Inaugural Collegiate Research Showcase Now Accepting Applications!
Submission Deadline: 11:59 PM PT, May 29, 2026
While the Solar Wildlife & Ecosystems Research Meeting (SWERM) takes its biennial pause, we are turning the spotlight on the next generation of researchers. This year, we’re excited to launch a Collegiate Research Showcase, designed in a fun, fast-paced, engaging, and focused research presentation format.
We’re inviting graduate and Ph.D. students conducting preliminary research at the intersection of solar energy, wildlife interactions, and ecosystems to apply to be featured presenters. This is your chance to showcase your work to industry leaders, NGO partners, state and federal agencies, and the greater research community.
Why Participate?
- Real World Impact: Audience for REWI webinars are government, industry and NGO leaders, decision-makers and influencers guiding the renewable energy transition in the US.
- Professional Exposure: Present to leaders from REWI’s network.
- Expert Feedback: Receive direct feedback from active researchers and practitioners.
- Grand Prize: The top presenter(s) will receive complimentary registration, a featured speaking slot, and a travel stipend to the 2027 SWERM.
How to Apply
View the application webpage to submit the following materials by May 29, 2026, 11:59 PM PT:
- Student Information (Name, College/University, Major)
- Resume (one page)
- Presentation Title
- Presentation Abstract: Summarize the research you would present during the webinar, including objectives, methodology, key findings (250 words or less)
Applications should clearly convey your project’s purpose, relevance, and potential impact.
View Application Details and Judging Criteria
Important Note: If REWI receives a high number of applicants, a second review round will be used to further refine the pool. Students selected to advance will be invited to submit a Letter of Intent (≤500 words), and REWI will notify all applicants of their advancement status.
Suggested Research Topics
Students are welcome to propose any solar-wildlife, solar-ecosystem, or adjacent topics. Example areas include:
- Solar-Wildlife Interactions & Ecological Responses
- Solar Farms as Ecosystems: Function, Services & Co-Benefits
- Mitigation Strategies for Responsible Solar Buildout
- Water Resources & Solar Development
- Climate Change, Solar Energy & Wildlife Futures
- Community Perspectives, Engagement & Applied Science
Not a Student? There are Other Ways to Engage!
Volunteer to Judge
Our multi-member judging panel is still being finalized and will include representatives from across REWI’s partner community—industry, NGOs, academia, wildlife agencies, and research collaborators. If you are interested in serving as a judge for this year’s competition, please fill out this form.
Sponsor the Showcase
REWI is seeking sponsorships to help make the Collegiate Research Showcase possible. Sponsorship funds will support webinar planning and cover the cost of free registration and a travel stipend for the first-place winner to attend the 2027 SWERM.
Sponsors will receive recognition across competition marketing and other REWI communications and marketing channels.
If your organization is passionate about elevating student research and advancing responsible solar development while protecting wildlife and ecosystems, we’d love to partner with you.
Foundational Sponsor — $2,000
- Highest‑level recognition across Showcase marketing materials, and during the webinar introduction.
- The first Foundational Sponsor has the opportunity to join the judging panel.
Scholarly Sponsor — $1,000
- Prominent logo recognition in Showcase marketing materials, and during the webinar introduction.
Distinguished Sponsor — $500
- Logo recognition in Showcase marketing materials, and during the webinar introduction.
Learn More About Sponsor Options
Reach out to Megan Goldsmith, REWI’s Outreach Manager, (mgoldsmith@rewi.org) for more information.