25. 3. 2026, 12:19

Newsletter for PhD students and Postdocs

Save the Date:

Spark Europe Webinar Series - April 8, 2026, (16:00 - 17:00). Talk "Out-licensing vs. Start-up" by Damien Dessis. Registration needed. Held online in English.

Research Breakfast - April 14, 2026, (8:00 - 9:00). Interview with Assoc. Prof. Pavlína Danhofer. Registration needed. Held in English. UCB Library

Life Sciences Seminar - April 9, 2026, (16:00 - 17:00). Lecture by Emma R. Andersson: "Decoding Embryonic Fates: Lineages, Mechanisms, and Spatial Context". Held in English. UCB, 11/132

MUNI Day 2026 - May 13, 2026. The popular event is back! Save the date! University Campus Bohunice.

News Sci-ously

Our PhD students' Amazing Success in the Brno PhD Talent Competition

A total of seventeen students from Masaryk University have received the Brno PhD Talent award, twelve of whom work at our faculty. This year, 151 doctoral students from Brno universities applied for the scholarship - the highest number in the competition's sixteen-year history. 

The ceremonial presentation of cheques took place on Tuesday 10 March at the New Town Hall in Brno. The Brno PhD Talent competition is open to doctoral students in the natural sciences and technical fields at Brno universities. From a record total of 151 applicants, the expert committee first selected 51 finalists. These finalists then presented their research projects in the second round of the competition, resulting in 25 winners. Over the next three years, the winners will each receive a scholarship of CZK 360,000, allowing them to focus on their scientific work and further develop their research.

The following students from our faculty were successful: Jan Česnek, Tim de Martines, Martin Havlásek, Pavel Kolodin, Patrik Lindovský, Anna Lněničková, Patrik Matušů, Anastasia Moskvina, Petr Pazourek, Monika Rosinská, Jaroslava Šafářová, Viliam Volko. Congratulations to all the awardees!

Read whole article.

Hřbet ruky s ukazovákem ukazujícím vpravoKeep an eye on the competitions section in our newsletter so you don't miss any opportunities to show off your skills!

Don't Overlook

Spring With SPARK Global Webinar Series

PhD students and researchers are invited to join the SPARK Europe Webinar Series, an international online lecture series focused on translational research, innovation, and collaboration with industry.
The series focuses on skills needed to translate research results into real clinical or commercial applications. Each lesson is led by a different international expert from academia and industry, takes place online (from 16:00 - 17:00), and is conducted in English. 

PřipínáčekApril 8, 2026Out-licensing vs Start-Ups: Practical insights from industry (Pharma focus) (Damien Dessis, SPARK Bordeaux)
PřipínáčekMay 6, 2026TBA (SPARK Norway)
PřipínáčekJune 3, 2026The Story of SPARK (Daria Mochly-Rosen, SPARK Stanford)
PřipínáčekJuly 1, 2026How to Build a TPP or Drug Repurposing (Kevin Grimes, SPARK Stanford)

Hřbet ruky s ukazovákem ukazujícím vpravoMore info & registration

Let´s Boost your Research Skills at the CEPLANT Summer School!

Looking for a summer school that combines theory with real hands-on research? The CEPLANT Summer School is a great opportunity for PhD students and postdocs to explore plasma technologies, nanomaterials and advanced surface engineering in an international research environment.

The programme offers lectures by experienced scientists, practical training with state-of-the-art instrumentation, and insights into cutting-edge applications in materials science, energy, biomedicine, and environmental technologies.

Why to join?

Malý oranžový kosočtverec hands-on experience with advanced techniques
Malý oranžový kosočtverec direct contact with leading researchers
Malý oranžový kosočtverec interdisciplinary and international environment
Malý oranžový kosočtverec great networking opportunities

PřipínáčekApplication deadline: April 10, 2026

Hřbet ruky s ukazovákem ukazujícím vpravoMore info & application

Internships

JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship in Japan

Early-career researchers now have the opportunity to apply for the JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship for Overseas Researchers, a prestigious programme supporting international postdoctoral stays in Japan. The fellowship enables researchers to collaborate with leading research groups at Japanese universities and research institutions while developing international research networks. 

The fellowship typically supports research stays of 12–24 months and is open to applicants who obtained their PhD within the last six years. Applications from the Czech Republic are administered by the Czech Academy of Sciences. More info.

Hřbet ruky s ukazovákem ukazujícím vpravoThe application deadline: April 30, 2026

Talents and Entrepreneurial Skills -TESE Days

PhD students are invited to join the Talents and Entrepreneurial Skills in Europe Days (TESE Days), a three-day event dedicated to networking, career development, and strengthening the soft skills essential to both academic and non-academic career paths. The programme offers an opportunity to connect with fellow doctoral researchers from across Europe, exchange ideas, and gain new perspectives on future career opportunities.
The application deadline was March 29, but if you are interested in this event, it is still possible to apply! Just let us know by e-mail.

Hřbet ruky s ukazovákem ukazujícím vpravoDon’t miss this opportunity to connect with fellow doctoral researchers from across Europe!

When: June 10 - 12, 2026
Where: The University of South-Eastern Norway

Competitions

Neuron Prize for Promising Scientists – Nominate a Rising Star!

