The Research Poster Competition is part of the annual Postgraduate Research Festival, the University’s largest postgraduate researcher (PGR) event. This is your chance to raise your research profile, win a prize, and connect with researchers from across the University.
Who can take part?
We welcome all PGRs from the University of Birmingham’s five Colleges.
Whether you’re researching diversity in publishing, pioneering cancer treatments, or challenging age-old theorems, we want to celebrate your work!
Why participate?
The competition offers numerous benefits, including:
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- Strengthen your communication skills: Learn how to explain your research clearly and confidently to audiences outside your discipline.
- Receive meaningful feedback: Get constructive feedback from fellow PGRs, academics, and external partners to improve your research and presentation skills.
- Expand your network: Meet postgraduate researchers from across the university and make connections that can support your academic and professional development.
- Boost your CV: Demonstrate your commitment and communication skills to future employers.
- Grow your confidence: Build your presentation and public speaking skills in a supportive environment.
- Promote your research: Showcase the impact and importance of your work to a wider audience.
- Conference practise: Gain valuable experience creating and presenting research posters for academic events.
- Win a prize: Prizes will be available for first, second, and third place competition winners, as well as the best poster from each of the five Colleges.
What’s involved?
If you choose to register, you will be required to produce an A1 poster that presents your research in a clear, professional, and engaging way. Your poster must be submitted several weeks before the competition to allow time for high-quality printing.
After completing registration, you will receive access to tailored Canvas resources and support, including the option to receive feedback on their poster prior to the final draft.
All participants will be expected to attend the PG Research Festival, where you will present and discuss your poster with festival guests and our Research Poster Competition judges.
Key 2026 Dates:
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- Abstract/Title Deadline: Sunday 1 March 2026
- Competition Day: Tuesday 16 June 2026
Eligibility
The competition is open to all registered PGRs (full-time, part-time, and distance learners) who can attend on the Postgraduate Research Festival date, either in person or online (for distance learners). Please note, this competition is not open to postgraduate taught (PGT) students, though they are welcome to attend the Festival.
Ready to apply?
Registration for the 2026 Research Poster Competition is open until Sunday 1 March.
If shortlisted, you’ll receive all the support you need to create a fantastic poster.
Make the most of this opportunity to showcase your research, build valuable skills, and connect with the wider University community. We can’t wait to see your work!