Democracy & Governance Student Research Symposium
4th Annual Democracy & Governance Student Research Symposium
We are excited to announce that the 4th Annual Democracy & Governance Student Research Symposium will take place on Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM EST!
The 4th Annual Democracy & Governance Student Research Symposium will take place on February 3rd, 2026 at Georgetown University. Hosted by the Center for Democracy and Civil Society, the symposium is an opportunity for graduate students from D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) universities who are focused on democracy and governance to present their independent research and projects, gain practical experience, and connect with established and young professionals in the field.
Framework
Students interested in presenting their work are required to submit a 300 word abstract for review. Research is not required to be final for the initial application and preliminary research is welcome. Students are expected to have finished their research and printed a poster by the date of the symposium. The top findings based on merit will be included in the symposium. Once decisions are made, students will be notified and those who have been accepted will be expected to create a poster of their findings to be displayed and presented during the event.
This year, in addition to gaining invaluable experience presenting in a professional setting, students also have the opportunity to win an award and certificate for their research. Three outstanding students could receive this award.
Each presenter will be reviewed according to the following criteria:
- Originality in topic
- Design of research
- Clarity in stating the problem or thesis
- Ability to communicate findings and limitations effectively
Important Deadlines
- Abstract Due: November 21st, 2025
- Application Decisions: December 12th, 2025
- Final Research Due: January 9th, 2026
Research Submission Guidelines
If you are interested in submitting your research or project for review, please read the guidelines below for further information on eligibility and logistics.
- You must be a current graduate student (MA, MS, MPP, MPA, LLM, and PhD), part-time or full-time, at a DMV area university. Please reach out to us if you are interested in submitting your work but do not attend a university in the DMV area. We are happy to review your work, but are unable to provide travel and lodging accommodations for those attending from outside of the area.
- The research you are submitting must have a clear and definite connection to the field of democracy and governance. Work from non-traditional or intersectional disciplines are welcomed and encouraged to apply.
- Group research may be presented with up to two researchers as long as both can present
- Your work must be original, relevant and contain elements of looking towards the future of democracy.
A glimpse of our 3rd Annual Democracy & Governance Student Research Symposium (2025)
A glimpse of our 2nd Annual Democracy & Governance Student Research Symposium (2024)
