Events For Graduate & Professional Students

Students work on their networking skills.

From workshops, to seminars to world-renowned speakers, there are hundreds of opportunities to learn and network at UB. Take a look at our upcoming events, designed specifically for our graduate and professional student population.

Be sure to visit UB's central events calendar for a comprehensive list of what is happening at UB, including conferences, lectures, meetings, seminars, sporting events and much more.

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Featured Events

Presentation Jitters Workshop
Oct. 22, 2026, 4-5 p.m.

Presented by Jackie Piciulo, UB’s Stress Management Program Coordinator, this workshop will help graduate students and postdoctoral scholars manage presentation anxiety and speak with greater confidence. Participants will learn practical preparation, grounding and reframing techniques to manage nervousness before and during presentations. The session is ideal for conference presenters, instructors, researchers and anyone looking to feel more comfortable speaking in front of an audience. Register for the Presentation Jitters Workshop.

3MT Prelims
Oct. 26-30, 2026

The competition begins with a preliminary round on Oct. 26-30, 2026. From there, 10 finalists and three alternates are selected to compete for prizes in the final competition on March 5, 2027, at 3 p.m.

You are eligible to compete if:

You are a currently enrolled doctoral student.
You have advanced to candidacy.
You are actively engaged in dissertation research.
You have not competed in the final in previous years.

Register for the Three Minute Thesis competition.

Halloween Stress Relief Event
Oct. 27, 2026, 12–1 p.m.

Hosted by University Libraries, this Halloween-themed stress relief event at Abbott Library offers a fun way to take a break during Hallo-week. Enjoy a relaxed activity, connect with others and recharge in a low-pressure environment. Stop by during the open event window as your schedule allows. Register for Halloween Stress Relief Event.

Graduate International Transition Series - Race & Racism: Your Voice Belongs Here
Oct. 30, 2026, 12-1:30 p.m.

Living and studying in the United States can bring new experiences with race, identity, culture, and belonging. This workshop designed to help international students better understand how race and racism are experienced and discussed in the U.S. The workshop will provide you with the vocabulary to understand racialization, microaggressions, and code-switching, and the confidence to navigate academic spaces as your full self. Free lunch included with RSVP. Register for Race & Racism: Your Voice Belongs Here.

Leveraging LinkedIn for Career Success
Nov. 3, 2026, 3-4 p.m.

Presented by Claire Stroh, an HR leader, career coach, and educator with expertise in talent acquisition, personal branding, networking, and professional development. Engage in this virtual where we’ll discuss using LinkedIn to grow your personal and professional brand. Whether your goal is to learn, find professional development opportunities, network, find a new job, or all of the above, Claire’s framework will help you grow your network and attract opportunities. Register for Leveraging LinkedIn for Career Success.

First-Gen Grad Student Game Night
Nov. 4, 2026, 4-5 p.m.

As part of the Welcome In series, connect with other first-generation graduate students during a relaxed game night focused on community and belonging. Take a break from academics, enjoy games and snacks, and meet peers who share similar experiences navigating graduate education. Snacks will be provided. New and returning graduate students and postdoctoral scholars are welcome. First-Gen Grad Student Game Night.

Research to Resume Skillshop
Nov. 6, 2026, 4–5 p.m.

Hosted by the Career Design Center, Learn how to turn your academic research into strong resume bullets that resonate with employers. We'll go over how to highlight skills, outcomes, and experiences beyond the classroom on your resume. Register for the Research to Resume Skillshop.


Connect & Belong: Building Your Community and Finding Joy at UB
Nov. 13, 2026, 12–1:30 p.m.

Science says you need friends. Graduate school can sometimes have a way of making you forget that. This workshop helps you find connections amongst fellow international and domestic students, rediscover what brings you joy outside your research, and yes, schedule fun into your Outlook calendar. Because your degree is one slice of your life, not the whole of it. Come ready to laugh, connect, and leave with a real plan. Free lunch included with RSVP. Register for the Connect and Belong Event.

AI for Academics
Nov. 12, 2026, 12–1 p.m.

Presented by Cynthia Tysick, a UB librarian and educator, this workshop will explore the evolving role of artificial intelligence in academic and professional settings. Graduate students and postdoctoral scholars will consider opportunities, challenges and responsible approaches to using AI tools, with attention to topics such as digital literacy, academic integrity and informed decision-making. Register for AI for Academics.

