By Andi Anderson
Kathleen Tierney, a graduate student in the Department of Agriculture, emerged victorious at the recent College of Applied Science and Technology (CAST) Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. The 3MT competition challenges graduate students to convey their research in a concise and engaging manner to a non-specialist audience within a strict three-minute time limit.
Tierney's presentation, focusing on "Exploring the Effects of Weaning on Beef Calves," impressed the judges with its clarity and impact. Other notable presentations included research on the effects of exercise on a specific neurological condition, the utilization of plant-based meals in poultry diets, the impact of cover crops on the Gulf of Mexico, and the potential of cover crops to mitigate climate change.
“We are very proud of our CAST 3MT participants. Each presented their research in a dynamic and innovative way—and in three minutes—informing the audience on topics ranging from weaning beef calves, cover crop uses and outcomes, to exercise program effectiveness,” Dr. Cara Rabe-Hemp, Executive Associate Dean of CAST.
“The ability of the students to share their complex research in a clear, compelling narrative, will serve them well in their future professions and also expands our understanding and recognition of the amazing research being conducted in CAST,” said Dr. Cara Rabe-Hemp. “Please join us at the Normal Theater and support our CAST 3MT finalists!”
Tuba Yasmin Lubna, another graduate student from the Department of Agriculture, secured second place and will join Tierney in representing CAST at the university-level 3MT competition. This event, scheduled for February 27th at the Normal Theater, will feature finalists vying for cash prizes and the opportunity to advance to the Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools (MAGS) competition.
The 3MT competition serves as a valuable platform for graduate students to refine their research communication skills and share their discoveries with a wider audience. It encourages them to distill complex research into accessible and engaging narratives, a skillset that will undoubtedly prove invaluable in their future academic and professional endeavors.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Illinois, Education