Rebecca Dielschneider takes first place and people’s choice in 3MT final

After years of research, and months of preparation, 12 finalists competed in the Three Minute Thesis competition on February 25. Friends, family, faculty and fellow students were on hand to support these innovative graduate students as they competed for the First Place ($5,000), Second Place ($2,000) and People’s Choice ($1,000) awards.

During the 3MT competition each competitor had three minutes and could use only a single slide as illustration, to clearly explain the nature, goals and significance of his or her research.

Sound difficult? Absolutely. The challengers have spent years researching these topics, and must synthesize all of that knowledge into a three-minute presentation that can capture the imagination of the audience and panel of judges.

Two competitors stood out from the rest and were awarded prizes.

First Place and People’s Choice: Rebecca Dielschneider

Immunology (Doctoral)
Advisor: Dr. Spencer Gibson

Lysosomes as Targets in Leukemia

Dielschneider was involved in student government and leadership as she pursued graduate studies. She chose immunology and cancer research because she wanted to help people from “behind the scenes.” She believes scientific research allows her to think creatively and pursue answers to tough biological questions, advancing medicine and improving human health.

Second Place: Diego Rodriguez Herrera

Physics and Astronomy (Master’s)
Advisor: Dr. Stephen Pistorius

Using Radio Waves for Breast Cancer Detection

A member of the UMSWING group and the photo club, Herrera would like to make meaningful contributions to the development of new technologies in the field of signal processing and medical imaging. He sees himself using state-of-the-art imaging techniques to make an impactful contribution to society.

First-place recipient Rebecca Dielschneider will represent the University of Manitoba at the western regional 3MT competition held in May.

For more information about the U of M 3MT competition, visit umanitoba.ca/3mt.