<![CDATA[12 Grad Students Named as Finalists for 2024 Three Minute Thesis Competition]]> 36363 After six intense preliminary rounds, twelve exceptional scholars have emerged from a pool of 65 talented candidates, earning their place as finalists in Georgia Tech's highly anticipated annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. On Friday, April 5, 2024, these finalists will hit the stage, harnessing their research expertise, to deliver compelling presentations in a three-minute format.

Congratulations to the following twelve finalists:

Karina Bhattacharya MID Industrial Design 

Vinodhini Comandur, Ph.D. Aerospace Engineering 

Mo Jarin, Ph.D. Environmental Engineering 

Anamik Jhunjhunwala, Ph.D. Biomedical Engineering 

Valeria Juarez, Ph.D. Biomedical Engineering 

Alexandra Patterson, Ph.D. Bioengineering 

Jeffrey Pattison, Ph.D. Aerospace Engineering 

Kantwon Rogers, Ph.D. Computer Science 

Mallika Senthil, MS Biomedical Engineering 

Wenting Shi, Ph.D. Chemistry and Biochemistry 

Shreyas Srivathsan, Ph.D. Aerospace Engineering 

Raghav Tandon, Ph.D. Machine Learning 

This year’s 3MT competition takes place on Friday, April 5, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in the Atlantic Theater in the John Lewis Student Center. The entire Georgia Tech community is encouraged to attend the competition, which occurs as the finale of the 2024 Grad Student Appreciation Week. 3MT will also be streamed online and can be viewed at https://gatech.zoom.us/j/98696536715.  Audience members and online viewers can vote for their favorite presenter to win the People’s Choice Award.  

Ph.D. winners can win up to $2,000 in research travel grants. The master's winner will receive a $1,000 research travel grant.   

Tech’s 3MT competition is coordinated by the Office of Graduate Education in partnership with the Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL), The Naugle Communications Center, and the Language Institute.  

For more information, visit grad.gatech.edu/3mt

]]> Brittani Hill 1 1711486922 2024-03-26 21:02:02 1711566029 2024-03-27 19:00:29 0 0 news 12 grad students named as finalists for 2024 Three Minute Thesis Competition.

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2024-03-26T00:00:00-04:00 2024-03-26T00:00:00-04:00 2024-03-26 00:00:00 Brittani Hill | Marketing and Communications Manager 

Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education 

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673509 673509 image <![CDATA[2024 FINALISTs 2update.png]]> Photographed from left to right: Alexandra Patterson, Jeffery Pattinson, Malika Senthil, Karina Bhattacharya, Mo Jarin, Kantwon Rogers, Raghav Tandon, Shreyas Srivathsan, Vinodhini Comandur, Wenting Shi.

Not photographed: Anamik Jhunjhunwala and ValeriaJuarez.

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<![CDATA[Myth vs. Reality: Essential Facts to Know About Postdocs]]> 36249 At any given time, Georgia Tech has 350 to 400 postdoctoral scholars (postdocs) making valuable contributions to research across the globe, with most right here on our Atlanta campus engaged in research, mentorship, and teaching.
  
Postdocs push the boundaries of what is possible in a variety of fields. However, despite their significant role in academic institutions, there are many misconceptions surrounding the role of a postdoc.

Daniel Vallejo, postdoctoral scholar at Tech, and Karena Nguyen, assistant director in the Office of Postdoctoral Services, weigh in on common myths about postdocs versus reality.

Myth #1: Postdocs are "super" grad students. 

Reality: Graduate students undergo structured training and coursework, with the end goal of producing a thesis or dissertation. Graduate students primarily dedicate their effort towards degree completion under the guidance of their academic supervisor and dissertation committee.

In contrast, the National Postdoctoral Association defines postdocs as “individuals in a defined period of mentored training following the achievement of their terminal degrees,” typically a Ph.D. Therefore, postdocs operate at a different level of independence and have a variety of roles and goals. For example, postdocs may initiate and lead research projects, teach courses, mentor undergraduate and graduate students, secure funding through fellowship applications, and collaborate with other experts in addition to publishing research.

Myth #2: Only STEM fields have postdocs. 

Reality: Postdoctoral positions exist in many fields, including science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), humanities, and social sciences. At Tech, postdocs work in all six colleges and a number of research centers.

Myth #3: Postdocs only conduct research. 

Reality: The role of a postdoc extends far beyond research. Postdocs at Tech actively engage in mentorship, shaping the next generation of scholars. Tech postdocs can also be found in the classroom teaching undergraduate students. Postdocs also tend to be very active outside their official duties, and often can be found volunteering to provide academic or community service.

Myth #4: Postdocs only become faculty members. 

Reality: While becoming a faculty member is a viable and commonly pursued career path, a postdoctoral position provides additional training that opens doors to a multitude of career fields. Postdocs can find opportunities in academia, industry, government, or nonprofit organizations, and the postdoc experience is often pivotal for transitioning into these exciting careers.

Myth #5: Being a postdoc isn't a "real" job. 

Reality: Postdoctoral positions are temporary and provide additional training for individuals to pursue a desired career path. It is an enriching employment opportunity and allows individuals to apply the skills honed during their Ph.D. to different fields or broaden their skillset through internal, domestic, and international collaborations. There are opportunities for creativity, exploration, growth, and independence.

 

The Postdoc Visibility Project is a collaboration between the Office of Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Services, the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, and Tech’s postdocs. Our goal is to highlight the contributions of postdocs to the research enterprise, humanize the postdoc experience, and connect postdocs to each other. To achieve this, we will share three spotlight articles and accompanying video interviews throughout the Spring 2024 semester.

This work is supported in part by the National Sciences Foundation Mathematical and Physical Sciences divisions ASCEND program under grant award number CHE-2138107. 

]]> Sara Franc 1 1707853579 2024-02-13 19:46:19 1711565863 2024-03-27 18:57:43 0 0 news Postdocs push the boundaries of what is possible in a variety of fields. However, despite their significant role in academic institutions, there are many misconceptions surrounding the role of a postdoc.

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<![CDATA[Postdocs Share Lessons Learned Throughout Academic Journey]]> 36249 The experiences of those who have overcome barriers and unexpected roadblocks can serve as guiding beacons as you navigate your own academic journey. Georgia Tech postdoctoral scholars (postdocs), Avery Davis Bell, Ida Su, and Nicole Hellessey share how they navigated different challenges during their educational career and how these experiences have shaped their perspectives on life and work. 

Prioritize Your Well-Being: Avery Davis Bell Makes Work-Life Work for Her

“I developed a repetitive strain injury in my wrist, which was debilitating, and I took it on as a second part-time job,” said Avery Davis Bell, postdoc in the College of Sciences. “I needed to figure out how to make my work life work for me instead of fixing the body I have.” 

Bell decided she had to be open with her prospective postdoc advisor about her injury. She let them know from the beginning that she was not going to work based on hours. When Bell explained her situation and her emphasis on protecting her health, she was met with support from everyone. She learned that, at the end of the day, what mattered was doing good work and not how many hours it took to get there. 

Bell’s injury turned into a valuable lesson she imparts to students. 

If you have interest in science, you can make it work for you,” said Bell. “You do not have to adapt to the prevailing model. Science is better for having you in it.

Advocate for Yourself: Ida Su Navigates Cultural and Communication Challenges

During her Ph.D. qualifying exams, Ida Su, postdoc in the College of Engineering, encountered challenges due to her hearing disability and language barrier as an international student from Taiwan. 

“I could see their lips moving, but I couldn’t hear what they were saying clearly,” said Su. “I didn’t have the courage to speak up for myself.” 

At that time, Su felt hopeless. With support and encouragement from her Ph.D. advisor and her Ph.D. advisory committee, however, Su sought medical help for her hearing disability and her communication improved. 

As Su progressed in her studies, navigating the differences between Eastern and Western cultures still proved difficult. 

“I tend to be very shy. I tend to let people, especially senior people, tell me what to do and make decisions for me,” said Su. “Because of these cultural differences, the initial stage of my Ph.D. study was kind of rough.” 

Observing these dynamics, Su’s Ph.D. advisor explained the differences between the cultures. They encouraged her to start speaking up for herself. 

“Because of their advice, I was able to choose my postdoc advisor based on my research interests, and I was able to follow my passion,” said Su. 

A Nonlinear Journey is OK: Nicole Hellessey Navigates Parenthood and Career Choices

“When I finished my bachelor’s degree, I took 18 months off because I was unexpectedly pregnant,” said Nicole Hellessey, postdoc in the College of Sciences. 

Hellessey spent the next 18 months after graduation reviewing her options and deciding if she should get a job or go back into academia and research.

“I was talking to a friend who was going back to university themselves, and they said, ‘You should do it. Who cares? You will make it work,’” said Hellessey. “I went back and did my master’s and go a job in the salmon industry afterwards.” 

Hellessey worked in the industry for two years before deciding to obtain her Ph.D., and eventually a postdoc. 


These postdocs’ experiences are a reminder that your journey is your own, and success does not follow a set path. Evaluate what matters to you, and find support in family, friends, peers, and mentors. 


The Postdoc Visibility Project is a collaboration between the Office of Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Services, the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, and Tech’s postdocs. Our goal is to highlight the contributions of postdocs to the research enterprise, humanize the postdoc experience, and connect postdocs to each other. To achieve this, we will share three spotlight articles and accompanying video interviews throughout the Spring 2024 semester. This is the second installment of the Project. View the first spotlight article and video, “Myth vs. Reality: Essential Facts to Know about Postdocs.” 

This work is supported in part by the National Sciences Foundation Mathematical and Physical Sciences divisions ASCEND program under grant award number CHE-2138107.  

]]> Sara Franc 1 1709935077 2024-03-08 21:57:57 1711565833 2024-03-27 18:57:13 0 0 news Georgia Tech postdoctoral scholars (postdocs), Avery Davis Bell, Ida Su, and Nicole Hellessey share how they navigated different challenges during their educational career and how these experiences have shaped their perspectives on life and work. 

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2024-03-08T00:00:00-05:00 2024-03-08T00:00:00-05:00 2024-03-08 00:00:00 Sara Franc
Communications Officer
Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education

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<![CDATA[Celebrating Grad Student Appreciation Week at Georgia Tech]]> 36249 Graduate Student Appreciation Week at Georgia Tech is a time to celebrate, recognize, and appreciate the invaluable contributions of graduate students at Tech. To honor and appreciate these valuable members of the Tech community, Grad Student Appreciation Week (GSAW) is celebrated annually during the first week of April. This year, GSAW will be observed from April 1–5 with a week full of events and activities designed to recognize and celebrate the contributions of graduate students at Tech. 

