The symposium features a special adaptation of the Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) competition for PhD and professional degree students from McDonnell International Scholars Academy partner institutions.
Adapted for the Symposium, 3MT® presentations will be focused around one of the thematic areas listed below:
- Big Data and Emerging Technologies: How can big data and new technologies improve the human condition?
- Unlocking Human Potential: How do we create a world with opportunities for all?
- Our Planet at Risk: Can we humans save the planet from ourselves?
The university is tracking COVID-19. Get updates at coronavirus.wustl.edu.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the in-person proceedings of the 8th International Symposium will be postponed to fall 2021. We will, however, hold a virtual session on the original dates this October 2020. Please check back regularly for updates.
Eligibility Requirements
- Active graduate student (PhD and Master’s degree) at a McDonnell International Scholars Academy partner institution enrolled in a full-time graduate degree program at the time of entry into the competition and at the time of the symposium
- Able to deliver a 3MT® presentation focused on one of the three thematic areas
Entering the Competition & Selection Process
- Eligible students use the online entry form to submit a 3-minute video with one static PowerPoint slide explaining their research on a topic related to one of the three core themes of the symposium.
- Submissions must meet all rules and presentation requirements. Failure to meet the specified guidelines will result in disqualification.
- Following the close of the submission period, all entries will be evaluated for eligibility. Virtual heats will take place to determine semi-finalists (up to 6 per partner institution; maximum 2 per theme) and finalists (5 finalists per theme across all partner institutions). Panels of judges for each round of the competition assess contestants using the official 3MT® judging criteria.
- Before submitting an entry, contestants are expected to review the competition handbook for full information on eligibility, entry submission requirements, competition rules, judging criteria, and selection timeline.
Finalists & Winner Prizes
Students selected as finalists from partner institutions will be awarded up to $2,000 (USD) to cover travel costs to attend and present at the symposium. Winners in each theme selected by the panel of judges will receive a prize of $1,000 (USD); winners chosen by the audience (People’s Choice) will receive a prize of $500 (USD). Prizes are subject to U.S. tax withholding.
Resources
Additional resources for students interested in the 8th International Symposium 3MT® Competition may be added. Please check back regularly for updates.
- UQ 3MT® Competition Website
- 8th International Symposium 3MT® Competition Handbook
- View/Download 8th International Symposium Competition 3MT® Flyer
- 3MT® Competitors Guide
- Watch 3MT® Presentations
Questions? Contact:
Angie Rahaman
Communications and Alumni Relations Coordinator, McDonnell International Scholars Academy
Washington University in St. Louis
arahaman@wustl.edu
As the competition schedule is developed updates will be posted. Please check back regularly for the most current information.
Watch McDonnell Scholar Po-Cheng Lin delivering the winning presentation at the 3MT competition during the McDonnell Academy 7th International Symposium in Beijing.
About 3MT®
UQ’s internationally recognized Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) research competition was developed in 2008 and showcases the unique research conducted by PhD and professional degree students. Persuasively presenting their research topics before a live, non-specialist audience in less than three minutes using a single static PowerPoint slide, participation in the competition strengthens students’ academic and presentation skills while promoting cross-disciplinary understanding. Finalists selected after virtual heats will present live at the symposium in October 2020 to compete for cash prizes.