MPC Workshop

The MPC Workshop series provides a rich set of professional development opportunities for all members, but especially for students and trainees. Students and trainees are often encouraged to present their research and expertise to showcase the important work being done at the MPC. The flexible and casual setting of the MPC Workshop is designed to support all participants.

Workshops are on Fridays starting at 12:15 pm in the MPC office in 50 Willey Hall, Seminar room on the UMN West Bank. Food and beverages will be served at all upcoming workshops.

Please contact [email protected] with any questions.

Fall 2025 Schedule

September 19 - Paper Hatchling

Present a research idea or paper idea and get feedback and ideas from a small group. Sign up for the paper hatchling. 

September 26 - PAA Abstract Review

Small groups work together to give feedback on abstract submissions for the spring PAA conference. Deadline for PAA abstract submission is October 5. 

October 3 - What is Mapping Prejudice? 

Learn more about the project and connect with Michael Corey and Kirsten Delegard from Mapping Prejudice. 

October 10 - All About Data Viz

Learn the best ways to present your data visually with Geoffrey Maas from the Humphrey School of Public Affairs. 

October 17 - No Workshop

October 24 - Pop Studies Trainee Presentations

Join us as Brayden Rothe and Desiree Alvarez-McNelis present about their trainee research projects. 

October 31 - Handling Academic and Professional Rejection 

Rob Warren and Andy Fenelon host a discussion about how to handle inevitable rejections. 

November 7 - Lessons Learned: Academic Realities at Small Colleges and the Jump to Non-academic Jobs

A real-world look at faculty life at regional universities and smaller liberal arts colleges - and why some leave these positions for a non-academic career path with guest speaker Colin Zestcott

November 14 - Non-Academic Career Panel

Join trainee program alumni Sarah James, Naomi Thyden, Sarah Garcia, and Laura Houghtaling to discuss options and paths for a career outside of academia.  

November 21 - Ethics and Plagiarism 

Join Claire Kamp Dush for an important discussion about plagiarism, research, and grant writing ethics. 

November 28 - No Workshop

December 5 - Uses of AI in Research: Tools, Ethical Considerations, and How to Navigate a Changing AI Landscape in Science and Academia 

AI seems to be everywhere these days in academia and research. Join us for an important and practical conversation with George Veletsianos and Panayiota Kendeou. 

Past Workshops

To view past workshop schedules, please use the links below:

Some select previous workshops have been recorded and can be found on the ISRDI YouTube channel.