What is QPC?

The Office of Undergraduate Research Quick Pitch Challenge (QPC) is a communication competition that challenges undergraduate students to present their research or creative work to a general audience in three minutes. Participants from all majors and areas of study are invited to showcase their work on campus. 

Clear communication is key in professional settings, and you can also compete for prizes!

Eligibility: Participants must be enrolled at the University of Iowa as undergraduate students and collaborate with a faculty member.

Watch
Register for QPC
Email for Practice

Participation

Registration Deadline: Friday, March 14th, 2025 by 11:59 CT

 

2025 QPC Timeline

Timeline for the QPC

Judging Criteria

Comprehensive & Content 

  • Did the presentation provide an understanding of the background to the research or creative work being addressed and its significance? 
  • Did the presentation clearly describe the key results of the research including conclusions and outcomes? 
  • Did the presentation follow a sequence or story path? 
  • Were the presentation materials communicated in language appropriate to a non-specialist audience? 
  • Did the speaker avoid scientific jargon, explain terminology and provide adequate background information to illustrate points? 
  • Did the presenter spend adequate time on each element of their presentation - or did they elaborate for too long on one aspect or was the presentation rushed? 

Engagement & Communication 

  • Did the presenter make the audience want to know more? 
  • Was the presenter careful not to trivialize or generalize their work on campus? 
  • Did the presenter convey enthusiasm for their campus work? 
  • Did the presenter capture and maintain their audience's attention? 
  • Did the speaker have sufficient stage presence, eye contact and vocal range; maintain a steady pace, and have a confident stance? 
  • Did the PowerPoint slide enhance the presentation - was it clear, legible, and concise?