Theresa Weinsbach, 'Sucking to Survive,': UBC 3MT 2026 Semi-Finalist

Theresa Weinspach was a semi-finalist in the 2026 UBC Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition. Theresa presented the research titled “Sucking to Survive.” For a long time, it was believed trees were the only organisms capable of generating extreme negative pressures to transport water, in xylem, from the roots to the leaves. But cicadas are proven to be able to do the same. This research showcases an estimation of the maximum suction cicadas can generate, revealing the extraordinary tensions inside tree xylem and inspiring microscopic pumps for medical devices and implants. Theresa Weinspach is completing a MSc in Zoology in the Department of Zoology under the supervision of Dr. Phil Matthews. #3MT is an academic competition that assists current graduate students with fostering effective presentation and communication skills. Participants have just three minutes to explain the breadth and significance of their research project to a non-specialist audience. For more information or to participate in UBC’s Three Minute Thesis (3MT) visit https://3mt.grad.ubc.ca.