What happens when you give five brilliant researchers just 180 seconds to make you understand their life’s work? No jargon. No complicated graphs. Just pure, captivating storytelling — in French.

Welcome to Ma Thèse en 180 Secondes (MT180), the ultimate “science pitch battle” hosted by the French Embassy and Institut français d’Indonésie (IFI). On Friday, 15 August 2025, at the IFI Auditorium in Jakarta, five young Indonesian researchers will step into the spotlight with one mission: win over the audience and the judges before the clock runs out.

This year’s event doubles as a celebration of 75 years of Franco-Indonesian scientific collaboration, a partnership that has launched countless research projects, scholarships, and international breakthroughs. From the PHC Nusantara program to the LPDP–France Doctoral Studies scheme (which drew over 600 applicants this year alone), France and Indonesia have built a research bridge that keeps growing stronger.

But MT180 isn’t your average academic conference. Think of it as TED Talk meets stand-up comedy meets science gladiator arena — with just enough pressure to make every word count.

Meet the 2025 Finalists:

• Harry Octavianus Sofian – Uncovering the origins of ancient metal artifacts and glass beads in southern Sumatra.
• Bayu Suseno – Using satellite tech to predict rice harvests… even when clouds get in the way.
• Soleh Fajar Junjunan – Finding the fastest way to kill an engine fire.
• Acintya Ratna Priwati – Exploring identity: being Indonesian or French in the past, present, and future.
• Jakty Kusuma – A genetic deep dive into the nutmeg wars, pirates, and the legacy of Pierre Poivre.

A panel of language and science experts — including science communicator Riza Putranto — will judge them on clarity, storytelling, and charisma. The audience won’t just be sitting quietly either: expect a live science quiz, behind-the-scenes coaching insights, and a presentation from Campus France about studying in France.

And yes, there are prizes worth fighting for — up to €1,500 in travel grants for international conferences, giving winners a golden ticket to share their work on the global stage.

• Date: Friday, 15 August 2025
• Place: IFI Jakarta Auditorium – Free entry, open to all
• Time: 17:00 – 19:00

Five researchers. Three minutes each. One unforgettable night where science comes alive — and you don’t need a PhD to get it.