Abstract
We invite Occidental College undergraduates and local high school students to submit abstracts for poster or oral presentations at the conference. All disciplines and project stages are welcome. You do not need a completed project to present. Works-in-progress, pilot studies, and preliminary findings are encouraged. Submit your abstract by April 10, 2026 11:59PM PT for board review.
Abstract submission is now closed.
Poster Presentations
Format
Presenters display their research visually on a poster board and discuss it informally with attendees and judges during designated poster sessions (2 sessions, 30 minutes each)
Poster Dimensions
Maximum 48” × 36” (landscape or portrait). OCURA will provide poster boards and push pins. Presenters are responsible for printing their own posters.
Content Guidance
Posters typically include title, authors, abstract, introduction, methodology, results, discussion, acknowledgments, and references. Visual clarity and design quality are evaluated.
Judging
Faculty judges circulate during poster sessions and evaluate using a standardized rubric (content, presentation, visual design, Q&A engagement).
Oral Presentations
Format
20-minute slot (15-minute talk + 5-minute Q&A), delivered in a single-track format in JOHN 100 (Global Forum). 4 presentations for one session.
A/V Support
Each presentation room will have a projector, screen, laptop hookup (HDMI + USB-C adapters), and a timekeeper with visible countdown signals. Presenters may use slides (PowerPoint, Google Slides, or PDF).
Judging
Board judges attend sessions and evaluate using a standardized rubric (research quality, clarity, presentation skills, Q&A).
Session Moderation
Each room has a student moderator who introduces presenters, manages transitions, and facilitates Q&A.
Abstract Submission Guidelines
Abstract Length
200-250 words (text only, no images, tables, or graphics in the abstract itself)
Title
Title Case, maximum 15 words
Content Requirements
Your abstract should address (1) Your central research question or creative inquiry (2) Brief context for the work and its significance (3) Your methodology or approach (4) Your conclusions, expected results, or current progress. For creative work, describe the artistic vision, process, and intended impact.
Formatting
Plain text only. Bold, italics, and subscript/superscript are accepted. No LaTeX.
Who submits
The presenting student should submit the abstract (not a faculty mentor). If you have a co-presenter, only the primary presenter submits.
Incomplete work
You are welcome to submit based on current progress and expected results. Use language like “results will demonstrate...” or “preliminary findings suggest...” .
Previously presented work
Abstracts for research previously presented at other venues are welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
ELIGIBILITY & SUBMISSION
Who can present?
Any Occidental College undergraduate currently enrolled, or an invited local high school student. All disciplines, majors, and class years are welcome. You do not need to be an OCURA member to present.
Do I need a completed project to submit?
No. Works-in-progress, pilot studies, and preliminary findings are encouraged. Use language like “results will demonstrate…” in your abstract. Incomplete research is welcome and encouraged.
Can I present work from a summer program or class project?
Yes, as long as you conducted the research as an undergraduate. Previously published or presented work is permitted.
Should I submit the abstract, or should my faculty mentor?
The presenting student must submit the abstract, not the mentor. Your mentor’s name and email are collected on the form, and they will receive a notification.
Can I submit more than one abstract?
For our inaugural year, we ask that each student submit a maximum of one abstract as primary presenter. You may be listed as a co-presenter on one additional abstract.
How are abstracts reviewed?
Abstracts are reviewed by a faculty panel for clarity, scholarly merit, and adherence to the submission guidelines. The review evaluates the quality of the abstract, not whether the project is “finished.” We anticipate an inclusive acceptance rate for our inaugural year.
What if I’ve never done research before?
You are welcome to attend as a guest with no registration fee! The Conference is designed to be welcoming to students at all levels. Come explore what undergraduate research looks like.
LOGISTICS
Is the conference free?
Attendance and presentation are completely free. No registration fees for anyone.
Will there be food?
We have refreshments throughout the day for presenters and volunteers (breakfast sponsored for the latter). The networking reception will include foods and snacks for attendees at no cost.
Is parking available?
Yes. Visitor parking is available on campus, though street parking is also available.
What should I wear?
There is no formal dress code. We recommend dressing business casual is a safe bet. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be on your feet during poster sessions.
Will the event be accessible?
Yes. All venues in Johnson Hall are ADA-accessible, including elevator access, wheelchair-accessible seating, and accessible restrooms. If you have specific accessibility needs, please note them during registration or contact ocura@oxy.edu.
PRESENTATION FORMAT
What is the difference between poster and oral presentations?
Poster presenters display their research visually on a board (max 48”×36”) and discuss it informally with attendees during designated sessions. Oral presenters deliver a 15-minute talk with slides, followed by 5 minutes of Q&A, in the Global Forum (JOHN 100).
Do I need to use PowerPoint for an oral presentation?
Not necessarily. You may use PowerPoint, Google Slides, PDF, or no slides at all. A projector and screen will be provided in each session room.
Where can I print my poster?
You may print your posters locally, with printing businesses, or your institution’s research office.
Can I present both a poster and an oral presentation?
Only if you are presenting different research projects. The same project should not be presented in both formats.
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