Events and Activities

Throughout the week, a diverse range of events and activities will take place both online and in-person, providing opportunities for engagement, networking, and enjoyment. Here's a brief overview of the exciting schedule for GSAW 2024: 

Monday Funday (April 1, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Tech Green)

A lively event featuring lunch, giveaways, yard games, and more, creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere to kick off the week. Rain location: Skiles Courtyard.

No registration is required. 

Monday Networking, Bingo, and Professional Headshots (April 1, 3 to 5 p.m. | Student Success Center President's Suites A & B)

Hosted by the Career Center, this event offers networking opportunities, a fun bingo game, and professional headshots for graduate students. 

No registration is required. 

Grad Night at Russ Chandler Stadium (April 2, 6 p.m. | Mac Nease Baseball Park)

An evening of baseball fun sponsored by Georgia Tech Athletics, complete with door prizes and entertainment between innings. First 100 grad students to show up will receive a free baseball cap. 

Reserve your ticket here

Headshots & Leadership Coaching plus Grad Lounge Fun (April 3, 12:30 to 3 p.m. | Grad Lounge, Student Center 3rd Floor)

Enjoy coffee, snacks, and games before getting your professional headshot taken. Plus, take advantage of mini-leadership coaching sessions, sponsored by LEAD. 

No registration is required. 

Goat Yoga (April 4, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. | BioQuad)

Experience mindful meditation and yoga in the company of playful dwarf goats, promoting wellness and stress relief. 

Only two spots remaining at the time of publishing. Reserve your spot here

Virtual Coffee Hours with Grad SGA ( April 4, 7 a.m. & 7 p.m. | Online)

Connect virtually with the Graduate Student Government Association online for engaging conversations and networking over coffee. 

Three Minute Thesis (April 5, 5:30 p.m. | Atlantic Theater Student Center & Streaming Live)

Witness the exciting 3MT competition showcasing the research communication skills of graduate students, open to the entire Georgia Tech community. 

No registration is required. 

Throughout the week:

Join the Social Media Challenge

In addition to the exciting lineup of events and activities during GSAW, students are encouraged to participate in the GSAW social media challenge. By tagging #GTGSAW2024, students can showcase their experiences and connect with the Tech community on Instagram. Here are the daily prompts for the social media challenge: 

April 1 - Where you at?!: Share a photo of your current view, whether you're studying on campus, exploring a new city, or enjoying nature's beauty. 

April 2 - Study Buddy Selfie: Show off your study buddy, whether it's a furry friend or a fellow grad student helping you tackle assignments. 

April 3 - Selfcare Essentials: Demonstrate how you take a break and practice self-care during busy times. Share your favorite self-care routines or activities. 

April 4 - Throwback Thursday: Reflect on your favorite grad school memory and share it with the community. Whether it's a milestone achievement, a fun event, or a memorable project, take a trip down memory lane. 

April 5 - Framily Friday: Celebrate your "framily" (friends  + family) by sharing a photo with those who support and inspire you throughout your grad school journey. 

Don't forget to tag #GTGSAW2024 for a chance to be featured on the @gtgradpostdocs Instagram page and join in the collective celebration of grad student excellence at Georgia Tech. 

]]> Sara Franc 1 1711485869 2024-03-26 20:44:29 1711487395 2024-03-26 21:09:55 0 0 news Grad Student Appreciation Week (GSAW) is celebrated the first week of April each year and will be observed April 1 - 5, 2024.

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2024-03-26T00:00:00-04:00 2024-03-26T00:00:00-04:00 2024-03-26 00:00:00 Sara Franc
Communications Officer
Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education

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<![CDATA[Ph.D. Student Addresses Climate Change with Pending Patented Invention]]> 36249 Andrés-Felipe Castro-Méndez came to the United States from Colombia after receiving a Fullbright Scholarship to pursue a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering at Georgia Tech. His research is focused on addressing climate change and power grid disconnection using perovskite solar cells, a technology that offers the potential to decrease solar energy costs.

“Solar energy does not only have a great impact in mitigating climate change, but it also offers a transformative solution for communities currently lacking power grid access,” said Castro-Méndez. “By harnessing the sun’s energy through photovoltaic panels, these communities can generate their own electricity locally, enabling essential services, even in remote or underserved areas. This topic is particularly relevant in Colombia, my country of origin, where large communities do not have access to electricity yet.” 

Castro-Méndez’s research and published work in mitigating climate change earned a Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication award. 

In his publication titled, “Vapor Phase Infiltration Improves Thermal Stability of Organic Layers in Perovskite Solar Cells,” Castro-Méndez demonstrates an innovative approach that contributes to the overall stability and longevity of perovskite solar cells. This invention is currently in the process of becoming a patent. His research has contributed to paving the way for more reliable, efficient, and commercially viable perovskite solar cells. 

“Climate change has always been a very relevant topic,” he said. “My interest to actively do something about it was triggered by my undergrad project advisor, Prof. Pablo Ortiz-Herrera. He had a research group on solar cells, and I joined his group in my 3rd year to start investigating this topic. There, I realized that alternative energies have a big potential and that they are real, not just something I would see in a sci-fi movie.”

The Chih Foundation awards graduate students whose research publication(s) reflect invention and innovation for the betterment of society. Each awardee receives $2,500 to pursue their research. 

“The impact of my research is to develop processes that could be used in industry to produce perovskite solar cells,” said Castro-Méndez. “I also am working on improving the long-term stability of perovskite solar cells, which is important to make this technology worth it. This award means that the research I’m doing is appreciated and that I’m not the only one who sees the value in it. It boosts my motivation further.” 

Castro-Méndez is one of four recipients of the 2023 Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication Awards. Congratulations to the following 2023 Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication award recipients: Andrés-Felipe Castro Méndez, Dongsuk Sung, Hantian Zhang, and Vanessa Oguamanam. 

]]> Sara Franc 1 1700073082 2023-11-15 18:31:22 1711121056 2024-03-22 15:24:16 0 0 news Castro-Méndez’s research and published work in mitigating climate change earned a Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication award. 

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2023-11-15T00:00:00-05:00 2023-11-15T00:00:00-05:00 2023-11-15 00:00:00 Sara Franc
sara.franc@gatech.edu
Communications Officer
Graduate and Postdoctoral Education

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<![CDATA[Ph.D. Computer Science Student Combats Mental Health Inequities]]> 36249 Juggling the challenges of new motherhood along with racial and gender stressors requires a unique solution. Ph.D. in Computer Science student, Vanessa Oguamanam, is working on just that. 

"In the United States, a pressing concern is the mental health of new mothers," said Oguamanam. 

According to Oguamanam, innovation is essential to support emotional and psychological wellness during pregnancy and childbirth, particularly for those most vulnerable to poor mental health, such as racially minoritized women. 

"I plan to develop a digital health system to address mental health disparities experienced by racially-minoritized women during pregnancy," said Oguamanam. 

Developing a Nuanced Approach to Digital Solutions

According to Oguamanam, racially-minoritized women, especially U.S. Black women, face higher rates of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and lifetime stress compared with their white counterparts. 

“Despite these challenges, Black women underutilize mental health services due to barriers including stigma, financial constraints, limited access, and culturally appropriate care,” said Oguamanam. “While mobile applications show promise in increasing access to mental health services, existing systems often fail to address the cultural context and drivers of mental health inequities faced by Black women.” 

Insights from National Study

Oguamanam conducted a nationwide survey study investigating how perinatal Black women utilize existing technology to manage their mental health. She presented her findings at the 2023 CHI Conference in her published paper, “An Intersectional Look at Use of and Satisfaction with Digital Mental Health Platforms: A Survey of Perinatal Black Women.” Her study revealed that 88.1% of perinatal Black women utilize digital platforms for mental health support. 

These insights underscore the importance of nuanced approaches to digital interventions that can accommodate the unique needs and perspectives of women with particular intersectional experiences and identities. They highlight the significance of designing interventions that effectively understand, celebrate, and cater to the experiences of marginalized groups and people of color.

Chih Award Funds Assist in Bringing Dissertation to Life

Oguamanam’s published work earned a Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication award. The Foundation awards graduate students whose research publication(s) reflect invention and innovation for the betterment of society. Each awardee receives $2,500 to pursue their research. 

Funding and Project Overview

“My proposed work involves designing, developing, and evaluating a culturally targeted mobile app to support perinatal Black women in managing stress and building resilience against mental health challenges related to racial and gender-based stressors,” said Oguamanam. “Through my research, I aim to provide technology design guidelines that enhance mental health equity, strengthen digital mental health platforms for vulnerable populations, and enable equitable access to mental health resources for all individuals, regardless of their background.” 

Oguamanam is one of four graduate students awarded the 2023 Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication. Congratulations to the following 2023 Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication award recipients: Andrés-Felipe Castro Méndez, Dongsuk Sung, Hantian Zhang, and Vanessa Oguamanam.

]]> Sara Franc 1 1702588196 2023-12-14 21:09:56 1711116003 2024-03-22 14:00:03 0 0 news Oguamanam's research and published work in developing a digital health system to address mental health disparities recently earned a Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication award. 

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<![CDATA[Ph.D. Student Looks to Brain Temperature as Marker of Health]]> 36249 Dongsuk Sung, Ph.D. student studying biomedical engineering in the joint Georgia Tech and Emory University program, wanted to do research that people don’t think about but is very important in reality. 

“Brain temperature was under-studied but a critical marker for our brain health, and clinicians in emergency departments told me that they need a tool to predict brain temperature accurately to treat patients better,” said Sung. “I have always wanted to help patients have longer, healthier lives after medical treatments.” 

Sung’s research includes the study and development of “next generation techniques for the estimation of human brain temperature.” 

According to Sung, core body temperature has been used as a substitute to brain temperature due to a lack of non-invasive techniques. However, it has been reported that the core body temperature and the brain temperature can be different after certain injuries, diseases, or strokes. 

The goal of Sung’s dissertation is to develop a method to predict brain temperature in an efficient and effective way. He developed a computational model that is both non-invasive and uses patient-specific data. 

