IFoRE Connect

Extend the Conversation. Explore What’s Next.

IFoRE Connect is a year-round series of virtual events extending the impact of Sigma Xi’s International Forum on Research Excellence (IFoRE). In the months leading up to, and immediately following IFoRE, Sigma Xi will host special webinar sessions, typically scheduled on the third Wednesday of each month. All IFoRE Connect events are free to attend for Sigma Xi members. See schedule below for upcoming events.

IFoRE Connect is more than a lecture series—it’s an opportunity to discover new perspectives and stay connected to the research community. The virtual talks will feature compelling research topics and timely scientific questions. Sessions will showcase accomplished and ascending scientists from across the globe, offering attendees opportunities to hear directly from experts at the forefront of their fields. Speakers and panelists will explore discoveries that are expanding our understanding of the world and addressing challenges facing science and society today.

Presenters interested in hosting an IFoRE Connect session should first submit a proposal for the regular IFoRE conference agenda. All IFoRE general session submissions will also be considered for individual IFoRE Connect sessions throughout the year.

Attendance is free for Sigma Xi members but registration is required. Zoom webinar links will be sent to registered attendees prior to session dates.

IFoRE Connect Events:

September 23, 2026

3:00– 4:30 p.m. ET

“Celebrating 140 Years of Sigma Xi”

  • Hosts: Jasmine Shah, Jamie Vernon

  • Panelists:

    • David Baker

    • Rita Colwell

    • Millicent Goldschmidt

    • Tee Guidotti

    • Linda Mantel

    • Linda Meadows

    • John Nemeth

    • Rob Pennock

Hosted by Sigma Xi’s deputy executive director Jasmine Shah, this special webinar will celebrate the 140th anniversary of Sigma Xi’s 1886 founding and its rich history of advancing scientific research, recognizing excellence, and connecting scientists and engineers worldwide. Talk will include a panel discussion and attendee Q&A.

Register HERE

October 21, 2026

3:00– 5:00 p.m. ET

“Entrepreneurship for Scientists”

  • Host: Fenella Saunders

  • Panelists:

    • Jim Collins

    • Xin Zhang

Scientists often have to take a lot of personal initiative to incorporate entrepreneurship into their careers. Join us for a panel featuring past winners of Sigma Xi's Walston Chubb Award for Innovation, all of whom are accomplished in entrepreneurship, to discuss essential entrepreneurship skills for scientists, where gaps in understanding still arise between academia and industry, and how these skills might be incorporated into scientific training.

Register HERE