Welcome
Let's communicate!
Can you explain your research in 90 seconds – without any jargon?
Develop science communication skills in a supportive environment and compete for cash prizes at the 2026 No-Bell Prize competition. PhD and Masters by Research students from across MDHS are invited to take part and pitch their research in a clear and accessible way.
Submit a video, attend our free communications workshop, and compete for $2,500 in prizes at the final on 1 October.
Want a sneak peek of what to expect? Watch the video highlights from previous No-Bell Prize events for a taste of what to expect from this entertaining and educational communication initiative.
How does it work?
Brush up on your skills at our (optional) science communications workshop on 7 July, then submit a 90-second video explaining your research using clear, accessible language. The top submissions, as judged by a panel of academics from across the Faculty, will be chosen. Finalists will be offered one-on-one coaching to refine their presentation skills, before competing in a live final event on 1 October.
In the final, participants will:
- Present for 90 seconds
- Answer one minute of questions from the audience
- Respond to three minutes of questions from the host.
This comprises a total of five minutes and 30 seconds per finalist.
During the presentation, a panel will note each time they hear jargon, such as language which is too technical or acronyms that are not widely understood. An official will keep time and count the number of notes per speaker. The participant with the fewest notes during their presentation and the highest score from the panel will be the 2026 No-Bell Prize winner.
There are some great prizes on offer, including:
- $1,000 for the No-Bell Prize winner
- $500 each for the two runners-up
- A People's Choice Award of $500.
Read through the guidelines and pitch us your research to be in the running. We can’t wait to talk research with you!
MSPS acknowledge the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences (MDHS) for supporting these events via a 2026 Graduate Research Development Grant. We acknowledge the Monash University's Central Clinical School 'No-Bell Prize' website and Melbourne Neuroscience Institute (University of Melbourne) 2013 Festival of Ideas event as the basis of this event.