“Ultimately, my research on computational model-based brain thermometry will potentially improve decisions from doctors and providing better patient outcomes, particularly in brain-based diseases or injuries, enabling longer and healthier lives,” said Sung. 

Sung’s research titled, “Comparisons of healthy human brain temperature predicted from biophysical modeling and measured with whole brain MR thermometry,” was published in Scientific Reports and recently earned a Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication award. 

Sung is one of four graduate students awarded the 2023 Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication. Congratulations to the following 2023 Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication award recipients: Andrés-Felipe Castro Méndez, Dongsuk Sung, Hantian Zhang, and Vanessa Oguamanam. 

Each awardee receives $2,500 to pursue their research. 

“This award will provide me with more opportunities for me to explore deeply into this topic and introduce this topic to general audiences,” said Sung. “I’m really grateful for receiving this award so that I can confidently keep pursuing the biomedical research using medical imaging.”

]]> Sara Franc 1 1701712575 2023-12-04 17:56:15 1711115956 2024-03-22 13:59:16 0 0 news Dongsuk Sung's research and published work in studying brain temperature earned a Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication award. 

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2023-12-04T00:00:00-05:00 2023-12-04T00:00:00-05:00 2023-12-04 00:00:00 Sara Franc
Communications Officer
Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education
sara.franc@gatech.edu

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<![CDATA[Chih Award Winner's Research Enhances Fairness in Machine Learning]]> 36249 Fair treatment for all. Hantian Zhang, Ph.D. Computer Science student, is working on a machine learning model that creates a more just society. Zhang’s machine learning model, OmniFair, advocates for consistent treatment across diverse demographic groups. 

Creating an Unbiased Computer Algorithm

Zhang’s OmniFair paper was published in SIGMOD 2021, a top-tier conference in data management. OmniFair distinguishes itself by featuring a declarative interface that empowers users to define specific group fairness constraints. Subsequently, Zhang developed iFlipper, a pioneering system that optimizes for individual fairness in machine learning, which was presented in SIGMOD 2023. 

As machine learning models become more deeply integrated into our decision-making process, my research endeavors to foster a more just society,” said Zhang. “Be refining these models to be more fair, we diminish the potential biases, especially against minority groups, ensuring a fairer treatment for all.

According to Zhang, more and more decisions are made by computer algorithms instead of by a human. His research can be used by companies to ensure that their model is fair. 

“People should be treated equally regardless of their race, gender, and sexual orientation,” said Zhang. “I feel the importance to make sure that machines are making fair decisions. We talked to Walmart about using our algorithm in their platform to improve fairness of machine learning models used in the platform, which could potentially benefit millions of vendors and customers.” 

Chih Award Funds Encourages Research Initiatives

Zhang’s published works earned a Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication award. 

Zhang is one of four graduate students awarded the 2023 Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication. Congratulations to the following 2023 Chih Foundation Graduate Student Research Publication award recipients: Andrés-Felipe Castro Méndez, Dongsuk Sung, Hantian Zhang, and Vanessa Oguamanam. 

Each awardee receives $2,500 to pursue their research. 

“It is a great honor to receive the award,” said Zhang. “I am very grateful for Dr. Sam Chih and the award committee. It confirms that my research is interesting and meaningful. It also encourages me to keep working on my research and produce more impactful outcomes.” 

The Foundation awards graduate students whose research publication(s) reflect invention and innovation for the betterment of society. 

]]> Sara Franc 1 1703090309 2023-12-20 16:38:29 1710952258 2024-03-20 16:30:58 0 0 news Ph.D. Computer Science Student, Hantian Zhang, is working on a machine learning model that advocates for consistent treatment across diverse demographic groups. 

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2023-12-20T00:00:00-05:00 2023-12-20T00:00:00-05:00 2023-12-20 00:00:00 Sara Franc
Communications Officer
Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education
sara.franc@gatech.edu

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672628 672628 image <![CDATA[Hantian-Zhang]]> image/jpeg 1703090386 2023-12-20 16:39:46 1703090386 2023-12-20 16:39:46 <![CDATA[Ph.D. Students Earn Chih Graduate Student Research Publication Award]]> <![CDATA[Ph.D. Student Addresses Climate Change with Pending Patented Invention]]> <![CDATA[Ph.D. Student Looks to Brain Temperature as Marker of Health]]>
<![CDATA[Grad Student's Aerospace Journey Propelled by Exclusive Fellowship]]> 36249 From a young age, Matteo Giacani exhibited a keen interest in building things, including small planes and rockets. His fascination with scientific subjects like mathematics and physics naturally led him to pursue an education in aerospace engineering.  

This passion for aerospace engineering fueled Giacani's educational journey, which began with his pursuit of a bachelor's degree at Politecnico di Milano in Milan, Italy. Driven by his ambition for further academic excellence, Giacani's aspirations extended beyond his undergraduate studies, ultimately leading him to Georgia Tech's aerospace engineering master's program. 

“Georgia Tech has one of the best-ranked aerospace engineering programs in the world. My choice was based on the university rankings,” said Giacani.  

Fall 2023 marked the beginning of Giacani’s graduate journey at Georgia Tech. He also received the exclusive Domenica Rea D’Onofrio Fellowship, which is only awarded to native Italian citizens.  

“Being economically covered helped me focus on my studies, and in Fall 2023, I managed to both start doing some research and take four graduate-level classes where I got all A’s,” said Giacani. “Considering the rhythm at which I am going, I will be able to graduate in three terms.”  

While Giacani is thriving in his studies now, adapting to the American academic system posed a challenge for him initially.  

“Being used to the Italian academic system, it was not easy to adapt to the American one with a lot of constant coursework and stress across the term,” said Giacani. “At first, I got overwhelmed, but working out every day helped me get all the stress out and stay consistent with getting a perfect GPA.”  

Giacani emphasizes the importance of his daily workouts at Tech’s gym as a crucial aspect of his routine to destress and prepare for the challenges of the next day.  

With an open mind toward future opportunities, Giacani positions himself for a promising future in aerospace engineering. He expects to graduate with his master’s after just three terms in August 2024.  

]]> Sara Franc 1 1709762069 2024-03-06 21:54:29 1709821061 2024-03-07 14:17:41 0 0 news Fall 2023 marked the beginning of Giacani’s graduate journey at Georgia Tech. He also received the exclusive Domenica Rea D’Onofrio Fellowship, which is only awarded to native Italian citizens.  

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2024-03-06T00:00:00-05:00 2024-03-06T00:00:00-05:00 2024-03-06 00:00:00 Sara Franc
Communications Officer
Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education

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<![CDATA[Harnessing AI Responsibly and Effectively in Research]]> 36363 Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Large Language Models, like ChatGPT®, continue to increase in popularity and user effectiveness. AI is revolutionizing research by increasing the speed and efficiency of data analyzing processes, completing predictive modeling, automating tasks, and even encouraging the use of interdisciplinary collaboration. AI’s usage within research has already proven to be extremely beneficial for researchers when utilized effectively. However, some inherent blind spots come with using these tools that may catch many researchers by surprise.

To mitigate potential risks for researchers who use AI, the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education partnered with the Graduate Student Government Association (Graduate SGA) to develop a guidance document that outlines the effective and responsible use of AI in research, especially for graduate student researchers.

This document is the result of the collaborative efforts of the Office of Research and faculty across campus, specifically those with expertise in AI, ethics, and mentoring graduate students in research. The guidelines presented in the document are recommendations and not Georgia Tech policy. Due to the rapidly changing landscape of AI, these guidelines will continue to evolve. 

Spenser Wipperfurth, vice president of Academic and Research Affairs for the Graduate SGA, leads efforts alongside Graduate SGA leadership to promote awareness of responsible and effective AI usage practices for research.  

“As students and researchers, it’s critical to assess the usability and ethics of new research tools as they are invented,” said Wipperfurth. “The advent of large language models that can write papers, do research, and suggest research paths and solutions, requires our community to ask how to use these tools without abusing them.”

To promote awareness of the known strengths and challenges of using AI, as well as best practices for using generative AI for writing theses or publications, the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education and Graduate Student Government Association (GSGA) is hosting a panel discussion titled, “Effective and Responsible Use of AI in Research,” on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023, from 9 – 10 a.m.

The Effective and Responsible Use of AI in Research panel will be a critical discussion for graduate researchers who are using or are considering using Generative AI or Large Language Models in their research. Panelists will discuss AI’s drawbacks related to accuracy, research confidentiality, intellectual property rights, and risks related to unintentional scholarly misconduct, as well as constructive ways of using the tool. The panelists are William Ratcliff, director of the Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Quantitative Biosciences (QBioS) and associate professor in biological science; Laura Carruth, associate vice provost for Transformative Teaching and Learning and executive director of Center for Teaching and Learning; Jason Borenstein, director of the Graduate Research Ethics Programs, School of Public Policy, and Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education; and Larry Heck, co-executive director of the Artificial Intelligence Hub, and professor with a joint appointment in electrical and computer engineering and interactive computing. The panel is moderated by GSGA’s President J. Haden Boone. 

 

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2023-10-31T00:00:00-04:00 2023-10-31T00:00:00-04:00 2023-10-31 00:00:00 Brittani Hill

Marketing Communications Manager 

Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education 

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<![CDATA[CRIDC 2024 Awards $41,000 to Poster Competition Winners ]]> 36363 At this year’s Career, Research, Innovation, and Development Conference (CRIDC), $41,000 worth of research travel grants were awarded in recognition of the outstanding and impactful work by student competitors.  

The 15th annual CRIDC at Georgia Tech took place on Feb. 8, bringing together a diverse community of scholars. 116 graduate students participated in the CRIDC poster competition, presenting their research in front of their peers and faculty and staff judges alike. Online graduate students participated in CRIDC’s first-ever online poster competition as well.  

Congratulations to the following poster competition winners.   

