UNSW offers a broad range of resources and training opportunities for postgraduate research students in order to enhance the postgraduate research student experience.

Most of these courses and workshops are available to all students at the University. However, there are some that are targeted specifically to postgraduate research students.

The left side of this page contains links to several pages that provide information about the large number of resources available.

 

 

WHAT - The inaugural 'Speed Thesis' competition challenges you to communicate what your research is all about, and why it is important and interesting. You'll have 3 minutes (and 1 PowerPoint slide) to explain your research to a general audience.

 

WHEN - Friday 9 October, 2:00-5:00 pm, followed by drinks and canapés

 

WHERE - Tyree Room, Scientia Building

 

WHY -  By challenging yourself to give an engaging and dynamic response to dreaded questions such as 'what was your thesis on again?' or 'why exactly have you been researching for the last 3 years?' or 'is your research important and relevant to anything?' you will improve your communication skills, both oral and written, which are key attributes for all PhD graduates.

 

WHO - Currently enrolled UNSW PhD students who have completed the equivalent of at least 3 years (6 semesters) full-time research by the end of Semester 1, 2009. Students who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting the results of their examination are eligible to apply. However, if students have received confirmation that they have satisfied the requirements for the award of their PhD they are no longer eligible to entre this competition.

 

 

HOW -  Applicants will need to provide a 150 word abstract about their research (written without the assistance of anyone, including friends, colleagues, supervisors) in clear, non-technical language that can be understood by a lay person. Up to 25 students will be selected based on their written abstract. Preference will be given to students who are on track to complete within 4 years full-time (or part-time equivalent). Selected applicants will have 3 minutes maximum to explain what their research is about, the outcomes of their research, and why it is important. One PowerPoint slide may be used as a visual aid.

 

 

 

KEY DATES:

 

1 August: Applications open

 

1 September: Application close

 

25 September: Successful applicants notified

 

3 October: PowerPoint slide from successful applicants due

 

9 October: Speed Thesis competition