Three-minute thesis
Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) is a competition established by the University of Queensland in 2008 that has since spread to more than 600 universities across the world.
Could you explain your thesis in 180 seconds?
Doctoral students are challenged to condense their research into a talk of three minutes or less that is engaging, inspiring and entertaining for a non-specialist audience.
One static PowerPoint slide, no other resources or props, and a three-minute countdown timer.
Visit the official 3MT website to learn more about the competition history and rules, gain valuable preparation tips, and check out videos.
The University of Surrey 3MT® competition 2023 is now open.
The Three Minute Thesis competition celebrates the amazing research conducted by Postgraduate Researchers at Surrey.
PGRs from all faculties who have passed their confirmation milestone are invited to submit a three-minute video.
This professional research communication competition – originally founded by the University of Queensland – cultivates PGRs’ academic, presentation, and professional communication skills. Along with the opportunity to win prizes, it is an opportunity to raise the profile of your research and boost your career.
Additionally, you can use your 3MT® video:
- On LinkedIn for professional networks and prospective employers to see.
- On other social media (e.g. Twitter, TikTok, Instagram) as a means of communicating your research to your wider networks.
Zoom briefing session
To find out more about the competition, sign up HERE for our virtual briefing session on 27th March 2023, 15.00-16.00 (UK time).
Training Workshops
To support the development of communication and presentation skills, knowledge of the competition and to help build confidence PGRs are invited to participate in one of the following virtual 3MT skills workshops:
- Friday 14th April, 10.00-12.00 (UK time).
- Tuesday 18th April, 14.00-16.00 (UK time).
These workshops are useful for skills development, even if you are unsure whether you want to participate in the competition, and there is no obligation to participate after attending the training. For full workshop details and to book your place, please log into Surrey Self Service.
Submit your video
To submit your recording please complete the 3MT submission form where you will be asked to upload your video file. The deadline for recorded 3MT submissions is Tuesday 2nd May, 10am (UK time).
Finalists, winners and prizes
The Surrey 3MT Judges’ Choice Winner and the People’s Choice Winner will be announced at the 2023 PGR & ECR Research Conference, 15th of June.
Six Surrey Finalists will each win £50 worth of Amazon vouchers and the overall Judges’ winner will win £100 voucher, with the Judges’ Runner up and the People’s Choice Winner each receiving £50 worth of vouchers.
The Judges’ Choice Winner will be entered into the national competition, coordinated by Vitae.
Watch a Three Minute Thesis
