A more appropriate phrase regarding a thesis than "putting forward"?

propound
put forward (an idea or theory) for consideration by others.

Along with Mysti Sinha, I recommend propound, which FumbleFingers' research also unearths.

I also like pose, especially because it's not so commonly used with thesis, theory, hypothesis, etc.

pose
to set forth or offer for attention or consideration {let me pose a question}

My opinion-

• propound a thesis

• present a thesis

When you propound an idea, you put it forward. (vocabulary.com)

I would use the word submit:

3.0 [WITH OBJECT] Present (a proposal, application, or other document) to a person or body for consideration or judgement:
the panel’s report was submitted to a parliamentary committee

3.1 [WITH CLAUSE] (Especially in judicial contexts) suggest; argue:

I submit my thesis with compelling arguments for peer review.