NERS students Colleen Campbell, Diego Muzquiz, and Valentin Pauly advanced to the final round of the competition, where Pauly earned the first-place prize for best overall presentation.
Three NERS graduate students demonstrated exceptional research communication skills in the 2025 Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition, held on February 27 at Pierpont Commons. The competition, sponsored by the Office of the Associate Dean for Graduate & Professional Education in partnership with the Office of Student Affairs, challenged Michigan Engineering graduate students to distill their complex research into a compelling three-minute presentation.
NERS students Valentin Pauly, Colleen Campbell, and Diego Muzquiz advanced to the final round of the competition, showcasing their ability to effectively communicate highly technical work to a general audience. Pauly delivered a standout performance, earning the competition’s award for best overall presentation and securing the first-place prize.
The 3MT competition, originally developed by The University of Queensland, Australia, is designed to enhance students’ research communication skills by encouraging them to present their work in a clear, concise, and engaging manner. The event provides PhD students with a unique opportunity to refine their public speaking skills and broaden the impact of their research beyond the academic community.
Finalists were selected from preliminary rounds held via Zoom on February 12 and 13, where participants were evaluated on their ability to convey the significance and impact of their research within a strict three-minute timeframe. The competition culminated in the final round on February 27, where students competed for top honors in front of a panel of judges and an engaged audience.
First Place
Prediction of neutron-irradiated microstructures via dual-ion irradiation
“The 3MT was a fantastic experience!” said Valentin. “It provided an opportunity not only to hone my communication skills but also to showcase to the public how the research conducted in NERS benefits society.”
Finalist
Get excited! Improving radiation detectors with optical excitation
“Being part of the 3MT competition was a great opportunity to learn how to explain my research to people outside of NERS!” said Colleen. “It really helps you take a step back and remember why we do the things we do beyond just the pursuit of new scientific knowledge.”
Finalist
Beryllium carbide as a moderating material for advanced nuclear reactors
“I had a great time participating in the 3MT!” said Diego. “It gave me the chance to simplify my work and remember why we do it in the first place. Plus, I finally have a way to explain my research to my family.”
Event photos by Brenda Ahearn/University of Michigan, College of Engineering, Communications and Marketing.