For this annual contest, UC San Diego and affiliate students, postdoctoral and faculty researchers are invited to submit images or graphics related to their research, along with a caption that explained their work in an engaging and accessible way. Images can be obtained by any imaging technique. Participants can submit photographs, microscope images, illustrations, visual depictions of complex datasets, the results of modeling and simulation, combined images, and creative representations of their work. Images can be modified to enhance their aesthetic, such as combining multiple images into one artistic work.

Award winning images are selected by a panel of judges from a range of academic disciplines and campus roles. The judges can also award up to three images for honorable mention. Finally, a separate prize is awarded to the overall crowd favorite, selected during the open voting period.