Each year, a two-day symposium will be held at The University of Texas to showcase IGERT research through technical presentations, round table discussions, and tours of projects and research facilities. IGERT trainees play a central role in planning for the symposium and present the findings of their research at this forum. There is evidence that community-building activities, such as the annual symposium, enhance the educational experience of students and can lead to increased retention of underrepresented groups. Undergraduate and graduate students as well as faculty outside of the IGERT program are also encouraged to participate in the symposium. An External Advisory Board composed of leading researchers and policy-makers in the field attend the annual symposium and interact extensively with IGERT trainees.