Executive Vice President for Research winners  

Jennifer Leestma, College of Engineering 

Kelly Badilla, College of Engineering 

Megan Andrews, College of Sciences 

Anamik Jhunjhunwala, College of Engineering 

Timothy Brumfiel, College of Engineering 

Shreya Kothari, College of Sciences 

Shehan Parmar, College of Sciences 

Ximena Pizarro-Bore, Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts  

Xinyue Huang, College of Engineering  

Shiqi Wei, College of Engineering 

 

College of Engineering winners   

Shaspreet Kaur 

Bettina Arkhurst 

Frederick Chung 

Ranjani Narayanan 

 

College of Sciences winners   

Chad Pozarycki 

Monica Monge Loria 

Jiangpeiyun Jin 

Kiera Ngoc Thuy An Tran 

 

College of Computing winners   

Varun Agrawal  

Eric Greenlee 

 

Office of the Provost’s Award  

Eric Cole, College of Engineering 

Walter Parker, College of Engineering 

Chloe LeCates, College of Sciences 

Jimin Park, College of Engineering  

Patrick Owen Sizemore, College of Computing 

CRIDC is the product of the collaborative efforts of the Graduate Student Government Association (GSGA) and the Graduate Career Development Team from the Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate and Postdoctoral Education. Fifteen years ago, the event was created when the student-led poster competition, then known as the Georgia Tech Research and Innovation Competition (GTRIC) was combined with the Graduate Career Symposium.   

CRIDC also features an Innovation Competition, in which graduate student finalists offer three-minute presentations to a panel of judges. All participants met with Tech’s VentureLab to explore grants and programs that can help them pursue startup businesses and technology licensing opportunities.   

Congratulations to the winners of the 2024 CRIDC Innovation Competition:   

1st place: Mikaela Gray, School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering 

Runner-up: Alison Jenkins, Mechanical Engineering  

Runner-up:  Zhaonan Liu, Materials Science and Engineering  

In addition to the poster competitions, this year’s CRIDC featured an employee networking lunch, featuring over twenty employers and four career panels. For more information about CRIDC, please visit grad.gatech.edu/cridc

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2024-02-12T00:00:00-05:00 2024-02-12T00:00:00-05:00 2024-02-12 00:00:00 Brittani Hill

Marketing and Communications Manager | Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education 

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<![CDATA[Graduate Student and Advisor Pair Awarded HHMI Gilliam Fellowship]]> 36249 For the second consecutive year, a Georgia Tech student and their advisor have been awarded a Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Gilliam Fellowship for Advanced Study. Autumn Peterson, a Ph.D. student in biology, will receive $53,000 per year for up to three years for dissertation research. Peterson’s advisor, William Ratcliff, will participate in activities that address challenges to diversity and inclusion at the graduate level.

“Receiving the HHMI Gilliam award will allow me to conduct innovative research while building leadership and mentorship skills–all attributes that are necessary to become a better scientist,” said Peterson. “Ultimately, this will help me prepare for a career in academia as a professor.”  

HHMI awards student-advisor pairs based on the student’s potential for scientific leadership and the advisor’s commitment to a culture of inclusion in academia.  

“Through my academic journey at Virginia Tech, University of Kansas, and Georgia Tech, I have had wonderful mentors and colleagues, but I have had few Black faculty role models,” said Peterson. “It wasn’t until I worked with Brian Atkinson, an African American professor at the University of Kansas, that I even considered becoming a professor. That research experience put me on a path that led directly to Tech and underscored my commitment to outreach broadening participation in science. I am looking forward to being a part of the HHMI community and fostering leadership and mentorship skills that will help me succeed in my career in academia so I can be a role model for future generations of students.”  

The program awards grants to dissertation advisors and encourages the grantee institution and the advisor to facilitate institutional changes to create environments that advance diversity and inclusion.  

“As an advisor, I’m delighted to see Autumn’s work and leadership recognized this way,” said Ratcliff, an associate professor in the School of Biological Sciences and co-director of the Interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Quantitative Biosciences at Georgia Tech. “This fellowship is also a huge opportunity for us to do cool science, become better scientists and mentors, and work to improve diversity and inclusion at Georgia Tech. I cannot wait to get to know the broader community of Gilliam Fellows and mentors.”  

As part of the Gilliam Award, the advisor will also complete a year-long culturally responsive mentorship skills development course.  

“This fellowship provides key resources and professional opportunities that I think can make me a better advisor and can support our work on behalf of trainees from underrepresented groups at Georgia Tech more broadly,” said Ratcliff.  

Fellows are required to participate in the Gilliam Annual Meeting, Gilliam Leadership Training course, and one HHMI Science Meeting per year in the second and third years of the fellowship award where there will be Gilliam-specific discussion sessions.  

Learn more about the HHMI Gilliam Fellows program here. 

]]> Sara Franc 1 1690477809 2023-07-27 17:10:09 1707409756 2024-02-08 16:29:16 0 0 news For the second consecutive year, a Georgia Tech student and their advisor have been awarded a Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Gilliam Fellowship for Advanced Study.

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2023-07-27T00:00:00-04:00 2023-07-27T00:00:00-04:00 2023-07-27 00:00:00 Sara Franc
Communications Officer
Graduate and Postdoctoral Education

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<![CDATA[Attend CRIDC 2024: It’s More Than a Poster Competition ]]> 36363 Seize the opportunity to showcase your research, forge connections with industry professionals, and gain insights from distinguished panelists at the 2024 Career, Research, Innovation, and Development Conference (CRIDC). This year’s conference will take place on February 8 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Exhibition Hall.  

For 15 years, the Office of Graduate Education and the Graduate Student Government Association have collaborated to bring opportunities for career advancement, networking, and research expansion to its on-campus students. Discover why graduate students and postdoctoral scholars need to attend CRIDC 2024. 

Connect with Top Industry Leaders, Alumni, and Potential Employers 

CRIDC 2024 includes a Career Networking Brunch event featuring 23 industry-leading employers. This networking event offers its in-person attendees the invaluable chance to gain insights about various career pathways, exchange tips and strategies for navigating the job search after graduation, and extend employment opportunities. Attending graduate students and postdocs will get the chance to make connections that can shape their career paths, while enjoying a delicious catered brunch, for free! View the full list of participating employers and register to attend the Career Networking Brunch. Registration for this portion of CRIDC is not required but greatly encouraged.  

Boost your chances of being noticed by the participating employers. Graduate students and postdocs who plan to attend the Career Networking event are urged to submit their resumes to be included in the official CRIDC Employer E-Resume Book. Submitted resumes will be shared with participating employers before and after the Career Networking event.  

Attend Exclusive Career Panel Sessions  

In addition to the poster competition and Career Networking Brunch, this year's conference boasts four insightful career panel sessions: 

Beyond the Offer Letter: Mastering Strategic Negotiation Skills for Academic and Industry Success 

Maybe you’ve already received an offer for your dream opportunity! C–congratulations! But the journey doesn't end there. Join this panel session to learn how to master negotiation skills, effectively communicate your value, and elevate your career in both academia and industry. Get ready for the only advice you'll ever need to propel your career forward. 

Intro to Management Consulting: Explore a Career Path Outside of Traditional Academia and Industry 

Are you currently considering how leveraging the skills acquired in your graduate program will help you tackle real-world business problems? Explore the exciting world of management consulting with an information session and Q&A featuring Georgia Tech alumni who have secured positions at McKinsey & Co., Bain & Co., and Boston Consulting Group (BCG). Discover if this dynamic field aligns with your aspirations and connect with like-minded individuals. 

Campus to Corporate Mastery: Decoding Skill Gaps and Crafting Your Ideal Career 

Transitioning from academia to industry can be a transformative journey. This session will help you uncover pathways, bridge skill gaps, and adapt to industry demands. Gain practical insights on navigating choices for a successful career path, ensuring you make informed decisions about your professional future. 

From Lab to Launch: Transforming Your Research into Startup Innovation 

If you've ever dreamt of turning your research into a startup, this session is tailor-made for you. Explore how to move from lab to launch, discover valuable resources for researchers, and gain insights into navigating the startup landscape. Unleash the potential of your innovative ideas and learn the practical steps to bring your concepts to life. 

CRIDC is not just a poster competition event; it's a catalyst for your future success. This conference is your next step towards a fulfilling and impactful career. For more information, visit grad.gatech.edu/cridc. 

 

]]> Brittani Hill 1 1707134174 2024-02-05 11:56:14 1707141285 2024-02-05 13:54:45 0 0 news   The Office of Graduate Education and the Graduate Student Government Association invites graduate students and postdocs to attend the 2024 Career, Research, Innovation, and Development Conference in the Exhibition Hall on Thursday, February 9, 2024. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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2024-02-05T00:00:00-05:00 2024-02-05T00:00:00-05:00 2024-02-05 00:00:00 Brittani Hill

Marketing and Communications Manager | Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education 

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<![CDATA[Joy O. Olabisi joins the Office of Graduate Education as Assistant Vice Provost for Graduate Education, Executive Director of Graduate Admissions]]> 36363 Georgia Tech’s Office of Graduate Education welcomes Joy O. Olabisi as the new assistant vice provost for graduate education and executive director of graduate admissions, effective Feb. 1, 2024.

Prior to accepting this position at Georgia Tech, Olabisi served as an associate professor of management at the Saunders College of Business at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), where she was also appointed director of the M.S. and B.S. in Global Supply Chain Management and the B.S. in Global Business programs. While at RIT, Olabisi taught courses in organizational behavior, high-performance teams, and negotiations.

During her time at RIT, Olabisi served on several college and institute-wide committees as an active participant in developing and implementing policies for faculty and students, including serving as a faculty senator, African American Latin American and Native American faculty advisory council member, as well as on the Women of Color advisory board.

Olabisi’s research interests focus on organizational learning, knowledge management, and community-oriented entrepreneurship within emerging markets, with an emphasis on embeddedness and networks. 

Olabisi is an Honor Roll for Responsible Research in Business and Management award recipient as well as a member of the Sloan Scholars Mentoring Network, where she received a grant to study post-pandemic immigrant entrepreneurial activity. She is passionate about mentoring and empowering students to access educational and workforce opportunities, and in her spare time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.

A fellow Tech alumnus, Olabisi received a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Georgia Tech. She then earned her Master of Science in Industrial and Operations Engineering from the University of Michigan, where she later earned her Ph.D. in Industrial and Operations Engineering.    

"I am thrilled to return to Georgia Tech in this role and to contribute to advancing the missions of both the university and the Office of Graduate Education," said Olabisi. "I look forward to collaborating with the OGE team and engaging with students, faculty, and other community members to build connections that not only improve the processes of graduate admissions and enrollment but also support graduate students throughout their academic endeavors."                                                                           

The Office of Graduate Education is focused on continuing to enhance the graduate education experience while promoting inclusion, access, support, and success for all students. Olabisi’s proven track record of administrative leadership skills, combined with her commitment to student success, diversity, and inclusion, make her a fine addition to the Office of Graduate Education and the Tech community at large.

