FAQ's

SERCh Competition Program Book

Do I need to bring my poster?

Yes, you MUST bring your poster with you to the competition.  The poster should be finalized and ready for display.

What size should my poster be?

31” x 47”

How should I bring my poster?

Many students will roll up their posters and bring them on the plane.  This is recommended.  Otherwise, you can bring the entire mounted poster (check with airline size restrictions), bring the poster in parts to assemble on-site (but you will have limited time), or fold the poster (not recommended).

For poster set-up, what will be provided?

You will be provided with a competition number and poster display.  We will have very basic supplies on hand in case of emergencies, but this should not be relied upon.  These supplies will be limited to: markers, scissors, glue, pens.  We’ll also supply hard poster boards and Velcro strips to assist in mounting.

What is involved in the oral presentation of the poster?

You are not required to give a separate presentation - no Power Point or view graphs.  When you are standing at the poster, your presentation of the poster to the judges will be scored.  (See the RESOURCES section of this web site for scoring criteria.)

What should I wear?

For Sunday, you can dress business casual *(ex: khakis and collared shirt).  For Monday, you must wear business attire.

Where are the meals?

All participants will eat on site during the event..  The meals provided are: dinner on Sunday and breakfast and lunch on Monday.

What is my first required activity?

After registering at the hotel, you will be taken on a tour of the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.  After that, you’ll have time to set up the posters at the conference center.

Where will I register?

You’ll register at your hotel– the Doubletree or Comfort Inn – in the lobby.

Will someone pick me up at the airport?  How will I know who to look for?

All participants will be picked up from the Knoxville airport and be taken directly to the hotels.  We have all flight information, so you’ll be greeted at the airport and taken to the awaiting bus.

Can I invite friends and family?

Only those who have been pre-registered may attend.

What do I do if I’m not a U.S. citizen?

We have obtained clearance for all “Foreign National” students and faculty.  You just need to bring your passport and visa to get in to the laboratory.

What if I have more questions?

Email Shannon Dunphy Lazo at Shannon.dunphy@science.doe.gov or call at 202-306-2738.

Who do I contact in case while I am at Oak Ridge or if I have a last minute emergency?

Call Shannon at 202-306-2738.