In her 2025 Grad Slam talk, UC Santa Cruz campus champion Jenna Myers lets the audience in on a secret — we’re not getting any younger, and our blood ages, too. (Credit: Robert Durell)

How much science can you learn in the time it takes to watch an ad break? 10 graduate students from each of UC’s campuses will put their science communication skills to the test in Sacramento at the 2026 Grad Slam.

This year, a special keynote presentation from California Senate President pro Tempore Monique Limón will address the importance of protecting federal research funding. Born and raised in the 21st district, Sen. Limón is the first mother and first Latina ever to hold the position of Senate President pro Tempore.

Learn more about Grad Slam and tune in for the livestream at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 22 to vote for your favorite researcher!

gradslam.universityofcalifornia.edu