Is your research advancing bold discoveries or addressing urgent challenges? Share your insights in a dynamic, high-energy format at the Lightning Talk Sessions during the 2026 Duke Research Summit. Selected speakers will deliver concise, engaging presentations that spark new connections across disciplines. Lightning Talks will be selected into three thematic tracks:
- Transforming Health and Well-Being - Showcase your pioneering research that is reshaping how we understand, experience, and improve health—in individuals, communities, and societies. Possible topics include: breakthroughs in neuroscience and medicine; histories and narratives of health and healing; ethical frameworks for care; health policy and equity; wearable technologies; and innovations in the arts and design that restore wellness and resilience.
- Intelligence, Creativity, and Innovation - Share your work exploring the frontiers of how humans and technologies generate knowledge, solve problems, and imagine the future. Submissions might include: artificial intelligence and data science; the philosophy, history, and ethics of knowledge; human cognition and learning; innovations in education; creative practices in the arts and design; or cultural and social perspectives on technology.
- Sustainability, Justice, and Resilience - Present research that advances a more equitable and livable future for people and the planet. Topics could include: renewable energy and climate adaptation; histories and cultures of environment and place; sustainable design and circular economies; governance and policy for resilience; environmental justice and community partnerships; and artistic or humanistic approaches to imagining sustainable futures.
Each selected speaker will deliver a 6-minute lightning talk during the Duke Research Summit on Friday, April 24, 2026. Whether you’re pushing the boundaries of discovery, addressing societal challenges, or bridging arts, science, and human experience, this is your chance to inspire and connect.
Application Details
Applications open Monday, December 1 and are open to all members of the Duke research community (faculty, students, postdocs, trainees, research staff, etc.) and include:
- A brief abstract (max 200 words) describing your research and its impact.
- A 30-second video introducing your work and why it matters. No slides, just you sharing your passion.
Applications are due Sunday, February 1, at 11:59 p.m. Applicants will be notified of selections by Friday, March 20.