Posted on by lbarron

April 29-May 5, 2024

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

0. Ongoing Services – updated 8/22/23

This Week’s Events:  

  1. APIDA HERITAGE MONTH PRESENTS: APID ALUMNI SOCIETY PANEL  – Monday
  2. MASK ON MASK OFF SERIES: KARAOKE AND TRIVIA NIGHT – Wednesday
  3. RAMEN FOR READING DAY – Wednesday
  4. READING DAY BRUNCH (FREE) – Thursday
  5. GLC CAFÉ– Thursday
  6. PANERA BAGEL BAR- Saturday

 Administrative Announcements:

  1. SPRING 2024 GRADUATE SCHOOL COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES – 1st posting
  2. GRADUATE SCHOOL – SPECIAL CLOSURES AND SUMMER HOURS – 1st posting
  3. SUMMER 3 LEADERSHIP COURSE OPEN TO ALL GRAD STUDENTS: LDRS 5534! – 2nd posting
  4. DROP-IN CAREER ADVISING AT THE GLC ENDS MAY 1st – 2nd posting
  5. PLEDGE TO BE A GREEN GRADUATE! – 3rd posting

Jobs

  1. GA POSITION IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY- COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING – 1st posting
  2. GA POSITION IN GOVERNMENT & COMMUNITY RELATIONS – 2nd posting
  3. SUMMER FULL-STACK DEVELOPER FOR MOBILE APPLICATIONS USING FLUTTER – 2nd posting
  4. VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENTS STUDIO GA –3rd posting
  5. GPSS GRADUATE ASSISTANT POSITION FOR 2024-2025 – 3rd posting

Funding Opportunities

  1. SUMMER MICROGRANT PROGRAM – DEADLINE: APRIL 30, 2024
  2. SUMMER CUNNINGHAM FELLOWSHIPS AVAILABLE – DEADLINE: MAY 1, 2024
  3. 2024 GOOGLE FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM – DEADLINE: MAY 1, 2024
  4. DOE OFFICE OF SCIENCE GRADUATE RESEARCH AWARDS – DEADLINE: MAY 1 2024, 5PM EST 
  5. GLOBETHICS YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARD 2024 – DEADLINE: MAY 10, 2024
  6. CHEMICAL/MECHANICAL ENGINEERING GRADUATE STUDENT INTERN – 3rd posting

Volunteers and research participants sought:

  1. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR HUMAN EVALUATION OF ETD CHAPTER SUMMARIES AND CLASSIFICATION LABELS – 1st posting
  2. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A DRIVING SIMULATOR STUDY ON ACTIVE HIGHWAY-RAIL GRADE CROSSINGS – 1st posting
  3. FOCUS GROUP PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR STUDY ON SUSTAINABLE DIETS – 2nd posting
  4. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR THE MEASURE STUDY: MEASURING ENERGY ACROSS SIZES USING RECALLS – 3rd posting
  5. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A RESEARCH STUDY ABOUT COGNITION – 3rd posting of repeat posting
  6. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A RESEARCH STUDY – EVALUATING IN-VEHICLE AGENT – 3rd posting
  7. FOCUS GROUP PARTICIPANTS FOR XR COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE – 3rd posting
  8. SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR A STUDY, AI-POWERED CONVERSATIONAL IN-VEHICLE AGENTS – 3rd posting
  9. INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN A REMOTE USER STUDY ON A SEARCH AND RESCUE WEB APPLICATION – 3rd posting
  10. ADULTS WITH ADHD NEEDED FOR A RESEARCH STUDY ON THE IMPACT OF DANCE AND EXERCISE ON BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR – 3rd posting

Upcoming Events:

  1. DONNING OF THE KENTE ACHIEVEMENT CEREMONY 2024 – May 8
  2. LAVENDER ACHIEVEMENT CEREMONY – May 8
  3. SPRING ACHIEVEMENT CEREMONY – May 9
  4. INTRODUCTION TO WEBWORK FOR FACULTY AND GTAs – May 13
  5. PYTHON, BASH AND GIT WORKSHOP –  May 13 & 14
  6. R, BASH AND GIT WORKSHOP – May 13 and May 15
  7. FILM SCREENING: THE CODDLING OF THE AMERICAN MIND – May 13

