The annual Graduate Research Innovation Exchange (GRIE) is a poster celebration and competition that highlights the breadth, diversity, and quality of WPI's graduate research. Sponsored by the Office of the Provost and the Dean of Graduate Studies, it is a two-part event consisting of an Open Poster Exhibition and Celebration and Poster Finals and Awards.
GRIE Lets Graduate Students Show Their Research
Poster Exhibition and Celebration
This all-day event is a festival of creativity and innovation. All graduate students engaged in research or in course- or program-related capstone projects are encouraged to develop a poster and display it here. The posters fill the upper level of the Rubin Campus Center.
True to its name, the Graduate Research Innovation Exchange is a marketplace where students across disciplines get to know each other and share discoveries and new ideas. It is also a great way to get feedback on research in-progress—input that can help students prepare for sharing their work down the line through papers and presentations.
Student presenters also receive input from attendees who are able to vote for People's Choice Awards for their favorite posters.
The best posters by master's and PhD candidates engaged in research in the categories of Mathematical and Physical Sciences; Business and Social Science; Data Science, Cybersecurity, and Computer Science; Life Sciences and Bioengineering; Robotics, Cyberphysical Systems, Electrical and Computer Engineering; Chemical Engineering and Material Sciences; and Aerospace, Manufacturing, Mechanical, Civil and Environmental, Fire-Protection Engineering are reviewed by a select panel of judges who decide which are worthy of cash prizes and certificates (see The Prizes below). An awards ceremony and reception close the event.
The Prizes
Judges may choose to present first- and second-place awards to MS candidates and PhD candidates based upon a number of criteria, including the quality and importance of the research itself, the clarity of the posters, and the students' ability to explain their work and answer the judges' questions. Awardees will receive cash prizes. Capstone entries are not eligible for awards.
The Winners
In 2018, more than 230 master's and PhD candidates shared their innovative and purposeful research with the WPI community. It was an exciting and well-attended event that had the Rubin Campus Center Odeum buzzing with activity and engaged conversation. During the day, judges visited all of the participants, evaluating their posters and learning more about their work. 30 students were award with prizes.
See our list of current and past GRIE winners.
Registration
Registration for the 2018 event has closed. To be added to the waitlist, please contact Rachel LaMarre at ralamarre@wpi.edu. Check back next Fall for information on 2019 registration.
Guidelines & Eligibility
General Guidelines
- GRIE is open to all WPI PhD candidates, MS students engaged in thesis or similar research, or MS candidates completing a course- or program-related capstone project.
- Although posters may have multiple authors, including the faculty advisor(s), there should be one lead author registered and presenting. The lead author MUST be the graduate student and only this student will be considered for awards.
- Only one poster will be accepted per student; it is the student’s responsibility to have his/her poster printed according to competition guidelines.
- Each poster must be registered in ONLY one of the following categories and levels:
- Categories: Mathematical and Physical Sciences; Business and Social Science; Data Science, Cybersecurity, and Computer Science; Life Sciences and Bioengineering; Robotics, Cyberphysical Systems, Electrical and Computer Engineering; Chemical Engineering and Material Sciences; and Aerospace, Manufacturing, Mechanical, Civil and Environmental, Fire-Protection Engineering
- Levels: MS or PhD (Capstone level projects will be accepted, but will not be considered for the final round).
Poster Guidelines and Judging Criteria
These poster samples provide guidance in portrait layout (PDF) and landscape layout (PDF).
- Posters should be no larger than 3 feet by 4 feet
- Easels with a 3x4 foot cork bulletin board and push pins will be provided
- Your poster should clearly identify a project title, researchers involved, and department
- Students must arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the event to register and set-up
- Click here to view what your poster will be judged on.
Poster Printing
On-campus printing is available at the ATC, which offer printing services ranging in price from $16 to $28, depending on the size and choice of paper.
Preparation support for Graduate Research Innovation Exchange
The Student Training and Readiness Sessions (STARS) program developed by the Office of Graduate Studies offers sessions specifically designed to help graduate students prepare for participation in GRIE. Learn more about STARS.