Research and Interest Groups (RIGs) Connecting Members with Similar Interests
Research and Interest Groups (RIGs) are the heart of the Rural Sociological Society’s intellectual community. They bring together members who share common interests, creating spaces for collaboration, idea exchange, and professional growth. RIGs are more than just discussion groups—they play a vital role in shaping the Society’s mission and activities.
Each RIG helps identify emerging topics, recruit new voices, and develop content for the annual RSS conference, including sessions, special events, speakers, and field trips. They provide intellectual leadership within their focus areas, helping define key questions and advance knowledge in rural sociology.
RIGs also celebrate achievement through internal awards and recognitions, supporting excellence in research, teaching, and practice. Importantly, they foster networking and mentorship opportunities, particularly for students and early-career scholars, helping members build lasting professional connections with colleagues who share their interests and goals.
Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise, collaborate on new projects, or simply find your community within RSS, RIGs are a valuable avenue for meaningful engagement and professional development.
📌 Interested In Proposing A New RIG:
If you are interested in proposing a new RIG and know at least 6 RSS members who share your interests, contact a member of our administrative team through the Contact Us form.
RIG Quick Links:
Research Interest Groups
To find out more about each RSS Research and Interest Group (RIG) simply click on the title below or contact the leader of the RIG.