 0. Ongoing Services – updated 08/28/23    

  • GRADUATE SCHOOL: In-person advising, drop-off or pick-up of documents and materials, and a space to study and take a break! Visit SHIP (120 GLC) Monday -Friday 9am-4pm. The Graduate School offices will be open 9am – 4pm. Staff will be available by 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 career advising appointment via https://career.vt.edu/job-search/Handshake.html ; GLC drop-in hours in GLC 120/SHIP will be held on Wednesdays 1-4pm
  • COOK COUNSELING: Drop-in hours for consultation begin on 8/22. Location is Room 49 at the GLC. Tuesdays 10 am to 12 pm and Fridays 1 to 3 pm. For consultations by Zoom e-mail hkatie19@vt.edu. Students seeking services can schedule a triage appointment by calling 540-231-6557. You may request first available appointment at our Gilbert Place office, or to be seen at the GLC. We also have embedded counselors in Engineering, College of Science, and Pamplin School of Business available. **Please note Cook Counseling’s main office has moved Gilbert Place, 220 Gilbert Street, suite 2400, beginning September 6, 2023.
  • WRITING CENTER SERVICES: Schedule an appointment at https://vt.mywconline.com/
  • GRADUATE OMBUDSPERSON: contact for appointment at gradombud@vt.edu, 540-231-9573
  • GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDENT BOV REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE HOURS Join Graduate and Professional Student Board of Visitors Representative Emily Tirrell for her weekly office hours! Come and learn more about the graduate school, the student senate, the Board of Visitors, and campus resources! Every Monday 9-10am, GLC 36D or Virtual: https://virginiatech.zoom.us/my/emilytirrell.

This Week’s Events

1. APIDA HERITAGE MONTH PRESENTS: APID ALUMNI SOCIETY PANEL
Monday, April 29, 6-7:30pm, Zoom
In the spirit of Ut Prosim, the APID Alumni Society will give back to current students by sharing their post graduate experiences and offer advice during this panel discussion. The panel focuses on how to build leadership skills in the workplace and beyond. This event will provide a space to discuss how the experiences at Virginia Tech aided in their career paths and inspire current students to see themselves leading in their chosen industries or futures. Register here: www.bit.ly/3VFlrK. For questions and/or accommodations, please contact Dr. Nina Ha at nha@vt.edu.

2.  MASK ON MASK OFF SERIES: KARAOKE AND TRIVIA NIGHT
Wednesday, May 1, 7-9pm, APIDA + CENTER (SQUIRES 140)
The Mask On/Mask Off series promotes self-care within the APIDA community and develop connection and encourage engagement. The APIDA + Center will offer Korean spa masks and provide tips to promote self-care. To develop connections and educate students about the APIDA experience, we will be hosting an APIDA trivia competition as well as bonding through performing karaoke songs from APIDA artists and songwriters. Got a song in mind? Click the link to request a song early! www.bit.ly/49aCQyE. For questions and/or accommodations, please contact Dr. Nina Ha at nha@vt.edu.

3. RAMEN FOR READING DAY
Thursday, May 2, 11am-2pm, APIDA + CENTER (SQUIRES 140)
Get fueled up for finals at the APIDA + Center along with the other Cultural and Community Centers with Ramen! This reading day tradition offers participants a wide variety of ramen along with delicious toppings to sustain them through final exam preparations. Toppings and ramen are available on a first come first serve basis. Hot water provided by Au Bon Pain. Join us for community and mouthwatering noodles!  For questions and/or accommodations, please contact Dr. Nina Ha at nha@vt.edu.

4. READING DAY BRUNCH (FREE)
Thursday, May 2, 11am-1pm, Bradley Study Center, 104 Faculty St.
The best way to kick off Reading Day is with the best kind of food: brunch food. Mark your calendar to drop in between 11:00am-1:00pm on Reading Day for breakfast casserole and French toast. Friends are welcome! https://www.bradleystudycenter.org/.

5. GLC CAFÉ – Special Edition Art and Photo Contest Winners
Thursday, May 2, 3:30-5pm, GLC Reading Room
Special Edition Artist Reception –  to honor the winners of the GLC Spring 2024 Art & Photo Contest. Casual drop-in social hour for graduate students to take a break! Enjoy coffee, tea, cookies and conversation with graduate students and Graduate School staff. Bring your own mug if you can.

6. PANERA BAGEL BAR
Saturday, May 5, 12pm, Bradley Study Center, 104 Faculty St.
Studies show that studying improves with Panera bagels. (An extremely scientific fact.) Come by the Bradley Study Center Saturday morning to grab some breakfast and find a corner to study! https://www.bradleystudycenter.org/.

