2026 3MT - Three Minute Thesis
Welcome to the 2026 University of Guelph Three-Minute Thesis (3MT®) Competition!
Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) is a university-wide competition for graduate students to present their research and its wider impact in 180 seconds. Make complex research engaging and accessible, using only one slide.
Campus Finals
Date: April 30, 2026 at 1:30 p.m.
Location: University Centre – Room 442 (North Elevator)
Format: Live, in-person presentations
Participant Information
Visit the 3MT SharePoint page for registration details, important dates, presentation tips, and workshop information.
Participant Info & Registration »Provincial Competition
The winner of the University of Guelph 3MT® competition will move on to represent the University at the Provincial Competition, hosted by Brock University on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.
2026 Judge’s Panel
Our distinguished panel of judges brings a diverse range of expertise spanning research, education, accessibility, and event management.
Dr. Erin Aspenlieder
Director, Office of Teaching and Learning – University of Guelph
Erin Aspenlieder is the Director of the Office of Teaching and Learning at the University of Guelph, where she works with educators across the institution to strengthen teaching practice and support meaningful learning experiences. With a PhD in English and Cultural Studies and over 15 years as an educational developer in post-secondary education, Erin brings a deep appreciation for the craft of communicating complex ideas to diverse audiences and a genuine enthusiasm for research that connects to the world beyond the academy.
A longtime reader and writer, she has been running the book review blog Literary Vice (literaryvice.ca) since 2009, and is passionate about helping people find the clearest, most compelling version of their story.
Lara Barnum
M.Sc. Student, Food Science – University of Guelph | 2025 3MT® Winner
Lara is a master’s student in Food Science at the University of Guelph, where her research focuses on the valorization of dairy side streams. Her work explores sustainable approaches to converting lactose-rich waste into value-added compounds using enzymatic and membrane-based technologies. As part of her research, Lara has collaborated internationally on process scale-up, gaining experience with ultrafiltration and electrodialysis to produce functional ingredients from dairy waste. She is passionate about advancing sustainable food systems and bridging the gap between academic research and industry applications.
Lara was the 2025 winner of the 3MT® competition at the University of Guelph, recognized for her ability to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly and engagingly. She is excited to return as a judge for the 2026 competition and to support graduate students in sharing their research.
Kaitlyn Edwards
Manager, Signature Events – Sinai Health Foundation | University of Guelph Alumna
Kaitlyn Edwards is the Manager, Signature Events at Sinai Health Foundation, where she leads the planning and execution of high-impact fundraising events that bring people together in meaningful and memorable ways. Known for her energy, creativity, and strong attention to detail, Kaitlyn thrives on turning ideas into experiences that inspire connection and support for Sinai Health’s mission. A proud University of Guelph alumna, Kaitlyn graduated from the Marketing Management program and earned a certificate in Leadership. She is currently pursuing her Master of Business Administration, continuing to build on her passion for strategy, leadership, and creating impactful experiences.
Kaitlyn is deeply committed to her community and is actively involved as a member of the Board of Directors for the University of Guelph Alumni Association and the Guelph Wish Fund for Children. Outside of work, Kaitlyn is always on the go—she enjoys staying active, spending time outdoors, and hanging out with her dog, Winnie, who keeps her just as busy as her events calendar.
Malcolm McLeod
Advisor, Student Accessibility Services – University of Guelph
Malcolm is currently an advisor for students with disabilities at the University of Guelph, where he regularly consults with staff, students, and educators on creating inclusive environments—particularly inclusive learning experiences in higher education. His career has followed a rich trajectory across both the private and public sectors, beginning in the field of gerontology and specializing in physical and cognitive disorders before moving into long-term care. During this time, he developed a strong passion for inclusivity and built a network of volunteers focused on removing barriers and supporting equitable access to transportation for older adults.
Malcolm has chaired the Disability Advisory Committee for the City of Guelph, contributing to improvements in social and physical infrastructure at a municipal level, and has served on the board of directors for the Guelph Wish Fund for Children. While working as a Disability Advisor at the University of St Andrews, he was the lead in Pastoral and Wellness care at St Leonards’ College for graduate students. Malcolm is well versed in Canadian and international legislation related to persons with disabilities, with particular expertise in learning disabilities and autism spectrum disorders. In his spare time, Malcolm is a dedicated father, husband, and Lego enthusiast.