Graduate Diversity Conference Award

The Bioengineering Department is pleased to announce a new travel award that aims to (1) introduce students to minority conferences that are usually overlooked, and (2) assist the department in its efforts to recruit a diverse group of scholars. As such, preference will be given to underrepresented minorities (Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian or Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander), first generation students, students with disabilities (who are defined as those with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, as described in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended), and women in science. Further preference will be given to students presenting at the conference.

Suggested conferences include (but are not limited to):

Funds of up to $500 are available to help support the costs of domestic economy airfare, conference registration fees, and/or hotel and per diem.

To apply, fill out the attached one-page application and submit to the BIO DEI committee chair by email (rkortum@rice.edu) at least one month before the conference begins. Applications will be considered by the committee on a rolling basis using the attached rubric. Preference will be given to applicants presenting an abstract at the meeting and to those who have participated in departmental DEI-related activities.

Successful applicants will be expected to represent Rice at the conference and submit a brief write-up summarizing the conference. There the applicant should be ready to discuss how attending the conference has contributed to professional development and benefited their overall career trajectory.