Researchers are stepping out of the labs, libraries and classrooms this week…and stepping up to take the three-minute challenge.

Graduate students from across the University will present their research – and its wider impact – in 180 seconds or less, using nothing more than a static presentation slide.

During preliminary heats on February 10 and 11, students will showcase their work on a variety of topics – from joint health to bio-sensor development to concussions. A panel of non-specialist judges will choose the top competitors from each heat, and those winners will move forward to the McMaster 3MT Final on February 12.

All are welcome to attend the competition heats and final. For a list of all the competitors, as well as the locations and times for each heat, visit the Graduate Studies website.

The 3MT Final takes place on Thursday, February 13, from 1:30-3:30 pm in CIBC Hall on the third floor of the McMaster University Student Centre.

The competition winner receives $1,000, with second and third place receiving $500 and $250 respectively. A People’s Choice award winner will receive $250.

The University’s competition is open to PhD and thesis-based/MRP Master’s students. The winner will represent McMaster at the provincial final to be at Western University on April 23. Graduate students from across Ontario will compete for the provincial title.