The Global Institute for Water Security is a member-driven organization that leads the Water Signature area at USask. GIWS encourages inclusivity and a sense of belonging in the water community in Saskatchewan. It is the institute’s responsibility to promote diversity and inclusion within the USask water community and facilitate a positive experience for all members.

Faculty, Adjunct Faculty, Researchers and Staff at USask and co-located facilities are eligible to become members of GIWS. Members are eligible to request office and lab space at the institute for themselves and their students. Members at Usask are also eligible to book vehicles and research equipment through QReserve here.

Members are kept informed of all information that runs through the institute including funding and partnership opportunities, training and learning opportunities, and social gatherings. Members are also eligible to nominate others (or self-nominate) to serve on the GIWS Strategic Research Committee.

GIWS showcases the achievements of members through social media channels, newsletters, and at relevant research conferences and gatherings. The institute works to connect members with research collaboration opportunities across campus and in the broader water community.

Members are encouraged to actively participate in GIWS initiatives to advance the institute’s mission and support water security as a signature area at USask. Including direct research support costs (and a portion of indirect costs where appropriate) in eligible grant proposals helps to ensure ongoing and enhanced institutional support for research projects, programs, and related activities.

Members are also encouraged to acknowledge GIWS in publications and on social media (including profile affiliations and post tags), publish in leading journals such as Water Resources Research and Journal of Hydrology when appropriate, and contribute to GIWS newsletters to highlight USask’s water research strengths.

Participation in GIWS and Water Signature events - such as Water Fridays, workshops, seminars, training sessions, and networking opportunities - is welcomed and helps foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and a strong research community.

Professionals working in industry, government and post-secondary institutions in Saskatchewan and across the world are eligible to become members of GIWS. Members are kept informed of all information that runs through the institute including funding and partnership opportunities, training and learning opportunities, and information forums.

GIWS showcases the achievements of members through social media channels, newsletters and at relevant research conferences and gatherings. The institute works to connect members with research collaboration opportunities at USask and in the broader water community.

Members are encouraged to acknowledge their GIWS membership in publications and on social media (profiles and post tags) and to actively participate in GIWS and Water Signature events including, but not limited to, Water Fridays, lunch and learns, workshops, seminars, training, and networking opportunities.

Students and post-doctoral scholars registered at a postsecondary institution who are engaged in water-related research activities under the supervision or co-supervision of a GIWS member, or any graduate or undergraduate student, or post-doctoral scholar in a water-related field registered at USask are eligible to become members of GIWS, and by extension, GIWS SYR. Student and young professional members must have the permission of their supervisors as part of their application.

We have a particularly strong GIWS Student & Young Researcher (SYR) organization with many activities planned throughout the year.

GIWS showcases the achievements of members through social media channels, newsletters and at relevant research conferences and gatherings. The SYR works to connect members with networking and research opportunities at USask and in the broader water community.

Members are encouraged to acknowledge their GIWS membership in publications and on social media (profiles and post tags) and to actively participate in GIWS and Water Signature events including, but not limited to, Water Fridays, lunch and learns, workshops, seminars, training, and networking opportunities.

The decision to become a member of GIWS does not affect participation in the USask Water Signature Area, although it is presumed that members of GIWS are also active in the Water Signature Area. Water Signature Area members are, however, encouraged and welcome to share publications and newsletter items when desired and to participate in public GIWS events such as lunch and learns, workshops, seminars, training, and networking opportunities.

Applying for Membership

Membership Criteria

• Prospective members should be involved in research or activities that show a commitment to advancing the vision and mission of GIWS and contribute to and support its strategic strengths.
• Students require the approval of their supervisor to join GIWS.
• All applicants must agree to the GIWS Code of Conduct for their membership to be approved.

Application Steps

• Complete the membership application form

Membership Application Form

After Submission

• You will receive a confirmation within 48 hours of your submission.
• A member of the GIWS Secretariat will contact you if there are questions or clarifications needed on your application and will advise you once your membership is complete.
• Memberships will be reviewed annually by the GIWS Secretariat.
• Should you wish to amend your membership at any time, please reach out to the GIWS Secretariat at giws.secretariat@usask.ca.