The Materials Science & Engineering Graduate Society (MSGS) primarily focuses on social events and networking opportunities for graduate students in the MSE program. All graduate students in MSE are automatically part of MSGS – there are no dues, fees, or enrollment process! Our doors are open to postdocs, other STEM graduate students, or anyone who is currently working in a research capacity in the MSE department and wants to get involved.

Graduate school is a journey of personal, academic, and career growth. MSGS aims to facilitate this process by connecting graduate students with other grads, faculty, and resources that may otherwise go unknown. Social events are hosted once a month (e.g., hiking/nature walks, group bike rides, happy hour at local breweries, etc.) and often include an activity that is free or no cost to attend. Carpooling is arranged for those who want to attend but do not have a vehicle. All events are emailed to MSE grad students 2 weeks in advance via the department’s Program Director (Ms. Adaire Parker). If you would like to be included on a more personalized internal email listserv click here.

The MSGS Lounge, located in the Chemical & Nuclear Bldg (#90), Room 2126, is a quiet and safe place to study, take a break, or eat your lunch. The kitchenette includes a fridge with a freezer, microwave, tea kettle, Keurig machine (BYOB your own k-cups!), and drip coffee maker. The lounge is available to MSGS members and guests to use in accordance with the UMD Code of Student Conduct. We kindly ask that you keep the space clean (cleaning supplies are provided) and label any/all food in the fridge (name, date).

Organized in February 2006, the MSGS graduate society is also an active Materials Research Society (MRS) chapter (i.e., we are required to have at least 5 MRS members at any given time).

If you have suggestions, questions, or concerns please contact an officer or email msgsumd@gmail.com.