This Cois Coiribe article discusses University of Galway’s annual Threesis competition, which has become a standout event on campus. In a fast-paced format, it captures the very essence of the University’s research mission: Our Purpose, People, and Place. At its heart is a strong focus on people; on nurturing talent, building confidence, and encouraging creativity.
Threesis is a research communication challenge where postgraduate students get the opportunity to distil their research into three minutes – using three slides – and tells the story of their work in a way that resonates well beyond the walls of academia. This year, more than 80 postgraduate research students took part in the Threesis programme, going through training sessions and heats, with 12 finalists taking the stage in the O’Donoghue Theatre at University of Galway. The competition was overseen by three esteemed judges: Louise McCormack – 2024 Threesis Winner; Deirdre Giblin – VP of Operations and Site Lead, Datavant Ireland; and Professor Dónal Leech – Dean of Graduate Studies, University of Galway. Also from University of Galway, Dr Jessamyn Fairfield, a creative voice in public engagement through science, was this year’s host.
Kevin Murray, a PhD student from Co Mayo, took home the top prize with his presentation that captivated both heart and mind. His research dives into the body’s cannabis-like chemicals and how they respond to pain, a topic as ancient as it is cutting-edge. Backed by the Centre for Pain Research, the Galway Neuroscience Centre, and the Canadian Institute of Health Research, Kevin’s presentation – “The Endocannabinoid System and Pain: Ancient System, New Frontiers” – turned complex science into a compelling narrative and demonstrated how scientific research can directly benefit public health.
Second place went to PhD student, Maryam Arif, originally from India, whose research in nanomedicine is opening new doors in cancer treatment. She is finding ways to develop smart, drug-loaded liposomes designed to seek out and destroy cancer cells, especially those that have learned to resist conventional treatments. In her presentation – “Deadly Cargo, Smart Delivery” – she demonstrated that these microscopic delivery systems act like guided missiles, targeting the disease with surgical accuracy. Her goal is to give patients a better shot at recovery by making treatments more effective and less harmful to healthy cells.
A close third place was PhD student, Eléa Thuilier, from France, who is turning healing into play, developing augmented reality video games to support people living with osteoporosis. Backed by the Research Ireland Centre for Research Training in Digitally Enhanced Reality (CRT-DREAL), her vision is to develop a training programme that’s not only effective but genuinely enjoyable. She also represented University of Galway at the national Ma thèse en 180 secondes competition, where she delivered her research in French, earning her the runner-up position.
The Public Choice Award went to Alison Hall for her presentation: “High Steaks: Reducing Methane Emissions in Cattle Farming”. Her research is part of the Department of Agriculture-funded Methane Abatement in Grazing Systems project, and her findings have the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from livestock farming, contributing to more sustainable agricultural practices.
Since its launch in 2012, Threesis has showcased a vibrant and diverse community of students who span disciplines, nationalities, and research approaches. Each participant brings a unique perspective, but all share a common drive to make a meaningful impact.
Threesis competition reinforces University of Galway’s role as a research-led university on the edge of Europe. The diversity of the projects from medicine, digital technology, environmental science, social justice, and societal research highlight the breadth and depth of research activity happening at University of Galway.
Threesis has consistently proven to be more than just a competition; it is a catalyst for transformative academic and professional growth.
Take Louise McCormack, winner of Threesis 2024 and judge on this year’s panel, whose engaging talk on “Scoring AI for Ethical Trustworthiness” led directly to a TEDx Galway appearance. Her groundbreaking research, supported by the ADAPT Research Ireland Centre, is contributing to the ethical shaping of AI technologies across Europe.
Similarly, 2022 winner Victoria Ward’s captivating pitch discussing “Heart Attacks and Hydrogel Heroes” earned her the top prize and audience choice award. Notably, it propelled her research on cardiac tissue regeneration into wider recognition, supported by the AMBER Research Ireland Centre.
Going back to 2019, Sam Afoullouss‘s presentation, titled “Ireland’s Deep Sea Pharmacy”, shone a spotlight on marine biopharmaceuticals, ultimately raising awareness of deep-sea biodiversity as a source for future medicine.
Each of these Threesis alumni demonstrate how the competition refines communication skills, its platform a useful springboard for early-career researchers. For details on previous winners, see here.
