Fancy trying to condense an 80,000 word thesis into a 180 second speech?
Research students from across the globe are doing just that in preparation for the Three Minute Thesis competition (3MT™).
Established by UQ in 2008, the initiative has quickly gained momentum, with the first Australia and New Zealand 3MT competition held in September last year. In 2011 students from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Hong Kong and Vietnam will also take part in their own regional events.
Dean of the UQ Graduate School Professor Zlatko Skrbis said 3MT provides a unique opportunity to profile and celebrate the innovative research conducted by postgraduates from around the world.
“We are thrilled that this competition has grown so rapidly over the past few years,” Professor Skrbis said.
“Last year we held the inaugural Australia and New Zealand competition which saw more than 30 universities participate in the event.
“3MT is not only a stand-alone academic communication competition, but part of a greater collection of skills training and professional development activities that UQ offers to all research students.”
Last year’s UQ 3MT winner, Tina Wu, said participating had allowed her to focus on the key messages in her project
“3MT ultimately helped with writing my PhD thesis. It also felt great to know that others are interested in my research,” Ms Wu said.
“Now I can tell my family and friends or anyone who is interested what my PhD is about in three minutes, and the public speaking skills I gained will be useful for my future career development.”
Almost 100 students participated in the University of British Columbia’s inaugural 3MT competition in May this year. Dr Elizabeth Wallace from UBC’s Faculty of Graduate Studies said she was delighted with student participation and enthusiasm for the concept.
“The competition will become an annual event at UBC and I hope that other universities throughout across Canada will join in the fun,” Dr Wallace said.
“Though it is a competition, 3MT is an extremely enjoyable and rewarding activity where students not only have the opportunity to develop their skill in presenting their work, but also share with their fellow students and the entire community their passion and
enthusiasm for discovery.”
3MT contestants must condense their research into a brief, engaging oration for a non-specialist audience, using a single presentation slide. Competitors are judged by a panel of five academics and industry representatives from a range of fields.
The 3MT winner is awarded $5000, with the runner up and People’s Choice, as voted by the audience, receiving $2000 and $1000 respectively.
The UQ 3MT Final will take place on Tuesday, September 13 at the St Lucia campus. All are welcome and can register their attendance at the Graduate School website.
This year the UQ winner will represent the University at the second Trans-Tasman competition to be held at the University of Western Australia in September. Last year’s Australian and New Zealand winner was Barlaka Banerjee from UWA.
Professor Skrbis said the 3MT concept held huge potential to encourage scientists to better communicate their research to the general public regardless of their location or discipline.
UQ’s research higher degree programs include the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Philosophy (MPhil). If you are interested in finding out more about research opportunities at UQ, contact the Graduate School UQ Advantage team at uqadvantage@gradschool.uq.edu.au or phone (07) 3346 0508.
Media: Dr Jessica Gallagher at the UQ Graduate School (07 3346 0508, j.gallagher@uq.edu.au)
About the UQ Graduate School
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is one of the highest degrees that can be awarded. It is an advanced academic qualification seen as a requirement for the majority of academic and research positions. PhD students conduct a research project, generally over a 3 to 4 year period, which involves formulation and identification of a significant problem, development of conceptual and methodological skills, and contribution of new knowledge.
A Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is also a postgraduate research degree involving a significant project which requires students to develop and enhance analytical and research skills through independent investigation. Usually conducted between 15 and 18 months, students develop specialist knowledge.
A PhD or MPhil can be completed in any field; from arts to social science, to nanotechnology or sustainable development.
Research higher degrees allow greater opportunity and choice, enable the pursuit of altruistic endeavours, enhance career focus, and create the next generation of innovators.
More than 4,000 students are undertaking a research degree at UQ are supported by the UQ Graduate School which focuses on enriching the quality of academic life; providing high standards if supervision, and assisting RHD students throughout their degree and in career opportunities in academia, industry, or government.
The Graduate School coordinates year-long Skills Training programs, Graduate Student Week events, an annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT™) competition, and research commercialisation training.
UQ has supported over 13,000 students to complete their research degree.