 Administrative Announcements

7. SPRING 2024 GRADUATE SCHOOL COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES
The spring 2024 Graduate School commencement ceremony in Blacksburg for all doctoral students and interdisciplinary master’s students (MACR, MIT, TBMH) will be held on Wednesday, May 8th at 10:00am in Cassell Coliseum. All doctoral and interdisciplinary master’s graduates wanting to participate should complete the Commencement Intentions form through their HokieSPA degree menu no later than May 1st. All other Blacksburg master’s degree graduates will be recognized at individual college ceremonies. See https://commencement.vt.edu/schedule/spring.html for the schedule of ceremonies; contact your college to register. The spring 2024 Graduate School ceremony in the Washington D. C. Metro Area for all doctoral and master’s students will be held on Sunday, May 12th at 1:00pm at the George Mason University Center for the Arts. All doctoral and master’s graduates wanting to participate should complete the Commencement Intentions form through their HokieSPA degree menu no later than May 1st.

8. GRADUATE SCHOOL – SPECIAL CLOSURES AND SUMMER HOURS – 1st POSTING
Wednesday, May 8 – opening at 1:00pm
Friday, May 10 – opening at 11:00am
Wednesday, May 15 – opening at 2:00pm
Graduate School summer walk-in hours: From June 3-July 31, the Graduate School will operate on special summer hours. GLC 120 will be open on Monday and Thursday, 9am-4pm. Staff will be available by phone or email Monday-Friday,  9am-4pm in addition to the walk-in hours.

9. SUMMER 3 LEADERSHIP COURSE OPEN TO ALL GRAD STUDENTS: LDRS 5534! – 2nd posting
Want to learn about your creativity and problem-solving style?  Then LDRS 5534 Cognition, Problem Solving, and Preference for Change (CRN 64647) is for YOU!  In this course students will understand the differences in problem-solving styles and how that affects working with and leading others. You will also learn your own KAI score and what it tells you about how you solve problems, work with others, communicate, and build trust—all required for successful leadership.  Enroll for this Summer 3 course TODAY! Questions?  Contact Dr. Jerald Walz, jhwalz@vt.edu.

10. DROP-IN CAREER ADVISING AT THE GLC ENDS MAY 1st – 2nd posting
May 1st is the last day for drop-in career advising at the GLC. This service will resume in August. Career advisors are available over the summer and you can schedule an appointment using Handshake or by calling the office at 540-231-6241.

11. PLEDGE TO BE A GREEN GRADUATE! – 3rd posting
Attention students graduating in Spring 2024 and Summer 2024! Become a Green Graduate at Virginia Tech by pledging to foster a sustainable world! To honor students who take the pledge, the Office of Sustainability awards all pledge signers with a FREE green cord to wear for graduation. Pledge here by Wednesday, May 1: https://forms.gle/fFEaWd7RUj2FLDfbA. Visit the Green Graduates at Virginia Tech website for more info: http://tinyurl.com/greengrads  and email giaha@vt.edu  if you have questions.

Jobs

12. GA POSITION IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY- COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING – 1st posting
Assist installation, monitoring, and troubleshooting computer systems and services.
Work with IT personnel to identify, advise, and implement business and service operation improvements; converting paper forms to digital, writing scripts to automate system configurations,updating and developing Active Directory group policies. Assist review of security alerts and logs to identify and resolve security issues. Keep up-to-date with I.T. security issues and best practices. Assist with updating systems and services documentation keep accurate and up to date. Perform other related duties as assigned. Qualifications: Excellent oral and written communication skills and organizational and analytical skills. Experience with one or more of the following: programming, writing scripts (such as batch commands or PowerShell), or using a low-code workflow systems (such as Microsoft Power Automate or ServiceNow Workflows);  Microsoft Windows system support. Self-motivated learner with drive to problems with minimal supervision. View complete position description: https://it.eng.vt.edu/it-staff/itspecialist.html. Interested applicants may submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position to Jeff Lewis at jlewis86@vt.edu Application materials will be reviewed beginning May 3, 2024.

