Temple University held its annual Three-minute Thesis (3MT) Competition on March 26, where 14 doctoral student finalists from across the university’s 17 schools and colleges presented their research in just three minutes. The event challenged participants to explain complex topics in a clear and engaging way for a general audience.
The competition highlights the importance of effective science communication and the ability to share academic work beyond specialized circles. Doctoral students were required to describe their research focus, the problem they address, and its broader significance within a strict time limit.
Lauren Bullock, associate professor of instruction and director of sports media at Temple’s Klein College of Media and Communication, served as emcee. “To take what you’re interested in and talk about it beyond just your advisor or your family, and to do it in a way that engages people who may not be familiar with your work, is really powerful,” Bullock said. “It’s not just about presenting research. It’s about developing the ability to bring others into the conversation.”
Before competing, students participated in professional development workshops designed to improve their communication skills through training sessions and mock presentations. Renée Tobin, dean of Temple’s graduate school, said: “We’re creating an environment where students can share their work surrounded by their peers, mentors and university leadership. It’s about supporting them at every stage and showcasing the strength of research across Temple.”
First place was awarded to Doyoung Kim for her presentation on curved surgical needles titled “Curved Surgical Needles: Why Insertion Strategies Matter.” Kim said: “I didn’t expect to win because there were so many great competitors, but when they called my name, I thought, ‘I did it.’ Now I’m representing Temple, and I want to make the most of that opportunity.” Her research aims to improve precision in minimally invasive surgeries by studying needle movement.
Second place went to Kristina Westover for her study on resilience among secondary school music teachers. Westover said: “It was really important to me to share this research because it’s something I care deeply about. This work is about understanding how teachers navigate challenges and what helps them keep going.” Lauren Nutinsky received the People’s Choice Award for her narrative inquiry into first-generation liberal arts majors’ career self-management.