Therapy Dog Visit
Nov. 17, 2026, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Hosted by University Libraries, take a break from the demands of the semester with a visit from certified therapy dogs at Abbott Library. Graduate students and postdoctoral scholars are invited to stop by, relax and spend time with the dogs during the open event window. The visit offers an informal opportunity to pause, connect with others and support personal well-being. Therapy Dog Visits Website.

Tough Talks: Communication Strategies for Difficult Situations
Nov. 17, 2026, 3-4 p.m.

This workshop, presented by Counseling Services, focused on strategies for navigating difficult conversations with peers, mentors, faculty and staff. Stymied by how to approach a challenging conversation with your advisor? This workshop is for you. Register for Tough Talks: Communication Strategies for Difficult Situations.

Funding Your Future: Strategies for International Grad Students
Nov. 18, 2026, 12-1 p.m.

Funding your graduate degree can be challenging, especially as an international student. Join the Office of Fellowships and Scholarships to learn strategies for identifying funding opportunities and developing strong applications. This workshop will provide practical guidance to help international graduate students navigate the funding process and explore resources to support their academic goals. Lunch will be provided. Register for Funding Your Future: Strategies for International Grad Students.

Mind the Gap: An Introduction to Practical Strategies for Handling Missing Data in R
Nov. 18, 2026, 4-5 p.m.

Hosted by the Office of Statistics for Doctoral Research, this workshop introduces doctoral students to the challenges that missing data can present in research and practical strategies for addressing them using R. Participants will gain a better understanding of considerations surrounding missing data and approaches that can help them make informed decisions when analyzing their own research data. Register for Mind the Gap: An Introduction to Practical Strategies for Handling Missing Data in R.

Third Thursdays: Application Advice and Search Support
Nov. 19, 2026, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

This session, open to all graduate students and postdocs, offers time to work on your résumé, CV, cover letter or other job application materials—with a career coach available to answer questions as they come up. We'll start with a few tips and best practices, then you'll have dedicated time to polish your documents. Register for Third Thursdays: Application Advice and Search Support.

Describing Data and Telling Your Research Story
Nov. 19, 2026, 12-4 p.m.

Designed for non-native English speakers, this intensive workshop will help graduate students and postdoctoral scholars communicate their research clearly and effectively to a variety of audiences. Participants will explore strategies for framing research as a compelling story, using analogies, engaging an audience and organizing ideas for greater impact. Through examples, practice and peer feedback, participants will strengthen their storytelling and delivery skills while building confidence communicating their research to both scientific and non-scientific audiences. Register for Describing Data and Telling Your Research Story.

Stress Relief Days (South Campus)
Dec. 1, 2026, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Hosted by UB Libraries, Stress Relief Days offer a chance to take a break from end-of-semester studying and recharge on UB’s North and South Campuses. Enjoy therapy dogs, snacks, games, crafts, puzzles and other relaxing activities designed to help you unwind and finish the semester strong. Stop by as your schedule allows—no registration required. View more information on the UB Libraries website.

Stress Relief Days (North Campus)
Dec. 2, 2026, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Hosted by UB Libraries, Stress Relief Days offer a chance to take a break from end-of-semester studying and recharge on UB’s North and South Campuses. Enjoy therapy dogs, snacks, games, crafts, puzzles and other relaxing activities designed to help you unwind and finish the semester strong. Stop by as your schedule allows—no registration required. View more information on the UB Libraries website.

On-Demand Workshops

  • Career Management & Self-Development

Finding a Postdoctoral Position Workshop

This workshop will explain what you’ll need to successfully apply for a postdoctoral position, including information on applications for different types of postdoc positions. Watch a recording of the Postdoctoral Position Workshop.

PhD Alt-ac Job Search Skillshop

PhD candidates and Postdocs from all disciplines are invited to attend and explore the numerous job opportunities available with your PhD. We'll discuss how to explore opportunities and strategize together on how to secure positions. Have your laptop handy to start employing these strategies as you receive professional guidance. The world needs your skills—let's help you find work that excites you! Watch a recording of the PhD Alt-Ac Job Search Skillshop.

