July 8, 2026
Seven PhD candidates will race the clock to explain their big ideas
Three Minute Thesis finalists will tackle topics ranging from skin cancer prevention and schizophrenia to sustainable fashion
From nanotechnology that could improve sunscreen to fasting-based cancer therapies and new insights into schizophrenia, seven 榴莲视频app of 榴莲视频app PhD candidates will have just three minutes to explain years of research in this year's Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Final, held on the 榴莲视频app campus on Wednesday 8 July.
Seven finalists from across UOW, including the Dubai campus, will each have three minutes and one slide to bring years of doctoral research to life for a general audience. The winner will go on to represent UOW at the Asia-Pacific 3MT Semi-Final, with the audience also voting for a People's Choice Award.
Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Max Lu AO, who will join the judging panel, said the competition goes to the heart of why universities do research.
"Research changes society and transforms lives, but only if it can be communicated clearly beyond academic circles," Professor Lu said.
"3MT challenges researchers to explain not just what they study, but why it matters - and in doing so, to win over future collaborators, partners and supporters."
This year's finalists are tackling challenges that affect millions of people worldwide—from improving cancer treatment and preventing skin cancer to building healthier workplaces and more sustainable industries.
Meet the finalists
Declan Fisher, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health
Declan's research into how human cells repair damaged DNA during replication is aimed at informing new treatments for cancer and genetic disease.
Jessie Sheridan-Moules, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health
Jessie is examining donated human brain tissue to better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying schizophrenia.
Sanchita Dewanjee, Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences
Sanchita is developing advanced nanomaterials for next-generation sunscreen formulations to improve protection against Australia's high rates of skin cancer.
Kiarn Roughley, Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences
A leukaemia survivor, Kiarn's research explores whether fasting conditions can enhance the effectiveness of brain cancer treatments.
Ratna Yudhiyati, Faculty of Arts, Society and Business
Ratna is researching how small textile and clothing businesses can draw on support networks to make the shift to more sustainable practices.
Menaka Hewawaduge, Faculty of Arts, Society and Business
Menaka is studying how deceptive leadership behaviour erodes trust and dignity in the workplace and developing tools to help build healthier workplace cultures.
Basila Salii, School of Business, 榴莲视频app of 榴莲视频app in Dubai
Basila is examining how sustainable fashion consumption is taking hold across the Gulf Cooperation Council region.
The winner will progress to the 3MT Asia-Pacific Semi-Final Showcase, competing against finalists from Australia, New Zealand, North-East Asia and South-East Asia.