Public defences
A public defence, i.e. a public examination of a doctoral thesis, is a ceremonial occasion that follows academic traditions. During the proceedings the doctoral student defends the results of their doctoral thesis against public criticism and answers questions presented by the opponent. The course of the public defense is supervised by the custos, i.e. chairperson.
The proceedings follow a strict protocol and dress code. The audience comprises of colleagues in the field as well as close relatives and friends of the doctoral student. Customarily the defence takes approximately two hours. Afterwards, doctoral students usually offer refreshments to the audience. A remote or hydrid format defence is also possible.
The post-doctoral party, or "karonkka" marks the end of the doctoral thesis process and is arranged by the doctoral student to thank the opponent, the custos and others who contributed to the work.
Preparing for the public defence
Instructions for planning and arranging public defences (for doctoral student and custos)
Upcoming public defences
Public defence, Computer Science, MSc Muhammad Arslan Masood
Molecular representation learning for extreme low data in-vivo toxicity modeling.
Public defence, Design, MSc Pinar Simsek Çaglar
How digital collaboration tools shape emotional experiences, employee well-being, and work engagement: Miro as a case study.
Public defence, Film and Television, MA Hanna Maylett
Navigating Collaboration in Film and TV Drama Directing: Participatory Practices within Director’s Artistic Leadership