The power of partnering
The Graduate Research Academy is pleased to invite contributions for the 2026 Graduate Research Conference: The Power of Partnering: Innovation at the Interface of Academia, Industry and Entrepreneurship, running from Wednesday 4 to Thursday 5 November.
Innovation thrives where people, ideas and communities intersect - and where researchers themselves are supported to thrive. This year’s theme recognises that partnering extends beyond formal collaborations to include the networks of support - mentors, peers and communities - that shape and sustain a researcher’s journey.
CALL FOR CONTRIBUTIONS
We invite contributions for:
- Lightning presentations – highlighting the value and impact of your research
- Poster presentations – showcasing your research
- Photography competition – capturing a day in the life of a researcher
Please see the details below for submission and presentation requirements.
DRAFT PROGRAM
WEDNESDAY 4 NOVEMBER (online)
Time | Session |
9.00am – 9.15am | Welcome to day 1 |
9.15am – 10.45am | Masterclass: The community behind your research: beyond the acknowledgements |
10.45am – 11.00am | Break |
11.00am – 12.30pm | Masterclass: Partnering in practice: building research communities |
12.30pm – 1.00pm | Break |
1.00pm - 2.30pm | Masterclass: Maximising research relevance: taking your skills beyond academia |
THURSDAY 5 NOVEMBER (in person)
Time | Session |
9.00am – 9.30am | Registration and arrival coffee Poster presentations and photo competition |
9.30am – 9:45am | Welcome to Day 2 |
| 9.45am - 11.00am | Keynote Speaker: TBA |
| 11.00am - 11.30am | Morning tea |
11.30am –1.00pm | Lightning presentations - session 1 Presenters: TBA |
1.00pm – 2.00pm | Lunch / Networking Session PLUS poster presentations and photo competition |
| 2.00pm – 3.30pm | Lightning presentations - session 2 Presenters: TBA |
| 3.30pm – 3.45pm | Light refreshments |
| 3.45pm – 4.00pm | Awards & event wrap-up |
PRESENTER INFORMATION
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
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MASTERCLASSES
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INFORMATION FOR PRESENTERS
Highlight the transformative impact of your research!
Do you have research with a significant impact? Here's your chance to showcase it!
Submit your abstract and seize the opportunity to highlight the transformative impact of your research in just five minutes. Impress our judges and captivate the audience for a chance to win prizes!
- Theme: "The value of your research"
- Presentation date: Thursday, 5 November 2026
- Presentation requirements: 5 minutes long, no more than four (4) powerpoint slides
Prizes
- First place: $300.00
- Second place: $200.00
- People's Choice: $100.00
Submission guidelines
To apply, submit an abstract for your research paper that is relevant to the theme. Please read the Presentation Guidelines before submitting your application.
- Application form
- Abstract deadline: Friday 4 September 2026
- Notification of acceptance: Friday 25 September 2026
Apply now and make your impact known!
Showcase your research impact!
Do you have research that makes a difference? Macquarie's research community would love to see it!
Submit your abstract and design an eye-catching poster that highlights the powerful impact of your research. Impress our judges and win over the audience to claim prizes!
- Theme: "Showcase your research"
- Presentation date: Thursday 5 November 2026
- Poster size: Between A3 to A0
Prizes
- First place: $300.00
- Second place: $200.00
- People's Choice: $100.00
Submission guidelines
To apply, submit an abstract for your research poster that is relevant to the theme. Already presented a poster about your research this year? Great news - you can reuse it for this conference! Please read the Presentation Guidelines before submitting your application.
- Application form
- Abstract deadline: Friday 4 September 2026
- Notification of acceptance: Friday 25 September 2026
Submit now and promote your research!
A day in the life of a researcher!
Do you have a compelling story to tell about the daily life of a researcher? Here's your chance to showcase it!
Submit your photo and capture the essence of your research journey. Highlight the transformative moments and everyday experiences that define your work. Impress our judges and captivate the audience for a chance to win prizes!
- Theme: “A day in the life of a researcher”
- Presentation date: Thursday 5 November 2026
- Creative brief: Capture any aspect of living the “life of a graduate researcher” within a single image (i.e., no composite or panelled images).
Prizes
- First place: $300.00
- Second place: $200.00
- People's Choice: $100.00
Submission guidelines
To apply, submit your photo with one sentence outlining how your photo relates to the theme. Please read the competition Terms and Conditions before submitting your application.
- Application Form
- Submission deadline: Friday 16 October 2026
- Winners will be announced at the conference on Thursday 5 November 2026
Apply now and let your story be seen!
Presenting at this conference - or another - soon? Want to improve your public speaking for future presentations?
This 2.5-hour workshop covers several less-obvious but essential skills for participating fully in academic conferences. From presenting posters and lightning presentations to chairing sessions and networking with a cup of coffee and pastry in your hands, you’ll not only hear some great advice but get to practise with real props!
- TBC
This year’s Conference presenters should definitely register, but any graduate researcher who plans to attend, present at, or apply for a conference is welcome.
Level 2, 16 Wally's Walk
Macquarie University NSW 2109