AUsome Science in 60 Seconds ‘strengthens presentation, creativity and outreach skills’
Published: Sep 16, 2025 12:30 PM
By Joe McAdory
Student researchers often spend months exploring a given project. They identify problems, develop impactful solutions and often showcase their findings through comprehensive written reports and poster presentations.
Condensing those insights into a 60-second video, however, creates another challenge.
Auburn Engineering’s third-annual AUsome Science in 60 Seconds requires graduate and undergraduate students to present their research in short, engaging videos aimed at general audiences. The competition, presented by the college's Council of Engineering Graduate Students (CEGS), requires participants to use animations, diagrams and demonstrations to make complex scientific concepts accessible to non-experts.
“Students should explain their complex technical ideas in a clear and engaging way that everyone can understand,” said CEGS President Morteza Taghavi. That skill is just as important as the research itself, since the ability to communicate science effectively connects innovation to real-world problems.”
A panel of judges will evaluate submissions based on multiple criteria that reflect the multi-faceted nature of effective science communication: engagement, clarity, creativity and the ability to make complex subject matter understandable to diverse audiences.
Winners will be announced on Oct. 30.
“This competition is more than just a challenge, it's a learning opportunity that strengthens presentation, creativity and outreach skills,” Taghavi added. “By practicing how to explain their work in just one minute, our students prepare themselves to lead conversations in industry, academia and with general audiences.”
Maria Auad, associate dean for graduate studies and faculty development, said the technology students use to communicate is changing and that students must evolve with these changes.
“Presenting research in-person is important but it's often logistically difficult,” she said. “Video presentations available on demand are convenient for the presenters and the viewers. Projects like this provide students the opportunities to polish their presentation skills on camera and with precision. It’s also a great way to help students perfect their respective elevator pitches.
“Each year, I'm thrilled with not only the research our students undertake, but also the scope and diversity of projects from departments throughout the college.”
Media Contact: , jem0040@auburn.edu, 334.844.3447
The competition requires participants to use animations, diagrams and demonstrations to make complex scientific concepts accessible to non-experts.
