Women researchers from CXI TUL are changing the world

"The world belongs to those who want to know."
Vera Rubin,
an astrophysicist who proved the existence of dark matter

 

In the laboratories of the Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies, and Innovation at the Technical University of Liberec (CXI TUL), we want to "know" every day, and so we push the boundaries of knowledge in a multidisciplinary way: in fields from nanotechnology to artificial intelligence. This time, let's take a look at the work of women: researchers and scientists.

Women in Science from CXI TUL: check here: https://cxi.tul.cz/zeny-ve-vede/ and discover the stories and projects of our scientists

 

Scientists at CXI TUL work in a wide range of fields: nanomaterials, (nano)technologies for environmental protection, microbiology, bioengineering, analytical chemistry, materials engineering, and artificial intelligence for advanced materials.

Solutions for the real world are created in the laboratories of CXI TUL. Associate Professor Klára Kalinová develops nanomaterials for acoustics, which are used in both industry and everyday life. Miroslava Rysová specializes in (nano)biomaterials for medical applications, cosmetics, and biotechnology. "Currently, I am most excited about finding new ways to achieve the desired biological response using specifically modified nanomaterials. Lately, my team and I have been focusing on researching biodegradable and biogenic materials based on natural polymers and their processability into the nanoscale," explains Mirka Rysová about her work.

Mirka Rysová leads the Biomedical Applications of Nanomaterials group in the Department of Applied Biology at CXI TUL

Her team colleague Karolína Morávková is an engineer in reproductive biotechnology and applies nanotechnology in gynecology. "Reproductive biotechnology has been with me throughout my academic journey, from topics of hormonal stimulation to sperm-egg communication and the preservation of insemination doses for livestock," describes Karolína Morávková.

In her research at CXI TUL, Karolína is working on the development of nanomaterials for gynecological applications. This research connects knowledge of the female reproductive system with the latest materials, opening up new possibilities for the prevention and treatment of many diseases. The increasing interest in women's health research and the development of the so-called FemTech industry focuses on a wide range of topics, all aimed at improving the quality of life for women worldwide.

"Scientific work is fascinating but also demanding, especially when combined with caring for small children," adds Karolína, who has balanced her scientific career with family life and has two daughters. Thanks to family support, she was able to spend five months on an internship at a university in Novara, Italy, with her husband and children.

Karolína Morávková.

 

Science for a Better Environment

Magda Nechanická focuses her research on developing nanomaterials for biological cleaning and environmental pollution monitoring. "I combine the fields of nanomaterials, biotechnology, and molecular-genetic analyses to determine which biological cleaning methods and microbial pollution detection methods are applicable to the environment," explains Magda Nechanická. Her work contributes to the development of new methods for detecting and removing harmful substances from our surroundings.

Lenka Lacinová and Stanislava Vrchovecká specialize in analytical chemistry. Lenka leads the Analytical Laboratory at CXI TUL, while Stáňa focuses on developing methods for detecting and quantifying substances such as pharmaceuticals or pesticides in various types of samples.

The CXI TUL team also includes other unique specializations. Kateřina Černá studies geomicrobiological processes that influence the long-term safety of deep geological repositories of radioactive waste and underground storage of green hydrogen. She believes that these scientific findings contribute to a long-term reduction in CO₂ emissions on Earth. "The clear benefit of my work is increasing the safety of nuclear waste storage because I see nuclear energy as an important pillar of the transition to zero-emission energy – at least in this crucial phase of transformation," explains Katka, emphasizing the important role of microorganisms in sustainability.

Kateřina Černá.

Sabrin Abdallah specializes in the specific field of laser-synthesized nanoparticles and their use in environmental applications. "In my work, I explore how laser radiation can change the shape and properties of nanoparticles by modifying the structure of the light beam itself – in other words, how to shape matter with light. Additionally, I focus on applying laser technologies in water treatment and finding ways to translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions," explains Sabrin.

Sabrin Abdallah.

The Future of Science

"Science could be the best means of connection between nations!" These words from physicist Lise Meitner capture the international nature of the CXI TUL team. A total of 36 female researchers work here, including seven foreign scientists. Nesrine Amor, originally from Tunisia, connects artificial intelligence with the development of advanced materials at CXI TUL. Fatma Yalcinkaya, from Turkey, uses nanotechnology at the Technical University of Liberec to create innovative solutions for sustainable water treatment and energy applications for a better future.

Women scientists at CXI TUL are not only engaged in research – many of them pass on their knowledge to the next generation as program coordinators at the faculties of the Technical University of Liberec. Their work proves that science knows no boundaries – neither between disciplines nor between nations.

 

Women in Science from CXI TUL: check here: https://cxi.tul.cz/zeny-ve-vede/ and discover the stories and projects of our scientists

 

Follow the hashtag #WomenInScience and discover the stories and projects emerging in the laboratories of CXI TUL.

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