13. GA POSITION IN GOVERNMENT & COMMUNITY RELATIONS – 2nd posting
The Fellowship is targeted at students who have an interest in state government and policy as the Fellow works in the Office of Government and Community Relations during both the fall and spring semesters. During the fall semester, the Fellow has a regular assistantship based in Blacksburg and is expected to make occasional trips to Richmond. During the spring semester, the Fellow serves in a full-time role based in Richmond during the legislative session in order to monitor and participate in the activities of the General Assembly. After the session, the Fellow returns to Blacksburg to help with end of session wrap up items. Please see the linked program description for more details regarding duties, compensation, and time. The Office of Government and Community Relations offers a Virginia General Assembly Fellowship program each year for current and rising full-time graduate students. For more information: https://www.govrel.president.vt.edu/student_experiences/general_assembly_fellowship.html To apply please send a cover letter, resume, and writing sample to Elizabeth Hooper at ehooper@vt.edu.

14. SUMMER FULL-STACK DEVELOPER FOR MOBILE APPLICATIONS USING FLUTTER – 2nd posting
Design, develop, and deploy mobile applications using Flutter. Integrate Google Maps API for location tracking and manage data using Firebase. Ensure cross-platform compatibility for both iOS and Android devices. Engage with the research team to design and refine application features. Conduct comprehensive testing and maintenance to ensure application performance and reliability. Duration: Summer Job (3 months). Salary: $12/hour for undergraduate students, $15/hour for graduate students. Work Hours: 20 hours per week Location: Blacksburg (Remote is optional). Qualifications: Proficient in Flutter, Dart, Google Maps API, Firebase and Cloud Functions. Strong understanding of both front-end and back-end development processes. Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively. Currently enrolled as a student or recent graduate. Experience in Data Analysis and Visualization using Python is a plus. T0 apply: send your CV or Resume to xiangyang@vt.edu by April 29, 2024.

15. VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENTS STUDIO GA – 3rd posting
Primary Responsibilities: Performing maintenance/troubleshooting/setup/documenting on the Virtual Environments Studio equipment; Managing the Virtual Environments Studio; helping patrons with advanced equipment; Making guides on space usage; Producing promotional material; VR/AR-related consultations from patrons; Participating in Studios-related events; Studio Managers meetings; Teaching VR/AR workshops for the public, Assisting University Libraries-led VR/AR projects Required Qualifications Experience with VR/AR related software and hardware, such as Unity and Unreal Engine; Excellent written and verbal communication skills; Good customer service skills; Must be a graduate student at Virginia Tech who meets the University’s requirements for a graduate assistantship position. Preferred Qualifications:3D modeling experience; Game development experience; Virtual reality hardware maintenance experience; Experience conducting research involving augmented or virtual reality; Experience supervising students or coworkers; Experience operating a public service point; Formal or informal teaching experience; Formal or informal tutoring experience. Apply to this job on Handshake, where you can attach your resume and provide a statement as to why you are particularly well-suited for the position. https://career.vt.edu/job-search/Handshake.html  posting number: 8868688.

16. GPSS GRADUATE ASSISTANT POSITION FOR 2024-2025 – 3rd posting
The Graduate and Professional Student Senate seeks applications for a graduate assistant for the 2024-2025 academic year. Supervised by the Director of Student Services for the Graduate School, the GA supports the operations of the GPSS. Applicants must have an ability to take initiative, work well independently and with a team, and have strong interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written. The GA will provide administrative support to GPSS, gather data and research special topics, coordinate events and meetings, and many other tasks. A full job description can be found here: https://gpss.vt.edu/content/dam/gpss_vt_edu/GPSS_GA_Application_2024_2025.pdf Applications are due Sunday, May 5. Apply here: https://forms.office.com/r/L17AUAesf9 If you have questions, email Lauren Surface, GPSS advisor, lkeister@vt.edu or incoming GPSS President, Ronnie Mondal, mondal@vt.edu.

Funding Opportunities
Funding opportunities sponsored by the graduate school can be found here:
https://graduateschool.vt.edu/funding/funding-sponsored-by-the-graduate-school.html
All external funding opportunities that we are aware of can be found here: https://graduateschool.vt.edu/funding/scholarships-and-fellowships.html.

17. SUMMER MICROGRANT PROGRAM – DEADLINE: APRIL 30, 2024
The new 2024 summer cycle of Research!America’s Civic Engagement Microgrant Program, generously supported by the Sloan Foundation, will provide support for groups led by STEM graduate students, professional students (medical, dental, nursing, pharmacy, etc.), and postdocs to create projects aimed at building dialogue with public officials, community leaders, and local community members around issues of common interest.   We are seeking applications from groups of graduate students and post-docs for grants up to $3,000 to support a wide range of civic engagement activities. Past grantees have developed and led community-orientated podcast series, poster sessions with city council members, K-12 science fairs, professional development workshops, new campus science policy groups and much more.
Benefits of participation:
• Gain experience in science communication, science policy, public engagement.
• Build skills in program management, grant writing, and more.
• Benefit from mentoring and workshops by Research!America staff.
• Connect with program participants from around the country.To see full descriptions for any item in the summary list please click on the continue reading link below the summary list.

