RISING STARS IN EECS 2026 - 2027
January 12-13, 2027 | Seattle, WA
The Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering and the Departments of Electrical & Computer Engineering and Human Centered Design & Engineering are pleased to host Rising Stars in EECS
Rising Stars is a two-day intensive workshop created to increase awareness of future academic careers in electrical engineering, computer science, artificial intelligence, and related fields among women graduate students, postdocs, and Ph.D. holders. While the program has a particular focus on supporting and encouraging women in these fields, it is open to all qualified individuals regardless of sex. It was first launched at MIT in 2012 and has since been hosted as an annual event at a variety of institutions.
This year’s workshop will bring together graduate students, postdoctorates, and recent Ph.D. graduates for professional development, mentorship, and collaboration, with discussions focusing primarily on careers in academia but also covering research careers in industry.
Applicants should be within 1-3 years of graduating with a Ph.D. at the time of the workshop, or have obtained a Ph.D. no earlier than 2024 and do not currently hold a faculty position. We will also consider special circumstances where candidates have had career breaks, such as for caregiving or other personal reasons. While there are elements of the workshop that are focused on the experiences of women in academia, all are eligible and encouraged to apply to the program. All applications are required to be submitted by November 3, 2026
A Community for Emerging Researchers
A career in research is shaped not only by research excellence, but also by relationships, mentorship, and collaboration. Rising Stars in EECS seeks to foster a welcoming environment in which participants of all backgrounds can learn, contribute, and build meaningful connections with peers who have navigated these transitions themselves.
Across two days, participants can expect a combination of scholarly and professional programming.
Who Should Apply?
Rising Stars in EECS is intended for emerging scholars in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, and related computing areas who are considering faculty positions, academic and research oriented paths, or a research-focused industry career.
The workshop is particularly suited for:
- Graduate students who are approaching completion of their Ph.D.
- Postdoctorates preparing for the next stage of their careers.
- Recent Ph.D. graduates who have not yet begun a faculty position.
- Researchers who are exploring academic or industry career paths.
While the program recognizes and highlights the experiences and contributions of women in academia, our workshop welcomes and encourages all eligible applicants to apply.
What to Expect?
Research and Career Conversations
Hear from panelists about their work, professional journeys, and experiences navigating the transition from graduate study or postdoctoral research into independent research careers and faculty positions.
Perspectives from Faculty & Industry Researchers
Learn directly from faculty about establishing a research group, finding mentors and collaborators, acquiring funding, maintaining research productivity while experiencing challenges including medical difficulties or increased family responsibilities, maintaining a work-life balance, and growing as an academic leader.
Peer Connections
Meet with peers from a range of institutions and areas of study. Exchange ideas and form relationships that can continue beyond the event.
Mentorship and Community
Engage in conversations about the opportunities and challenging realities of academic life and the experiences that shape them. Participants will have opportunities to ask questions, hear and share their own candid perspectives, and learn from researchers who have walked the paths before them.
Eligibility & Application
Rising Stars is an intensive two day workshop; learn who is eligibile to attend, how to apply, and what materials may be necessary.
Join Us in Seattle
January 12-13, 2027
Location: Zillow Commons
Bill & Melinda Gates Center
3800 E Stevens Way NE
Seattle, WA 98195-2355
Important Dates
Application Deadline: November 3, 2026
Notification: November 20, 2026