postdocslam

Science is Slammin'

Friday, September 7, 2018

Get ready to rediscover the wonderment of science during the third annual UCSF Postdoc Slam competition returns on Wednesday, Sept. 26.

This annual competition reminds us that there’s plenty of joy and fun in science. And if there’s one thing Postdoc Slam is not, it’s boring.

The fast-paced event challenges postdocs to present their research in three minutes or less, using language that not only their peers but also non-specialists will understand.

“The intention of Postdoc Slam is not to dumb-down or trivialize research,” states the event website. “Rather, it is meant to incentivize postdocs to clarify their ideas and to help others understand their work and to appreciate its significance.”

Last year’s winner, Sarah Engelberth, won the top $3,000 prize after entertaining audiences and judges with a presentation titled “The Tooth: Small but Mighty.”

Engelberth talk about her research into generating a material that mimics natural enamel.

“We’re an important step closer to having a backup plan for those of us who might not be so careful with our teeth,” she said.

The 2018 Postdoc Slam contest happens Wednesday, Sept. 26, from 4 to 6 p.m., in Genentech Hall Auditorium at Mission Bay. It will also be live-streamed to Parnassus in HSW 301.

Audiences at both locations will have a chance to cast People’s Choice ballots, and can attend a reception after the presentations.

“Following closely on the heels of Postdoc Appreciation Week, the contest will be a celebration not only of the finalists and contest winner, but also of postdoc research at UCSF and of scientific enquiry,” states the website.

The first place winner of the 2018 Postdoc Slam contest will receive a $3,000 cash prize. The second place prize will be $1,500, and — new for 2018 — the third place prize will be $1,000. The People’s Choice winner will receive $750. Non-prize-winning finalists will each receive a $100 Amazon gift card.