About

The Center for Interdisciplinary Research, Collaboration, Learning, and Engagement (CIRCLE) at MSU is excited to announce the launch of its Graduate Student Affiliate Program. This new initiative is designed to support early-career scholars who are eager to deepen their engagement with interdisciplinarity, connect with a community of peers, and strengthen their professional development. 

Who can apply

Graduate students at MSU from any discipline who are interested in interdisciplinary research and collaboration. Postdocs may choose to apply to the graduate affiliate program or directly apply to the faculty affiliate program. 

Benefits of becoming an affiliate include

• Opportunities to participate in CIRCLE workshops and events.
• A special workshop designed for affiliates, focused on building relationships, reflecting on interdisciplinary practices, and learning how to talk about your interdisciplinary work (to be scheduled in March 2026).
• Guidance in developing an interdisciplinary research statement (1–2 pages), a valuable document for fellowship, postdoctoral, and faculty applications.
• Connection to a growing community of interdisciplinary scholars at MSU (through invitation to a graduate affiliate Team) 

Expectations for affiliates

• Participate in at least one CIRCLE workshop or activity during the academic year (we highly recommend attending the upcoming workshop for graduate students on February 20^th, 2026).
• Attend a special interdisciplinary workshop designed exclusively for graduate affiliates (to be scheduled in March 2026)
• Alternatively, attend a consultation with CIRCLE’s leadership fellow, Rafael Lembi, and complete the workshop activities on your own
• Complete a short interdisciplinary research statement and provide constructive peer feedback to fellow affiliates.
• Complete an evaluation form at the end of the academic year.  

Affiliate yearly schedule

• Interdisciplinary Collaboration Workshop (Part 1) – November 14, 11 am – 2 pm
• CIRCLE Write-in (dedicated space for writing) - December 12, 9 am – 12 pm
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration Workshop (Part 2) - January 23, 11 am – 2 pm
• Interdisciplinary Workshop for Graduate Students – February 20, 10 am – 1 pm 

Application Process

To apply, please complete the online application form. 

About CIRCLE

Launched in October 2023, CIRCLE aims to support interdisciplinary research and scholarship, teaching, and engagement by providing training and facilitation for interdisciplinarity, fostering community among interdisciplinary scholars and educators, and conducting research on the nature of interdisciplinarity. More information on the CIRCLE webpage.