Instructions for speakers

  • The setting for MSI chalk talks is relatively informal, with candid conversation among scientific peers.
  • This is a true chalk talk. The media are chalk and words!
  • While there are 45 minutes allotted, we suggest that speakers prepare no more than 20 minutes of "agenda." That leaves time for a conversational flow with questions and answers during the talk. 
  • The topic for your presentation is completely up to you, but we encourage debate, problem-solving and knowledge-sharing in this forum between the speaker and the audience.
  • Please do not think of this as a chance to give "a seminar without slides." Think about this as if it were a conversation you would have with a friend over a cup of coffee.