Kansas State University

K-State doctoral student makes it to final round of regional Three Minute Thesis competition

Submitted by Marcia Locke

Abigail Kreznor, doctoral student in chemistry in the College of Arts and Sciences, was a Top 10 finalist in the Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools' Three Minute Thesis, or 3MT, competition March 31 in Chicago, Illinois. She advanced to the regional competition after winning first place in Kansas State University's 3MT competition sponsored by the Graduate School Feb. 22.

Three Minute Thesis, a worldwide academic competition established in 2008 by the University of Queensland in Australia, challenges graduate students to hone their science communication skills by presenting a compelling oration on their thesis topic and its significance in three minutes using a single slide.

With her presentation, "Moving Brain Cancer: Studying cells in inexpensive ways," Kreznor beat 51 K-State contestants and was among the Top 10 of 55 regional contestants. She was awarded a $500 scholarship from the Graduate School.

"It was such an exciting experience to represent K-State and hear the research presentations from my fellow competitors from across the Midwest," Kreznor said. "I am very grateful to the Graduate School for providing this opportunity for me."

"Participating in the 3MT is an excellent way for graduate students to develop their research communication skills, which employers want," said Claudia Petrescu, vice provost for graduate education and dean of the Graduate School. "Abby did an outstanding job presenting her research and representing K-State."

"As I progress through my Ph.D. program, every chance to practice communicating science is extremely useful, and the 3MT allowed me to sharpen those skills," Kreznor said.

After earning her doctorate, Kreznor plans to work in the development of point-of-care technology, bringing affordable medical testing to the people and regions that need it. Her major professor is Christopher Culbertson, professor of chemistry and interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.