MedPhys Slam
MedPhys Slam, a competition similar to 3MT (three-minute thesis), encourages students, postdocs, and residents to build their science communication skills. MedPhys Slam presents a unique challenge: directing one's scientific communications to non-specialists who may have no knowledge of physics or medical physics. Therefore, MedPhys Slam is distinct from the Young Investigator's Symposium, and presentations require a different structure and style.
The basic rules of MedPhys Slam are simple but challenging: participants have three minutes to present their research using a maximum of three PowerPoint slides. Contestants are evaluated on their ability to convey their research and its significance to a lay audience.
How do I enter?
A preliminary round of competition is held through local AAPM Chapter meetings throughout the year. COMP and international participants will compete through online preliminary competitions by submitting pre-recorded video presentations.
Winners of all preliminary competitions will advance to the final MedPhys Slam competition, organized by STSC, at the 2026 AAPM/COMP Joint Meeting in Vancouver, BC.
AAPM members: Each AAPM Chapter that hosts a preliminary MedPhys Slam competition may send one finalist to represent their chapter in the final competition. Local chapter leaders should submit their finalist using this form.
COMP members: COMP members may submit the preliminary virtual competition. Pre-recorded presentations can be submitted to the following form.
International and non-chapter AAPM members: International participants, or AAPM members whose local chapter is not hosting a preliminary competition, may also enter through the virtual preliminary competition. Pre-recorded presentations can be submitted to the following form.
Individuals who have questions about preliminary rounds of competition or about the final round of competition at the Joint AAPM/COMP Annual Meeting should direct their queries to MedPhys.Slam@gmail.com.
2026 Important Competition Information
- MedPhys Slam Summary
- Guidelines for AAPM Chapters
- Tips and Instructions for participants
- Judging Criteria and rules