Three Minute Thesis (3MT) is a research communication event founded by the University of Queensland in 2008. The event 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 each spring, joins over 900 universities worldwide that host local 3MT events.
Though 3MT does involve a competitive element, all doctoral and master’s students from thesis-bearing programs are encouraged to participate to develop important communication skills, practice presenting research to a general audience, and celebrate their research in the broader IU community.
2024 eligibility and dates
Current IUB master’s and doctoral students are eligible to participate. 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.
This year’s 3MT event also serves as a celebration of Graduate Research at Indiana University, Bloomington. Through their advanced training, graduate researchers serve at the forefront of exploration, discovery, and creative activity, and we cordially invite all graduate students who’ve presented at academic conferences over the past year to attend the 3MT reception to celebrate their achievements and receive recognition from the Graduate School and the IU community.
Important Dates
For the 2024 Three Minute Thesis event, participants must complete an application form and upload their presentation slides to register.
February 2, 2024, 5 p.m. ET: Deadline for participants to complete the application form and upload the presentation slide.
February 15, 2024: Attend the 3MT Event in the Frangipani Room, Indiana Memorial Union from 2:30-6:30pm. We invite you to enjoy refreshments while watching the presentations and to come and go as your schedule allows. The event is free and 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.).
We recommend that participants use Kaltura to record presentations to practice for the live event. Kaltura recordings can be shared with friends, colleagues, and advisors for feedback.
Our 3MT Kaltura channel includes short videos about preparing your script and slides:
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, 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 and 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. Questions about 3MT may be directed to Trevor Verrot.
By entering the IUB event, students agree to participate in the MAGS regional competition if selected. In the event the first-place presenter is unable to compete at MAGS, the runner-up will be nominated to participate.
Previous 3MT winners
Congratulations to the winners of our Indiana University Bloomington Three Minute Thesis competition!
