Physics education (TVFd)
Adaptation of Young Physicists Tournament problems for upper secondary school level.
Each year there are interesting and unconventional problems solved within the Young Physicists Tournament (YPT). Students solving these problems develop their knowledge and inquiry abilities. There is a limited number of schools involved into the competition within afternoon activities. The problems as solved by students who present and discuss their research project changing the roles of presenter, opponent and reviewer. This system offers great opportunities to implement some elements also in regular physics education. The main goal of the thesis is to implement selected YPT into upper secondary school level in the form of laboratory exercises. The PhD student is expected to select problems for specific topics that are suitable for development of inquiry skills, adapt them into the guided inquiry level and design educational materials both for students and teachers. Consequently, the pedagogical research will be designed to test the developed activities and materials at schools.
doc. RNDr. Marián Kireš, PhD.
prof. RNDr. Peter Kollár, DrSc.
Physics education (TVFdAj)
Adaptation of Young Physicists Tournament problems for upper secondary school level.
Each year there are interesting and unconventional problems solved within the Young Physicists Tournament (YPT). Students solving these problems develop their knowledge and inquiry abilities. There is a limited number of schools involved into the competition within afternoon activities. The problems as solved by students who present and discuss their research project changing the roles of presenter, opponent and reviewer. This system offers great opportunities to implement some elements also in regular physics education. The main goal of the thesis is to implement selected YPT into upper secondary school level in the form of laboratory exercises. The PhD student is expected to select problems for specific topics that are suitable for development of inquiry skills, adapt them into the guided inquiry level and design educational materials both for students and teachers. Consequently, the pedagogical research will be designed to test the developed activities and materials at schools.
[1] HENDL, J. 2008. Kvalitativní výzkum: základní teorie, metody a aplikace. Praha 2008, 2. vydanie, 408 s. ISBN 978-80-7367-485-4. [2] KLUIBER, Z. 2005. Tvůrčí náboj úloh turnaje mladých fyziků. Ed. Scio me multa nescire, č. 28. MAFY Hradec Králové 2005. [3] Martchenko, I.: Preparation to the Young physicist`s tournament, [online]. Dostupné na internete: <www.iypt.org>. [4] MURCIA, K. 2008. Re-thinking the Development of Scientific Literacy Through a Rope Metaphor. In: Research in Science Education. Vol. 39, 2008, No. 2
doc. RNDr. Marián Kireš, PhD.
prof. RNDr. Peter Kollár, DrSc.
Physics education (TVFdAj)
AI tools in innovative physics education.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, especially chatbots based on advanced large-scale neural language models such as ChatGPT, Gemini, or Mistral, earned significant attention in 2023-2024 across various human activity sectors, including physics education and STEM subjects, due to their impressive capabilities. This dissertation will focus on an in-depth analysis of the current state, impact, dynamic development, and potential of these technologies within the context of innovative physics education. It will explore the possibilities of integrating AI into curricula and teaching methods, aiming to prepare exemplary educational activities supported by AI in a selected area of physics, along with methodological guidelines for their effective use. The empirical mixed methods research will be oriented towards analyzing the impact of these technologies on motivation and teaching efficiency at secondary and tertiary education levels. The work should also evaluate new perspectives on using AI, which could significantly enrich and transform current pedagogical practices in physics education.
The main goal of this dissertation is to theoretically and empirically evaluate the impact and potential of AI tools on improving physics education. Achieving this goal should be realized through integrating AI into physics curricula, creating corresponding educational activities supported by AI, and verifying and analyzing their impact on motivation and efficiency in secondary and tertiary education.
[1] J. W. Creswell and V. L. P. Clark, Designing and Conducting Mixed Methods Research, 3rd ed. London: SAGE Publications, Inc, 2017. ISBN 978-1-483346-98-4 [2] J. A. Bowen and C.E. Watson, Teaching with AI: A Practical Guide to a New Era of Human Learning. Baltimore, Maryland: Johns Hopkins University Press, 2024. [3] M. N. Dahlkemper, S. Z. Lahme, and P. Klein, “How do physics students evaluate artificial intelligence responses on comprehension questions? A study on the perceived scientific accuracy and linguistic quality of ChatGPT,” Phys. Rev. Phys. Educ. Res., vol. 19, no. 1, p. 010142, 2023 [4] A. Al-Marzouqi (ed.) et al., Artificial Intelligence in Education: The Power and Dangers of ChatGPT in the Classroom. Springer, 2024. ISBN 978-3-031-52280-2. [5] G. Kortemeyer, “Toward AI grading of student problem solutions in introductory physics: A feasibility study,” Phys. Rev. Phys. Educ. Res., vol. 19, no. 2, p. 020163, 2023 [6] D. Borovský, J. Hanč, and M. Hančová, “Innovative approaches to high school physics competitions: Harnessing the power of AI and open science”, J. Phys.: Conf. Ser., roč. 2715, č. 1, s. 012011, 2024 [7] W. Xu and F. Ouyang, "The Application of AI Technologies in STEM Education: A Systematic Review from 2011 to 2021," International Journal of STEM Education, vol. 9, no. 1, p. 59, 2022.
doc. RNDr. Jozef Hanč, PhD.
Biophysics (BFd)
Application of nanotechnology-based photonics sensors in environment, agriculture, medicine, and food control
The interaction of light with nanostructures of metal surfaces, such as silver or gold, causes a significant enhancement of the electric field on the metal surface. This is the basis of the so-called plasmon-enhanced Raman spectroscopy / surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy – PERS/SERS, which leads to a significant enhancement of the Raman signal from molecules placed on a metal nanostructured surface. The aim of the dissertation is the development and preparation of sensor nanostructures with innovative properties, their functionalization and application for selective and highly sensitive detection of organic molecules with a wide range of applications (medicine - specific markers of cancer diseases aimed at early diagnosis), environment - control of water pollution, micro and nano-plastics, etc.) in various complex matrices, including volatile markers.
The development and preparation of sensor nanostructures with innovative properties, their functionalization and application for selective and highly sensitive detection of organic molecules with a wide range of applications (medicine - specific markers of cancer diseases aimed at early diagnosis), environment - control of water pollution, micro and nano-plastics, etc.) in various complex matrices, including volatile markers.
J. Kubackova, G. Fabriciova, P. Miskovsky, D. Jancura and S. Sanchez-Cortes. Sensitive surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) detection of organochlorine pesticides by alkyl dithiol-functionalized metal nanoparticles induced plasmonic hot spots. Anal. Chem. 87, 663-669 (2015). Scientific articles about the topic of the thesis
prof. RNDr. Pavol Miškovský, DrSc.
Dr. Santiago Sanchez Cortes, Ph.D.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
Application of modern methods of confocal microscopy and respirometry to study metabolic cardiac load
Cardiovascular complications represent the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in the world. For the detailed study of these conditions, modern biophysical methods such as biophotonics, confocal and super-resolution microscopy, or high-performance respirometry are increasingly being used in the context of research of the cell structure and function, its organelles and specific proteins. Therefore, we will use above-mentioned methods to study calcium signaling and mitochondrial metabolism in selected experimental models of metabolic load on the heart.
Application of modern biophysical methods to study calcium signaling and mitochondrial metabolism in selected experimental models of metabolic load on the heart.
1. Cagalinec M, Zahradníková A, Zahradníková A Jr, Kováčová D, Paulis L, Kureková S, Hot'ka M, Pavelková J, Plaas M, Novotová M, Zahradník I. Calcium Signaling and Contractility in Cardiac Myocyte of Wolframin Deficient Rats. Front Physiol. 2019 Mar 13;10:172. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00172. 2. Marcek Chorvatova A, Cagalinec M, Chorvat D Jr. Time-Resolved Imaging of Mitochondrial Flavin Fluorescence and Its Applications for Evaluating the Oxidative State in Living Cardiac Cells. Methods Mol Biol. 2021;2275:403-414. doi: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1262-0_26. 3. Baglaeva I, Iaparov B, Zahradník I, Zahradníková A. Analysis of noisy transient signals based on Gaussian process regression. Biophys J. 2023 Feb 7;122(3):451-459. doi: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.01.003.
RNDr. Michal Cagalinec, PhD.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
Application of nanotechnology-based photonics sensors in environment, agriculture, medicine, and food control
The interaction of light with nanostructures of metal surfaces, such as silver or gold, causes a significant enhancement of the electric field on the metal surface. This is the basis of the so-called plasmon-enhanced Raman spectroscopy / surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy – PERS/SERS, which leads to a significant enhancement of the Raman signal from molecules placed on a metal nanostructured surface. The aim of the dissertation is the development and preparation of sensor nanostructures with innovative properties, their functionalization and application for selective and highly sensitive detection of organic molecules with a wide range of applications (medicine - specific markers of cancer diseases aimed at early diagnosis), environment - control of water pollution, micro and nano-plastics, etc.) in various complex matrices, including volatile markers.
The development and preparation of sensor nanostructures with innovative properties, their functionalization and application for selective and highly sensitive detection of organic molecules with a wide range of applications (medicine - specific markers of cancer diseases aimed at early diagnosis), environment - control of water pollution, micro and nano-plastics, etc.) in various complex matrices, including volatile markers.
J. Kubackova, G. Fabriciova, P. Miskovsky, D. Jancura and S. Sanchez-Cortes. Sensitive surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) detection of organochlorine pesticides by alkyl dithiol-functionalized metal nanoparticles induced plasmonic hot spots. Anal. Chem. 87, 663-669 (2015). Scientific articles about the topic of the thesis
prof. RNDr. Pavol Miškovský, DrSc.
Dr. Santiago Sanchez Cortes, Ph.D.
Biophysics (BFd)
Biological and binding properties of selected viral and human glycoproteins and their clinical significance in the immune response
The main goal of the work is to investigate in detail the molecular basis of immune recognition of clinically significant glycoproteins encoded by human viruses. For this purpose, we plan to recombinantly prepare, characterize and determine the expression and purification profiles of viral and human genes that are associated with the processes of cytotoxicity and viroprotection in the cell.