Do you know a brilliant Czech scientist making waves in their field? The Neuron Prize for Promising Scientists celebrates early-stage researchers with exceptional achievements and the potential to shape the future of science.

If your candidate earned their PhD within the last 10 years, they could join the ranks of up to seven outstanding talents across biology, computer science, physics, chemistry and mathematics – each receiving a CZK 500,000 award!

Don’t let extraordinary talent go unnoticed! The deadline for applications is April 25, 2026. Submit your candidate and give them the recognition they deserve.Zářící hvězda

Hřbet ruky s ukazovákem ukazujícím vpravoMore info & application

Take Your Rsearch Into the Field!

Do you have a bold research idea that cannot be done in a lab? The Neuron Expedition 2026 grant programme supports Czech scientists in carrying out research expeditions around the world – from remote natural environments to unique archaeological or social-science field sites.

The Neuron Foundation has long supported projects that push the boundaries of knowledge and continue the tradition of renowned Czech scientific expeditions. If your research requires fieldwork, courage, and a strong team, this call may be the perfect opportunity.

Application deadline: April 17, 2026
🎥 The application also includes a short video introducing the project.

Hřbet ruky s ukazovákem ukazujícím vpravoMore info & application (CZ)

Can You Explain Your Science in 3 Minutes? Enroll to FameLab!

Do you enjoy talking about your research and want to improve your presentation skills? Join FameLab, an international science communication competition where young researchers have just 3 minutes to present a scientific topic in a clear, engaging, and entertaining way — no slides, just your ideas and charisma. 

Participants gain professional training in science communication, meet fellow researchers, and the winner advances to the international final. The competition is open to PhD students, postdocs, and researchers working in science, technology, medicine, mathematics, or humanities. Application deadline is July 17, 2026.

Hřbet ruky s ukazovákem ukazujícím vpravoMore info & application

Conferences

25. International Workshop for Young Scientists BioPhys Spring - Join Us in Prague!

You are cordially invited to the young scientists and PhD students to the 25th BioPhys Spring Conference 2026. The international conference/workshop focuses on natural sciences, energy, and the environment and will take place on May 28 – 29, 2026, at the Aula of the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague. Thanks to financial support from the Polish government, participation in the conference is free of charge. Deadline for registration and abstract submission is on April 20, 2026. More info. 

When: May 28 - 29, 2026
Where: Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Prague Protein Spring 2026

Step into the Post‑AlphaFold Era in Protein Science! This premier international conference brings together world-leading scientists, emerging talents, postdocs, and PhD students to explore how recent breakthroughs in protein structure prediction are reshaping biology.

Over four inspiring days, attendees will dive into protein structure, dynamics, design, and function, while tackling the new challenges and opportunities that define the cutting edge of the field. Expect a vibrant mix of keynote lectures, interactive discussions, and networking sessions, all set in the beautiful historic surroundings of Prague’s Vila Lanna.

Whether you are a seasoned researcher or a rising star, Prague Protein Spring 2026 is your chance to exchange ideas, spark collaborations, and be part of the conversation shaping the future of protein science. More info and registration.

Hřbet ruky s ukazovákem ukazujícím vpravoSeats are limited — register early to secure your spot! 

When: May 7 - 10, 2026
Where: Vila Lanna, Prague 

Financing Your Research

Struggling with research funding? Join us for the next PI Forum Brno focused on practical insights into research financing — from funding landscapes and success rates to real costs and strategic choices. The event is in English and open to PIs and research leaders across disciplines.

🔹 What to expect: data-driven discussion, practical context, and peer exchange
🔹 Who it’s for: Principal Investigators and team leaders
🔹 Networking & refreshments after

When: April 7, 2026, (17:30)
Where: MU CEITEC, Kamenice 5, Brno 

Hřbet ruky s ukazovákem ukazujícím vpravoMore info & registration

Training & Development

How to Cope with Exam Stress?

Exams don’t have to mean exhaustion and anxiety. Join this practical workshop at Masaryk University and discover what stress actually does to your body and mind, and how to manage it effectively during the exam period. You’ll learn simple, actionable techniques to stay focused, calm, and mentally balanced. The workshop will be held in Czech. Registration is required – places are limited!

When: May 20, 2026, (16:00 - 17:30)
Where: Komenského náměstí 2, Room 300

Hřbet ruky s ukazovákem ukazujícím vpravo More info & registration

AI Toolbox for Teaching – Practical Workshop on Using AI in Education

Curious how to use AI tools effectively in your teaching or supervision? Join the AI Toolbox for Teaching workshop organised by the CERPEK team at Masaryk University. The session will introduce currently available AI tools and show how to use them meaningfully in academic practice, with hands-on examples from real teaching situations.

This workshop is suitable for PhD students, postdocs, and early-career academics who want to save time, improve course preparation, and explore new ways of working with AI in higher education. Held in English.

When: April 21, 2026, (9:00 - 13:00)  
Where: CERPEK training room no. 328, Komenského náměstí 2, Brno

Hřbet ruky s ukazovákem ukazujícím vpravoMore info & registration

© 2026
Masarykova univerzita

Instagram     Facebook