A PhD defence is the ultimate culmination of years of relentless dedication, late-night research, and sheer passion. It’s a profound academic milestone that brings together esteemed colleagues, proud family members, and supportive friends. For Lemin, it was no different. January 2026 marked the big moment for her, to which she had been working for the last four years. The Senate Hall at the top of the Aula at the Technical University of Delft was packed, and for almost an hour, all attention was on her, the committee members and the paranymphs. As was to be expected, tensions were high beforehand, but Lemin defended her thesis on “Extracellular Polymeric Substances of Aerobic Granular Sludge” masterfully, and is now able to proudly wear the title of Doctor.