Improve your research communication

Uffe Kjærgaard, PhD student at the Department of Clinical Medicine, won 3MT at Aarhus University in 2025. He entered the competition to improve his communication skills: “I conduct research on a specific metabolic MRI scanning technique, and I wanted to practise explaining this topic clearly and concisely. I also know from personal experience that I quickly lose interest when re-searchers present their results on PowerPoint slides crammed full of information – even though the results themselves are interesting. This is a shame because good research deserves good research communication. I had fun competing in 3MT, and I learned a lot. It has completely changed the way I approach my presen-tations,” says Uffe Kjærgaard.

9 December 2025 by Ida Hammerich Nielson

Do your friends’ eyes glaze over when you talk about your research? Do you want to feel more confident when journalists call? Or when you present to companies at your next conference?

The 3MT competition can give you the skills you need. Sign up by 16 January 2026 and take part on 4 March 2026 as an enthusiastic audience cheers on this year’s participants in the Stakladen event hall. The 3MT challenge is simple: Present your research in just three minutes with just one slide and no other resources – for an audience of non-specialists.

All participating PhD students receive professional coaching and feedback on communication, body language and public speaking before the event – to help you get your message across on stage.

The winner will receive a travel grant of DKK 35,000 and the chance to be among the three finalists who go through to the international Coimbra final, selected from over 35 European universities.

The competition will be held in English. Read more about the application process, eligibility criteria and training you’ll receive at phd.au.dk/3mt.

Improve your research communication – and win DKK 35,000