3MT® Competition

Angela Nkeiruka Aziekwu is a dedicated graduate student in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, where her research explores the antioxidant properties of plant products in combating oxidative stress. Under the mentorship of Dr. Bidisha Sengupta, associate professor, Aziekwu investigates natural compounds with potential health benefits, contributing to the growing field of antioxidant research.

With a strong foundation in chemistry, Aziekwu earned her bachelor's degree from Delta State University, Nigeria, and gained valuable experience in infectious disease research while working for a government institution. Beyond her academic pursuits, she is passionate about teaching and mentoring students in science disciplines. Her commitment to education and scientific advancement has made her an effective mentor, inspiring the next generation of scientists. She also enjoys traveling and continuous learning, broadening her perspectives on global scientific challenges.

Aziekwu aspires to a career that bridges research, teaching and environmental solutions, aiming to contribute meaningfully to scientific innovation and sustainability.

• Feb. 7 — 3MT® competition (in person)

Contestants must be currently enrolled as a doctoral or master’s student in graduate school.

The 1st place winner will have travel and admission to the Conference of Southern Graduate Schools covered by the graduate school.

• Students must submit a PNG copy of their slide by the deadline. Last-minute changes will NOT be accepted.
• A single static slide is permitted. No slide transitions, animations or ‘movement’ of any description are allowed. The slide is to be presented from the beginning of the oration.
• No additional electronic media (e.g. sound and video files) are permitted.
• No additional props (e.g. notecards, scripts, pointers, costumes, musical instruments, laboratory equipment) are permitted.
• Presentations are limited to three-minute maximum and competitors exceeding three minutes will be disqualified.
• Presentations are to be spoken word (e.g. no poems, raps, or songs).
• Presentations are to commence from the stage or in the front of the room.
• Presentations are considered to have commenced when a presenter begins through movement or speech.
• The decision of the judging panel is final.
• Participants should avoid loud noises such as screaming.

• According to The University of Queensland guidance, judging panels will consist of three to five judges balanced by age, gender, academic/professional positions, and discipline.
• Competitors will be evaluated using The University of Queensland judging criteria and rubric. So your student competitor knows how best to prepare and what to expect at CSGS, we encourage your institution to use these criteria and rubric as well.