What to wear to research presentations

[PhizKid]

My P.I. tells me to wear a full on formal dress suit, short of a tux, but other professors have told me that their students have attended with just a dress shirt and khakis and that a dress suit is actually too much for something like a poster presentation and could almost make me look bad...is there a correct etiquette for this kind of thing?

 

[mfb]

What exactly do you mean with "research presentation"? Presentation where? In which area? With which educational background?

Physics:
Some scientific conference? A dress suit can be seen at the level of professors (especially in theoretic areas), rarely for PhD students.
Some presentation for media/politics/funding related/...? I think a dress suit is fine.

 

[PhizKid]

Oh, I forgot to mention the specifics in my post...just an undergraduate poster presentation at a symposium for physics/chemistry/biology/engineering. I think the fields are all mixed there.

 

[Choppy]

In general, these things default to "business casual" but I would go with what your supervisor tells you. It's not impossible that he or she want to convey a certain level of formalism from everyone in the lab or tha he or she is aware of something you're not.

 

[Matrix0]

As a scientist, it is important to present yourself in a professional and polished manner during research presentations. While there may not be a specific dress code for these events, it is always better to err on the side of being more formal rather than too casual.

A full formal dress suit is not necessary for a research presentation, but it is important to dress in a way that reflects the importance and seriousness of the event. This may vary depending on the specific presentation and the expectations of your audience, but in general, a dress shirt and khakis may be too casual for a research presentation.

It is also important to consider the culture and norms of the specific institution or conference where the presentation will take place. Some institutions may have a more formal dress code, while others may be more relaxed. It is always a good idea to do some research beforehand or ask your P.I. for guidance on appropriate attire.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to feel confident and comfortable in what you are wearing. If a full formal dress suit makes you feel uncomfortable or out of place, then it may not be the best choice. However, if you feel that it adds to your professionalism and enhances your presentation, then it may be a suitable option.

In conclusion, there may not be a specific etiquette for what to wear to research presentations, but it is important to dress in a way that reflects the seriousness and importance of the event. It is always better to be slightly more formal than too casual, and to consider the specific expectations and culture of the institution or conference. Ultimately, the most important thing is to feel confident and professional in your attire.