23 November 2026 - 24 November 2026
Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus
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Welcome to Taylor’s Graduate Research Festival 2026.
The next generation of research starts here. The researchers who will take on tomorrow’s challenges are developing their ideas today, and on 23 and 24 November 2026 we’re bringing them together at Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus to celebrate their work. This inaugural festival also marks the launch of Taylor’s Graduate Research Academy (TGRA): a university-wide commitment to help talented researchers join us, thrive here and carry their discoveries into the world.
Over two days, you’ll present new ideas, meet people beyond your discipline and explore where your research can lead. Take part through the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition, poster and oral presentations, interdisciplinary roundtables, an impact panel and conversations across Taylor’s research community, before we close the festival by celebrating the candidates and work that have inspired us. Your voice will also help shape the Academy we’re launching for you.
Through TGRA, we want Taylor’s to be a regional destination for graduate research talent: a place where you can find the right opportunity, strong supervision, a clear path to completion and the connections that help your work make a difference. TGRA will bring recruitment, scholarships, development, progression and examination together into one coherent journey, while building stronger links with our research centres, partners and alumni. We’ll develop it in phases, together with candidates, supervisors and faculties.
At Taylor’s University, our five (5) Research Centres are at the heart of advancing knowledge, innovation and impact. Each research centre drives research in a distinct domain, yet collectively they contribute to addressing pressing global and societal challenges. During Taylor’s Graduate Research Festival (TGRF 2026), these centres will showcase their key themes, flagship projects and innovative solutions, highlighting the collaborative spirit of our researchers and students.
Shaping Southeast Asia’s Future of Work Through Interdisciplinary Research
Innovating Medicine, Transforming Healthcare for Active Living
Sustainability for Inclusive and Resilient Societies
Navigating the Challenges of Compressed Modernity
Shaping a Smarter, Safer, and Sustainable Future through Intelligent, Secure, and Connected Innovations
Two days of ideas, conversation and celebration. Here’s how TGRF 2026 unfolds, from the opening keynote and the launch of Taylor’s Graduate Research Academy on Day 1 to the awards ceremony on Day 2.
Arrive, register and settle in.
LT 12 (foyer)
Opening address by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr Barry Winn, followed by remarks from the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research, Professor Dr Fadi Charchar.
LT 12
A keynote address to set the tone for the festival.
LT 12
Discover TGRA’s purpose and first priorities, join us for the formal launch and find out how students and supervisors can help shape its next phase.
LT 12
Refreshments and a chance to connect.
In front of LT 12
A briefing on rules and expectations for 3MT participants and the audience, running alongside the tea break.
LT 11
Our five University Research Centres take the stage for six minutes each, in a rapid showcase of their work.
LT 12
Selected finalists present their research in three minutes, with one slide each.
5 lecture theatres around LT 12, Level 1
Buffet lunch.
Bellevue, between Block D and E, Level 2
Small-group, cross-centre conversations with supervisors and students.
LT 12
PhD and MRes students showcase their work in a walk-around poster gallery.
Poster Gallery: Arcadia
Refreshments and networking.
In front of LT 12
PhD and MRes students present their research in concurrent oral presentation sessions.
5 lecture theatres around LT 12, Level 1
Time to freshen up ahead of dinner.
A themed dinner with live music and a short toast to the Academy and our graduate research community.
Grand Hall
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A brief recap of Day 1 highlights.
LT 12
A keynote address to bring the energy back ahead of the awards.
LT 12
Refreshments and networking.
In front of LT 12
Faculty, supervisors and students discuss research impact.
LT 12
Celebrating the Best Poster and Best Presenter Awards, the 3MT winners and other awards.
LT 12
Closing remarks by the Head, Centre for Higher Degrees by Research.
LT 12
Thank-yous, a group photo and the close of the festival.
LT 12
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Venues are indicative and subject to final confirmation closer to the event. Registered participants will receive a printed programme booklet with the full run of show.
Can you explain your research in three minutes? The Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition 2026 invites you to share your thesis with a non-specialist audience using just one static slide. This internationally recognised format sharpens one of the most valuable skills a researcher can have: making complex ideas clear, compelling and memorable. Step up, tell your research story and compete for awards that could take your work onto the international stage.
Present your thesis in a way anyone can understand, and help people beyond your field see why your work matters.
Master clear, concise communication, a skill that will serve you in your viva, industry pitches and global presentations.
Meet fellow researchers and industry professionals, discover fresh perspectives and spark new conversations.
Compete for prestigious awards, including support to present your research at an international conference.
Who can take part
University Research Centre themes
All research must be anchored within one of Taylor’s five research clusters. These clusters represent the University’s strategic areas of expertise and ensure that every project advances knowledge with real-world relevance and impact.
The Centre for the Future of Work (CFW) advances research on workplace transformation across Southeast Asia under the theme 'Shaping South-East Asia’s Future Workplace Through Interdisciplinary Research and Collaboration.' Its focus areas include digital work and wellbeing for sustainable work environments in the midst of digital transformation, innovative management practices that explore value chain frameworks, and the importance of SMEs and family businesses as vital contributors to Malaysia’s economy.
