MaP Graduate Symposium

• Twelve doctoral students, selected by the organising committee, will have the opportunity to present their research in Materials and Processes to a large audience. This presents a unique challenge, as they must communicate their work effectively to a diverse audience that extends beyond their own ETH department.
• To enhance engagement, a graphic designer will create a live illustration capturing the essence of each presentation, transforming complex scientific concepts into visually compelling summaries.
• Attendees can actively participate by answering quiz questions related to the talks, competing for the prestigious title of MaP Mastermind. The winner will be awarded a CHF 50 gift voucher in recognition of their knowledge and engagement.
• As in previous years, each presenter will receive detailed feedback on their talk from a postdoctoral researcher or senior scientist after the symposium, helping them refine their presentation skills and scientific communication.

How to apply

• Posters presented by early-career researchers in Materials & Processes will highlight the diverse range of projects in the field. In the morning, all poster presenters will give a brief pitch to introduce their research and encourage symposium attendees to visit their posters, which will be on display in the ETH main hall during breaks.
• Attendees can engage further by answering quiz questions related to the posters for a chance to enter the MaP Poster Jackpot—a raffle where five lucky winners will each receive a CHF 50 gift voucher. They are also invited to provide feedback on challenges that poster presenters have encountered in their research.
• Poster presenters will compete for the MaP Gold, Silver, and Bronze Poster Prizes, awarded with gift vouchers of CHF 350, 250, and 200, respectively. Winners will be selected through a two-stage evaluation: a preselection by the organising committee and postdocs, followed by a final decision from a panel of professors. (This competition is open exclusively to MaP doctoral students.)
• In addition, our industry partners will present thematic industry poster prizes, selecting winners based on their own criteria. These prizes are also open to postdoctoral and MSc students affiliated with MaP research groups.

How to apply

• Members of MaP research groups are invited to submit their research images for the MaP Image Contest. 
• All entries, showcasing the beauty of Materials & Processes, will be exhibited during the MaP Graduate Symposium. 
• Attendees will have the chance to vote for their favourite image, and the entry with the most votes will be awarded the MaP Best Image Prize. 
• The winner will receive a CHF 100 gift voucher along with a special print of their image.

How to submit an image

• Four selected MaP Award finalists will present their research during the dedicated session at the MaP Graduate Symposium.
• They will try to convince a jury of experts from academia and industry.
• Following the presentation, the jury members will convene to determine the most promising doctoral thesis of ETH Zurich in Materials & Processes submitted in 2024.
• All finalists will receive a MaP Award puzzle ball (pictured). In addition, the winner will receive a prize of CHF 3,000.

More info here

• An illustrator will be present throughout the event, capturing key moments with his keen artistic eye. 
• He will document presentations, discussions, and interactions through his distinctive drawings. 
• At the end of the day, he will present a visual summary, using graphics to highlight the most significant insights and takeaways of the day.

• Wrap up an inspiring day by joining the networking reception, where you can connect with colleagues from other departments and research groups. 
• Take the opportunity to discuss ideas and plan future cross-disciplinary activities together. 
• Meet our industry partners in a relaxed, informal setting while enjoying a selection of snacks and drinks provided by the MaP Doctoral School.