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A group of people stand and converse in front of three scientific posters displayed on a wall in a spacious room with patterned carpet.

Research Posters

What is a Research Poster?

Research posters serve an important role in academia by allowing scientists and other academics to share the results of their research in a standardized format. This introduces individuals from various industries to the latest research when attending universities or conferences. Often presented in varying printed or digital dimensions, research posters summarize research studies with words, figures, tables, graphs, and even pictures. Ultimately, research posters briefly present new discoveries or information along with future implications, needs, and contact information.

Downloadable Templates

  • A template for an academic poster with sections for title, authors, affiliations, introduction, methods, results, conclusions, objectives, references, and acknowledgments. Banner includes "Western University" logo. Traditional Poster 48″ x 36″ (4:3)
  • Template for a research poster presentation with sections for title, authors, affiliations, introduction, objectives, methods, results, discussion, main finding, Western University logo, and QR code. Better Poster Design 48″ x 36″ (4:3)
  • A research poster comparing postural sway in individuals with unilateral plantar fasciitis to healthy controls, including objective, methods, results, and conclusion. Traditional 56″ x 31.5″ (16:9)
  • Research poster template with five sections: Introduction, Materials & Methods, Results, Conclusion, and Acknowledgments. Arrows connect the sections in a circular flow. Header includes school logo. Workflow Research Poster – 48″ x 36″ (4:3)
  • Research poster template with five labeled sections: Introduction, Acknowledgements, Materials & Methods, Conclusion, and Results. Each section is empty, with circular flow arrows connecting them. Workflow Research Poster – Gold Gradient – Vertical – 36″ x 48″ (3:4)
  • A research poster template with five sections: Introduction, Acknowledgements, Materials & Methods, Results, and Conclusion, connected by arrows. Each section is marked for text or graphics. Workflow Research Poster – Grey – Vertical – 36″ x 48″ (3:4)
  • A research poster template with sections for introduction, methodology, and results; a main takeaway statement at the top and Western University logo at the bottom right. Better Poster Design 2 48″ x 36″ (4:3)
  • Research poster template with sections for main takeaway, background, methods, results, conclusion, optional title, author names, and a QR code, branded with the Western University logo. Better Poster Design 3 48″ x 36″ (4:3)
  • A maroon research poster template with sections for introduction, materials, methodology, results, and conclusion, featuring the Western University logo and placeholders for text. Traditional Poster 2 | 48″ x 36″ (4:3)
  • A blank research poster template with sections for title, authors, abstract, introduction, methodology, results, conclusion, and acknowledgements, featuring the Western University logo. Traditional Poster 3 | 48″ x 36″ (4:3)
  • Templates

    A research poster typically follows a traditional format that includes basic components arranged in a clean, three- or four-column structure. Most posters in academia and other industries adhere to this style, usually filled with dense text and scattered figures. However, a more modern design, known as the “Better Poster” design, has emerged as an alternative. This contemporary design retains the key elements of a classic research poster, but uses less text, emphasizes the main take away message, and is visually more inviting. The aim of the Better Poster design is to present research findings more directly, making the content less intimidating and more engaging for viewers. When attendees walk through rows of research posters, they may feel overwhelmed and less likely to interact with you if your poster appears too complex or uninviting. The Better Poster design addresses this by making the key message clear and easy to grasp, even at a glance. For more information, view this design approach: How to Create A Better Research Poster in Less Time.

    Ultimately, regardless of the design chosen, the goal is to create a visually appealing poster, making it easy for viewers to quickly understand the study, its results, and its significance within the field.

    A man in a white lab coat presents research findings on a large poster while others listen attentively.

    General Poster Tips

    REQUIREMENTS
    Make sure to follow all requirements regarding research poster specifications (e.g., dimensions, included sections)

    SPACING
    General space on a research poster is important. Avoid overcrowding text and images.

    IMAGES
    When searching for images to use on your poster, find image files that are PNG instead of JPEG. They will generally be higher resolution, and many incorporate a blank background (so it’s the image only, no white box around it).

    READABILITY
    The poster should be written so that any reader can understand the purpose, results, and overall flow of the study without excessive explanation.
    Three people are listening to a woman present research in front of a large poster in a sunlit room.