Civic Engagement Microgrant Program

18. SUMMER CUNNINGHAM FELLOWSHIPS AVAILABLE – DEADLINE: MAY 1, 2024
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 $7,500 each. This supplement will be awarded as a lump sum fellowship (see note below) 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 Ph.D. students 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. Financial need will be considered as a secondary factor. Applications will be accepted until May 1. Awards will be announced soon thereafter.
NOTE: 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, see IRS Publication 970: Tax Benefits for Education. Application link: https://forms.gle/6vYKM9AHizoAgKeN8.

19. 2024 GOOGLE FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM – DEADLINE: MAY 1, 2024
The 2024 Google PhD Fellowship Program, which directly financially supports doctoral students doing exceptional research in computer science and related fields, as well as connect them to a Google Research Mentor, is opening for nominations. Eligible PhD Students will have completed graduate coursework by Fall 2024 (when the Fellowship begins) and remain enrolled in their program for the two years of the fellowship. Virginia Tech will be able to nominate up to four candidates. Nomination materials include CV, letters of recommendation, dissertation proposal, a personal essay describing the potential impact of your work, and academic transcripts. Students who wish to be considered for one of VT’s nomination spots may contact Lifu Huang (lifuh@vt.edu) or Eli Tilevich (tilevich@vt.edu) for details and with any questions. Materials for internal consideration will be due to Dr. Huang by the end of the day on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. https://research.google/outreach/phd-fellowship/.

20. DOE OFFICE OF SCIENCE GRADUATE RESEARCH AWARDS – DEADLINE: MAY 1, 2024, 5PM EST
The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Science is accepting applications for the 2024 solicitation 1 cycle for its Graduate Student Research (SCGSR) program.  Applications are due on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. ET. The award program is open to current Ph.D. students in qualified graduate programs at accredited U.S. academic institutions, who are conducting their graduate research in targeted areas of importance to the DOE’s Office of Science. https://graduateschool.vt.edu/funding/scholarships-and-fellowships/dept-of-energy-office-of-science-research-grant.html. The SCGSR program provides supplemental awards to U.S. graduate students to conduct part of their graduate thesis research at a DOE national laboratory or facility in collaboration with a DOE laboratory scientist. The goal of the program is to prepare graduate students for scientific and technical careers critically important to the mission of DOE’s Office of Science. Supplemental awards are intended to cover incremental costs associated with living and travel expenses during the award period.  More information on the SCGSR program can be found at by visiting the SCGSR program website: https://science.osti.gov/wdts/scgsr.

21. GLOBETHICS YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARD 2024 – DEADLINE: MAY 10, 2024
Young leaders (individuals or groups) aged between 18 and 30 years of age who have designed and implemented initiatives that have produced real, proven societal impact and positive change in areas related to one or more of the four Globethics priorities are eligible to apply for the Globethics Youth Leadership Award. Winning the Globethics Youth Leadership Award would give winners the opportunity to build on and develop their initiatives. The three finalists will then be invited to present at the Global Ethics Forum in Geneva, Switzerland taking place from 2-4 September 2024. During the Forum they will have the opportunity to improve their initiative and its development plan, with the support and accompaniment of a mentor, ready to present it to the Forum’s audience, constituted by experts and practitioners in the field of ethics, from different parts of the world. Award winners will achieve recognition for their pioneering work and receive financial and mentoring support to upscale and to multiply the results of their initiative. 1st prize: USD 15,000, 2nd prize: USD 10,000, 3rd prize: USD 5,000 All winners will also benefit from the support of a mentor for nine months. For more information:  https://globethics.net/contact-us