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2024-01-22T00:00:00-05:00 2024-01-22T00:00:00-05:00 2024-01-22 00:00:00 Brittani Hill | Communications Marketing Manager 

Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education 

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<![CDATA[Faculty Members Needed to Judge This Year’s CRIDC Poster Competition]]> 36363 The Graduate Student Government Association and the Office of Graduate Education are seeking the help of faculty members to participate as judges for the 2024 Career, Research, and Innovation Development Conference (CRIDC) poster competition. This year’s annual poster competition will feature a virtual poster competition and an in-person poster competition.

We are seeking judges for both competitions. Judging will require approximately one hour of your time.

 

If you are interested and available, please use this form to submit your preferences and availability: CRIDC 2024 Judge Registration. For additional information about CRIDC, visit https://grad.gatech.edu/cridc , or email grad.prodev@sga.gatech.edu.

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<![CDATA[Past CRIDC Poster Competition Winners Reflect on their CRIDC Experiences]]> 36363 After spending countless hours in labs and writing sessions, and being inundated with research, it is good for students to explain their beloved research in layman's terms so people from non-technical backgrounds can understand the value of their work, too. 

Tech’s Annual Career, Research, Innovation, and Development Conference (CRIDC) poster competition and exhibition provide students with the opportunity to practice and perfect their communication skills by presenting their research to non-technical audiences. CRIDC is also a professional development event designed to equip graduate students with the skillsets needed to thrive in the constantly evolving career market. 

Read on to hear from two previous CRIDC Poster Competition winners as they reflect on their experiences in presenting their research at CRIDC and how their participation helped elevate their presentation and communication skills. 

Sonia Bhattacharya is a fifth-year Ph.D. candidate from the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Sonia has participated in CRIDC’s poster competition every year since 2019 (except for 2020). All her past research submissions were within the technical research category. Last year, Sonia shared her work on vaccine development that aids in the discovery of diagnostic reagents to detect SARS-COV-2 variants, through Georgia Tech’s lab collaboration with the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Last year, she won the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry Award.  

Tania Evans is a fifth-year Ph.D. candidate from the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. Last year, Tania presented her research on energy-efficient gas separations and chemical processes, which, when applied in industry, would be useful to help manage energy use. Her research earned her the Office of the Executive Vice President for Research Award. 

What made you participate in last year’s CRIDC Poster Competition?  

Sonia: "I have been interested in public health, and I realized that along with enjoying the intellectual challenges of my research, I wanted to improve communicating my science with the general audience. I found that CRIDC provided a great platform to do just that!"

Tania: "I really like presenting my research. The motivation behind my research isn’t obvious to people who don’t typically work in my field. CRIDC was a good opportunity to present my research to people outside of my field. It was a lot less pressure and more fun to present to a general audience for a change." 

On preparing your presentation: 

Sonia: “I spent lots of time in the Finn Lab prepping. I prepared my poster in small increments over a two-week span, prior to last year’s competition. It is an amusing realization, every time, that it seems relatively easy to fill up the poster space. But it is challenging to fill up the poster space well, with the right amount of information.” 

When asked about reaching out to advisors, professors, and peers for help or assistance, Sonia replied that she “definitely ran various versions of her poster through lab mates for a ‘sanity check.’ ”  

Tania: “It took me a couple of hours to make my poster, but that is because I’ve had five years’ worth of data to pull from to make understanding my research easy to a non-technical person. I made figures that I felt were more easily digestible to non-engineers and presented the infographics I created with my lab mates.” 

On the overall CRIDC Competition experience:  

Sonia: “It was very engaging to interact with fellow Ph.D. students while sharing our research. CRIDC provides a great platform to uncover the variety and depth of research performed here at Tech. For every year that I presented (in the competition), I learned more and improved more.”  

Tania: “I participated in the career fair and attended a few of the panels held last year. I found the panels interesting and inspiring in continuing my research. It was a great opportunity to practice communicating your research and to learn more about other research that is being done within the Georgia Tech community.” 

Reflections after winning the poster competition:  

Sonia: “I was very excited to win travel awards in 2021 and 2022. The travel awards were tremendously helpful, which helped cover the cost for me to attend the 2022 Keystone Conference on Progress in Vaccine Development Against Infectious Diseases, which was held in Colorado.” 

Tania: “Since winning the Office of the Executive Vice President for Research Award, I was able to attend the International Conference on the Fundamentals of Adsorption (FOA), which is a leading conference in my field of study. I plan to participate in other poster competitions, as well.” 

Every year, CRIDC Poster Competition winners receive travel grants, ranging in value from $1,000-$2,000, that can be used to cover expenses related to research trips or travel to other conferences. 

Advice to first-time competitors: 

Tania: “Talk about your research to your non-academic friends often. Talk to your parents. My parents could give a few sentences of a short synopsis of my research because I talk about my research so much.” 

This year, CRIDC takes place on Friday, February 8, 2024, in the Exhibition Hall, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. This conference includes a virtual poster competition and an in-person competition, as well as a networking luncheon, and several career panel sessions. Event registration begins at 8 a.m. This free event is intended for Georgia Tech graduate students but is open to the entire GT community. Registration to participate in the poster competition ends on Friday, January 12, 2024.  For more information, visit https://grad.gatech.edu/cridc.  

]]> Brittani Hill 1 1674666634 2023-01-25 17:10:34 1704923309 2024-01-10 21:48:29 0 0 news     

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2023-01-25T00:00:00-05:00 2023-01-25T00:00:00-05:00 2023-01-25 00:00:00 Brittani Hill 

Marketing & Communications Manager 

Graduate and Postdoctoral Education 

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<![CDATA[CRIDC 2024 Planning Underway, Registration Now Open]]> 36363 February is not only the month of love. It is also the month when the air is filled with a different kind of passion—the love for research. Next year marks the 15th annual Career, Research, Innovation, and Development Conference (CRIDC) at Georgia Tech. CRIDC is the product of a collaboration between the Graduate Student Government Association (GSGA) and the Office of Graduate Education. CRIDC is a professional development event designed to equip on-campus and online graduate students of all degree types with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in the constantly evolving job market. CRIDC helps prepare the next generation of technology leaders by inspiring discussion and collaboration among students and industry experts and connecting graduate students with professionals in research, industry, consulting, government, nonprofits, and entrepreneurship.  

After dedicating countless hours to labs and research endeavors, students consider CRIDC a valuable opportunity to communicate their research to a non-technical audience. One highly anticipated segment of the conference is the poster competition, that provides    a unique opportunity to refine their communication skills by presenting their research to non-technical audiences. Beyond the intrinsic value of sharing their work, winners stand a chance to receive travel grants, ranging from $500 to $2,000, that can be used to cover expenses for research-related travel. Last year, the competition distributed a substantial $43,000 worth of research travel grants to deserving winners. 

 The Conference extends beyond a poster competition and features the Innovation Competition that is sponsored by VentureLab of Georgia Tech’s Office of Commercialization. The Innovation Competition is open to all graduate students who attend the Atlanta campus and are participating in the in-person CRIDC conference, whose research has the potential for market applications. The winner of the Innovation Competition will receive $1000 and an invitation to participate in Startup Launch, a summer program providing commercialization training, support, and funding to GT research teams. Two runners-up will each receive $500 prizes. 

CRIDC also includes a networking luncheon and career panels, offering attendees the chance to connect with professionals in various fields and gain insights into potential career paths. CRIDC is more than just a conference; It is an immersive professional development experience that enables students to showcase, explore, and connect for a future rich in possibilities.  

Haden Boone, president of the Graduate Student Government Association, expresses the organization's continued commitment to the growth of graduate students. “We've built a strong partnership with the Office of Graduate Education over the past year, and we’re excited to see it come to fruition at CRIDC,” he said.  “There are some great opportunities for academic and professional development being offered at CRIDC this year, and I’m excited invite the graduate student community to take full advantage of them.” 

Daamini Visaalaakshi serves as the vice president of Professional Development and the chair of CRIDC. She said, “The event, much like fine wine, matures gracefully with each passing year. With a diverse set of graduate participants, this year, our primary focus is enhancing accessibility for our online student community. We've thoughtfully curated both panel sessions and panelists, aiming to equip graduate students with the essential tools for evolving career trajectories and skills. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team is diligently working to bring this event to fruition through meticulous planning. As a completely student-run initiative, we don't just encourage your presence; we eagerly anticipate it. 

CRIDC takes place on Wednesday, February 8, 2024, in the Exhibition Hall, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. This free event is intended for Georgia Tech graduate students but is open to the entire GT community.  

Registration is now open for the CRIDC 2024 Poster Competition!   

Online and in -person students are encouraged to participate. Registration is open until Friday, January 12, 2024, 11:59 p.m. For more information and to register visit: https://grad.gatech.edu/cridc .  

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2023-12-06T00:00:00-05:00 2023-12-06T00:00:00-05:00 2023-12-06 00:00:00 For more information about CRIDC, please email the Graduate Student Government Association's professional development team | grad.prodev@sga.edu

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<![CDATA[Prospective Off-Campus Dwellers: A Guide to Nearby Neighborhoods]]> 36249 Updated November 2023

Georgia Tech provides housing for more than 8,000 students on campus, but what about the other 15,000? After living on campus for some time, many students seek a greater sense of independence and responsibility by moving off campus.

A common problem for students considering off-campus housing is finding the best place to live. Not everyone has the luxury of choosing from several great neighborhoods, but Tech students do. Regardless of which corner of the city you choose, be sure to weigh all of your options. There are many factors to consider, including roommates, utilities, monthly expenses, commute times, and parking fees.

Different areas will offer different benefits, but there are a few places worth investigating if you’re apartment hunting. Make sure you tour the entire property, and drive around the area at different times to see what it’s like early in the morning and late at night. Don’t settle on a place solely for its price and make safety and well-being top priorities.

