With the plethora of cutting-edge research being performed at the Institute, one group is trying to bring a new tradition to research presentations at Tech. 

The Tower undergraduate research journal will host its second Undergraduate Research Kaleidoscope (URK) Monday, April 25, at 6 p.m. in the Library East Commons, where researchers present in a fast-paced, visual format known as a pecha kucha (pee-CHAY coo-CHA).

“A pecha kucha is Japanese for ‘chit chat,’” said Michael Chen, editor-in-chief of The Tower. Each presentation is allowed to show exactly 20 slides for 20 seconds each; ideally, slides contain solely an image, no text. “The time constraints force researchers to drop the technical jargon and present the significance of their research to a broad audience.”

The format provides a casual forum for undergraduates to share their passion and interest in research and an additional opportunity to learn about the kinds of research being performed across campus.

“It’s exciting to see the human aspect behind research. We have a lot of fun watching presenters adapt the timing of their content on the fly,” Chen said. 

The event’s name refers to the many colorful reflections one sees when looking into a kaleidoscope, which Chen likens to the varied research projects carried out by undergraduates at Tech.

Tonight’s URK will include complimentary food for guests, provided by Tin Drum, and a $50 prize to the best student presenter. To see examples of pecha kucha presentations, visit gttower.org/watch.

The Tower collaborates with Charlie Bennett, who works in research, instruction and outreach in the library, as well as with Campus Services and the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program for its URKs.

The Tower is also currently taking submissions for its next issue and has extended the deadline to Friday, May 13; students can learn more about the submission process at the journal’s recently redesigned website at gtower.org/submit. Keep up with all things undergraduate research-related at blog.gttower.org.