22. CHEMICAL/MECHANICAL ENGINEERING GRADUATE STUDENT INTERN – DEADLINE: MAY 10, 2024
Learn about and collaborate with supervisor to develop engineering computer models of key aspects of the physics, economics and/or environmental impacts of low-carbon energy technologies. Contribute to researching new low-carbon energy technology designs and/or configurations by reviewing the published literature and/or patent databases. Assist in developing computer models describing the physical embodiment of low-carbon energy technology. Help with preparing project files and reports, presentations for clients, and other communication documents for the client, as needed. Qualifications: Enrolled as an engineering, chemical and mechanical graduate student or just graduated from an accredited Chemical or Mechanical engineering program. 3.5 GPA or higher. Completed at least one (1) undergraduate course in thermodynamics (i.e. the physics of energy). A drive to learn more about the engineering design/operation of new, lower carbon energy technologies, i.e.: renewable energy systems, electrochemical systems, and/or energy storage devices. Chemical engineering process plant modelling experience with Aspen Plus or chemical engineering process plant such as ChemCAD. Microsoft software (Word, Excel, Power Point), U.S. citizenship is required. For more information and instructions on how to apply: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wRmVccQkeDflU5sGrRxJAOIbIvPXqb5o2DXfF-kRWxQ/edit?usp=sharing.

Volunteers and Research Participants Sought

23. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR HUMAN EVALUATION OF ETD CHAPTER SUMMARIES AND CLASSIFICATION LABELS – 1st posting
We are seeking participants for evaluating ETD chapter summaries and classification labels (IRB #23-687).  We are conducting a study to evaluate automatically generated chapter summary and chapter classification labels for electronic theses and dissertations (ETDs). We are looking for research participants who meet the following criteria: Current graduate student or faculty member at Virginia Tech; Regularly read and use academic research papers.; 18 years of age or older Participants will need to complete the study in one sitting lasting approximately 30 minutes. The study takes place remotely. For more questions contact Bipasha Banerjee at bipashabanerjee@vt.edu.

24. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A DRIVING SIMULATOR STUDY ON ACTIVE HIGHWAY-RAIL GRADE CROSSINGS – 1st posting
Volunteer for Mind Music Machine Lab’s study (IRB#19-643) determining  effects of in-vehicle multimodal alerts on driver behaviors at active Highway-Rail Grade Crossings (HRGCs) on driver state and performance. Study involves a driving simulator environment while wearing Tobii Pro Glasses 2 eye tracker. Eligibility: Active driver with a valid U.S License, More than 2 years of driving experience; Normal, or corrected-to-normal hearing; Normal, or corrected-to-normal vision, through contact lenses only (if you use eye glasses, you are not eligible) You will be excluded if you are a minor, a prisoner, or an adult not capable to consent on their own behalf. The study should take 1.5 hours, and you will be compensated at the rate of $10/hr., or 0.5cr/hr. in approved courses. If you suffer from severe motion sickness , migraines, dizziness or blurred vision you should not volunteer.  If you are interested in participating, please reserve your appointment using this link, https://calendly.com/gayoungban/fra-experiment. For more information, please contact Gayoung Ban gayoungban@vt.edu.

25. FOCUS GROUP PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR STUDY ON SUSTAINABLE DIETS – 2nd posting
Want to know how your food choices can be healthy for you and the planet? This study (IRB 23-147) is seeking undergraduate and graduate VT students to participate in two-part focus groups to share your views about what motivates your dietary choices, graphic food-based dietary guidelines and sustainable diets. Participants must be 18-25 years old and studying at Virginia Tech. FREE lunch or dinner will be provided. https://forms.office.com/r/FAtj99PSyy.

26. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR THE MEASURE STUDY: MEASURING ENERGY ACROSS SIZES USING RECALLS – 3rd posting
Are you interested in learning more about your energy needs and helping researchers better measure food intake in participants of varying body sizes? Participants are needed for the MEASURE study (IRB #22-654) seeking to understand how a participant’s weight class can affect measurements of dietary intake. Participants will complete measurements of height, weight, body composition, energy expenditure, and food intake over a period of 5-7 weeks with a total of 5 visits to campus. To be eligible, you must be over 18, have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 25 kg/m2, weigh under 600 lbs., and not be following a weight control diet. Compensation of up to $150 is available for this study. https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/measurestudy.

27. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A RESEARCH STUDY ABOUT COGNITION – 3rd posting  (repeat posting)
The MEM lab is recruiting participants for a new study on young adult cognition The study takes approximately 1 hour, in Williams Hall, and pays $20. If you are between the ages of 18 and 50 and interested in learning more, please contact vtmemorylab@gmail.com. Primary investigator: Rachel Diana, Approval: Biomedical Research Alliance of New York Institutional Review Board (BRANY) Protocol #VT18-1077-568. Participant qualifications: English fluency, ages 18 to 50  This is not the first posting of this study on the listserv. You are only eligible to participate in the study a singular time, so please make sure you have not participated in the study previously. Compensation $20. For more information please email: vtmemorylab@gmail.com.

