SW New Mexico News

Students at New Mexico State University's Graduate School will soon have the opportunity to present their research in a unique competition designed to enhance scientific communication skills. The annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition is scheduled for Friday, January 31, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Corbett Center Student Union auditorium.

The Graduate School began hosting this event in 2024, taking over from the College of Arts and Sciences, which had been organizing it since 2012. "Academic research is often characterized by jargon and field-specific terms which are not necessarily applicable to general audiences," stated Rick Marlatt, Graduate School Associate Dean. He emphasized that simplifying complex topics helps students communicate their research's significance effectively.

Eligible participants include doctorate candidates who have passed their confirmation milestone or master's degree thesis-option candidates graduating in spring 2025. The winner will earn a trip to the Western Association of Graduate Schools 3MT Competition in Denver, Colorado, from March 16-19.

Ranjit Koodali, Graduate School Dean, remarked on the benefits of participating: “The opportunity for a graduate student to share key research findings in front of peers from diverse geographical locations would help bring visibility and help to promote the high quality of scholarly activity being pursued at NMSU.”

Prizes also include scholarships: $500 for second place, $250 for third place, and $100 participation awards for other finalists. Beyond these incentives, the event aims to develop students' academic and presentation skills.

Rick Marlatt highlighted the broader impact of such events: “3MT offers NMSU’s emerging researchers a dynamic platform to showcase the exciting research they have conducted alongside their major professors and thesis advisors." He noted that these partnerships demonstrate the strength of graduate education at NMSU.