Fostering tangible research through interdisciplinarity, inclusion, and innovation.
The Graduate Research Opportunity (GRO) Program empowers graduate students to take their scholarship and careers to the next level through groundbreaking research, scholarship, and creative activity.
What began as an idea from a USM graduate student has grown into a robust, university-wide initiative offering graduate students:
- Research grants and fellowships
- Professional development and education
- Mentorship and community connections
- A hub for Graduate Research
The program is generously funded by the Maine Economic Improvement Fund (MEIF).
Our Purpose
The GRO Program provides vital financial and educational support for graduate students, enabling them to pursue bold ideas and meaningful projects that drive innovation in Maine and beyond.
We bring together a network of collaborators, including the Office of Graduate Studies, MEIF, GRO’s Advisory Board, the Graduate Council, USM Libraries, Cutler Institute, the Research Service Center, graduate faculty, and of course our graduate students, to create an environment where graduate research can thrive.
Why It Matters
At a time of rapid change, GRO advances USM’s mission and the President’s “Five Rs” for excellence and fiscal responsibility:
- Recruitment
- Retention
- Research
- Revenue
- Reputation
Our work strengthens each of these pillars by supporting graduate students who will shape the future of their fields.
Mission
To provide USM graduate students with the resources, community, and mentorship needed to advance research, scholarship, and creative activity.
Vision
To cultivate research collaborations that develop culturally and professionally competent research fellows across all disciplines, equipped with robust research methods and a commitment to innovation.