Trial lecture
The purpose of the trial lecture is to test your ability to convey research-based knowledge outside of your specialist field. The assigned topic is therefore not taken from key areas of your PhD work.
You will be informed of the assigned topic 10 working days before the trial lecture is held. The target audience for the trial lecture can be defined as advanced students in the field (at least one year of background).
The trial lecture must be passed before you can defend your thesis.
The committee assess:
- the PhD candidate’s choice of material
- structure/organization of the trial lecture
- understanding and academic maturity
- presentation technique, including the use of visual aids
The trial lecture proceedings
The trial lecture is usually held on the same day as your defence. It is held in English and must last 45 minutes.
Public defence
The public defence is an open event where you publicly present and defend your completed doctoral thesis to two critical opponents from the expert adjudication committee.
The defence proceedings
The public defence is held in English and must be held on UiO premises. The public defence is normally chaired by one person from the department management or a representative.
The defence follows a given order:
- The chair of the public defence will briefly explain the submission and assessment of the thesis and give a brief formal introduction of the candidate.
- You will then spend a maximum of 30 minutes explaining the purpose and findings of your scientific investigation.
- The first opponent will put the candidate's work into an international academic context, for a maximum of 10 minutes. Then they initiate a discussion between the two of you.
- The second opponent continues the discussion.
- When both opponents have concluded their arguments, the chair of the public defence will invite others present to participate in the discussions.
- In a brief closing, you express your gratitude for the opportunity to present yourself for the doctoral examination and thank the evaluation committee for the work they have done.
- The chair of the public defence declares the public defence concluded.
- After the defence is concluded, the evaluation committee has a brief meeting. The defence chair has the option to inform you of the committee’s assessment immediately.
- Once you have passed both the trial lecture and public defence, you are awarded the doctoral degree.
Practical information
- Both the trial lecture and the defence are conducted in English.
- You should dress in formal attire.
- The trial lecture and the defence are public events. Feel free to invite friends and family. Supervisors have no formal role, but you may invite them as attendees.
- After the defence, you may choose to arrange a doctoral dinner.
More information
- Upcoming disputations at the MN Faculty
- Information for the chair of the public defence and the adjudication committee
- All forms relevant for the PhD programme
- PhD dinner after the defence
- Diploma and doctoral conferment
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