From research degree to what lies ahead: AAU celebrated new PhDs
Nyhed
Lagt online: 02.02.2026
AAU INNOVATE was the setting for AAU's traditional PhD ceremony that marked the end of years of immersion and the beginning of new opportunities. See highlights here.
By Lea Laursen Pasgaard, AAU Communication and Public Affairs
Photos: William Brændstrup
"PhD – it's not just three random letters. It's a powerful title. And for all of you, there will be a time before and after. Your voices are now stronger. They carry more weight. You are ambassadors of science."
These were the words of Pro-rector Anne Marie Kanstrup in her speech to a new cohort of PhD graduates from AAU on 30 January at the annual PhD ceremony.
The flag was hoisted and champagne poured. Big smiles filled the room that was packed with family, friends, colleagues and supervisors who had all turned up to celebrate the young talented researchers.
The ceremony took place at AAU INNOVATE where musical performances and expectant smiles quickly set the mood.
Pro-rector Anne Marie Kanstrup encouraged the graduates to use their newfound voices, to share their knowledge and to challenge and inspire.
"In these tumultuous times, we need people who have the knowledge and skill to navigate the world’s complexity. Resilient people who can persevere and forge ahead," said the pro-rector.
This year's guest speaker was Randi Christensen, Group Sustainability Manager at COWI, PhD alumna from AAU and member of the University Board. She reminded the graduates that their new qualifications are broader than their PhD. That their ability to separate evidence-based knowledge from opinions is valuable and in demand in the industry.
"Look for your dream job out there. Perhaps it doesn’t exist. You will have to create it yourself. Maybe step by step, and by building trust and showing results, you'll get there.
We need your skills to bring new technologies, new methods and new ways of thinking out into the world. Now more than ever," was the call from Randi Christensen.
Family, friends and supervisors watched proudly and smiled as Henrik Halkier, Professor and Programme Director for AAU Excellence called the graduates on stage one by one and Pro-rector Anne Marie Kanstrup presented them with their diplomas.
The ceremony then featured a musical performance by vocalist Cathrine Benedikt and pianist Johannes Rodh, followed by a reception bringing this year's PhD ceremony to a close.
