Grad Slam, a University of California research communication competition, returns to UC Davis.

It's a simple question: What are you researching? But the answer is often anything but simple for graduate students.

Now in its sixth year, the University of California Grad Slam competition challenges graduate students from across the various disciplines to speak clearly and concisely— not just with their academic peers — but also with employers, the media, and the general public. Presentations should be no longer than three minutes in length and prepared for a diverse audience comprised of students, faculty, and community members. Judges will strongly consider clarity and effectiveness of the presentation by a general university audience. 

Why participate in Grad Slam?

Skill development

Now more than ever, it's important to be able to communicate your research effectively. Regardless of your intended career path, communication skills will prove critical to your professional success. Put your presentation skills to the test and discover ways in which to improve. Every participant receives valuable feedback.

Networking opportunities

Meet fellow graduate students, campus and community leaders, and even potential employers at different levels of the competition. This year's UC final round will take place at the LinkedIn headquarters in San Francisco.

Thousands of dollars in prizes 

This year, our prizes are better than ever. The campus champion will win $2,500 (more than double the prize offered last year) and will have the opportunity to win and even more at the UC Grad Slam finals.

How to participate in Grad Slam.

Are you up to the challenge? Sign up to participate in this year's tournament by visiting grad.ucdavis.edu/gradslam.  All that's needed to register is your research topic and some basic contact information. Registration closes on January 18 and this year's UC Davis Qualifying Rounds will take place on February 7 and February 8.

Learn more.

Questions about the competition? Visit the Grad Slam website or email Kathryn Raley, Program and Event Manager, at knraley@ucdavis.edu. 

About Graduate Studies

Graduate Studies at UC Davis includes over 100 dynamic degree programs and a diverse and interactive student body from around the world. Known for our state-of-the-art research facilities, productive laboratories and progressive spirit – UC Davis offers collaborative and interdisciplinary curricula through graduate groups and designated emphasis options, bringing students and faculty of different academic disciplines together to address real-world challenges.

UC Davis graduate students and postdoctoral scholars become leaders in their fields: researchers, teachers, politicians, mentors and entrepreneurs. They go on to guide, define and impact change within our global community.

For information on Graduate Studies’ current strategic initiatives, visit the Graduate Studies strategic plan page.