The UC Tech Conference is dedicated to creating a lively event for meaningful learning, collaboration, and dialogue. We invite UC staff and faculty to share their insights and expertise by submitting session proposals. To get started, view the program tracks, session formats, and selection criteria for your proposal, below. For questions, please contact uctech@ucmerced.edu.
Session proposal submissions are now open! The deadline for submissions is March 23 at 11:59 p.m. (Pacific Time).
Program Tracks
There are seven areas of focus:
- Enabling Learning and Discovery
- Forging Intelligent Infrastructure
- Leading Through Change
- Running the System
- Secure by Design
- Systems of Care
- The Human Interface
Session Formats
There are four ways to present:
- Presentation: Speakers share a project in detail, followed by a Q&A. Session length is 45 minutes.
- Panel: Speakers share diverse perspectives on a topic, with a moderator guiding the conversation and facilitating audience Q&A. Session length is 45 minutes.
- Birds of a Feather: Participants with common areas of expertise gather and have discussions. Session length will vary and the Planning Committee will reach out to coordinate.
- Poster: Speakers display their research poster for the full duration of the conference and are assigned a 45-minute time slot to chat with attendees visiting the poster showcase.
If your proposal is accepted, the Planning Committee may reach out and see if your session might work better in a different program track or format.
Selection Criteria
Proposals will be reviewed by the Planning Committee and UC Tech Ambassadors using these three criteria:
- Topic Relevance: Is the topic of importance, relevance, value, and/or interest to the chosen program track?
- Topic Depth: Does the proposal reflect deep understanding of the topic through comprehensiveness, clarity, and accuracy?
- Learning and Engagement: Does the proposal outline achievable session outcomes and strategies to effectively engage the audience?
Applicants will be notified of their proposal status in mid-April.
Proposal FAQs
When and where is UC Tech 2026?
The UC Tech Conference will be held in-person at UC Merced from July 8-10.
Who is the audience?
The audience will be mainly UC staff and faculty who are involved with or interested in technology.
Can vendors submit a proposal?
No, submissions for the Call for Proposals are only open to UC staff and faculty. Vendors may participate as co-presenters in a session if a UC member is the primary presenter and submitter of the proposal.
What happens after I submit?
The submission deadline is March 23, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. (Pacific Time). Applicants will be notified if their submission has been accepted in mid-April. If selected, you must confirm your participation to present at the UC Tech Conference.
What do I receive if my session is selected?
The primary presenter will receive one complimentary registration to this year's in-person UC Tech Conference. If you are part of a group, only one individual may receive the complimentary registration.