Student-oriented apartments

Many apartment complexes close to campus are either partially or specifically for student living. Besides proximity, these places have the benefit of allowing residents to live among other students and sign individual leases while still sharing a space. A few popular options, which are not approved housing or endorsed housing by Georgia Tech, include:

Neighborhoods close to campus

Home Park: The closest neighborhood north of campus, Home Park is known for its large student population and affordable living. While it doesn’t offer much in the way of restaurants or shops, one can’t overlook the fact that it is home to Antico Pizza and Sublime Doughnuts, both favorites among students. Furthermore, it is close to Atlantic Station and Howell Mill Road, two vibrant commercial districts. If you’re on campus after dark, you can get a ride home from the Stingerette through the Safe Ride Home program.

Highlights: Antico (1093 Hemphill Ave. NW), Sublime Doughnuts (535 10th Street NW), Firehouse Subs (537 10th Street NW), Tannour Mediterranean Grill (398 14th Street NW).

Website: http://homepark.org/

Downtown and Centennial Place Apartments: Many students choose to live in Centennial Place because of its proximity to campus. Residents can easily walk or bike there, or to the bus stop at North Avenue Apartments, and the North Avenue MARTA station is nearby to get to other places in the city. Tech students will be in good company with students from Georgia State University, whose campus buildings dot the downtown area. For those who want to take advantage of attractions such as the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, the Center for Civil and Human Rights, or State Farm Arena, downtown makes it convenient to do so.

Highlights: Georgia Aquarium (225 Baker Street NW), World of Coca-Cola (121 Baker Street NW), CNN Center (190 Marietta Street NW), Skyview Atlanta (168 Luckie Street NW)

Websites: http://www.atlantadowntown.com/living

Midtown: Georgia Tech is in Midtown Atlanta, and it is relatively walkable to campus. Midtown is home to families, young couples, singles, and students alike. If you’re a runner, you’ll benefit from the proximity of Piedmont Park and its abundance of trails, including the BeltLine, which runs right along the park and through Ponce City Market. Midtown is also a good option for those who don’t own a car, since it’s close to MARTA, campus, and options for groceries and the like. Midtown has both apartment complexes (such as Marq on Ponce, Biltmore at Midtown, and Piedmont Park) as well as many apartments rented by smaller landlords (which are generally less expensive) for those not as particular about amenities. If you spend a lot of time in Tech Square, Midtown could be more convenient than living farther west, and apartment complexes on the border between Midtown and Tech Square include SQ5, UHouse, and The Standard at Atlanta.

Highlights: Fox Theatre (660 Peachtree Street NE), Woodruff's Art Center (1280 Peachtree Street NE), Publix (950 W. Peachtree Street NW), Ponce City Market (675 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE), Atlanta Botanical Garden (1345 Piedmont Ave. NE), BeltLine access, MARTA access.

Website: http://midtownatlanta.org/

Westside: Atlanta’s Westside offers a handful of apartment complexes and small homes, both of which are ideal for students. The area is rapidly developing, with new restaurants and niche shops springing up on every corner. Though a boon to residents’ social lives, it also means increasing prices. The commute from Marietta Street is easier than ever on foot and bike thanks to the Path Parkway. 

Highlights: Ormsby’s (1170 Howell Mill Road), West Egg (1100 Howell Mill Road).

Website: https://westsideprovisions.com/

Atlantic Station: Though Atlantic Station can be pricier than other off-campus options, it’s really close to campus and offers other benefits. Residents are within walking distance of the outdoor shopping mall, IKEA, movie festivals, an 18-screen movie theater, weekend sidewalk markets, and restaurants. Stinger buses travel to the south side of Atlantic Station — though not as frequently as they do on campus — providing a solid transportation option in a pinch.

Highlights: Regal Cinemas 18 (261 19th Street NW), Target (375 18th Street), California Pizza Kitchen (264 19th Street NW), IKEA (441 16th Street NW).

Website: http://www.atlanticstation.com/

Virginia Highland: Just past Midtown to the east, many students frequent the Highlands for its restaurants, bars, and shops. The Highland is known for attracting twenty-somethings and offering lower rents. Though it will take a car, bike, or long walk to MARTA to get to campus, it offers plenty of entertainment options within walking distance. It's also home to multiple coffee shops for those who prefer such venues for studying. 

Highlights: DBA Barbecue (1190 N Highland Ave.), Fontaine's Oyster House (1026 N Highland Ave. NE), La Tavola (992 Virginia Ave. NE), Paolo's Gelato (1025 Virginia Ave. NE), 

Website: https://virginiahighlanddistrict.com/

Buckhead: Buckhead is an uptown district within the city of Atlanta, comprising over 100,000 residents. It is an upscale residential and commercial district with internationally renowned shopping and dining. Located approximately six miles (or just over nine kilometers) from Georgia Tech, Buckhead is a little farther from campus than other neighborhoods and thus requires using public transportation (MARTA) or a car. Buckhead features shopping centers and malls, hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs, and high-rise office buildings and condominiums. 

Highlights: Le Colonial (3035 Peachtree Road NE), Lenox Square Mall (3393 Peachtree Road NE), Phipps Plaza (3500 Peachtree Road NE), Eclipse di Luna (764 Miami Circle). 

Website: https://www.buckheadvillagedistrict.com/

Vinings: This unincorporated "village" is more common to families and younger working couples, making it quieter and more expensive. The nightlife may not be as exhilarating, but the area offers its own social scene with plenty of restaurants, shops, and parks to explore. It's not uncommon to find excellent festivals and fairs on the weekends. 

Highlights: Cumberland Mall (2860 Cumberland Mall SE), South City Kitchen (1675 Cumberland Parkway), Mellow Mushroom (2950 New Paces Ferry Road), Bowl Lab (3621 Vinings Slope SE). 

Website: https://vinings.org/

During your search, ask yourself these questions:
]]> Sara Franc 1 1650464414 2022-04-20 14:20:14 1701194718 2023-11-28 18:05:18 0 0 news A brief overview of the places students can live in the Atlanta area.

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2012-03-23T00:00:00-04:00 2012-03-23T00:00:00-04:00 2012-03-23 00:00:00 Kristen Bailey

Institute Communications

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<![CDATA[Ph.D. Students Earn Chih Graduate Student Research Publication Award]]> 36249 The Chih Foundation awards graduate students whose research publication(s) reflect invention for the betterment of society. 

This year, four Ph.D. students received the award for their passion for research and publication and their value of putting the needs of others above personal interest. Each awardee will receive $2,500 to pursue their research. 

“These students exemplify the Georgia Tech vision to ‘push the boundaries of research while focusing on the most consequential questions and problems faced by humanity,’” said Bonnie Ferri, vice provost for Graduate and Postdoctoral Education. “Their valuable contributions are appreciated and reflect the spirit of innovation and commitment fostered at our institution.” 

Congratulations to the following Chih Foundation Student Research Publication Award recipients: 

In recognition of their achievements, the Chih Foundation award recipients will present their research at a ceremony on November 16. Additionally, recipients will have the unique opportunity to engage with the Foundation's donors. 

]]> Sara Franc 1 1700075970 2023-11-15 19:19:30 1700156829 2023-11-16 17:47:09 0 0 news The Chih Foundation awards graduate students whose research publication(s) reflect invention for the betterment of society. 

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2023-11-15T00:00:00-05:00 2023-11-15T00:00:00-05:00 2023-11-15 00:00:00 Sara Franc
sara.franc@gatech.edu
Communications Officer
Graduate and Postdoctoral Education

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672394 672394 image <![CDATA[Chih_1200x628_2023.jpg]]> From left to right: Andrés-Felipe Castro Méndez, Dongsuk Sung, Vanessa Oguamanam, and Hantian Zhang

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<![CDATA[Emmy Hughes Chosen for ARCS Scholar Award]]> 36249 Emmy Hughes, a Ph.D. candidate in the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at Georgia Tech has been selected as a recipient of the Achievement Rewards for College Scientists (ARCS) Scholar Foundation award. Hughes, who specializes in planetary science, will join 11 returning scholars from Tech who were previously recognized by ARCS as outstanding doctoral students.

Scholars are selected annually by qualifying departments of science, engineering, and medical research within the ARCS Foundation’s 51 academic partner universities. Hughes was nominated by her advisor, Professor James Wray

“It is a tremendous honor,” said Hughes. “It is an amazing thing to have your advisor nominate you for something like this because it’s a great vote of confidence in your ability.”

“Emmy is a truly exceptional young scientist,” said Wray. “She has a broad scientific skillset that she capably applies to a range of projects, driven by innate curiosity and immense enthusiasm. Her talent, passion, and positivity have hugely reinvigorated my research group; I am so proud to be her advisor. She is an outstanding representative for our School and College within Georgia Tech and for the Institute as a whole.”

Hughes is a planetary geologist primarily focused on the history and surface of Mars.  

“There’s a lot of things that tell geologists today that there was once water on Mars,” said Hughes. “I’m particularly interested in the geologic history of Mars and the surface of Mars and what that can tell us about the ancient history of water on the Martian surface.”

Hughes’ work is focused on using salts and other materials like amorphous silica to learn about the temperature of the water that was present and how long it was there. This involves using data from the surface of Mars. The ARCS award provides scholars $7,500 in unrestricted funding. These funds will support Hughes in conducting experiments required for her thesis.

“This is something that I have been wanting to do,” said Hughes. “I proposed it in my thesis proposal draft, and we hadn’t figured out a way to fund it, and I’m totally going to be able to do it now. I am appreciative of the fact that it doesn’t have strings attached. I think that gives people great flexibility.”  

A scholars’ award ceremony will be held in November to honor the Atlanta chapter’s recipients. 

The ARCS fellowship is made possible each year by way of the fundraising and continuous generous support of the ARCS Foundation Atlanta Chapter. 

]]> Sara Franc 1 1696276244 2023-10-02 19:50:44 1700072818 2023-11-15 18:26:58 0 0 news Emmy Hughes, a Ph.D. candidate in the  School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at Georgia Tech has been selected as a recipient of the Achievement Rewards for College Scientists (ARCS) Scholar Foundation award.

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2023-10-02T00:00:00-04:00 2023-10-02T00:00:00-04:00 2023-10-02 00:00:00 Sara Franc
Communications Officer
Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education

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671935 671935 image <![CDATA[emmyHughes3.jpg]]> image/jpeg 1696428473 2023-10-04 14:07:53 1696428473 2023-10-04 14:07:53
<![CDATA[Assistant Vice Provost Offers Strategies, Resources for Conflict Resolution ]]> 34838 Article by Autumn Siebold

Revised on Nov. 10, 2023

Whether the issue is being credited in a study or disagreeing over grade policies, Kyla Ross knows academic issues are best solved by people familiar with academia. That’s one of the reasons why she applied to be the assistant vice provost for Advocacy and Conflict Resolution.

