Welcome
Instructions on Ioana's PhD Defence
1. The PhD Defence in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, the PhD defence consists of a formal ceremony. The PhD candidate (me) doesn't present anything, but receives questions from opponents. Opponents are usually professors/researchers from connected domains to the PhD.
The ceremony lasts exactly 60 minutes, which is why it is called Hora Finita.
The PhD candidate has two "helpers", called "paranymphs", who used to help the PhD candidate answer questions. Nowadays, their role is to help organise the PhD defence, reception, and party. My paranymphs, Laurent and Renate, will probably be in contact with (some of) you. If you have any questions: Laurent (+33) 631 655 953.
The ceremony will take place Wednesday, 20 September, 4.15 PM CET.
2. The PhD thesis
The PhD thesis in the Netherlands is, in principle, a collection of articles which have been or will be published, together with an introduction, conclusion, summary, acknowledgements (where you might find yourself), and a short bio.
My thesis is called Personalised approaches to improve tuberculosis care​
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3. Groningen, reception, party
If you're reading this, it means that nothing would make me happier than to have you around on this day. ​
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Party
The PhD defence is kind of like a wedding, but I'm marrying into science. The PhD candidate usually gets gifts and offers drinks.
The party will take place Wednesday, 8.30 PM CET
Café-Bistro Kult
And for those of you not from Groningen:
Groningen is a university town and the youngest city in the Netherlands - average age is 36 years old. It's also a bike city - 3.1 average number of bikes per household. Unofficially, Groningen has an awesome vibe - it's a kind of magical city for meeting interesting people (hey, you!) and doing funky things.
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Please let me know if you need accommodation in Groningen so I can find a friendly couch.