Robert’s presentation, titled One quick trick to convict, described the fallibility of memory, and how a particular approach to questioning witnesses of crime can result in false convictions.
The judges commended Robert for his effective choice of visuals, his ability to let the story of his research unfold, and his engaging, passionate style.
The competition challenges students to effectively communicate the content and relevance of their research to a lay audience in just three minutes, and with the assistance of just one presentation slide.
As well as receiving $3,000 for the top prize, Robert was the recipient of the People’s Choice Award, as judged by those in attendance.
He will now travel to Brisbane in October to compete in the Trans-Tasman Final at The University of Queensland.
Second place went to PhD history student Sarah Pinto, who received $1,000 in prizemoney for her presentation on the implications and outcomes from British attempts to impose a colonial asylum system in India.
Third place went to Rosie Moody, a Master’s psychology student, for her presentation on the relationship between frontal brain asymmetry and depression. She received $500 in prize money.
A special category for the best international student went to Regina Garai Abdullah, who presented on her research into the relationship between accessibility and socioeconomic development in Sarawak, Malaysia; while Madeleine Parker was awarded the prize for the top Honours student for her presentation on research into the use of Zampanolide as a drug for overcoming chemotherapy resistance.
Vice-Provost (Research) Professor Kate McGrath congratulated the finalists, noting the important role effective communication plays in the dissemination of information, the advancement of ideas and achieving desired outcomes.
The Three Minute Thesis competition is organised and managed by Victoria’s Postgraduate Students’ Association.