The USask 3MP is a university-wide friendly competition where competitors will have 1 static slide and 3 minutes to explain the breadth and significance of their postdoctoral research to a non-specialist audience and showcase their research to a broad and diverse audience.   

This event is modelled after the UBC 3-Minute Postdoc Slam and the Three Minute Thesis event (with a few adjustments). Three Minute Thesis originated at the University of Queensland in 2008. 

The 2023 competition is entirely virtual; competitors will be required to prepare and submit a 3-minute video, which will be shared with the graduate and postdoctoral community and adjudicated by a panel of judges.

Videos are paired with the slides and ready for viewing until February 17, 2023.

The top two competitors will have the opportunity to present their 3MP in person at the Western Regional competitions (first place winner) and the USask's 3MT® Finals (second place winner).

2023 Gallery

3mppic.jpg

 

How does it work?

  • 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.

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

USask's 3MP winners circle

2021-2022 1st Place: Linzi Williamson
2nd Place: Pooja Choudhary
3rd Place: Cari Dawn McIlduff
People's Choice: Robyn Shuttleworth
2019-2020 1st Place: Ornwipa Thamsuwan
2nd Place: Alessandro Malusà
3rd Place: Edel Pérez-López