Faculty invited to participate in 2026 Faculty Nutshell Talks
Editor's note: As of Jan. 13, the participant registration limit has been met for this event.
From: Center for Communicating Science
Virginia Tech faculty are invited to participate in the 2026 Faculty Nutshell Talks, a fast-paced, public-facing event that challenges presenters to explain their research in just 90 seconds — with no jargon and no slides.
Whether you are a seasoned presenter or new to the stage, this event offers an opportunity to strengthen communication skills, engage a broad audience and compete for $1,000 in professional development prizes. Participation is limited to the first 16 faculty members who register, with a waitlist available. Participants will receive guidance from the Center for Communicating Science, and talks will be posted on the center’s YouTube channel after the event.
Participants and audience members are also invited to a post-event reception immediately following the Faculty Nutshell Talks, in conjunction with a Pop-Up Faculty Club event hosted by the Office of Faculty Affairs, in the Center for the Arts lobby.
Event details:
- Thursday, March 5, 4:30–6 p.m.
- Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech
Participants must be available to attend a preparatory workshop on Thursday, Jan. 29, from 5:30–8:30 p.m., and a dress rehearsal on Wednesday, March 4, from 4:30–6:30 p.m. Both will be held on the Blacksburg campus.
The Faculty Nutshell Talks, inspired by Virginia Tech’s long-running Nutshell Games for graduate students, debuted in 2023 and continue to grow in scope and impact.
Read more for full details and judging criteria or register online here.
Questions may be directed to Erin Smith, project coordinator for the Center for Communicating Science, at erinmsmith@vt.edu.