The International Association for Food Protection Student Professional Development Group (IAFP-SPDG) hosted its 2026 3-Minute Thesis (3MT) Live Competition on June 3, 2026, from 11:00 AM–12:30 PM CDT via Zoom. The competition provided graduate students with an opportunity to showcase their research while strengthening their ability to communicate complex scientific concepts in a clear, concise, and engaging manner.

Following the preliminary evaluation, five outstanding finalists advanced to the live competition, where they were challenged to present their research in just three minutes. Finalists were evaluated on comprehension, engagement, and communication, while attendees also had the opportunity to vote for the Audience Choice Award.

The winners were officially announced and recognized during the Student Luncheon at the IAFP 2026 Annual Meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana, where finalists were celebrated for their research, communication skills, and participation in the competition.

2026 3MT Competition Results

• Judge’s Choice Winner: Johana Lilian John Muthiah, University of Georgia

• Audience Choice Winners: Birata Mainali, University of Arkansas, and Daniel Leiva, Louisiana State University

• Finalists: Sanyi Kim, Konkuk University, and Adenike Adeyanju, University of Massachusetts Amherst