon completion of the study. If you are interested in participating in this study, please complete the eligibility form. After completing the form, you will receive an email with next steps.
https://forms.gle/XN1rr9soeoWkJEZDA. Need more information? Please check the following link for the study information sheet https://virginiatech-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/huayu98_vt_edu/IQDQxs5_YVgwSaj8mKBlm6-hAVl8e5bd8OYBGLIxeE55v_s?e=tld6hm.

34. FLIP THE FAIR 2026 – 2nd  posting
Join us for Flip the Fair 2026! Flip the Fair is a flipped science fair where graduate students 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 Oct. 1st from 8am-2pm. Sign up no later than September 11th. Want to participate but don’t have time to do a poster? Sign up to volunteer at the event instead, no later than September 25th!
Presenter sign up: https://gs.vt.edu/2a
Volunteer sign up:https://gs.vt.edu/2b

35. ADVERSARIAL AUDIO DISTRACTION IN MIXED REALITY 3rd posting
The 3DI Group at Virginia Tech is conducting research with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to investigate how distracting audio can affect user performance in mixed reality (MR) and how these effects may be mitigated. Participants will wear an MR headset and complete simultaneous visual-search and audio-reporting tasks. Participant qualifications: Native English speakers who are 18 years of age or older, have normal or corrected-to-normal vision, and have no known hearing, speech, motor, or facial-movement disorders. Compensation $20. Sign up link: https://outlook.office.com/book/AdversarialAudioDistractioninMixedReality@VirginiaTech.onmicrosoft.com/?ismsaljsauthenabled

36. AI-EMBEDDED IMMERSIVE COMPUTATIONAL NOTEBOOK FOR EFFECTIVE ORGANIZATION – 3rd posting
We are recruiting participants for a study to understand how data science artifacts can be organized in virtual reality using a VR headset (Meta Quest 3) and a controller. The research is aimed at people working in data science who use the computational notebook (e.g., Jupyter Notebooks). Participants must be at least 18 years old and have perfect or corrected vision (with contacts or glasses is ok). Compensation $28. For more information contact Ayush Roy ayushroy24@vt.edu

37. DETECTIVE IN VIRTUAL REALITY – 3rd posting
Our team is investigating ways to enhance asynchronous collaborative sensemaking activities, such as intelligence analysis with immersive technologies. Participants will be given a case file involving a hypothetical nationwide terrorist attack. The participants will try to solve the case with 3D interaction techniques while moving around in an indoor area. The entire experimental session will take a maximum of 90 minutes. Participation is entirely voluntary. Participant qualifications: 18+ years old, normal vision or corrected with contact lens (glasses not supported) and able to read and speak English. Compensation: $30 Amazon gift card upon completing both sessions. Screening Questionnaire/Interest Form: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjerMV1OpAzydNiGjeOVvpLZBUOUdKNzNBNzBLR1FNNVhXTTFQUDdWRlBVTC4u

Upcoming Events

38. OPEN EATING DISORDER AND BODY IMAGE THERAPY GROUP
August 31, 5:30-6:30pm,Psychological Services Center
The Psychological Services Center is having an open therapy group for disordered eating and body image concerns. Sessions will be weekly on Wednesdays for one hour. Time and start date are to be determined once enough people have signed up. The fee per group is $15. If interested, please call: (540)-231-6914 or email: psc@vt.edu. Our address is: 3110 Prices Fork Rd Blacksburg, VA.
**Virginia Tech affiliation not required!

39. WELCOME TO/BACK PICNIC: A WEEKS OF WELCOME EVENT WITH THE APIDA + CENTER AND NSFP
Tuesday, September 1, 4-6pm, Squires Lawn (Between Squires and Henderson Hall)
Enjoy free food, fun lawn games, and friendly community! Everyone is welcome. For questions or accommodations, please contact Dr. Nina Ha at nha@vt.edu.

40. GRADUATE RESOURCE FAIR
Tuesday, September 1, 2:30 – 4:30pm, Squires | Commonwealth Ballroom
Stop by the Graduate Resource Fair on Tuesday, September 1, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Commonwealth Ballroom at Squires Student Center. More than 25 campus organizations and offices will be available to help students learn about funding, wellness, career development, academic support, student involvement, and other campus resources. The event is free and open to all graduate and professional students. Come meet campus partners, ask questions, discover resources to support your graduate experience, and connect with the graduate community. Swag and snacks will be available while supplies last. https://gpss.vt.edu/index/email-announcements.html

41. GROCERY BINGO
Tuesday, September 1, 5:30-6:30 pm, GLC Room F
Play bingo and win grocery items to take home while learning about, Virginia Tech, the Graduate School and graduate student resources, including food access initiatives at Virginia Tech such as The Market and open hours at the Market. Be sure to arrive on time so you will be able to fill your bingo card and win prizes! Please register here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/iaABnpLtm7

42. POPPING INTO PREVENTION
Wednesday, September 2, 12:30-1:30pm, Outside Torgerson Hall,
Don’t wait until you’re ready to pop! Pop in for popcorn and to learn more about bystander intervention with the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education (SVPE).

43. MONTHLY TRAINING: HOW TO NAVIGATE INTERSTRIDE TO MAXIMIZE YOUR JOB & INTERNSHIP SEARCH
Wednesday, September 2, 4-5pm, Zoom

Get an in-depth walkthrough of the Interstride portal, including our newest features, key tools, and best practices for finding opportunities. You’ll learn how to navigate the platform with confidence and use it effectively throughout your job and internship search. https://student.interstride.com/learn/webinars/live.Questions? Contact us at contact@interstride.com.

