Dr. Bipul Biswas, Fort Valley State University associate professor of biotechnology, recently represented the institution at a Fulbright Scholar Liaison Training in Washington, D.C.
As a Fulbright Scholar Liaison, Biswas is among a distinguished group of more than 1,600 individuals from other colleges and universities throughout the United States, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
The experienced researcher said the day-long training was a good opportunity to learn more about research conducted at other institutions, exchange cultures and build relationships to foster collaboration. The attending liaisons represented almost 50 U.S. institutions and heard from Fulbright Program staff about program updates and new resources. Attendees also shared best practices for creating a culture of Fulbright on their campuses. Various training sessions are offered throughout the year.
Biswas has served as an FVSU liaison for more than 10 years. “This opportunity allows me to engage in professional development and to share ideas with other professionals across the country,” he said. “They provide several different options where faculty can do research. As a liaison, I help link the program with colleagues to encourage them to participate.”
He added that scholarships are available for students to participate in the program also.
In addition, this partnership allows FVSU to host several Fulbright fellows on campus to present their research to students and faculty. Fulbright fellow Dr. Basavaprabhu Patil recently visited and shared his research on viral diseases.
The Fulbright Scholar Liaison Network is a community of higher education administrators, faculty and Fulbright Program alumni at campuses across the U.S. Fulbright Scholar Liaisons work in every type of accredited institution of higher education and serve as the main point of contact for the Fulbright Scholar Program with American higher education.
For those interested in the Fulbright Program, contact Biswas at (478) 825-6827 or biswasb@fvsu.edu, or visit https://bit.ly/fulbrightliaisons.