• All active USask Postdoctoral Scholars are eligible to participate in the 3MP
• There is no limit to the number of participants/registrants
• Presentations must be based on research that is directly related to your postdoctoral work on campus

Registering is simple – just fill in the short online entry form and submit it by 12:00 PM on January 30th. 

Remember,

• Presenters must register for the event and be able to submit their video and PowerPoint slide by February 6th
• One single static PowerPoint slide is permitted
• No slide transitions, animations or ‘movement’ of any description are permitted
• Your slide is to be presented from the beginning of your oration
• No additional electronic media (e.g. sound and video files) are permitted
• Video’s will be paired with the slides and will be posted online from February 13 – 17, 2023  

Suggestions,

• Less is more: text and complicated graphics can distract your audience – you don’t want them to read your slide instead of listening to your talk
• Personal touches: personal touches can allow your audience to understand the impact of your research
• Creativity drives interest: do not rely on your slide to convey your message – it should simply complement your oration
• Work your message: think about how your slide might be able to assist with the format and delivery of your presentation – is there a metaphor that helps explain your research?
• An engaging visual presentation can make or break any oration, so make sure your slide is legible, clear and concise

 Check out Antonia's presentation tips

Competitors will be required to prepare and submit a video and separate PowerPoint slide according to the following guidelines:  

1. Presenters are allowed a single static PowerPoint slide; no slide transitions, animations or 'movement' of any description are allowed. 
2. No additional electronic media (e.g. sound and video files) are permitted. 
3. No additional props (e.g. laser pointers, costumes, musical instruments, laboratory equipment) are permitted. 
4. Presentations are limited to 3 minutes maximum, strictly enforced. 
5. Presentations are to be spoken words (e.g. no poems, raps or songs)l
6. The decision of the adjudicating panel is final.

Competitors wil be judged based on two criteria:

Comprehension and Content

Engagement and Communication

Did the presentation provide an understanding of the background to the research question and its significance? Did the presentation clearly describe the key results of the research including conclusions and outcomes? Was the presentation clear and logical? Was the language used appropriately for a non-specialist audience? Did the presenter make good use of the three-minute allotment? Or did the presentation feel rushed?

Did the oration make the audience want to learn more? Was the presenter careful not to generalize their research? Did the presenter convey enthusiasm for their research? Did the presenter capture and maintain the audience's attention? Did the presenter have sufficient stage presence, eye contact, and vocal range? Did the presenter maintain a steady pace and confident stance? Did the static slide enhance the presentation? Was it clear, legible, and concise?

 

Competitors will be competing for the following prizes:

• 1st Place: Prize pack valued at $100, AND the opportunity to present your 3MP in-person at the Western Regional 3MT® competition in May 2023 
• 2nd Place: Prize pack valued at $50, AND the opportunity to present your 3MP in-person at the local USask 3MT® Finals in April 2023 
• 3rd Place: Prize pack valued at $25
• People’s Choice: Prize pack valued at $25 

All competitors must complete these forms and include them with their registration details.

•  Photo release form
•  Personal information release form

• Simon Clews (University of Melbourne) has prepared a helpful guide on  preparing for the Three Minute Thesis Competition
• Jackie Amsden (Simon Fraser University) discusses how narrative frameworks can help grad students effectively tell their research story
• Matt Abrahams (Stanford University) provides Tips and Techniques for More Confident and Compelling Presentations
• Matt Abrahams (Stanford University) podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart: advice for impromptu speaking
• Anett Grant (Executive Speaking) addresses Six Pieces of Bad Speaking Advice That Just Won’t Die
• Inger Mewburn (RMIT University) developed How to Talk About Your Thesis in 3 Minutes
• Henry Miller (UT Health San Antonio) shares 11 Tips For The 3 Minute Thesis Competition
• Canadian Association for Graduate Studies CAGS) – The Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) in Canada

Contact Chelsea Smith, Professional Development and Postdoctoral Studies Coordinator, at chelsea.smith@usask.ca