SGPS Graduate Showcase
The School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (SGPS) is excited to present the Graduate Showcase.
This event provides graduate students and postdoctoral fellows an exciting opportunity to exhibit their academic work to a broad audience in an engaging and visually impactful format. By participating, you are contributing to the vibrant academic exchange that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows at Ontario Tech.
You can apply to participate in the Graduate Showcase through two main competitions: Art of Imagery or the Poster Presentation. You can only apply to one competition per year.
New this year: Bigger and better prizes, valued between $500 and $1250. We have also partnered with Canadian Nuclear Laboratories to offer a dedicated stream in the Poster Presentation competition and unique mentorship opportunities for those selected to participate.
Art of Imagery
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General stream (All faculties)
The Art of Imagery contest challenges participants to explore new ways of thinking and representing their academic work through artwork to be enjoyed by a broad audience. Many different mediums are accepted.
Click the button below to learn more about eligibility, rules, and judging criteria.
Visit The Art of Imagery contest page
*Awards valued at $1000 and $500
Poster Presentation
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General stream (All faculties)
The Poster Presentation contest challenges participants to represent their academic work through a poster to be presented to a broad audience including industry partners, Ontario Tech faculty members and staff, and public guests.
Click the button below to learn more about eligibility, rules, and judging criteria.
Visit the Poster Presentation page
*Awards valued at $750 and $500
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Canadian Nuclear Laboratories stream (All faculties)
The Poster Presentation contest challenges participants to represent their academic work through a poster to be presented to a broad audience including industry partners, Ontario Tech faculty members and staff, and public guests.
The Canadian Nuclear Laboratories stream accepts submissions across four categories, each with a separate award:
- Clean Energy: Advancing technologies and solutions that support Canada’s clean energy future, including energy systems, decarbonization, advanced technologies, and sustainable infrastructure.
- Health: Advancing research and innovation that support human health, medical technologies, radiopharmaceuticals, and improved quality of life.
- Environment: Advancing environmental protection, sustainability, waste management, remediation, climate resilience, and stewardship of natural resources.
- Safety & Security: Advancing resilience, cybersecurity, safeguards, risk management, emergency preparedness, and secure technologies.
Click the button below to learn more about eligibility, rules, and judging criteria.
Visit the Poster Presentation page
*Awards valued at $1250
Participants in the CNL Poster Presentation Stream will have a chance to be selected for participation in the CNL mentorship program and an opportunity to visit CNL's facilities in Chalk River, Ontario.
The 2026 SGPS Graduate Showcase will be held on Wednesday, December 2 at Charles Hall, Ontario Tech Downtown Campus (61 Charles Street, Oshawa). All dates and details below apply to both the Poster Presentation and Art of Imagery competitions.
Date |
Event |
| Wednesday, September 30 | Applications open |
| Monday, October 26 | Applications close |
| Friday, October 30 | Applicant selection completed |
| Monday, November 23 | Deadline for selected participants to complete their final electronic submission |
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Wednesday, December 2 |
2026 Graduate Showcase Event (includes Poster Presentation and Art of Imagery competitions) Time: 4 to 7 p.m. (Sign in and set-up 3 to 3:30 p.m.) Location: Charles Hall (61 Charles Street, Oshawa) |
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Enhance your presentation skills: Gain valuable experience in distilling and communicating complex research or academic concepts clearly and effectively to a diverse audience, both within and outside your field.
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Receive constructive feedback: Benefit from the opportunity to receive feedback from faculty, peers, and professionals, helping you refine your research and presentation techniques.
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Increase visibility: Showcase your innovative research or academic ideas to a broader audience, increasing their visibility and impact within the academic community and beyond.
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Build your professional network: Connect with fellow researchers, faculty members, and industry professionals, fostering relationships that can lead to future collaborations and career opportunities.
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Boost your CV: Participation in academic competitions like this one enhances your resumé, demonstrating your commitment to research, your ability to communicate effectively and your engagement with the academic community.
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Opportunity to participate in Canadian Nuclear Laboratories mentorship program: Participants in the CNL Poster Presentation Stream will have a chance to be selected for participation in the CNL mentorship program and an opportunity to visit CNL's facilities in Chalk River, Ontario.
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Receive a PDF certificate for applications such as LinkedIn.
FAQs
1. I am interested in participating in the SGPS Graduate Showcase. Do I have to join both events?
Nope! Participants can apply to be considered for the Art of Imagery or the Poster Showcase. You are cannot apply to both.
2. Who can participate in the SGPS Graduate Showcase?
The SGPS Poster Showcase is open to all current Ontario Tech graduate students (including both research- and course-based programs) and postdoctoral fellows. This event provides a platform for participants from all disciplines to showcase their academic projects, research, or key insights.
3. When is the application deadline, and what if I miss the deadline?
Applications will be accepted until mid-to-end October (see the "Dates & Deadlines" tab). Please submit your application by this date to be considered for the event. Unfortunately, late applications cannot be accepted due to the need for planning and logistics. We encourage you to apply as early as possible to ensure your participation.
4. Is there an award for the top submissions?
Yes, awards will be given to the top posters and artworks based on various criteria such as clarity of presentation, creativity, and the significance of the work. Details on the award categories and prizes are available on each competition's page (Poster Presentation, Art of Imagery).
5. What if I am in a course-based graduate program?
Students in course-based programs are welcome to participate! Whether you have completed a capstone project, case study, or another academic project, the SGPS Showcase is an opportunity to present your work regardless of program program.
6. Can I invite friends and family to the event?
Yes, the event is open to the public, and we encourage participants to invite friends, family, and colleagues to attend and support their presentations.
7. Are there any specific software recommendations for creating poster submissions?
There is no specific software required, but many participants use PowerPoint, Adobe Illustrator, or Canva to design their posters. Ensure that your final poster is exported as a high-resolution PDF to maintain the quality when printed. NOTE: Make sure to review the Poster Presentation competition rules, otherwise your eligibility for prizes/awards may be impacted.
8. Do I need to print my own poster, or will the university provide printing services?
Participants are responsible for printing their own posters.
9. What is the format of the event?
The SGPS Graduate Showcase is an in-person event. Participants will stand beside their posters or artworks during the session, answer questions, and engage with attendees and judges.
10. Can I attend the event even if I’m not presenting?
Yes, the SGPS Graduate Showcase is open to everyone, including students, faculty, and members of the public who are not presenting. It is a great opportunity to learn about the exciting research and academic projects happening across the university.
11. How can I prepare to present?
We recommend rehearsing your presentation ahead of time to ensure you are comfortable explaining your work concisely and clearly. Consider practicing with colleagues or supervisors and be prepared to answer questions about your methods, findings, and the broader implications of your work.
12. What should I wear to the SGPS Graduate Showcase?
Business casual attire is recommended for the event. Presenters should aim to appear professional, as they will be engaging with judges, faculty members, and other attendees.