Resources 

We provide a robust collection of resources to support faculty and student engagement in sustainability-related research and learning. 

Faculty resources

Support for our research groups and affiliates is provided by institute staff and includes: 

We provide administrative and logistical support to affiliates, leadership, and research groups, including event planning, room reservations, and communications assistance such as newsletters, listservs, and directory updates.

Tara Greene, Senior Operations Administrator, provides hands-on support for ISF-sponsored and co-sponsored events, guiding projects from idea to execution. She also manages processes, internal projects, coordinates communications, and supports media efforts including promotion, newsletters, web content, and social media campaigns.

Lynne Dahmen, Senior Managing Director, supports ISF research teams by sharing funding opportunities and coordinating collaborations among faculty, staff, and external partners. She builds connections with non-profits, state agencies, researchers, sustainability organizations, and industry, and helps develop events, research projects, and special initiatives that advance sustainability.

Professor Margaret Gitau serves as the Director of ISF, providing strategic, managerial, and fiscal leadership for the Institute. She guides ISF’s overall direction, supports its research groups and leadership team, and represents the Institute across Purdue and beyond. She ensures ISF’s activities align with the priorities of Institutes and Centers at Discovery Park District as well as Purdue University’s key initiatives. Working closely with ISF affiliates, she fosters new ideas, initiatives, and special projects that strengthen the Institute’s impact.

For faculty interested in developing a research focus area with ISF, please reach out to Lynne Dahmen or Margaret Gitau.

ISF staff can help with room scheduling, catering, and other event needs. To request support, please complete this form at least five weeks before your event. If shorter notice is needed, complete the form and email Senior Operations Administrator Tara Greene to check availability. Larger conferences or seminars may require additional planning time.

Student Resources

Student Resources

Travel and research grants 

ISF travel and research grants support graduate students and post-docs working with ISF faculty affiliates. Funding helps cover costs for small research projects or travel to present at major conferences. 

Priority is given to projects aligned with ISF research communities, initiatives with potential for future funding, and presentations at recognized conferences. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, as funding allows. 

Please check back soon for funding opportunities posted here, or contact us with questions.

Student Resources

ISF Annual Research Expo 

The ISF Research Expo is held annually in the fall semester. Faculty, post-docs, graduate, and undergraduate students are welcome to present posters in any area of sustainability research, broadly aligned with one or more of the Sustainable Development Goals. Students and researchers who have received ISF funding are encouraged to present their work. The expo offers an excellent opportunity for networking and showcasing sustainability research happening across campus. 

Student Resources

Discovery Undergraduate Research Internship (DUIRI) program 

ISF collaborates with the Discovery Undergraduate Research Internship (DUIRI) program to support undergraduate research in global sustainability. These interdisciplinary projects are overseen by at least two ISF faculty affiliates. Mentors and students receive additional support and resources, including professional development activities, peer networking opportunities, and poster presentation resources throughout the semester. 

Student Resources

Campus Guide to Sustainable Living 

Developed by the Campus Sustainability Working Group, in cooperation with Administrative Operations and with input from campus partners, the first of its kind student resource guide at Purdue was published by ISF in 2024. Download the Campus Guide to Sustainable Living today.  

Communications and presentations 

Find templates and resources to help you share your research. 

video pitch presentations

Develop a Pitch Video for Funding Opportunities

Researchers are being increasingly asked to provide video pitches for funding opportunities. But what does a successful video pitch actually look like and how to do you get started?

ISF supports research in sustainability through faculty-driven research communities, special initiatives and strategic research teams.  

Purdue researchers and staff develop topical briefs and white papers on areas of expertise that are designed for a general readership.  

PFAS White Paper  
Outlines Purdue’s research on the impacts of PFAs or “Forever Chemicals” in drinking water, wildlife populations, agricultural ecosystems, air, and human health.   

Water Management White Paper  
Purdue water researchers, part of the Water Challenges research community, outline basic concepts to increase understanding of water resources, their use, and potential climate change impacts in the state of Indiana. 

ISF-funded researchers are expected to include the ISF logo on their posters. Please also acknowledge ISF in related publications using the following language: This research was partially funded or supported by Purdue’s Institute for a Sustainable Future. 
 
ISF branded templates: 

ISF branded templates for DUIRI fellows: 

For tips on creating effective poster presentations, review the DUIRI brownbag session led by Joanne Lax.  Additional resources are available through Purdue’s Office of Undergraduate Research.  

To download the ISF logo for your template, poster, or promotional item, please visit Purdue Brand Studio and select Download Your Co-brand. 

For partners working with ISF and other logo related requests, please contact Tara Greene, Senior Operations Administrator.

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