Congratulations, Dr. Kochoska!

We are very happy to announce that on 2 September 2026, our very own Hristina Kochoska successfully defended her PhD dissertation entitled, “Ecology of diatoms from glacier-fed streams.” In doing so, Hristina told us about diatoms living in the remote streams of the Rwenzori Mountains, what controls diatom communities across the European Alps, and how diatom communities differ across glacier-fed streams around the world – quite a journey in only 40 minutes!

After the successful defense, attendees were treated to some delicious refreshments brought all the way from North Macedonia (including everyone’s favorite, ‘ajvar’!), a very special selection of drinks, and of course some crazy stories. A big thanks to everyone that showed up to make the day special!

It has been a pleasure working with Hristina these last four years – she has become an indispensable part of the DiCE group, both scientifically and socially, and she will be missed very much. Best of luck in all you do, Hristina, and keep spreading the good word about diatoms far into the future!