▎TEACHING & LEARNING

Since its inception in 2012, the 3 Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition in Life Sciences has aimed to increase public understanding of scientific research. In 2024, the event was jointly organized by the Life Science Research Promotion Center, National Chung Hsing University, National Cheng Kung University, and the Institute of Atomic and Molecular Sciences at Academia Sinica. Following preliminary rounds held across northern, central, and southern Taiwan, the grand finale, hosted by NTU’s College of Life Science, was held on October 26, 2024.

Participants in the 3MT competition are challenged to present complex life science concepts and their research findings in just three minutes using a single static slide. This format encourages the participants to practice clear, concise, and engaging communication, improving their oral presentation skills while making intricate scientific ideas accessible to the general public.

A distinguished panel of judges was invited from academia, industry, and communication: Dr. Pin-Kuang Lai, Academia Sinica; Mr. Wesley Chen, HiGee Co., Ltd.; Ms. Li Chiu-Yue, TAHO Pharmaceuticals; Dr. Maggie Lu, the Industrial Technology Research Institute, and Ms. Hui-Yu Chiang, a chemistry teacher, Taipei First Girls High School.

The participants skillfully articulated their research motivations, methods, and results within the strict three-minute time limit, showcasing Taiwan’s emerging talent in the life sciences. Dean Bor-Luen Chiang of NTU’s College of Life Science warmly commended the participants for their composure and emphasized the importance of delivering core scientific ideas clearly under public scrutiny.

The 3MT competition not only highlighted the creativity and potential of the young scientists, it also underscored the importance of effective science communication in bridging the gap between research and the broader public.