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The Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition is an academic contest that challenges postgraduate researchers (PGRs) to deliver a compelling spoken presentation on their research topic and its significance in just three minutes. Originating at the University of Queensland, 3MT competitions are now held at institutions worldwide, providing researchers with a platform to refine their communication skills and engage a broader audience.

About the Sussex 2026 3MT competition

The University of Sussex is excited to announce the return of the 3MT competition for 2026, with the final scheduled to take place on campus in late-June as part of the Summer of Research.

To broaden participation, this year’s competition will feature heats in each of the four faculties, with the top three participants from each heat advancing to the Sussex final. These preliminary rounds will be conducted in informal settings, offering participants a supportive environment to present their research and engage with peers across various disciplines.

Over the next weeks, Research and Enterprise Coordinators for each Faculty will be reaching out to PGRs to invite them to express their interest in participating in their respective 3MT heats. Your Faculty coordinators will also provide details about training sessions and the support available to help you prepare.

Keep an eye on your emails and sign up before your faculties deadline to secure your spot in the competition. 

Why should PGRs participate?

Participating in the 3MT competition offers several benefits for postgraduate researchers:

• Hone your ability to communicate complex ideas succinctly and effectively, a valuable skill for academic and professional success.
• Showcase your work to a diverse audience, potentially attracting interest and collaboration opportunities.
• Engage with fellow researchers from different disciplines, fostering interdisciplinary connections and insights.
• Compete for a chance to win £500 towards your research and secure a place in the Vitae UK semi-finals. Additional prizes of £250 are available for the runner-up and the People’s Choice award.

Key dates to remember

• February-April: Faculty heats conducted to select finalists.
• Wednesday, 13 May: Training day for finalists to refine their presentations.
• Tuesday, 2 June: Peer practice day for finalists to rehearse and receive feedback.
• Late-June: Sussex 3MT final held on campus during the Summer of Research.

Participating in the 3MT competition is a unique opportunity to develop your presentation and research communication skills, as well as to meet other PGRs from across the University who are taking on the challenge.

For more information and to view presentations from previous years, visit the University of Sussex’s 3MT webpage.