The Doctoral Student Colloquium is designed for PhD candidates nearing a key crossroads: deciding whether to pursue a career in academia—on either a research or teaching track—or to explore professional opportunities in industry, government, or the nonprofit sector.
This one-day program offers practical, candid insight into the diverse career pathways available to doctoral graduates. Sessions will explore the academic job market from multiple angles, including what it takes to succeed in a research-intensive role and the unique opportunities and expectations associated with teaching-focused faculty positions. You’ll also gain valuable perspective on careers outside of academia, including how to position your expertise for success in industry or applied research roles.
Through a mix of presentations and discussions led by experienced professionals across sectors, you’ll reflect on how your skills, interests, and aspirations align with the wide range of options ahead.
Whether you’re committed to academia, curious about teaching-focused roles, or considering a transition into industry, the Doctoral Student Colloquium will provide the clarity, knowledge, and perspective you need to take your next step with confidence.
Funding Opportunities for Doctoral Student Colloquium
These grants will be awarded in September. If you receive a grant, INFORMS will refund you the Annual Meeting and Colloquia fees you paid.
Application Deadline is September 12, 2025.
- Women in OR/MS (WORMS) will award one student member a $500 grant to attend the 2025 Doctoral Student Colloquium and the INFORMS Annual Meeting. The award also includes a year membership to WORMS. To be considered, please include the following additional items in the nomination package and indicate whether the student is interested in applying for the Women in OR/MS (WORMS) Doctoral Student Colloquium Award (open to both male and female students): A brief paragraph from the nominee describing their interest in supporting women in OR/MS (50-150 words); A letter of recommendation from the department chair or supervisor.
- Minority Issues Forum (MIF) will sponsor one student member to attend the 2025 Doctoral Student Colloquium at the INFORMS Annual Meeting. The award includes registration to the INFORMS Annual Meeting, registration to the Doctoral Student Colloquium, and a year membership to MIF. To be considered, please include the following additional items in the nomination package and indicate whether the student is interested in the MIF award: A brief paragraph from the nominee describing their interest and past efforts in supporting minorities in OR/MS (50-150 words); A letter of recommendation from the department chair or supervisor. All applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and a minority.
- The Seth Bonder Foundation will sponsor two students to attend the 2025 Doctoral Student Colloquium at the INFORMS Annual Meeting. The award includes registration to the INFORMS Annual Meeting and registration to the Doctoral Student Colloquium. Priority will be given to students from programs that traditionally may not have nominated participants for the INFORMS Doctoral Student Colloquium. Students from smaller programs or HBCUs are encouraged to apply.