INL’s 3MT competition is back: showcasing PhD research in just 3 minutes

March 24, 2025

On March 12, INL hosted the second edition of its Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition, bringing together eight PhD candidates eager to share their research in an engaging and accessible format. With a fantastic round of presentations, the challenge was intense: simplify complex research into a compelling three-minute talk for a non-specialist audience.

The competition highlighted INL’s commitment to fostering strong science communication skills among early-stage researchers. Participants took the stage to captivate the audience and jury, demonstrating not only their expertise but also their ability to make cutting-edge science approachable and impactful.

After an exciting session, three outstanding presentations stood out. Leonor Ribeiro, a second-year PhD candidate in Nieder group, presented her work on a novel nanoparticle for combined photodynamic and immunotherapy of lung cancer. Leonor shared, “Summarising a PhD thesis in just three minutes is challenging but valuable to learn how to communicate your own research clearly and engagingly. I highly recommend it to any student feeling stuck in their work, as it can reignite their enthusiasm.”

João Borlido, a second-year PhD candidate in iMiNa group, focused on the role of metasurfaces in high-performance CMOS image sensors for automotive applications. Looking back on the challenge of summarising his research in just three minutes, he remarked, “Finding a way to engage the public while effectively conveying all the essential information and significance was challenging but deeply rewarding. I encourage every PhD candidate to embrace this opportunity.”

Sofia Araújo Pereira, a first-year PhD candidate in Bañobre group, explored the potential of magnetic lipid nanoparticles for treating neuroinflammation in diseases such as Parkinson’s and Machado-Joseph. Sofia said, “The 3MT was an incredibly rewarding experience. Standing there, I felt a deep connection with the audience as I shared my vision for a future where we can treat neurological diseases. It was more than a challenge to communicate science – it was about using my research to spark emotion and inspire hope for the future. Leaving the stage, I felt inspired, more confident, and even more determined to make the most of my PhD journey.”

These three finalists will now take the stage next week at the INL Annual Research Symposium, INL’s flagship internal event dedicated to strengthening scientific exchange and collaboration. Over three days, INL researchers and engineers will come together to showcase their latest breakthroughs through presentations, demo exhibitions, and thought-provoking discussions. The 3MT final will be one of the highlights of the event, demonstrating that great science can be powerful, engaging, and accessible to all.

Stay tuned for the grand finale, where clarity, creativity, and scientific impact will take centre stage. All in just three minutes!