44. LEARNING LUNCH FEATURING DR. LINSEY MARR
Friday, September 4, 12-1pm, APIDA + Center and via Zoom
Join us for a special Learning Lunch featuring Dr. Linsey Marr, University Distinguished Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Virginia Tech and globally recognized expert on airborne viruses and indoor air quality. Enjoy lunch while learning how her groundbreaking research has transformed our understanding of disease transmission and the engineering solutions that help create healthier spaces. This hybrid event is open to all- light refreshments will be served for in-person attendees. At the APIDA + Center and via Zoom. For questions or accommodations, please contact Dr. Nina Ha at nha@vt.edu. Zoom link: https://virginiatech.zoom.us/meeting/register/Gf153roTTH2j6w1Xhfyrkw.

45. TOUR OF THE LYRIC THEATRE – FREE MOVIE PASS

Tuesday, September 8, 3:00pm, The Lyric Theatre, 135 College Ave
Join us for a tour of the historic Lyric Theatre in downtown Blacksburg! Learn about the history, 1930s design of the theatre, and about opportunities to volunteer and receive free movie passes and refreshments as a volunteer. Everyone who attends the tour will receive a free movie pass! We will also have a drawing for a door prize for a gift car to Sugar Magnolia (must be present to win). We will meet in the Lyric Theatre lobby 5-10 minutes before the start of the tour at 3:00. Register here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/UNXhnuijX1

46.  WRITING RETREAT SERIES: SEPTEMBER 14TH
Monday, September 14, 9am-4pm, Recurring monthly, Graduate Life Center, Room A & Zoom
Work on your next conference paper, master’s thesis, dissertation, or job application materials in great company! Join The Graduate School for Keeping the Pace, a FREE writing retreat! Learn or actively implement SMART goals for your writing, techniques for budgeting your time, and get some good work done. We have morning (8:30am – 12:30pm), afternoon (1pm – 5pm) and full-day (8:30am – 5:00pm) options for participation. Lunch will be provided for the full-day in-person option. Virtual/Zoom option also available. This is a graduate student only event. Registration required. https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjek45su5QguhJkpUAcvEXaG5UMEJFVlAxS0c5UlNVNzhUWDQyQTJGSlpYNyQlQCN0PWcu

47. DIGITAL STORYTELLING WITH ArcGIS STORYMAPS FOR RESEARCH AND TEACHING
Wednesday, September 16, 2-4pm, Zoom
In this session, you will learn how to transform geospatial data and narrative into engaging digital stories using ArcGIS StoryMaps. We’ll explore how to combine maps, images, audio, video, and text to communicate research effectively. The session caters to anyone, whether you are a student, faculty, researcher, or simply curious about mapping and digital storytelling. You’ll leave with practical strategies to create accessible, interactive StoryMaps for research, teaching, and public engagement. No prior experience is required. https://profdev.tlos.vt.edu/browse/teachingandlearning/courses/lib226-092326

​48. WRITING SUCCESSFUL STUDENT-INITIATED PROPOSALS 
Monday, September 21, 10am-12:20pm, Graduate Life Center MPR
Description: All graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and anyone else interested in strengthening their research proposal skills are encouraged to attend this workshop. Presenters will share practical tips, resources, and strategies for writing competitive proposals and improving your chances of securing funding. The session will cover approaches to developing strong, well-structured proposals, along with an overview of university resources available to support proposal writing and submission. Breakout sessions will offer more targeted guidance on proposal development for NIH, NSF, USDA, NEA, and others. This is an in-person event, open to all interested participants. Lunch will be provided (please bring your own bottle or beverage). Register here: https://gs.vt.edu/proposals. Questions? Contact jhazelwood4@vt.edu  

49. MOCKTAIL MONDAY: NETWORKING SKILLS
Monday, September 28, 3- 4:30pm, recurring monthly, location will be sent with registration confirmation
Take this opportunity to hone valuable communication skills with peers and grow your community at Virginia Tech. This month’s focus is on developing your networking skills. Whether you’re preparing for conferences, interviews, or future career opportunities, or simply wanting to meet new people, this event offers a fun and low-pressure environment to connect and engage while developing valuable networking skills.  There will be limited seating for this event, so register to reserve your spot now. This event is strictly alcohol-free and will have delicious, well-crafted mocktails available for registered attendees to enjoy!  With limited seating, you will be sent an invitation after registration confirming your registration. https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hGiVYK0Q-kCGPU8yweOjeq4qEKlDQiJMsd9rTXxrMuZUNk1FQ0IxR0FMMUFYRFIxNDZMM1IxQlNLSC4u

50. NAVIGATING IMPOSTER FEARS
Tuesday, September 29, 1:00pm, Zoom (link provided upon registration)
Ever feel like everyone else has it all figured out and you don’t? You are not alone. many graduate and professional students experience imposter fears. Join the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Education (SVPE) and the Cook Counseling Center to learn how to recognize these fears, respond with confidence, and support your continued growth. Please register for this virtual event. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeE3Wwrqs7I6r8omxCrP-_49PTPqSlsU5Cxg5US2KcMXX9QZQ/viewform

51. PURSUING A POSTDOC PROACTIVELY 2026
Wednesday, October 7, 12-1pm, online
The five-part series is designed for Ph.D. students who want to better understand the advantages and challenges of pursuing a postdoctoral position. Meets weekly from October 7th through October 28th with a special virtual panel session planned for November 11th. Sessions will cover what to look for in a postdoc and provide practical strategies for effective networking. https://www.research.vt.edu/about/postdoctoral-associates/postdoctoral-events-programs/pursuing-a-postdoc-proactively-2026.html