The Centre for Sustainable Societies (CSS) addresses the theme 'Sustainability for Inclusive and Resilient Societies.' This theme explores how sustainability can drive environmental resilience, financial inclusion, social equity, and long-term prosperity. It strongly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Malaysia’s national sustainability agenda.
The Centre for Asian Modernisation (CAM) investigates the theme 'Navigating the Challenges of Compressed Modernity.' CAM examines the resilience of Asian societies in a period marked by rapid and condensed changes in economic, political, cultural, and social systems. It revisits classical transition theories while exploring how compressed modernity reshapes complex social systems characterised by fluidity in people, practices, and cultural exchange.
The Centre for Active Living (CAL) carries the theme 'Innovating Medicine, Transforming Healthcare for Active Living.' It highlights research that advances knowledge and innovation across biological sciences, clinical practice, biomedical engineering, and multidisciplinary approaches. The work in this cluster seeks to transform healthcare systems and contribute to the achievement of SDG 3, which focuses on good health and wellbeing.
The Centre for Intelligent Innovations (CII) focuses on harnessing scientific creativity and computational intelligence to address society’s most urgent challenges. By advancing cutting-edge technologies, the centre seeks to enhance systems and processes that improve lives, empower industries, and promote sustainability for the planet.
23 October 2026
2 November 2026
12 November 2026
Day 1, 23 November 2026
Day 2, 24 November 2026
Tell your research story through:
Remember:
Submit all three items together as one PDF:
Name your file: Surname_FirstName_StudentID_3MT2026
| No | Criteria | Weightage | Description |
| 1 | Comprehension and Content | 40% | Clearly explain your research background and significance, and communicate your key points effectively within the time limit. |
| 2 | Engagement and Communication | 40% | Deliver your presentation with confidence and enthusiasm, and engage your audience effectively. |
| 3 | Slide Design | 20% | A clear, visually appealing slide that complements your presentation. |
USD 1,000 to support you in presenting your research at an international conference or taking part in an international 3MT competition, plus a Certificate of Achievement.
Certificate of Achievement
Notes:
Take the stage and share your research in depth. New for TGRF 2026, the Concurrent Presentation Sessions give selected HDR students the chance to deliver a full oral presentation to a seated audience. Sessions run in parallel across five lecture theatres, following the HDR Poster and Innovation Gallery. It’s your opportunity to present your work, hear research from other fields and receive feedback that moves your thinking forward.
Share your research, analysis, studies and vision with an engaged audience of peers, supervisors and guests.
Become part of Taylor’s Graduate Research Community and connect with researchers across disciplines.
Discuss your research, its challenges and the opportunities ahead with people who share your curiosity.
Receive feedback from peers, supervisors and guests to help strengthen your work.
Who can take part
University Research Centre themes
All research must be anchored within one of Taylor’s five research clusters. These clusters represent the University’s strategic areas of expertise and ensure that every project advances knowledge with real-world relevance and impact.
The Centre for the Future of Work (CFW) advances research on workplace transformation across Southeast Asia under the theme 'Shaping South-East Asia’s Future Workplace Through Interdisciplinary Research and Collaboration.' Its focus areas include digital work and wellbeing for sustainable work environments in the midst of digital transformation, innovative management practices that explore value chain frameworks, and the importance of SMEs and family businesses as vital contributors to Malaysia’s economy.
The Centre for Sustainable Societies (CSS) addresses the theme 'Sustainability for Inclusive and Resilient Societies.' This theme explores how sustainability can drive environmental resilience, financial inclusion, social equity, and long-term prosperity. It strongly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Malaysia’s national sustainability agenda.
The Centre for Asian Modernisation (CAM) investigates the theme 'Navigating the Challenges of Compressed Modernity.' CAM examines the resilience of Asian societies in a period marked by rapid and condensed changes in economic, political, cultural, and social systems. It revisits classical transition theories while exploring how compressed modernity reshapes complex social systems characterised by fluidity in people, practices, and cultural exchange.
The Centre for Active Living (CAL) carries the theme 'Innovating Medicine, Transforming Healthcare for Active Living.' It highlights research that advances knowledge and innovation across biological sciences, clinical practice, biomedical engineering, and multidisciplinary approaches. The work in this cluster seeks to transform healthcare systems and contribute to the achievement of SDG 3, which focuses on good health and wellbeing.
The Centre for Intelligent Innovations (CII) focuses on harnessing scientific creativity and computational intelligence to address society’s most urgent challenges. By advancing cutting-edge technologies, the centre seeks to enhance systems and processes that improve lives, empower industries, and promote sustainability for the planet.
