Unicamp conducts first posthumous doctoral defense

The University of Campinas (Unicamp) has conducted the first posthumous doctoral defense in its history. The event honored the work of researcher Carla Vendramin and her advisor, Professor Silvia Geraldi, both of whom passed away before the defense could take place.

To facilitate the recognition of the research, Unicamp established an unprecedented internal procedure to address the simultaneous death of both the candidate and the advisor. The thesis, titled ‘Compostagem como prática performativa: processos imersivos em dança e permacultura’, explores the intersection of dance, agroforestry, and environmental consciousness.

Vendramin was a researcher and artist known for her work in dance and inclusion, while Geraldi was a prominent figure in Brazilian contemporary dance. Their collaborative research focused on how bodily practices and nature-based activities can foster a sense of belonging and environmental awareness.