Engagement Structure

Quarterly Network Meetings

Network-wide meetings are held quarterly, with the goal of fostering cross-unit learning, discussing global challenges, and spotlighting research activities. Each session includes:

1. A presentation on a quarterly “hot topic” in global food systems
2. Facilitated discussions and Q&A
3. Professional insights from invited mentors and experts
4. Students/Interns presentations and research updates
5. Key takeaways and future action points

 

Research Unit Structure and Coordination

The Network connects students, mentors, and partners through a structured virtual model organized into collaborative teams called Research Units.

Each Research Unit is led by a faculty Mentor or Principal Investigator (PI) and consists of 2–5 students or collaborators. Research Units operate as semi-autonomous teams under the broader Network umbrella.

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Expectations for Research Units

• Collaborate via private Microsoft Teams channels
• Hold regular internal meetings (biweekly or as needed) to coordinate research tasks
• Submit brief progress updates at least once per quarter
• Maintain an updated folder in the shared Microsoft Teams channel or OneDrive
• Identify short-term or long-term deliverables (e.g., publications, presentations, data reports)

Role of the Mentors

• Offer academic and professional mentoring tailored to students/interns' goals
• Assist in developing and evaluating students’ plans of work
• Provide feedback on research design, data collection, and analysis
• Support students in producing research outputs such as reports or presentations
• Encourage participation in discussions, meetings, and learning opportunities
• Promote values-based leadership, critical thinking, and collaboration
• Link students with external collaborators, resources, and potential future opportunities within global food systems.

Expectations for Students/Interns

• Attend and participate actively in all scheduled meetings and discussions
• Communicate regularly with mentors and team members
• Collaborate respectfully and contribute meaningfully to group deliverables
• Maintain updated documentation and folders within assigned platforms (Teams/Drive)
• Follow through on agreed plans of work and timelines
• Uphold professional behavior, academic integrity, and confidentiality
• Seek support when challenges arise, and be open to feedback