Annual Graduate & Professional Student Research Forum
Showcasing the excellence in research conducted at the graduate student level.
About the Forum
The Annual Graduate and Professional Student Research Forum, hosted by the Graduate & Professional Student Association (GPSA) and the Graduate College, represents a pinnacle of academic excellence at UNLV. This conference-style event highlights the innovative research and creativity of UNLV's graduate and professional students, offering a dynamic platform that showcases groundbreaking work from across more than 45 disciplines.
Designed for UNLV's graduate and professional student community, the Forum is not just an event; it's a celebration of intellectual curiosity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge that characterizes UNLV. It provides a unique venue for participants to present their research and creative projects, engage with peers and faculty, and receive valuable feedback from judges. The Forum acts as a catalyst for future research initiatives, fostering a culture of academic excellence and innovation within the university and beyond.
Enabled by the GPSA Sponsorship Program, which funds student research, travel, and professional development, the Forum welcomes participants from all academic backgrounds. It's an invaluable experience for those looking to hone their presentation skills, forge connections, contribute to a rich tapestry of academic discourse, and share their work with the Las Vegas community.
I3 - Inspiration, Innovation, Impact - Invited Talks
The I3 - Inspiration, Innovation, Impact event features TED-style student invited talks that open the Annual Research Forum. In lieu of a keynote speaker, GPSA and the Graduate College invite our very own graduate students to showcase their incredible work to the community. Three students will be chosen. If selected, you will receive a $1,000 scholarship and training throughout the semester directly from the Graduate College to prepare your talk. Your talk will be saved to the Graduate College YouTube Channel, and this is also an excellent CV builder for those hitting the job market! For more information and to apply to be an I3 presenter go here.
Student Travel and Research Funding Support
Throughout the year, the GPSA awards research and travel grants to students to support projects that directly affect their degree program and contribute to their discipline (Sponsorship Awards*). In 2024-2025, the GPSA Sponsorship Program budgeted $175,000 to support graduate and professional student academic research and travel.
The Annual Research Forum is an opportunity for students to share their work and achievements with the UNLV community. This event is open to all graduate and professional students wishing to share their research and creative expressions, practice their presentation skills, or obtain constructive comments on their work from faculty.
*Participation in the Annual Research Forum is a requirement for students who received GPSA funding during the 2023-2024 academic year.
Prepare for the Graduate Research Forum
Event Dates
Deadlines and Announcements
What Attendees Can Expect
Join us to immerse yourself in groundbreaking research and creative excellence. From the start, you will be treated to a well-organized, conference-style event that includes:
- Morning inspiration: Kick off with our graduate student showcase, featuring expanded TED-style talks from past Forum session winners, a warm welcome from a notable speaker, and a catered breakfast to fuel your day.
- Engage and discover: Wander through the Student Union to explore diverse presentations — including podium talks, poster displays in the Ballroom, and creative salons in the Art Gallery and Cohen Theatre. You'll have the chance to engage with presenters, dive into discussions, and witness the innovative spirit of UNLV's graduate community.
- Networking and opportunities: Throughout the event, take advantage of the unique opportunity to mingle with peers, faculty, and professionals. Don't miss the chance to capture memories at our photo backdrop, perfect for selfies and commemorating your participation.
- Appreciation and recognition: Presenters will receive a certificate of participation, and judges will be gifted a token of our gratitude. It's our way of thanking those who contribute to the Forum's success.
- Lunch and celebrations: Enjoy a catered lunch before we move into the awards ceremony, where we'll celebrate outstanding achievements, announce session winners, and offer monetary awards. For those who can't join in person, the ceremony will be livestreamed, ensuring everyone can partake in the festivities.
We look forward to sharing this exciting day with you.
Information for Presenters
Information for Presentation Judges
Judges are pivotal to making the Annual Graduate & Professional Student Research Forum a success. Through expertise and thoughtful evaluation, faculty judges help shape the next generation of scholars and professionals. Thank you for your commitment to excellence and innovation.
There are three session types:
- 10-minute “podium” presentation, such as a slideshow.
- 5-minute poster presentation
- 5-minute creative expression presentation
If you’re interested in being a presentation judge, view our Deadlines and Announcements box.
Support the Forum
GPSA and the Graduate College are always looking to enhance the event through partnerships with local sponsors. Support from the community is a testament to the value placed on academic and research excellence and an opportunity to engage directly with emerging leaders and innovators in a wide range of fields.
We welcome interest from organizations and businesses looking to support this event, contribute to the advancement of knowledge, and foster professional development opportunities for UNLV's graduate students. Email katherine.freund@unlv.edu for more information.