Eligibility

To be eligible to take part in the competition you must be registered for a doctoral degree (PhD or Professional Doctorate) at the University of Bath but not yet had your final viva by the date of your first competitive 3MT® presentation.

Taking part in 3MT®

Applications have now closed for 3MT® 2019.

3MT® competition rules

The following rules must be strictly followed to avoid disqualification:

• only a single static PowerPoint slide is permitted
• no slide transitions, animations or 'movement' of any description are allowed
• the slide is to be presented from the beginning of the talk
• no additional electronic media (e.g. sound and video files) are permitted
• no additional props (e.g. costumes, musical instruments, laboratory equipment) are permitted
• presentations are limited to a maximum of three minutes - competitors exceeding three minutes will be disqualified
• presentations are to be spoken word (e.g. no poems, raps or songs)
• presentations are considered to have commenced when a presenter starts their presentation through either movement or speech
• the decision of the judging panel is final

Judging criteria

3MT® presentations will be judged against the following:

Comprehension and content

• did the presentation provide an understanding of the background to the research question being addressed and its significance?
• did the presentation clearly describe the key results of the research including conclusions and outcomes?
• did the presentation follow a clear and logical sequence?
• was the thesis topic, key results and research significance and outcomes communicated in language appropriate to a non-specialist audience?
• did the speaker avoid research jargon, explain terminology and provide adequate background information to illustrate points?
• did the presenter spend adequate time on each element of their presentation - or did they elaborate for too long on one aspect or was the presentation rushed?

Engagement and communication

• did the presentation make the audience want to know more?
• was the presenter careful not to trivialise or generalise their research?
• did the presenter convey enthusiasm for their research?
• did the presenter capture and maintain their audience's attention?
• did the speaker have sufficient stage presence, eye contact and vocal range; maintain a steady pace, and have a confident stance?
• did the PowerPoint slide enhance the presentation - was it clear, legible, and concise?