Public Policy Fellowship / Assistantship Opportunities and New York State Government

Public policy is central to our everyday lives and is more than just mundane tax and healthcare policy. Universal basic income, government artificial intelligence policy and other big ideas are part of public policy bailiwick. Join SUNY's premiere public policy think tank, the Rockefeller Institute of Government, to learn about the Institute's various fellowships, assistantships and internships, giving you a front-row seat to policy research and policymaking. The team from the Institute will also discuss job opportunities in the New York State government. Watch a recording of the Public Policy Fellowship webinar.

  • Communication

Diversity Statements and Writing Practices Workshop

Join the Center for Excellence in Writing in a discussion on diversity statements. Learn to write diversity statements and how to navigate the changing landscape of them. In this workshop, you will be introduced to what diversity statements are, reflect on how you understand diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, have an open discussion about the changing perspectives on diversity statements, start drafting your statement, and share and obtain feedback on components of your diversity statements. Watch a recording of the Diversity Statements workshop.

Grammarly’s Generative AI for Graduate Students and Postdocs

Did you know that Grammarly is now infused with generative AI technology that actually composes text and will get flagged by Turnitin as AI-created? Many tools you may have commonly used in the past now have generative properties that, depending on your instructor’s rules, can cross the line into academic dishonesty. This workshop will address how you can uphold UB’s high standards for academic integrity in this new landscape. Watch a recoding of Grammarly’s Generative AI for Grad Students and Postdocs.

  • Community Engagement

Online Graduate Student Welcome

Join the Graduate School as they showcase professional development resources designed specifically for online and remote graduate students. This session will guide you through the wide range of virtual tools, workshops and self-paced programs available on the Graduate Professional Development website. Whether you're looking to sharpen your writing, boost your presentation skills or explore career pathways, this session will show you how to access and make the most of these resources. Watch a recording of the Online Graduate Student Welcome.

  • Research & Research Impacts

Breaking Down Applied Research: A Hands-On Workshop for Students

This workshop is an opportunity for students across disciplines eager to learn about conducting applied research. Drawing from her book Empowering Scholar-Practitioners: A Comprehensive Guide for Conceptualizing, Designing, Writing, Defending, and Publishing a Dissertation in Practice, Dr. Karalis Noel’s workshop will offer valuable insights into the practical aspects of conducting research directly impacting real-world problems. Watch a recording of the Breaking Down Applied Research workshop.

Funding Your Future: Strategies for International Grad Students

Funding your graduate degree can be challenging, especially as an international student. Join the Office of Fellowships and Scholarships to learn about how to search for funding and tips for writing a strong application. Hear from guest speaker Esther Jose, originally from India, who recently completed her PhD in operations research at UB and is now an assistant professor at Iowa State University. Watch a recording of the Funding Your Future workshop.

Grant Writing for Humanities: Pursuing Grants to Help Support Your Humanities Scholarship

This workshop is for advanced doctoral students, and postdoctoral scholars in the humanities and related social sciences. This workshop examines how to compete for grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), Fulbright U.S. Student Program, private foundations, and grants to travel to collections and libraries. Watch a recording of Grant Writing for Humanities.

Grant Writing for STEM Fields

Designed primarily for advanced PhD students in STEM fields, this workshop will help you build the skills and knowledge needed to plan a fundable research project and develop a competitive grant proposal. Learn how to identify funding opportunities, approach the research planning process, apply grant-writing best practices, and avoid common proposal mistakes. Watch a recording of Grant Writing for STEM Fields.

Reading Strategies for Graduate and Postdoc Success

This workshop is designed to help graduate students read academic material more effectively and efficiently. Attendees will learn about what it means to transition from passive to active reading and will leave with practical techniques for enhancing comprehension and retention. Watch a recording of the reading strategies workshop.

  • Teaching & Mentoring

Applying for Teaching Jobs in Higher Education

The Graduate School is hosting a workshop for students who are aiming for careers that prioritize teaching. This workshop will provide advice, resources and Q&A time about requesting recommendations, writing application letters, and tailoring CVs to teaching-centric jobs. Register to the Watch a recording of the Teaching Jobs in Higher Education.

