Calling all PhD Researchers at Ulster University!

Capture ‘The Beauty of Discovery’ in your PhD journey! Share your ideas of the beauty of discovery in your PhD with a wider audience through the power of image and narrative.

Theme

‘PhD: The Beauty of Discovery’

Deadline

19 May 5.00pm

Prizes

  • First Prize (worth £100): Awarded by a panel of judges.
  • People's Choice Award (worth £50): Decided by a vote of Ulster University staff and PhD Researchers.

Eligibility

  • Open to all currently registered PhD Researchers at Ulster University.
  • One entry per participant.

Exhibition & Awards

  • All entries will be displayed at the Festival on 4 and 5 June.
  • Judging and announcement of winner on 5 June
  • Winners will be presented with their prize at the PhD Awards Presentation event on Thursday 19 June 2025 in Belfast campus (also featuring the 3MT Final) from 12.00PM to 2.00PM.
Submit your entry
Go To Submit your entry

Selection Criteria

  • Composition

    It refers to how elements are arranged within the frame of the photograph. A well-composed photo will have a balanced and visually pleasing arrangement of subjects, lines, shapes, light and space.

  • Impact
    • Captures the theme: Does the image directly relate to the competition's theme, "PhD: The Beauty of Discovery"?
    • Imagination: A fresh, unique, innovative and new approach to what had been captured. Does the image spark the viewer's imagination and helps them ‘see’ what you experience in your journey?
    • Inspires the viewer: Does the image evoke positive emotions, such as inspiration, curiosity, or wonder?
  • Storytelling

    A powerful photograph will evoke emotions and tell a compelling story. The best photos often have a clear narrative, conveying a message or capturing an interesting moment in a way that leaves a lasting impression.

  • Clear, concise narrative

    (100-150 words) accessible to a non-specialist audience. Narrative accurately describes the intention, purpose and meaning of the image and enhances its impact.

  • Was it a good photo?

    It captures a moment of spontaneity; it tells a story; it evokes emotion; it gives the viewer the power to interpret the meaning of what is captured; it is creative in its way of looking at things, people, feelings and nature; it reveals a unique perspective.

    View samples

    • Landscape orientation only.
    • JPEG/JPG format, maximum 1 GB.
    • Mobile photography welcome.
    • File name: Include your name (e.g., [Your Name] submission).
    • Black and white OR colour photos accepted.
    • AI generated images are not accepted.
    • Minor adjustments allowed (cropping, sharpening, contrast).  No significant alteration or artistic enhancement. Judges may request the original file for verification.
    • Remember, no AI tools or filters allowed.
    • Images must be taken by the applicant.
  • Image Caption/ Narrative Requirements
    • Image title: 2-5 words (maximum 10 words).
    • Narrative: 100-150 words.
      • You can describe your image and its connection to your research journey.
      • You may explain the purpose, intention, and meaning of the image.
      • In an accessible language: Avoid acronyms and jargon.

Ethics

  • Images must not contain identifiable humans.
  • Ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and others.
  • Respect animal welfare and avoid harming their habitat.
  • Comply with all relevant national and international legislation.
  • Respect the work of other photographers and avoid plagiarism.
  • Unethical practices will lead to disqualification.

Data Protection

When processing and storing data, the competition organisers will adhere to the Data Protection and GDPR regulations (2018).

Terms and Conditions

  • Participants must own the copyright of submitted images and ensure they do not infringe on any third-party rights.
  • Images must comply with all laws.
  • Copyright remains with the creators, but by entering, participants grant the Doctoral College non-commercial use rights for promotion, exhibition, and research publications.