Three Minute Thesis competition
The challenge for doctoral researchers: communicate your research in just 180 seconds.
3MT 2023
The annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition challenges competitors to be clear, compelling, and, above all, concise as they deliver a spoken presentation on their research topic in a mere 180 seconds with one static slide. The semi-final and final will be in-person competitions, with a live audience and judging panel, held in June.Semi-final
Book your ticket for the semi-final on Tuesday 6 June 3 to 5:30 pm, Arts Complex B.H05 LT
The final
Book your ticket for the final on Wednesday 14 June 3 to 5 pm, Priory Road Complex main LT
Taking part in the 3MT competition was one of the most useful things I’ve done as part of my PhD. 3MT helps you distil your research into a quick and easy-to-understand format which you will find yourself using time and time again in your work. If you’ve ever dreamt of doing a TED Talk, this is your perfect starting point!
FAQs
The information below is from the official 3MT handbook provided by the University of Queensland, However, if you want to ask a question that isn’t covered, please contact the Bristol Doctoral College.
Am I eligible to take part in the competition?
The University of Queensland's official 3MT guidance states that you're eligible if you're an active PhD or Professional Doctorate (Research) candidate who has successfully passed your confirmation milestone by the date of your first presentation. (This includes candidates whose thesis is under submission.)
In practice, this means you'll be eligible to take part in our 3MT contest if you're undertaking one of the following research degrees:
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- Doctor of Education (EdD)
- Doctor of Educational Psychology (DEdPsy)
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
- Doctor of Social Science (DSocSci)
- Engineering Doctorate (EngD)
If you have any questions about eligibility, please contact the Bristol Doctoral College.
What are the rules of the competition?
The official rules, as outlined by the University of Queensland, are as follows:
- 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) is 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 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 judging panel is final.
Previous 3MT finals
Watch Bristol 3MT finals from previous years on YouTube.
About Three Minute Thesis
The Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) is an academic research communication competition developed by the University of Queensland (UQ), Australia.
Find out more about its origins on the Three Minute Thesis website.
Any questions? Email bdc-engagement@bristol.ac.uk