Graduate Student Resource Center is gearing up for Grad Slam 2026, UCR’s three-minute research communication competition where graduate students present their work to a general audience using a single static slide.
How to participate: contestants are nominated by their colleges, with nominations due February 17, 2026. If you want to compete, contact your program/college in January 2026 to learn their nomination process. More details.
Key dates: semi-final rounds will be held during the second week of March 2026, and the UCR Grad Slam Final takes place April 10, 2026 in the School of Business Auditorium. Winners can advance to the systemwide final on April 22, 2026 at the UC Center in Sacramento.
Why do it: it’s strong professional development (public speaking + networking), and prize funding can total up to $12,000 across the UCR and UCOP award structures.