23 October 2026
2 November 2026
2 November 2026
Day 1, 23 November 2026, 3:15PM - 5:00PM
Day 2, 24 November 2026, 11:15AM - 11:45AM
| No | Criteria | Weightage | Description |
| 1 | Relevance to Research Cluster Theme | 15% | Your presentation should directly relate to one of Taylor’s five research clusters, showing clear alignment with the selected theme. |
| 2 | Clarity and Organisation of the Presentation | 15% | Your presentation should be well structured, easy to follow and logically present your research from introduction to conclusion within the time allotted. |
| 3 | Originality and Innovation of the Work Presented | 20% | Your research should demonstrate fresh ideas, creative approaches or novel perspectives that add value to your field of study. |
| 4 | Scientific Merit | 20% | Your work should be grounded in sound methodology, with reliable data, evidence-based analysis and academic rigour. |
| 5 | Potential Impact or Significance of the Research | 15% | Your research should highlight its importance, showing how the findings can contribute to knowledge, practice or positive societal change. |
| 6 | Presentation Delivery and Response to Questions | 15% | Communicate clearly and confidently within the time limit, and respond to the panel’s questions with a sound understanding of your research. |
RM 500 + Certificate of Achievement
Notes:
Bring your research to life in the HDR Poster and Innovation Gallery, a walk-around showcase of work from Taylor’s HDR students across all five University Research Centres. Stand beside your poster, share the story behind your research and spark conversations with supervisors, peers and guests as they explore the research and innovation happening across the University.
Present your research, analysis, studies and vision to supervisors, peers and guests.
Become part of Taylor’s Graduate Research Community and connect with researchers across disciplines.
Talk through your research, its challenges and the opportunities ahead with visitors to your poster.
Receive feedback from peers, supervisors and guests to help strengthen your work.
Who can take part
University Research Centre themes
All research must be anchored within one of Taylor’s five research clusters. These clusters represent the University’s strategic areas of expertise and ensure that every project advances knowledge with real-world relevance and impact.
The Centre for the Future of Work (CFW) advances research on workplace transformation across Southeast Asia under the theme 'Shaping South-East Asia’s Future Workplace Through Interdisciplinary Research and Collaboration.' Its focus areas include digital work and wellbeing for sustainable work environments in the midst of digital transformation, innovative management practices that explore value chain frameworks, and the importance of SMEs and family businesses as vital contributors to Malaysia’s economy.
The Centre for Sustainable Societies (CSS) addresses the theme 'Sustainability for Inclusive and Resilient Societies.' This theme explores how sustainability can drive environmental resilience, financial inclusion, social equity, and long-term prosperity. It strongly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Malaysia’s national sustainability agenda.
The Centre for Asian Modernisation (CAM) investigates the theme 'Navigating the Challenges of Compressed Modernity.' CAM examines the resilience of Asian societies in a period marked by rapid and condensed changes in economic, political, cultural, and social systems. It revisits classical transition theories while exploring how compressed modernity reshapes complex social systems characterised by fluidity in people, practices, and cultural exchange.
The Centre for Active Living (CAL) carries the theme 'Innovating Medicine, Transforming Healthcare for Active Living.' It highlights research that advances knowledge and innovation across biological sciences, clinical practice, biomedical engineering, and multidisciplinary approaches. The work in this cluster seeks to transform healthcare systems and contribute to the achievement of SDG 3, which focuses on good health and wellbeing.
The Centre for Intelligent Innovations (CII) focuses on harnessing scientific creativity and computational intelligence to address society’s most urgent challenges. By advancing cutting-edge technologies, the centre seeks to enhance systems and processes that improve lives, empower industries, and promote sustainability for the planet.
23 October 2026
2 November 2026
2 November 2026
Day 1, 23 November 2026, before 2:30PM
Day 1, 23 November 2026, 2:30PM - 3:00PM
Day 2, 24 November 2026, 11:15AM - 11:45AM
Please be at your poster for the full Gallery session, so you can meet and engage with visitors.
| No | Criteria | Weightage | Description |
| 1 | Relevance to Research Cluster Theme | 20% | Your poster should directly relate to one of Taylor’s five research clusters, showing clear alignment with the selected theme. |
| 2 | Clarity and Organisation of the Abstract | 15% | Your abstract should be well structured, easy to follow and logically present your research from introduction to conclusion. |
| 3 | Originality and Innovation of the Work Presented | 25% | Your research should demonstrate fresh ideas, creative approaches or novel perspectives that add value to your field of study. |
| 4 | Scientific Merit | 25% | Your work should be grounded in sound methodology, with reliable data, evidence-based analysis and academic rigour. |
| 5 | Potential Impact or Significance of the Research | 15% | Your research should highlight its importance, showing how the findings can contribute to knowledge, practice or positive societal change. |
RM 350 + Certificate of Achievement
Notes:
Have a question about TGRF 2026 or the launch of Taylor’s Graduate Research Academy? We’re happy to help.
The five (5) University Research Centres (URCs) are at the core of Taylor’s research excellence, advancing knowledge in Asian Modernisation, the Future of Work, Active Living, Sustainable Societies and Intelligent Innovations.
TGRF 2026 shines a spotlight on these centres. The festival’s competitions and awards are built around their key themes.
This focus not only highlights their impact but also brings our research community together to collaborate, connect and create solutions for the future.