“Since I’ve held faculty positions at multiple institutions and was previously a postdoctoral fellow and graduate student myself, I can approach each conflict I’m working through with empathy,” Ross said. “I find it motivating to not only help faculty, postdocs, and students with their current challenges, but also to equip them with helpful strategies for future conflicts they may experience. I welcome the opportunity to consult with them so that more in our community learn how to leverage the positives while limiting the negatives of conflict.”

Ross completed her Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory University in 2006. Next, she served as a postdoctoral fellow in the National Institutes of Health-funded Fellowships in Research and Science Teaching (FIRST) Program. In 2008, Ross joined the faculty at Georgia State University, and then returned to Tech in 2016 as the director of graduate training in Biomedical Engineering.

“My diverse experiences have helped me gain perspective as an administrator, teacher, and coach," Ross said. "I've helped students and faculty navigate advisor/advisee relationships. And over time, I've developed an appreciation for the ways that people communicate. I wanted to teach others how to connect even in difficult situations, so when I saw this job ad, it felt like it was written for me.”

We asked Ross about how she helps students, postdocs, and faculty, and how people can work through conflict in their own lives. Here’s what she said.

Who do you work with on campus, and what are some of the most common inquiries you receive? 

I serve faculty, postdocs, and graduate and undergraduate students. When it comes to students, a lot of grievances that I receive are about course concerns like grading or class policies.

Common concerns reported by graduate students and postdocs include communication challenges with their advisors and disputes regarding authorship and publication. For example, graduate students and postdocs might need to clarify authorship order when working on a research project.

In addition, faculty often come to me requesting strategies for how to maintain positive work relationships with their advisees and colleagues.

What is the process for a student to submit an academic grievance?

Students may file an academic grievance through an online form. Once submitted, I investigate and seek resolution on the case. The first step is to get curious about the perspective of each individual involved and talk with them. I often also connect and consult with campus units, like the Office of Disability Services or the Dean of Students, to investigate further and to ensure that the solution adheres to campus policy.

Describe what your day-to-day job entails.   

Most of my days involve some combination of consulting, coaching, interviewing, and writing. Even if an individual doesn’t want to file a formal complaint, people can email me about any concerns. I host sessions on how people can navigate challenging conversations and manage conflict, as well as consultations to teach communication and conflict resolution skills. When people do choose to file a complaint, I’m available to investigate the concerns and mediate when needed.

What is the most satisfying part of your job? 

I like knowing that I can help the people who come to me. Sometimes, the conflicts I’m dealing with are quite challenging and individuals are entrenched in their own positions. When that happens, it’s very satisfying to detangle the problem and help everyone involved find closure.

What is the most challenging part of your job, and how do you deal with it? 

At times, it can be challenging for all parties to achieve closure. For example, we might have found a resolution that all have agreed to, and then one party shares information that changes the best way forward. To avoid getting frustrated myself, I try not to get attached to one party’s needs, so that it's easier to determine what will help everyone involved. I also remain focused on my own emotions, particularly when it's clear that others’ emotions are running strong. Even if the solution we come up with doesn’t totally solve things for all parties, I seek the best possible outcome for all involved.  

Can you provide a couple of strategies for handling conflict?

First, check out the resources we have to offer, which include workshops on active listening and effective communication. These can help you manage conflict if and when it arises. Students can reach out to me by email to ask about attending these workshops.

When it comes to working through conflicts, maintaining open communication with people goes a long way. It’s healthy to disagree but being mindful of how you’re coming across will help you to avoid confrontation. This mostly comes down to being self-aware. It's important to remember that the only person that you can control is you

For more information, visit provost.gatech.edu.

]]> asiebold3 1 1602525531 2020-10-12 17:58:51 1699630483 2023-11-10 15:34:43 0 0 news Find out how Kyla Ross, the assistant vice provost for advocacy and conflict resolution, can help members of the academic campus community deal with conflict. 

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2020-10-12T00:00:00-04:00 2020-10-12T00:00:00-04:00 2020-10-12 00:00:00 Kyla Ross
Assistant Vice Provost for Advocacy and Conflict Resolution

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640121 640121 image <![CDATA[Kyla Ross]]> image/jpeg 1602525832 2020-10-12 18:03:52 1602525832 2020-10-12 18:03:52
<![CDATA[Virtual Recruitment Event Attracts More Than 850 Prospects Worldwide]]> 36249 Revised on Nov. 2

Over 850 prospective graduate students gathered on October 20 for the 3rd annual “Virtual Graduate School Showcase Hosted by Georgia Tech," a collaboration between Pre-Graduate and Pre-Professional Advising and the Office of Graduate Education. This free event connects prospective students from around the world with program recruiters from Georgia Tech and non-Georgia Tech institutions across the U.S. and abroad. 

“Covid pushed for online interaction, and we have kept it in recruiting because it helps to remove previous equity issues of students reaching us,” said Mack Carter, graduate program coordinator at the University of Washington, Seattle. “The [Showcase] allows for a large platform online to draw in more students that otherwise might be missed.” 

This year's event marked a record-breaking achievement for the Showcase, with 1,758 prospective students registering for the event, nearly 500 more registrations compared to the 2022 event. 

"What started out as an idea on how to create an innovative way for pre-graduate advising to support Tech's strategic plan by connecting globally and expanding access during Covid-19 has resulted in a strong, rewarding cross-unit collaboration that has continued to grow," said Susan Belmonte, the Showcase founder and chair and assistant director of pre-graduate advising. "I am so grateful and proud to have the honor to work with the talented members of the planning committee to make each year better than the last."

The Showcase featured a student-led panel with current Tech grad students who offered prospective students the opportunity to learn about the application process and life at Tech for grad students from first-hand accounts. There were also info sessions hosted by the Office of Graduate Education, the Office of International Education, and the Georgia Tech Language Institute that focused on graduate admission and life at Tech. 

“What I always enjoy, the number of students that come to ask questions from different areas, particularly those within the U.S. that we find difficult to reach due to distance or lack of attendance at conferences,” said Carter. “I have students that will stay for two hours just to collect advice on applying to grad school.” 

Before and after the Showcase, participating programs received lists of prospective students who registered to help them focus their own recruitment efforts on those who expressed interest in the programs. 

Graduate program representatives who want to learn more about how to participate in the 2024 Showcase should send an email to gtgradshowcase@gatech.edu to be added to the mailing list for future communications regarding this event. 

The Showcase Planning Committee includes Susan Belmonte, chair; Nazanin Tork, vice chair; Sara Franc, communications and graphic design; Scott Green, website applications and IT hero of Showcase; Brittani Hill, digital marketing; Monique Morris, accounting; and Jon Reid, web development. 
 

]]> Sara Franc 1 1698871019 2023-11-01 20:36:59 1698944427 2023-11-02 17:00:27 0 0 news Over 850 prospective graduate students gathered for the 3rd annual “Virtual Graduate School Showcase Hosted by Georgia Tech” on October 20. 

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2023-11-01T00:00:00-04:00 2023-11-01T00:00:00-04:00 2023-11-01 00:00:00 Sara Franc
Communications Officer
Graduate and Postdoctoral Education

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<![CDATA[Six Sciences Graduate Scholars Join the Ranks of Haley Fellows]]> 34434 The College of Sciences congratulates six of its graduate scholars who have won Herbert P. Haley Fellowships for the 2023-24 school year.

The new Haley Fellows are:

Haley scholars receive a one-time merit award of up to $4,000 thanks to the generosity of the late Marion Peacock Haley. Haley’s estate established the creation of merit-based graduate fellowships at Georgia Tech in honor of her late husband, Herbert P. Haley (ME 1933). It is an award which may be held in conjunction with other funding, assistantships, or fellowships, if applicable. 

Meet the Haley Fellows

Jessica Deutsch

Jessica Deutsch is a fifth-year Ph.D. student studying analytical chemistry. “One of the most intriguing aspects of analytical chemistry is that the field focuses on studying invisible things in order to make sense of the visible,” Deuthsch says. “I am researching a deadly coral disease that affects Florida and Caribbean reefs. I aim to provide insight into how this disease impacts the production of small molecules using a mass spectrometry-based approach, which can provide insight into how relationships between the coral animal, algae, and bacteria may be impacted by this disease.”

She wishes to thank Assistant Professor Neha Garg “for her mentorship and the opportunities she has provided that have enabled me to develop my research skills.”
 

Quynh Nguyen

Quynh Nguyen is a third-year Ph.D. student looking into phase- and shape-controlled synthesis of nanocrystals for catalysis and energy-related applications. “What fascinates me is the ability to manipulate matter at the nanoscale to drive sustainable advances,” Nguyen says. “This field places me at the exciting intersection of chemistry, materials science, and nanotechnology, aiming to address current challenges in sustainability and renewable energy.”

Nguyen’s Ph.D. advisor is Younan Xia, professor, Brock Family Chair and Georgia Research Alliance Eminent Scholar in Nanomedicine. “Xia's guidance and expertise have been instrumental in shaping my research focus and methodology. Beyond the lab, he has consistently encouraged me to pursue opportunities that contribute to both my academic and professional development, for which I am immensely grateful.”

Eliza Gazda

Eliza Gazda, a fifth-year graduate scholar, is working in the field of multi-messenger particle astrophysics.

Gazda designed, tested, and integrated a telescope camera which was the payload on a scientific balloon launched in May. “The telescope launched is the first optical balloon of this type that operated at high altitudes over 30 kilometers,” Gazda says. “Our telescope observed radiative air showers from high energy cosmic rays and particles which travel across the Earth from extreme astrophysical objects like neutron stars and black holes. Once analyzed, this work will give us insight into high energy events that occur in space, and allow us to design and launch future similar telescopes.”

 Gazda’s mentor is Associate Professor Nepomuk Otte, “who guided me in the past through a summer internship at Georgia Tech and inspired me to come back to work on my Ph.D. here. Not only has he taught me lab skills, but he helps me with my career goals, and guides me in exploring our research field, networking, and learning about various disciplines within the field.”

