The Water Institute supports and celebrates students who are advancing interdisciplinary water research. Launched in 2023, the Water Institute Travel, Research, and Dissertation Awards provide funding, mentoring, and professional development opportunities that promote inclusive excellence and elevate the University of Florida’s impact in the water sciences. The Water Institute Ambassador Program also serves as an opportunity for students to develop their leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Recipients of the Water Institute Research and Travel Awards can present their work at the Water Institute Student Showcase. This all-day event is coordinated by the Water Institute Ambassadors and features water-focused research presentations, networking, and professional development workshops.

Our Awards and Programs

Water Institute Travel Award

Advances student research visibility and impact through national and international engagement. By providing support to participate in national or international conferences, this award helps expand students’ networks, enhance professional development, and increase the visibility of University of Florida water research.

Applications open at the start of the Spring, Summer, and Fall semesters.

Learn More About the Travel Award

Water Institute Research Award

Advances student research innovation by augmenting current research with targeted support. These enhancements are meant to expand collaborations, testing possibilities, and other areas of interdisciplinary research.

Applications open in the Summer semester.

Learn More About the Research Award

Water Institute Dissertation Award

Recognizes excellence in doctoral research and the impact in water science via two categories. Recipients of this award will also be nominated for the Universities Council on Water Resources (UCOWR) Ph.D. Dissertation Award.

Applications open in the Summer semester.

Learn More About the Dissertation Award

Water Institute Ambassador Program

Fosters a vibrant graduate student community, enhances student participation in programs, and provides opportunities for networking and leadership development for graduate students. This program provides hands-on experience for students to develop their leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Applications open in the Spring Semester.

Learn More About the Ambassador Program

Water Institute Student Showcase

Brings together students, faculty, and staff once every Fall and Spring semester for water-focused research presentations, networking, and professional development. The water-focused research presentations are by Water Institute Travel and Research Award recipients, and the event concludes with a Distinguished Scholar seminar.

Subscribe to The Droplet or follow the Water Institute on social media to learn about the upcoming Student Showcase.