28. PARTICIPANTS NEEDED FOR A RESEARCH STUDY – EVALUATING IN-VEHICLE AGENT – 3rd posting
The Mind Music and Machine Lab at Virginia Tech is seeking individuals to participate in a study (IRB# 24-245) to evaluate in-vehicle intelligent systems. During the study, you will be asked to drive in a driving simulator and evaluate in-vehicle agents based on your experiences. Participants qualifications: At least 18 years old with valid driver’s license and at least 2 years of driving experiences. Fluent in English and have no visual, hearing, fine motor, or intellectual impairments that prevent them from driving. The study will last 90 minutes. Each participant will receive a compensation of $15, or equivalent course credit if you are enrolled in a class that requires research participation.  If interested, please fill out this form: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/ADPscreener , or contact Manhua Wang manhua@vt.edu.

29. FOCUS GROUP PARTICIPANTS FOR XR COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE – 3rd posting
We are the Extended Reality Community of Practice (XR CoP), and we aim to evaluate the incorporation of XR technologies at VT. Previously, we distributed a questionnaire campus-wide to receive high-level data. Now, we are looking for participants to conduct focus groups to collect more granular and detailed data from the end-users (students). We are looking for VT students who have had experiences using a form of Extended Reality (XR) technology, especially in education and learning settings. Compensation: $20. For more information contact: Saeid Alimoradi salimora@vt.edu.

30. SEEKING PARTICIPANTS FOR A STUDY, AI-POWERED CONVERSATIONAL IN-VEHICLE AGENTS – 3rd posting
Our experiment aims to explore the potential of AI-powered conversational agents to revolutionize the way we interact with vehicles. Participant qualifications: At least 18 years or older with a valid driver’s license (issued either in the US or other countries; Have at least two years of driving experience; Do not have any visual or hearing impairments as well as not have any physical or intellectual difficulties in driving and in conversing in English (An individual is eligible if their hearing/vision is not at the level requiring device correction, or if they have successful device correction that they can bring and use during the study e.g., eyeglasses, hearing aid; Do not have any chance of being currently pregnant; Do not have any active electrical implants (e.g. pacemaker) ;  Must be willing to remove your mask during the in-person research visit. Compensation: Either $10/hour in cash or 0.5 extra course credit per hour if an instructor allows a student participant to do so in their class. For more information: http://tinyurl.com/wewfh69s.

31. INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN A REMOTE USER STUDY ON A SEARCH AND RESCUE WEB APPLICATION – 3rd posting
We are Virginia Tech researchers looking for participants to study the effectiveness of a web based system designed to aid Search and Rescue professionals in task scheduling. The study will be conducted online with a researcher through online meeting software (zoom, etc.). The research protocol for this experiment is approved by the Virginia Tech Institutional Review Board (IRB #24-331). Participant qualifications: We are Virginia Tech researchers looking for participants to study the effectiveness of a web based system designed to aid Search and Rescue professionals in task scheduling. The study will be conducted online with a researcher through online meeting software (zoom, etc.). The research protocol for this experiment is approved by the Virginia Tech Institutional Review Board (IRB #24-331). Compensation $8/hour, with an opportunity to earn an additional $12 based on performance, via amazon gift card (through email) for full study participation. For more information contact:  Madeline Badger  mvbadger@vt.edu.

32. ADULTS WITH ADHD NEEDED FOR A RESEARCH STUDY ON THE IMPACT OF DANCE AND EXERCISE ON BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR –3rd posting
The study (VT IRB 23-811) aims to examine the acute impact dance has on young adults with ADHD assessed through brain activity, psychological tests, heart rate, and motor tasks. Study participation will involve two visits lasting 4 to 4.5 hours total. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three 30-minute interventions: dance exergaming (e.g. Just Dance on the Nintendo Switch), stationary biking while listening to music, or sedentary music listening. They will be asked to answer a series of questions, complete psychological tests on a computer, complete a series of balance tests while standing, and have their brain activity and heart rate measured. Participant qualifications: Adults ages 18-24 with a formal diagnosis of any presentation of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (Hyperactive-Impulsive, Inattentive, or Combined) and physical activity readiness are eligible. Participants will be compensated up to $125 for their time.  If you would like more information about the study, please contact Noor Tasnim at ntasnim@vt.edu.