Sydney Popsuj 

A fifth-year Ph.D. student, Sydney Popsuj is researching the gene Dkk3 and how it might regulate neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration in tunicates, close siblings to vertebrates. “This gene is implicated in Alzheimer's disease and dementia, but because it is hard to study in disease models, we don't have a strong grasp on the general functionality of the gene. I am using tunicates as a model system to study because they are biphasic, meaning they have both a larval and adult stage. This work is very exciting to me because it incorporates large scale evolutionary questions, while also having an impact on better understanding a gene that seems quite important to diseases and disorders.”

Popsuj thanks Georgia Tech faculty members Shuyi Nie, Joe LaChance, Patrick McGrath, Tim Cope, and Billie Swalla at the University of Washington “for pushing me to find new and exciting avenues into how to relate and generalize my work. These mentors have also encouraged me to expand outside my comfort zone in academics and to embrace new technologies and approaches that will hopefully further expand methods and protocols available to tunicate researchers.”

Jose Luis Ramirez-Colón

A third-year graduate scholar, Jose Luis Ramirez-Colón “has always been fascinated by the question of where we come from, and my time at Georgia Tech has been dedicated to using science as a tool to further explore this question.” His research focuses on exploring the organic inventory present in carbonaceous chondrites, meteorites that are like time capsules from the early days of the Solar System. 

“Many organic classes present in all life as we know it, such as amino acids, sugars, and nucleobases, have been detected in these meteorites; therefore, there’s this idea that these meteorites might've delivered these essential building blocks to early Earth to kick-start life as we know it,” Ramirez-Colón says. His mission at Georgia Tech is to develop methods to detect, extract, and characterize those building blocks. 

Ramirez-Colón wants to acknowledge “the remarkable contributions of my advisor and mentor, Christopher Carr, who has played a pivotal role in propelling my journey as an advancing Puerto Rican scientist. Carr not only granted me the freedom to pursue the questions that have always ignited my passion for science, but also equipped me with the essential tools and resources needed to conduct meaningful research.”

Sidney Scott-Sharoni

Sidney Scott-Sharoni is entering her fourth year of Ph.D. studies. An engineering psychology major, Scott-Sharoni focuses on “understanding how humans interact and conceptualize artificial intelligence devices,” she explains. 

“Specifically, I investigate creative methods to convey information to calibrate users’ trust, and understand their psychological well-being, most often in automated vehicles,” Scott-Sharoni says. “I love my area of research because it combines the study of people with the study of innovative technology. I feel like I am researching the people of the future!”

 Scott-Sharoni’s advisor, Professor Bruce Walker, “has significantly helped my personal and professional development as a researcher. I am very grateful for his continued mentorship throughout my graduate education.”

 

]]> Renay San Miguel 1 1695221955 2023-09-20 14:59:15 1697579344 2023-10-17 21:49:04 0 0 news The College of Sciences graduate students were chosen as 2023-24 Herbert P. Haley Fellowships for their research and academic achievements.
 

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2023-09-20T00:00:00-04:00 2023-09-20T00:00:00-04:00 2023-09-20 00:00:00 Writer: Renay San Miguel
Communications Officer II/Science Writer
College of Sciences
404-894-5209

Editor: Jess Hunt-Ralston

 

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671765 671765 image <![CDATA[2023 Haley Fellows (clockwise from top left) Jessica Deutsch, Quynh Nguyen, Eliza Gazda, Sydney Popsuj, Jose Luis Ramirez-Colon, Sidney Scott-Sharoni.jpg]]> 2023 Haley Fellows (clockwise from top left) Jessica Deutsch, Quynh Nguyen, Eliza Gazda, Sydney Popsuj, Jose Luis Ramirez-Colon, Sidney Scott-Sharoni.jpg

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<![CDATA[College of Sciences Celebrates Six New Haley Fellows]]>
<![CDATA[National Science Foundation Awards 38 Tech Students Prestigious Fellowship]]> 36249 Following in the early footsteps of esteemed Nobel laureates, national leaders, and esteemed faculty, 38 of Tech’s graduate students have just been awarded the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship (NSF GRF). 

More than 12,000 applicants from across the United States apply to the highly sought after Fellowship, but only about 16% of those who apply are offered it. The program recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported STEM disciplines who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees.

“The success of Georgia Tech’s research mission relies very heavily on the work of our graduate students,” said Bonnie Ferri, vice provost for Graduate and Postdoctoral Education. “We are proud and honored to host the NSF GRF Scholars, who have outstanding accomplishments and potential for research. We are excited to see what they will do with this tremendous opportunity.”

This year, the NSF also granted an “honorable mention” designation to 11 of Tech’s graduate student applicants. This designation acknowledges the student’s potential for success in future graduate studies and research. 

The Fellowship provides significant financial support to recipients, including a three-year annual stipend of $37,000 along with a $12,00 cost of education allowance for tuition and fees. Recipients also receive access to opportunities for professional development. 

NSF Graduate Research Fellows are anticipated to become knowledge experts who can contribute significantly to research, teaching, and innovations in science and engineering. These individuals are crucial to maintaining and advancing the nation’s technological infrastructure and national security as well as contributing to the economic well-being of society at large. 

The Graduate Research Fellowship has a long history of selecting recipients who achieve high levels of success in their future academic and professional careers. Tech’s fellowship recipients will join an exclusive group of previous fellows. Currently, 42 Fellows have gone on to become Nobel laureates, and more than 450 have become members of the National Academy of Sciences. In addition, the Graduate Research Fellowship Program has a high rate of doctorate degree completion, with more than 70% of students completing their doctorate within 11 years. 

Introducing Tech’s 49 graduate student awardees and honorees for the 2023 NSF Graduate Research Fellowship: 

Chemistry

•    Joshua Saito, chemical synthesis
•    Caroline Sargent, chemical theory, models, and computational models

Computing/Interdisciplinary/Engineering

•    Elton Pinto, formal methods, verification, and programming languages
•    Ashley Boone, human computer interaction
•    George Stoica, machine learning 

Engineering

•    Preethi Mysore, aeronautical and aerospace engineering
•    Satvik Kumar, aeronautical and aerospace engineering
•    Alexander Chipps, aeronautical and aerospace engineering
•    Afra Nawar, bioengineering
•    Maxwell Kazman, bioengineering
•    Kaitlin Jacobson, bioengineering
•    Emily Heckard, bioengineering
•    Jamison Siebart, biomedical engineering
•    Rani Kumar, biomedical engineering
•    David Pando Gonzalez, chemical engineering
•    Felicia Oentoro, chemical engineering
•    Christopher Allen, chemical engineering
•    Christian Douglas, civil engineering
•    Jesse Jiang, electrical and electronic engineering
•    Abel Sapirstein, industrial engineering and operations research
•    Alina Gorbunova, industrial engineering and operations research
•    Joseph Boone, industrial engineering and operations research
•    Jacob Aguirre, industrial engineering and operations research
•    Abir Muhuri, mechanical engineering
•    Max Asselmeier, mechanical engineering
•    Amro Alshareef, robotics

Geosciences

•    Samuel Ofori, geophysics
•    Samanatha Motz, hydrology
•    José Ramírez Colón, planetary science

Life Sciences

•    James DuBose, ecology
•    Princess Pinamang, environmental biology
•    Carlissa Roush, evolutionary biology

Materials Research

•    Grayson Harrington, computationally intensive research
•    Henry Kantrow, polymers

Physics and Astronomy

•    Lila Nassar, quantum sensing for biophysics
•    Cassandra Shriver, physics of living systems
•    Adele Payman, plasma physics

STEM Education and Learning Research

•    Lara Schenck, technology education

Honorable Mentions

•    Spenser Wipperfurth, climate and large-scale atmospheric dynamics
•    Alexis Ramsey, microbial biology
•    John Pederson, chemical theory, models, and computational methods
•    Liam Ordner, chemical synthesis
•    Elizabeth Kimmel, aeronautical and aerospace engineering
•    Dru-Ann Harris, geomorphology
•    Rachel Harris, electrical and electronic engineering
•    Haley Bassham, polymers
•    Kathryn Bairley, photonic materials
•    Oliver Azevedo, geophysics
•    Alexander Arbogast, mechanical engineering

]]> Sara Franc 1 1683642324 2023-05-09 14:25:24 1697127995 2023-10-12 16:26:35 0 0 news Following in the early footsteps of esteemed Nobel laureates, national leaders, and esteemed faculty, 38 of Tech’s graduate students have just been awarded the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship (NSF GRF). 

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2023-05-09T00:00:00-04:00 2023-05-09T00:00:00-04:00 2023-05-09 00:00:00 Sara Franc
Communications Officer
Graduate and Postdoctoral Education

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658042 658042 image <![CDATA[NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program]]> image/jpeg 1652118591 2022-05-09 17:49:51 1652118591 2022-05-09 17:49:51
<![CDATA[Help Shape the Future of Georgia Tech: Graduate Student Experience Survey]]> 36249 The 2023 Graduate Student Experience Survey is your chance to play an essential role in shaping the future of Georgia Tech. 

On October 3, every graduate student will find an email in their student inbox from “Qualtrics” with the subject line “2023 Graduate Student Experience Survey.” This email contains a unique URL, which provides direct access to the survey. 

“We strongly encourage you to participate in this survey,” said James Black, senior academic professional in the Office of Graduate Education. “Your input is crucial in helping us understand the current state of graduate student life and identify areas for improvement. Together, we can work towards making Georgia Tech an even better place for graduate education.”

The survey is conducted once every few years to quantify various factors that impact the experiences of graduate students at Georgia Tech. This survey is incredibly important. Institute leaders will utilize this data to make strategic investments in programs, support, and resources to improve the graduate student experience in the future. 

The responses from previous Graduate Student Experience Surveys have resulted in changes such as: 

All responses are confidential and will never be attributed to a specific person; results will only be presented in an aggregate form. 

Questions about the survey can be directed to grad.ask@grad.gatech.edu.  
 

]]> Sara Franc 1 1696339177 2023-10-03 13:19:37 1696449819 2023-10-04 20:03:39 0 0 news The 2023 Graduate Student Experience Survey is your chance to play an essential role in shaping the future of Georgia Tech. 
 

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2023-10-03T00:00:00-04:00 2023-10-03T00:00:00-04:00 2023-10-03 00:00:00 Sara Franc
Communications Officer
Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Education

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