BU Research Blog

The Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) competition is back. Originally established by the University of Queensland, this globally recognised challenge invites doctoral researchers to condense their entire thesis into a high-impact, three-minute presentation designed for a general audience

The first BU round of the competition will take place via pre-recorded presentations.

To participate, you must:

• Complete the online application form
• Submit your video to pgrskillsdevelopment@bournemouth.ac.uk via BU Transfer

Deadline: Both your online application form and video presentation must be submitted by 9am on Monday 20 April.

Please note: Applications submitted without a presentation will not be considered for Faculty selection.

A Faculty Panel will select a winner for each school. Finalists will be invited to the in-person BU Final on campus on Wednesday 17 June.

Prepare Your Submission

To ensure your presentation meets the official criteria and recording standards, please consult these resources

• 3MT Video Recording Guide
• Virtual Competition Rules

Eligibility Criteria

You are eligible to apply if:

• You are an active PhD or Professional Doctorate candidate
• You have successfully passed your Probationary Review

Exclusions: MRes/MPhil students, graduates, and students currently on interruption are not eligible.

Remote & Part-Time Researchers: If you cannot attend the campus final due to your status, a pre-recorded video submission is permitted in accordance with official rules.

Why Join the Challenge?

• Refine Public Speaking: Master the “elevator pitch” for complex data
• Boost Your Profile: Gain visibility within the university and the wider research community
• National Recognition: The winner will represent BU at the National Vitae 3MT competition
• Earn Prizes: All finalists receive a Doctoral College backpack, plus a chance to win:
  • 1st Prize: £150 voucher
  • 2nd Prize: £100 voucher
  • 3rd Prize: £50 voucher
  • People’s Choice: £50 voucher

Learn More

For more on the history and global impact, visit the official Vitae and 3MT® websites.

Further information is available on Brightspace

Watch the 2025 BU winners here

Registration to attend the final will open in May.

If you have any questions, please contact the team at: pgrskillsdevelopment@bournemouth.ac.uk