Last week was truly a super week of hackmanites, since Sami had his defense on Monday, and Hannah on Friday. Sami’s opponent was Professor Adrian Finch from the University of St Andrews, Scotland, UK, whereas Hannah’s was Professor Mark T. Weller from Cardiff University. Professor Mika Lastusaari was appointed as the Custos in both defenses. Both events went really well, and now both Sami and Hannah are PhDs!

After Sami’s defense. From left to right: Professor Adrian Finch, Professor Mika Lastusaari, and Dr. Sami Vuori.

Hannah’s defense, from left to right: Dr. Hannah Byron, Professor Mika Lastusaari, and Professor Mark T. Weller.