Demystifying Broader Impacts: For the NSF GRFP and Beyond

Applying to the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (or any fellowship that asks about communicating the impact of your work)? Wondering how to incorporate mentorship, outreach, and service into your research portfolio as you develop as a scientist?

In this session, you’ll learn:

• What “broader impacts” really mean (and what reviewers are looking for)
• How to develop your research impact identity
• Where to find partners and resources on campus
• Practical strategies for getting started—and standing out

Whether you’re applying this year or planning ahead for future fellowships and funding opportunities, this workshop will help you prepare a stronger application and think more deeply about broadening the reach and benefits of your research.

Liz Lempert is Assistant Director of Research Development in the Office of the Dean for Research where she helps researchers and research teams in creating and implementing broader impact plans and facilitating connections with community partners on and off campus.  Before joining ODFR, Liz served as the first Mayor of the consolidated Princeton (2013-2020), following the merger of the former Princeton Borough and Township. Prior to that, she worked as a science journalist, including ten years as a producer and editor at the National Public Radio environmental program, Living On Earth. She holds a M.A. in Science Journalism from Boston University and a B.A./B.S. in History and Symbolic Systems from Stanford University. Liz lives in Princeton and currently serves on the boards of the Princeton Garden Theater, Housing Initiatives of Princeton, Princeton University Art Museum Community Leadership Council, and Friends of Princeton Open Space.