How are applications submitted?

Graduate students who wish to take part in the Three-Minute Thesis competition must submit an abstract of no more than 250 words using the online form. The Abstract Submission Deadline is January 31, 2023.

How will applications be selected?

Your abstract must convince the reviewers that your presentation will be of an appropriate standard. Abstracts should:

• Be limited to 250 words
• Describe research conclusions and broader impact
• Explain the importance of those conclusions and broader impact
• Be written in plain English for a lay audience

The purpose of 3MT™ competitions is for students to communicate their research in a concise and engaging manner that someone with no background in your subject can understand.

It is not necessary to summarize your entire research project. Many students choose to focus on a specific aspect of their research and the best presentations often take this approach.

When will I find out if my application is successful?

We will notify applicants of the outcome of their application the first week of February.

• A single static PowerPoint slide is permitted. No slide transitions, animations or 'movement' of any description are allowed. The slide is to be presented from the beginning of the oration.
• No additional electronic media (e.g. sound and video files) are permitted.
• No additional props (e.g. costumes, musical instruments, laboratory equipment) are permitted.
• Presentations are limited to three minutes maximum and competitors exceeding three minutes will be disqualified.
• Presentations are to be presented in the spoken word (eg. no poems, raps or songs).
• Presentations are to commence from the stage.
• Presentations are considered to have commenced when a presenter starts their presentation through either movement or speech.
• The decision of the judging panel is final.

• Did the presentation provide an understanding of the background to the research question being addressed and its significance?
• Did the presentation clearly describe the key results of the research including conclusions and outcomes?
• Did the presentation follow a clear and logical sequence?
• Were the thesis topic, key results and research significance and outcomes communicated in language appropriate to a non-specialist audience?
• Did the speaker avoid scientific jargon, explain terminology and provide adequate background information to illustrate points?
• Did the presenter spend adequate time on each element of their presentation - or did they elaborate for too long on one aspect? Was the presentation rushed?

• Did the oration make the audience want to know more?
• Was the presenter careful not to trivialize or generalize their research?
• Did the presenter convey enthusiasm for their research?
• Did the presenter capture and maintain their audience's attention?
• Did the speaker have sufficient stage presence, eye contact and vocal range, maintain a steady pace, and have a confident stance?
• Did the PowerPoint slide enhance the presentation (i.e. was it clear, legible, and concise?)?

Doctoral Competition

Winner: $500
Runner-up: $250
Third Place: $150

People's Choice: $100 (Audience members will vote for the "People's Choice" winner at the Finals)

Master's Competition

Winner: $500
Runner-up: $250
Third Place: $150

People's Choice: $100 (Audience members will vote for the "People's Choice" winner at the Finals)