ANSWER
Short answer.
Paranymphs are the two people beside you during the ceremony. They do not need to know your thesis inside out; choose people who are reliable, calm and happy to make the day easier for you.
01 · PARANYMPH ROLE
What paranymphs do during the ceremony.
At Utrecht, each PhD candidate appoints two paranymphs. They are ceremonial, do not need dissertation expertise, and can be colleagues, family or friends.
Choose people who will be present, reliable and comfortable handling practical questions on the day.
02 · PARANYMPH BRIEFING
Information to give your paranymphs.
Tell them where to meet, who has the schedule, who holds the spare copy or USB, and who answers a guest’s practical question.
Leiden’s lay-talk instructions expect one paranymph to introduce and end the talk on time. UvA’s Beadle class suggests one collect the candidate’s belongings during the reception.
03 · INVITATION
Information to include on your defence invitation.
Include your name, thesis title, date, time, venue and what happens afterwards. Add a reception or dinner note and RSVP details if relevant.
Before printing, check the official venue name, entrance instructions, guest limits, livestream or registration arrangements and whether guests should arrive early.
SOURCES
Official sources.
Your university’s current regulations, Beadle’s Office and graduate school make the final decision on requirements and ceremony details.
Utrecht University: Your PhD from start to finish ↗Leiden University: PhD defence and lay talk instructions ↗UvA Beadle class material ↗