3MT Overview

Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) competition celebrates the research conducted by doctoral students. Developed by The University of Queensland (UQ), 3MT competitions cultivate students’ academic, presentation, and research communication skills. The competition supports their capacity to effectively explain their research in three minutes, in a language appropriate to a non-specialist audience.

UMaine’s 3MT Competition

After a long break due to COVID-19, the University of Maine is pleased to announce the return of the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. Coaching and practice sessions will be available in February and March to prepare students.

The competition will take place on March 22, 2024, at the IMRC from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. If time allows, three to five winners will be selected to present at the Student Symposium on Friday, April 12, 2024.

Eligibility

Active PhD and Professional Doctorate (Research) candidates who have successfully passed their confirmation milestone (including candidates whose dissertation is under submission) by the date of their first presentation are eligible to participate in 3MT competitions at all levels, including the Asia-Pacific 3MT competition. Graduates are not eligible.

UMaine is offering the opportunity for master’s students who are research-based and submitting a thesis as part of their degree program to participate in the local 3MT event. Master’s students do not qualify for regional or national 3MT competition events.

Prizes

A cash prize for first, second, and third place will be awarded to the finalists selected to present at the University of Maine Student Symposium on April 12, 2024. More information will be provided shortly.

Rules

• 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 3 minutes maximum and competitors exceeding 3 minutes are disqualified.
• Presentations are to be spoken word (e.g. 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 adjudicating panel is final.

How to Participate

Register to participate by completing this Google form by January 10, 2024.

Judging Criteria

At every level of the competition, each competitor will be assessed on the judging criteria listed below. Each criterion is equally weighted and has an emphasis on the audience.

Comprehension and Content:

• Did the presentation provide an understanding of the background and significance to the research question being addressed while explaining terminology and avoiding jargon?
• Did the presentation clearly describe the impact and/or results of the research, including conclusions and outcomes?
• Did the presentation follow a clear and logical sequence?
• Was the thesis topic, research significance, results/impact, and outcomes communicated in language appropriate to a non-specialist audience?
• 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?

Prep Sessions

• February 9 – Participant information session in 48 Stodder Hall at 12:00 p.m.
• February 14 – Open practice session in 57 Stodder Hall at 12:00 p.m.
• March 1 – Open practice session in 57 Stodder Hall at 12:00 p.m.
• March 8 – Open practice session in 57 Stodder Hall at 12:00 p.m.

Complete the participation sign-up form to be eligible to participate in the competition on March 22, 2024, at the IMRC from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Examples

Here are some videos you may find helpful as you prepare your 3MT presentation.