SSE#15: Student Chapters Activity

Find the Researcher! - A Game to Discover the Human Side of Science

During the Poster Session of SSE#15 (Thursday, January 8th, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m.), the SPIE and Optica Student Chapters invite you to take part in a fun and interactive activity that will bring a fresh perspective to research.
This game aims to highlight not only the scientific work of PhD students but also their personal experiences, motivations, and journeys as young researchers.

How does it work?

•    Each PhD student presenting a poster will wear a badge color corresponding to one of the six Manutech-SLEIGHT scientific domains:
Optics & Photonics - Surface Science - Laser Engineering - Computer Science - Image & Data Science -  Bioengineering.
•    Before the event, one PhD student per domain will answer a few short questions about their background, their motivations for doing a PhD, and their experience in research.
•    During the poster session, participants will receive anonymous researcher profiles and will have to find which PhD student matches each profile by engaging with the presenters and discussing their work.
•    The audience will then vote using a fun evaluation grid (for example: most original topic, most inspiring pitch, most unexpected advice, etc.).
•    Prizes will be awarded to both the participants who find the correct matches and the PhD students who take part in the activity.

Why join?

By participating, you’ll help make the poster session more engaging and interactive while showcasing the human side of research - your motivations, your experiences, and what drives you as a scientist.
It’s a great opportunity to spark conversations between Master’s students, PhD candidates, and researchers in a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere!