The Capitol Graduate Research Summit in Topeka was developed and implemented by graduate
students at the doctorate and Ph.D. level at the University of Kansas, Wichita State
University, Kansas State University and the University of Kansas Medical Center. Since
its inception, it has grown to encompass graduate research at all Kansas universities.
The summit provides an opportunity for selected graduate students to expose state
government, education officials, and the public to the quality of graduate research
performed in the state of Kansas. Students selected for this event are involved in
research, including physical and natural sciences, engineering, sociology, history
and education — all providing a direct impact to the State of Kansas. As the Kansas
Legislature extends support for basic research funding to these schools, the summit
gives student researchers an opportunity to present the results of their investment.
Each university uses the topics listed below to guide their selection process on what
types of research to bring to the capitol. These topics have been designated as important
to the state of Kansas and thus good topics to present to legislators and other visitors.
Sustainable water supply
Economic development, job creation, and business attraction to the State
Workforce development
Plant and animal health
Food safety: from farm to fork
Health conditions impacting the health of Kansans, including cancer, obesity, diabetes,
and other conditions
Health care costs
Artificial Intelligence
Agriculture and agriculture technology
Alternative health care
Community development and quality of life in rural communities
Alternative and sustainable energy sources
Education: student achievement and student testing, K-12 education reforms
