Join a Workshop Compete in 3MT


Share your research with the world—fast.


Three Minute Thesis empowers University of Iowa graduate and professional students to bring their groundbreaking research and scholarship to life in just 180 seconds.​

It’s not simply a competition; it’s leadership development at its finest, strengthening the communication skills essential for advancing research and deepening public understanding. 

The program is open to all master’s and PhD students conducting their own research.

Key Dates

  • Friday, September 11: Info Session
  • Friday, October 2, 11:59 PM CT: Registration Deadline
  • Thursday, October 8 - Friday, October 9: Preliminary Rounds
  • Friday, November 6: Finals & Awards

 

How to Participate

1. Learn & Prepare: Attend the 3MT Info Session (Friday, September 11, virtual) and sign up for optional prep workshops.
2. Register: Deadline Friday, October 2. Preliminary rounds Oct 8–9.
3. After You Register: Access the 3MT ICON course for full competition details.

 

Improve Your Presentation

The Graduate College hosts a series of optional workshops to help competitors prepare their presentations:

  • Narrating Research: Mastering the 3MT for Humanities and Social Sciences - Friday, September 18 at 2 pm (virtual)
  • Science in a Nutshell: Distilling Physical and Health Science Research - Friday, September 18 at 2 pm (virtual)
  • 3MT Office Hours - Friday, September 25 at 2 pm (in-person)
  • Speaking Confidently: Elevate Your Stage Presence and Practice Your Pitch - Friday, October 2 at 2 pm (in-person)

 

Prizes

  • All finalists (outside of winners) receive $250

  • Winning prizes:

    • Overall Winner (Judge’s Choice): $1,000 and eligibility for regional 3MT competition
    • Honorable Mention: $500
    • People’s Choice: $500
    • Dean’s Cup: Trophy to the winning competitor’s department

     

Judging Criteria

Winners will be determined by a panel of judges using the official 3MT competition rubrics to judge the presentations. Judges will be invited from the University of Iowa faculty and staff, previous 3MT winners, and the local community.

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?

Inspire the next generation

Learn how 3MT participants share their work with high school students and undergraduates.

Learn more