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Dissertation Writers Retreat

About the DWR

The Dissertation Writers Retreat (DWR) offers UofM graduate students in-person and online opportunities to prepare as you begin, are in the middle of, or are wrapping up your thesis or dissertation. These programs are sponsored by the University Libraries, the Graduate School, and Writing and Communication Services at CASA. We strive to host inclusive, accessible programs that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility or the program, contact Brannen Varner at bvvarner@memphis.edu.

 

Dissertation Writers Retreat: Summer 2026

All UofM graduate students working on a thesis or dissertation are welcome to join this free program (see full schedule below). Co-sponsored by the University Libraries, the Graduate School, and Writing and Communication Services at CASA.

Register or learn more >
 
Tuesday, July 21: Virtual DWR (via Microsoft Teams)

  • 10-11 AM, Mind the Research Gap with WCS (Register here)
    • Understand the various ways of identifying and exploring the research gaps in your thesis/dissertation.
  • 11 AM-Noon, Literature Reviews & Scite.ai with Libraries (Register here)
    • Get started with literature reviews and learn how Scite.ai can help you with reviewing literature.

 

Wednesday, July 22: In-Person DWR Schedule (Register here)

McWherter Library, 2nd Floor Commons

  • 1:30-2:15 PM, Writing and Research Block
    • Independent writing and research time. To make an appointment with a writing specialist or librarian, contact bvvarner@memphis.edu
  • 2:15-2:30 PM, Welcome from Dr. Deb Tollefsen, Vice Provost and Dean of the Graduate School 
  • 2:30-3:30 PM, Formatting for Submission/Title II ETD Updates with Graduate School
    • Learn how to format your thesis/dissertation to submit for graduation.
  • 3:30-4:30 PM, Literature Reviews & Scite.ai with Libraries
    • Get started with literature reviews, and learn how Scite.ai can help you with reviewing literature.

 

Thursday, July 23: In-Person DWR Schedule (Register here)

McWherter Library, 2nd Floor Commons

  • 9 AM-Noon, Writing and Research Block
    • Independent writing and research time. To make an appointment with a writing specialist or librarian, contact bvvarner@memphis.edu
  • Noon-1 PM, Lunch & Learn sponsored by GSA
  • 1:15-2:30 PM, Panel on Burnout Perspectives
    • Join this recorded panel on how we can handle and avoid burnout with Dr. Sanchari Banerjee, Dr. Leigh Harrell-Williams, and Dr. Christian E. Mueller.
  • 2:30-3:30 PM, Mind the Research Gap with WCS
    • Understand the various ways of identifying and exploring the research gaps in your thesis/dissertation. 
  • 3:30-4:30 PM, Small Group Peer Review activity with WCS and Libraries
    • Bring your writing for peer review - get advice, feedback, and review other writing.
  • 4:30-5:30 PM, Post-Retreat Community Building at RP Tracks
    • Join the organizers for some community building just off campus. 

 

Research Skills for Graduate Students Webinar Series

The University Libraries presents webinars on graduate-level research concepts and tools throughout the Fall and Spring semesters. This series of webinars is for UofM students, staff and faculty who are focused on graduate-level research. Register to attend and learn more about essential services and resources for your research and publishing. All registrants will receive recordings and materials following the live, virtual webinar. To learn more and register, visit the Research Skills for Graduate Students Webinar Series calendar.

The Research Skills for Graduate Students Webinar Series aligns with the University of Memphis ASCEND Strategic Goals 2, Create Opportunities to Succeed, 3, Outcomes-Focused Academics, and 5, Recruit, Retain, Reward, and Recognize our People.

Register or learn more >

Fall 2026 Schedule:

  • September 9, 11AM - Audio and Video Databases
  • September 18, 10AM - Database Spotlight: SciFinder, Chemical Abstract Services
  • September 24, 11AM - Find What You Need at the Libraries... and Beyond!: Online Library Resources and Services
  • October 21, 3PM - Access/Embargoes and Your Dissertation
  • October 26, 3PM - I Don’t Have a(i) Clue: Creating Ethical GenAI Guidelines for Your Practice with Writing and Communication Services, CASA
  • November 4, 3PM - Explore Census Data Platform with the U.S. Census Bureau
  • November 10, 3PM - Zotero and Mendeley: Citation Management Tools
  • November 19, 3PM - Create Your Scholarly Presence
  • December 1, 11AM - When to Choose a Scoping Review or a Literature Review

 

DWR resources

The Dissertation Writers Resources research guide has upcoming programming details, webinar recordings, database links and library resources.

The Digital Commons is an archive for past program recordings. View the archive here>

Make a research appointment or writing appointment for one-on-one help.

 

Past programs (links go to recordings)