  • Wellness & Life Balance

Financial Wellness Workshop

Learn how your relationship with money can be critical to managing your finances. Hear about the psychology of money and how it relates to your spending behaviors, financial goal setting, and how a spending plan (i.e., budget) is the proper foundation for building long-term financial security. Start early to build a solid financial future by maintaining healthy behaviors around money and building a spending plan for you. Watch recording of the Financial Wellness Workshop.

Productivity Workshop: Clarify Your Goals and Manage Your Workflow in School and at Work

Join Productivity Coach Dr. Kate Henry for the second workshop in a two-part workshop series on practical skills for academics both in school and on the job. During the workshops, we’ll learn how to develop goal setting practices to manage workflows on our own and within teams. Workshop attendees will learn practical methods for prioritizing, communicating with colleagues and co-workers, and documenting their work to increase efficiency and contribute to team and company productivity norms. Watch a recording of the productivity workshop.

Productivity Workshop: Identify and Overcome Your Productivity Pitfalls

The Graduate School has partnered with the Graduate Student Association and the Office of Postdoctoral Scholars to provide a series of workshops dedicated to productivity. Progress is never linear and the best-laid writing plans often fall apart – but why? This workshop with Productivity Coach Dr. Kate Henry will help you identify the common productivity pitfalls (distraction, boundaries, overcommitting, multitasking, etc.) that might be your barrier to progress. You will learn approaches for avoiding these pitfalls in the future and for mitigating them when they occur. Watch a recording of the productivity workshop.

Productivity Workshop: Improve Your Time Management and Productivity Practices

The Graduate School has partnered with the Graduate Student Association and the Office of Postdoctoral Scholars to provide a series of workshops dedicated to productivity. Craving approaches to help maximize your productivity without burning out? Join Productivity Coach Dr. Kate Henry to learn tools to improve your time management, develop realistic timelines for your projects, and increase your focus as you progress on your scholarly projects. You’ll leave the workshop with next steps you can apply to your current and future schedules and goals. Watch a recording of the productivity workshop.

Productivity Workshop: Increase Efficiency & Effectiveness During Writing Sessions

Having difficulty focusing during writing sessions? In this workshop, Productivity Coach Dr. Kate Henry will cover common obstacles that derail writing, reading, and research. Attendees will learn productivity tools to help determine appropriate goals, set boundaries around distractions, and make tangible progress in every work session. We'll end our time with the opportunity to personalize an approach to a future work session by applying the tools we cover. Watch a recording of the productivity workshop.

Productivity Workshop: Set Yourself Up for Success

The Graduate School has partnered with the Graduate Student Association and the Office of Postdoctoral Scholars to provide a series of workshops dedicated to productivity. Join Productivity Coach Dr. Kate Henry for the first workshop in a two-part workshop series on practical skills for academics both in school and on the job. During the workshop, we will learn why, when, and how to apply tools to make productivity practices more efficient, with a focus on using prioritization and time blocking to manage distractions and set boundaries. Watch a recording of the productivity workshop.

Productivity Workshop: Slow Productivity for Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Scholars

The Graduate School has partnered with the Graduate Student Association and the Office of Postdoctoral Scholars to provide a series of workshops dedicated to productivity.

Does your to-do list feel like a bottomless pit? Are you overwhelmed by overlapping deadlines? Feeling more like a robot than a human being? Join Productivity Coach Dr. Kate Henry to develop slower approaches to productivity that are more accessible and achievable. We'll learn how to increase effectiveness without overworking ourselves you'll leave the workshop with tangible tools to plan intentional productivity sessions. Watch a recording of the productivity workshop.

Productivity Workshop: Structure as a Path to Sustainability

Does the blinking cursor on a blank Word doc make your stomach sink? Join Dr. Katy Peplin of Thrive PhD and Productivity Coach Dr. Kate Henry for Structure as a Path to Sustainability, a one-stop shop for overcoming overwhelm and lighting the way towards completing your next self-directed writing project. After this 4-hour session, you will leave with a personalized productivity plan, a repeatable project template, and deeper clarity on how to structure your days with more compassion and flexibility so you can make progress on your terms. Watch a recording of the productivity workshop.

Protecting Executive Functioning: A Skill-Building Workshop for Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Scholars

This workshop is hosted by the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biological Sciences and Counseling Services. Participants will learn mental health tools for building resiliency throughout their academic and professional careers. Watch a recording of the Protecting Executive Functioning workshop.

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