    How to Change the Dimensions of a Research Poster

    While not the only software option, Microsoft PowerPoint is commonly used to create a research poster. The dimensions (i.e., size) will need to be changed to meet the specific requirements for each conference or event. Setting the dimensions (size) of your research poster should be done before entering text or figures into your research poster to avoid formatting complications. To create and change the dimensions (size) of a research poster, do the following:

    1. Open Microsoft PowerPoint.

    2. Open an existing template.

    3. Click on the “Design” tab.

    4. Then click on “Slide Size” (near the top right).

    5. Then click on “Page Setup” in the pop-up window.

    6. A dialog box will open.

    7. Enter the required width and height.

    8. Then select OK.


    Note: These instructions are for the Mac version of Microsoft PowerPoint 365. While the steps should still be similar to those for the PC or later software versions, deviations in the instructions may occur.
    Two people stand in front of a research poster displayed on a board. They are indoors with sunlight filtering through the windows. One person points to a section of the poster.

    Printing Your Poster

    Traditional Paper Printing.
    Traditionally, research posters are printed on paper, which can be done at most copy and print service businesses such as FedEx Office, Staples, or OfficeMax/Office Depot. Once printed on paper, the research poster will need to be carefully rolled into a large canister, where it is stored and transported. Carrying the large canister can be an inconvenience if traveling on a plane. An advantage of printing on paper is that the service can be expedited quickly (e.g., same-day, next-day) if necessary.

    Fabric Printing.
    Another option to traditional paper printing is to have the research poster printed onto wrinkle-resistant fabric. An advantage of choosing this option is that a research poster printed on fabric is much easier to travel with. The fabric allows a research poster to be folded like other clothing, making it easier to stow away in bags and luggage. While fabric printing of research posters is becoming more visible at conferences, the one thing to consider is that they may require a longer turnaround time than paper printing. To place an order or to learn more about this option, go to Spoonflower for a tutorial.
    A woman in a lab coat explains data on a poster to a group against a brick wall backdrop.

    Presenting Your Poster

    When and where
    The information regarding the location, day, and time you are scheduled to present your poster should be sent to you well before the conference or event begins. Your poster may also be posted early and showcased for others to review before your scheduled time. However, you’ll be expected to stand in front of your poster during your assigned period of time, allowing you to present your research and answer any questions from individuals passing by.

    Hanging your poster
    Your poster will most likely utilize thumbtacks or tape to hang your poster at its assigned location.

    Dress
    Formal professional attire is standard. Be aware that you will be standing for the entire scheduled time, which can last from several minutes to a couple of hours. Thus, comfortable shoes are highly recommended.

    What to bring
    While bringing yourself and your poster is obvious, business cards, printed copies of your poster, and even printed copies of your abstract or references may also be appropriate options. While these suggestions are only considerations, some of these elements can also be provided digitally via a QR code on the research poster.

    Resources

    Slide titled "Research Poster Fundamentals: Key Elements and Design Strategies for Success" with details about authors and date, October 2, 2024, from Western University. Open video modal

    CETL Session Research Poster Fundamentals: Key Elements and Design Strategies for Success

    After attending this session, participants will be able to:

    – Describe the primary purpose of a research poster in communicating scholarly work.
    – Identify the essential components of an effective research poster.
    – List common mistakes to avoid in poster creation.


    PRESENTERS:
    Michael Granado, PT, MPT, PhD, ATC, CSCS | Assistant Professor, College of Health Sciences
    James Gonzales, MA Ed | CETL Instructional Designer
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    An overhead view of an exhibition hall crowded with people examining various research posters. Text on the image reads "Research Posters: Turning Drab to Fab. Open video modal

    CETL Session Research Posters: Turning Drab into Fab

    After attending this session, participants will be able to:

    – Discuss research poster basics
    – Critique traditional poster design
    – Apply updated design techniques
    – Recognize better poster design 2.0
    – Explain where to go for help

    PRESENTER:
    Tracy A. Mendolia-Moore, M.A.Ed., Manager of Instructional Design & Learning Development
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    A slide titled "Virtual Poster Presentation Presentation" next to a photo of people viewing posters at a large conference. Names of presentation contributors are included on the slide. Open video modal

    CETL Session Creating and Facilitating a Virtual Poster Presentation

    After attending this session, participants will be able to:

    – Describe how website and video conferencing technologies can be utilized to present student work to a wide audience.
    – Identify some of the advantages of a virtual setting and some of its pitfalls.
    – Engage WesternU IT and CETL staffs to create their own virtual poster presentation.

    PRESENTER:
    Phillip Mitchell, Assistant Director for IPE COMP NW
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