The Graduate School

SBU 3MT

Three Minutes. One Slide. Your Research.

What is the Three Minute Thesis (3MT®)?

Three Minute Thesis, or 3MT® for short, is a spoken word thesis competition, developed by The University of Queensland (UQ), Australia. The 3MT® is an opportunity for SBU graduate students to present their dissertation research findings to a general audience in three minutes with only one PowerPoint slide. The goal is for students to engage all their communication skills to make their research vivid and engaging while emphasizing its key point without jargon, and gain professional development along the way.

At Stony Brook, our students craft their talks as part of a  cohort, undergoing coaching from research communication experts grounded in techniques from the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science.

Expert Coaching

Receive individualized coaching grounded in techniques from the Alda Center. Hone your skills in a supportive peer group.

Broad Impact

Translate complex jargon into vivid, engaging stories. Share your dissertation findings with a general audience.

Cash Prizes

Compete for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place cash awards, plus a People's Choice award. Sponsored by the SBU Alumni Association.

Sponsors

Eligibility

  • SBU Doctoral Students who have advanced to candidacy (G5 or equivalent) by the speaker sign-up deadline;
  • Are enrolled full-time in Spring 2026 and in good standing;
  • Have advanced in their dissertation to a stage where findings, preliminary conclusions, and broader impact can be discussed;
  • Must have dissertation advisor support; and
  • Commit to 3 coaching sessions.
  • Students may only participate in 3MT once.

Competition Guidelines

The Slides

A single, static PowerPoint slide is permitted. No slide transitions, animations, or movement.

The Time

Strictly three minutes maximum. Exceeding the time limit results in disqualification.

The Speech

Spoken word (e.g., no poems, raps, or songs). Must be distinct and audible.

See the Full Judging Criteria

2026 Competition Winners

Want to Experience More?

Past Winners and Competitions

Join Us For the Competition

All faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to attend this engaging and insightful competition to witness impactful research presentations and expand your knowledge.