Three Minute Thesis (3MT)
Don't miss this opportunity to grow your research communication skills, get your research noticed, and make new friends.
What is 3MT?
The Three Minute Thesis (3MT) is an academic research communication competition developed by the University of Queensland. More than 900 universities in 85 countries take part in this exciting, fast-paced, annual event.
In a 3MT competition, doctoral candidates share the story of their research with a general audience in under three minutes, supported by only a single, static slide.
The University of Auckland 3MT competition is brought to you by the School of Graduate Studies (SGS). Faculty Heats take place in June each year, with the winners qualifying for the University of Auckland 3MT Final in July.
The winner of the University of Auckland 3MT Final goes on to represent the University internationally in the Asia-Pacific Virtual 3MT Competition and the U21 Virtual 3MT Competition.
Faculty Heats
Click on the links below to enter your Faculty Heat.
Note: You can apply to enter the online Open Heat if you are registered as an off-campus doctoral candidate, or you are from a faculty/LSRI which is not holding a heat (e.g. Liggins), or you have exceptional circumstances (e.g. unwell or travelling).
| 3MT Heats | Date | Registration link |
|---|---|---|
| Business & Economics / Law | Mon 8 June | Enter here |
| Arts & Education | Tues 9 June | Enter here |
| Science | Wed 10 June | Enter here |
| FMHS | Thurs 18 June | Enter here |
| Engineering & Design | Thurs 25 June | Enter here |
| Open Heat | Mon 29 June | Enter here |
| University of Auckland Final | Fri 17 July | Book tickets here |
How 3MT works
If you will be taking part in a 3MT faculty heat at the University of Auckland, it's important that you download this PDF to read the competition rules, judging criteria, entry terms and conditions, and competition structure.
Resources
Online guidance
- University of Queensland's top tips: 3MT competitor guide
- Deakin University's short videos: Mastering 3MT
- Deakin University's top tips: 3MT: Tips for presenting and public speaking
- Academic Positions: How to write a PhD elevator pitch
- ThinkWrite: Tips for effective design and use of the 3-minute thesis slide
Videos of previous winners
2025 Winner: Noah Bunkley (FMHS)
2025 People's Choice: Ross Millar (Faculty of Science)
2024 Winner: Inka Pleiss (Faculty of Science)
2024 Runner-up: Isurie Akarawita (Faculty of Engineering)
2024 People's Choice: Logan Ritchie (ABI)
2023 Winner: Cam Hoffbeck (Faculty of Science)
2023 Runner-up: Anantha Narayanan (Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences)
Prizes
- Citizen Watches
- Monetary prizes from Alumni Relations and Development
- E-vouchers from Auckland University Press
- Gym memberships at Hiwa from Sport and Recreation
- Clothing from Campus Store