Alison Mercer-Smith, an M.D./Ph.D. student who is completing her doctoral work in the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, is the UNC-Chapel Hill Three Minute Thesis (3MT) campus winner.

Steve Matson, dean of The Graduate School and biology professor, was instrumental in his success as a doctoral student. In addition, Nobel Laureates Aziz Sancar, of UNC-Chapel Hill, and Paul Modrich, of Duke University, served on his Ph.D. thesis committee.

“With this new endeavor, we are excited to showcase the scholarship of our students while cultivating conversation with our broader campus community,” said Kathy Wood, co-director of Diversity and Student Success.

Ten finalists presented their research to judges and an audience — with a three-minute time limit. Jessica Barrick won second place and William Green won People’s Choice honors.