Threesis Previous Winners

Threesis is the University of Galway’s flagship postgraduate research communication competition, celebrating researchers who can communicate complex ideas with clarity, creativity, and real-world impact. Participants are challenged to present their research in just three minutes using only three slides, helping them develop valuable skills in public speaking, storytelling, audience engagement, and research communication.

Over the years, hundreds of postgraduate students from across all disciplines have taken part in Threesis training sessions, heats, and grand finales. The competition provides researchers with an opportunity to build confidence, connect with wider audiences, and showcase how their work contributes to society, innovation, healthcare, technology, culture, and global challenges.

Many participants have gone on to represent the University of Galway at national competitions and public engagement events, highlighting the strength and diversity of postgraduate research across the university.

Below are the winners and finalists from Threesis Grand Finales throughout the years.

Threesis Grand Finale 2025 - 2025 Grand Finale Brochure.pdf

Twelve postgraduate researchers took part in the Threesis Grand Finale 2025, sharing the story of their research in just three minutes, using only three slides, in front of three judges and a live voting audience.

First Place – Kevin Murray

“The Endocannabinoid System and Pain: Ancient System, New Frontiers”

Kevin’s talk offered a compelling and accessible insight into a lesser-known biological system and its significant potential to transform approaches to pain treatment.

“Threesis as a competition offers PhD students the chance to branch out and explore the importance of their own research within the wider University of Galway community.”

Second Place – Maryam Arif

“Deadly Cargo, Smart Delivery”

An innovative drug delivery strategy with the potential to revolutionise cancer treatment.

Third Place – Eléa Thuilier

“Augmented Reality Video Games for Osteoporosis”

A creative fusion of augmented reality and health sciences aimed at improving outcomes for older patients.

Public Choice Award – Alison Hall

“High Steaks: Reducing Methane Emissions in Cattle Farming”

A dynamic and engaging presentation that strongly resonated with the audience.

Threesis Grand Finale 2024 - 2024 Grand Finale Brochure.pdf

Twelve postgraduates took part in the Threesis Grand Finale 2024, sharing the story of their research in just three minutes, using just three slides, in front of three judges and a voting audience.

Winner – Louise McCormack

“Scoring AI for Ethical Trustworthiness”

Louise outlined how her research is helping to shape a future where artificial intelligence is both powerful and ethical.

Second Place – Anastasija (Ana) Walsh

“Extracellular Vesicles: Tiny but Mighty Messengers Suppressing Anti-Tumour Immunity”

Ana’s presentation explored how extracellular vesicles influence immune responses within cancer environments, highlighting their potential significance in future cancer research and treatment approaches.

Third Place & Audience Choice – Sofiia Tretiak

“Seaweed Super Solution: Using Ocean Power for Human and Planet Health”

Sofiia’s engaging presentation showcased the potential of seaweed-based innovations to support both environmental sustainability and human health.

Threesis Grand Finale 2022 - 2022 Grand Finale Brochure .pdf

The Threesis Grand Finale 2022 showcased outstanding postgraduate research from across the university, with participants presenting their work in just three minutes using only three slides.

Winner & Audience Choice – Victoria Ward

“Heart Attacks and Hydrogel Heroes”

Supported by the O’Duffy Lab, Victoria’s research investigated the mechanical properties of hyaluronic acid hydrogels and how they can reinforce and regenerate damaged heart tissue following myocardial infarction.

Second Place – Rosy Polisicchio

“Tumours play hide and seek; how do we win?”

Rosy’s research focused on creating luminescent compounds that selectively accumulate in cancer cells, supporting advances in cancer detection and treatment research.

Third Place – Mai Alharthy

“Assessing Everyday Memory in Arabic Populations with Brain Injuries”

Mai’s research explored the cultural adaptation of an English memory assessment tool for Arabic-speaking populations.

Previous Threesis Winners

2019: Sam Afoullouss – “Ireland’s Deep Sea Pharmacy”

2018: James Blackwell – “Finding Brain Tumours Using Ultrasound”

2016: Bárbara Oliveira – Microwave breast imaging research

2015: Paul Mannion – “GEEC 2.0 – Galway Energy Efficient Car Design and Development”

2014: Edel Browne – “Free Feet”

2013: James Curry – Research on visual imagery and political cartoons

2012: Dr. Ronán Hennessy – “Making Time for Old Lines”

🎥 Watch the Finalist Presentations

Experience the full energy and insight of the Threesis Grand Finale on our YouTube Channel:

Threesis YouTube Channel

Celebrating postgraduate researchers and research communication excellence at the University of Galway.