"I was thoroughly impressed by the students we honored – they are determined, well-informed, and most importantly, their enthusiasm for science is truly contagious. It's important for us to create opportunities to identify these talents early, connect them with professional research institutions, and support their further development. I sincerely congratulate all the awardees and wish them lasting energy and curiosity – because research truly never ends," said Karel Smetana, head of the Tumor Microenvironment Research Group at NÚVR, who personally presented the awards to three students during the national finals of the SOČ competition. You can learn more about their work below:
- Marek Mikšánek, Ladislav Jaroš Grammar School, Holešov: Optimization and innovation of cultivation approaches for leukemic cells; expert consultant Mgr. Hana Svozilová, Ph.D., CEITEC MU
Project presentation: https://youtu.be/rEkRZ3MsbRY - Adam Vašíček, Třebíč Grammar School: Synthesis and characterization of monofunctional cisplatin derivatives bearing oxygen functional groups; expert consultant Prof. RNDr. Radek Marek, Ph.D., and Bc. Jarmil Nikolas Hynek, Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University
Project presentation: https://youtu.be/NeuWWYyKemU - Valentýna Straková, Brno Grammar School, Slovanské náměstí: The role of extracellular vesicles in intercellular communication in lung tumors; expert consultant Mgr. Simona Strapáčová, Ph.D., VÚVeL
Project presentation: https://youtu.be/zEwGW7-pjAE
"One of NÚVR’s key mission is not only to push the boundaries of knowledge in cancer research, but also to educate and inspire a new generation of scientists. I am very pleased that high school students are so enthusiastic about topics related to biomedical research and are eager to understand their essence and context. By working to grasp complex scientific issues and asking meaningful questions, they demonstrate an openness to learning, discussion, and the development of critical thinking – which is an excellent foundation for their future paths," said Aleksi Šedo, Director of NÚVR, in appreciation of the students’ efforts.
He also expressed his deep gratitude to the organizers of SOČ for their long-term and systematic support od young talents. “We greatly appreciate the opportunity to be part of the national round for the second time and to present awards to students whose work has impressed experts in the field of cancer research. We believe that such cooperation helps to connect education, science, and practice and creates an inspiring environment for the next generation of scientists,” added A. Šedo.
