Three Minute Thesis (3MT) is a research communication competition founded by the University of Queensland in 2008. The competition challenges master's and doctoral students to present a compelling oration on their thesis or dissertation research and its significance to a general audience in just three minutes. IU Bloomington, which hosts its annual 3MT competition each spring, joins over 900 universities worldwide that host local 3MT events.
2023 Competition Eligibility and Dates
Current IUB master’s and doctoral students are eligible to compete. Presentations must be based on thesis or dissertation research or, in the case of non-thesis master’s students, a culminating research project required by the student's program of study. Past IUB competition winners may not enter.
Competition Dates
For the 2023 Three Minute Thesis competition, the preliminary round will be hosted virtually and the final round and awards ceremony will be hosted in-person.
January 26, 5pm ET: Submit your recording of your 3 Minute Thesis for the preliminary round (create your video in Kaltura and submit the Kaltura URL).
February 10: Attend the Final Round competition and Awards Ceremony Friday, February 10, 1:30pm ET in the Frangipani Room, Indiana Memorial Union. The awards ceremony is open to the public.
Use #Hoosier3MT to follow IUB’s 3MT competition on social media.
A single, static PowerPoint slide is required. No slide transitions or animations are permitted. The slide will be visible throughout the student’s presentation. Examples of presentation slides will be provided to registrants.
Students are allowed a single index 3x5” index card for notes, though they are encouraged to present without.
No additional electronic media (e.g., sound or video files) are permitted.
No additional props (e.g., costumes, musical instruments, laboratory equipment, pointers) are permitted.
Presentations must be held within the three-minute time limit to remain in qualification.
Presentations are to be spoken word (e.g., no poems, rapping, songs, etc.).
Our 3MT Kaltura channel includes short videos about preparing your script and slides:
Click here to watch examples of 3MT presentations from around the world.
Comprehension & Content
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?
Was 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 or was the presentation rushed?
Engagement & Communication
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 - was it clear, legible, and concise?
Stipends will be awarded to the top three presentations at the final competition as chosen by a panel of judges and, for the People’s Choice Award, by audience ballot.
Winner: $500
Runner Up: $250
People’s Choice: $250
Students can request an appointment with a career coach via Handshake, or email Trevor Verrot directly.
Questions about IUB’s 3MT competition can be directed to Dr. Katie Kearns.
By entering the IUB event, students agree to participate in the MAGS regional competition if selected. In the event the first place winner is unable to compete at MAGS, the runner up will be nominated to participate.
Previous 3MT Winners
Congratulations to the following winners of our Indiana University Bloomington Three Minute Thesis competition!