Upcoming Events

33. DONNING OF THE KENTE ACHIEVEMENT CEREMONY 2024
Wednesday, May 8, 12-2:30pm, Moss Arts Center
Celebrating graduate students individually, and recognizing their accomplishments in a traditional based on African principles. IMPORTANT NOTE: Since the Graduate School Commencement for doctoral students is from 10am-12noon the same day, and this ceremony begins at 12noon, doctoral graduate students will not need to line up until 1:00pm, so there should be enough time for doctoral graduates to also. Register here;

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdgbQDZDq0XAnLoFt4wH_elYHqIOADMZV5oPB5WGNbuN0b5eA/viewform.

34. LAVENDER ACHEIVEMENT CEREMONY
Wednesday, May 8, 6-8pm, Graduate Life Center Auditorium
The annual Lavender Achievement Ceremony recognizes the many accomplishments of Virginia Tech’s LGBTQ+ graduates. The 6:00PM ceremony will be followed by a reception and an opportunity to celebrate in community with one another.  Graduating students can register using the link below. The form gives students the option to indicate whether they want to participate in the Lavender Achievement Ceremony or just receive their lavender regalia (cord and tassel) without attending the event. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1IUSPwg4vP-7p90BA-1FEieI4_EcbeB4eKzc2-OeuUnk.

35. SPRING ACHIEVEMENT CEREMONY
Thursday, May 9, 5-7pm, APIDA + CENTER (SQUIRES 140)
The APIDA + Center celebrates the achievements of May graduates at this event. Come and join us to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our Spring graduates. Let us wish them all the best in their future endeavors. Graduates wishing to participate should register in advance. Instructions to participate online are contained in the registration form linked above. Light refreshments provided. Register here: www.bit.ly/apidaspring24. For questions and/or accommodations, please contact Dr. Nina Ha at nha@vt.edu.

36. INTRODUCTION TO WEBWORK FOR FACULTY AND GTAs
Monday, May 13, 8:45am-4:30pm, Newman Library, 1st floor, Goodall Room
GTAs and Teaching Faculty in STEM topics are invited to attend a one-day introductory workshop on WeBWorK on Monday, May 13th 845am-4:30pm at Newman Library 1st floor Goodall Room (MPR). WeBWorK is an open-source, Canvas-integrated, hosted, online system for delivering and grading custom homework in STEM disciplines. It has similar features to commercial products like WebAssign, MyLab and Mastering Physics, but without a subscription cost for VT students. This one-day, faculty led workshop is for VT faculty and GTAs who want to learn more about how to get started using WeBWorK in their classes. Registration is required. Registration deadline: May 6th. Registration: https://bit.ly/may13_workshop. Event flyer: https://guides.lib.vt.edu/ld.php?content_id=76074414.

37. PYTHON, BASH AND GIT WORKSHOP
Monday, May 13 – Tuesday, May 14, 9am-5pm, University Mall 2104 or Zoom Join a 2-day workshop and learn key skills for programming and computing including the command line, version control, and Python on May 13-14 in Blacksburg or online! No experience necessary; workshops open to all VT community members. Coffee, snacks, and lunch provided for in-person participants! Find more information and register at Library Calendar: https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/12412166 or email ndporter@vt.edu.

38. R, BASH AND GIT WORKSHOP
Monday, May 13 and May 15, 9am-5pm, university Mall 2104 and Zoom
Join a 2-day workshop and learn key skills for programming and computing including the command line, version control, and R on May 13 and 15 in Blacksburg or online! No experience necessary; workshops open to all VT community members. Coffee, snacks, and lunch provided for in-person participants! Find more information and register at Library Calendar https://calendar.lib.vt.edu/event/12412188 or email ndporter@vt.edu.

39. FILM SCREENING: THE CODDLING OF THE AMERICAN MIND
Monday, May 13, 6:30pm-9pm, Bradley Study Center, 104 Faculty St
Join us for a screening of the recent documentary “The Coddling of the American Mind” based on The New York Times bestseller by the same title: “An anxious generation searches for happiness — Beginning in 2012, a mental health mystery appeared out of nowhere. Anxiety, depression, and suicide shot up among young people, and nobody knew why. Then one man’s brush with suicide revealed some unexpected clues, and five 20-somethings from around the world began to piece together a solution they hoped would pull themselves out of the darkness”. “The Coddling of the American Mind” is the new feature documentary by Ted Balaker and Courtney Moorehead Balaker that’s based on The New York Times bestselling book by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt. https://www.bradleystudycenter.org/.