Student Engagement

The MRS Strategic Aspiration is to engage members across generations to advance their careers and promote materials research and innovation.

Part of that aspiration includes a specific focus on student engagement. Following are some of the programs and initiatives developed by the Student Engagement Subcommittee aimed at engaging students to help promote materials research and help advance students in their education and careers.

Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry

This program, held at the 2022 MRS Spring Meeting, discussed career paths for students and early-career professionals who face one of the most significant decisions for scientists: whether to pursue a career in academia or industry.

Learn more about the Career Advancement Committee and the Student Subcommittee.

Ready to get involved?

Navigating, Surviving and Thriving in the Challenging Landscape of Academia

Academia can be an isolating and emotionally turbulent environment, and this is only compounded by the COVID crisis. How can we support ourselves, each other and our communities? This session includes small-group reflections on mental health literacy, stressors faced by academics—especially by members of marginalized communities—and creating cultural change, while learning tools and strategies for empowerment, well-being and self-care. Read more in MRS Bulletin, or watch videos from previous sessions.

PowerPoint Karaoke

This fun event is held at MRS Spring and Fall Meetings and challenges both the author of the slide and the presenter to improve their communication skills.

PowerPoint™ Karaoke challenges both the author of the slide and the presenter to improve their communication skills. Presenters are given a random presentation slide and have five minutes to prepare a presentation using only that slide.

Launching Your Career

MRS can help you connect, inspire and lead through our expanded professional development portfolio of career services.

The MRS Job Board offers an active, searchable resource for job seekers and employers, serving as the first place to turn to find job openings or targeted, qualified job candidates. Post your resume for FREE at jobs.mrs.org.