3-Minute Thesis

3MT develops research communication skills, especially the ability to effectively explain research in language appropriate to a non-specialist audience. This is a very critical skill for effective communication during job interviews.

This competition is open to all graduate students affiliated with an academic institution in IEEE Region 5.

Interested students should submit their intent to compete form. First 16 students to submit the intent to compete will be invited for in person presentation and finally 8 students will be selected for the finals. The winner and the 1st runner up will get a chance to present at the IEEE Region 5, 2025 Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony.

• 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 considered to have commenced when a presenter starts their presentation through either movement or speech.
• A single static PowerPoint slide is permitted. No slide transitions, animations or movement) and 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.
• The decision of the adjudicating panel is final.

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 audience.

Comprehension & content

• Presentation provided clear motivation, background and significance to the research question
• Presentation clearly described the research strategy/design and the results/findings of the research
• Presentation clearly described the conclusions, outcomes and impact of the research

Engagement & communication

• The oration was delivered clearly, and the language was appropriate for a non-specialist audience
• The PowerPoint slide was well-defined and enhanced the presentation
• The presenter conveyed enthusiasm for their research and captured and maintained the audience’s attention

Winners will be awarded the following prize money

• 1st Place – $1000
• 2nd Place – $800
• 3rd Place – $700

A W-8 (foreign person) or W-9 (US person) withholding form is required by the IEEE Region 5 Treasurer prior to disbursement. The winners must also provide their current mailing address.

If you are interested in competing as a Team (or as an individual Student):

1. You must complete the Intent to Compete form to declare your intention to participate by the Intent to Compete Deadline.
2. If you are notified that your team has been accepted, your team members must Register for the conference by the Student Competition Registration Deadline or your team may be removed from the competition and any waitlisted teams will be given the opportunity to compete in your place.

See Registration for information on the registration fees.