Investigate in detail the molecular basis of immune recognition of clinically significant glycoproteins encoded by human viruses.
Scientific publications from the studied topic.
Mgr. Ivana Nemčovičová, PhD.
Biophysics (BFdeAj)
Biological and binding properties of selected viral and human glycoproteins and their clinical significance in the immune response
The main goal of the work is to investigate in detail the molecular basis of immune recognition of clinically significant glycoproteins encoded by human viruses. For this purpose, we plan to recombinantly prepare, characterize and determine the expression and purification profiles of viral and human genes that are associated with the processes of cytotoxicity and viroprotection in the cell.
Investigate in detail the molecular basis of immune recognition of clinically significant glycoproteins encoded by human viruses.
Scientific publications from the studied topic.
Mgr. Ivana Nemčovičová, PhD.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
Biological and binding properties of selected viral and human glycoproteins and their clinical significance in the immune response
The main goal of the work is to investigate in detail the molecular basis of immune recognition of clinically significant glycoproteins encoded by human viruses. For this purpose, we plan to recombinantly prepare, characterize and determine the expression and purification profiles of viral and human genes that are associated with the processes of cytotoxicity and viroprotection in the cell.
Investigate in detail the molecular basis of immune recognition of clinically significant glycoproteins encoded by human viruses.
Scientific publications from the studied topic.
Mgr. Ivana Nemčovičová, PhD.
Physics (FdAj)
Cosmic ray trajectory in the Earth's magnetosphere model development
Cosmic ray trajectories simulations are a tool for describing the radiation situation in the Earth's magnetosphere. They are connected to several research topics from the radiation situation in the magnetosphere, space weather topics, through the influence of cosmic radiation on the formation of clouds and the wider influence on the climate to the investigation of the accuracy of the dating method of radioactive carbon C14. The aim of the work is to improve the current models for calculating the trajectory of cosmic rays in the magnetosphere and to use them to investigate selected problems associated with cosmic rays in the Earth's magnetosphere. Selected topics include the development of a model enabling the simulation of cosmic radiation intensities during geomagnetic storms, the search for an optimal methodology for investigating the influence of cosmic radiation on cloud formation, and determining the influence of the crustal geomagnetic field on the energy thresholds of cosmic radiation on the Earth's surface and in the magnetosphere.One of the open problems in this field is an origin of the enhanced production of the strange and multi-strange particles with respect to non-strange particle production in high multiplicity pp collisions [1]. It is still unknown whether the strangeness enhancement dependency as a function of multiplicity in pp collisions will follow the similar trend in peripheral heavy ion collisions or it will be significantly different. The thesis will focus on studying strange particle production in high multiplicity proton-proton collisions collected with unprecedented statistics in Run3 (2022-2026) at the LHC. [1] ALICE Collaboration., Adam, J., Adamová, D. et al. Enhanced production of multi-strange hadrons in high-multiplicity proton–proton collisions. Nature Phys 13, 535–539 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1038/nphys4111
Recent publications
RNDr. Pavol Bobík, PhD.
RNDr. Blahoslav Pastirčák, CSc.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Crystal plasticity and fracture of entropy-stabilized carbides: micro/nanomechanical testing and FEM modelling
The dissertation work addresses the development of deformable ceramics, through the understanding and modification of crystal plasticity and fracture of grains, using micro/nanomechanical testing and finite element method (FEM) modelling. The research focuses mainly on entropy-stabilised carbides, which is a large new group of materials, primarily as promising next-generation ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs) for hypersonic and space applications. The topic includes the structural characterization (e.g. XRD, SEM, EBSD) of samples, but the main tasks will be the state-of-the-art micro/nanomechanical testing of grains (nanoindentation, micropillar compression, microcantilever bending) and their FEM modelling, including both plastic deformation and plasticity. The doctoral student will get familiarised with all techniques, however, basic knowledge of FEM modelling is required. Additionally, independent learning of new knowledge and good communication skills in English (both written and oral) is advantageous. Knowledge of cohesive zone and/or crystal plasticity modelling in FEM is a great advantage during the selection process.
The topic includes the structural characterization (e.g. XRD, SEM, EBSD) of samples, but the main tasks will be the state-of-the-art micro/nanomechanical testing of grains (nanoindentation, micropillar compression, microcantilever bending) and their FEM modelling, including both plastic deformation and plasticity.
journal literature
MSc. Tamás Csanádi, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Design and synthesis of entropy-stabilized ultra-high temperature ceramics with superior strength and plasticity
The dissertation work addresses the design and synthesis of novel ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs), the only group of materials that can withstand temperatures exceeding 2000°C, with superior strength and plasticity. The research focuses on entropy-stabilised UHTCs as a large new group of materials, consisting of at least four different transition metals in the crystal lattice. The large compositional space makes it possible to design deformable ceramics instead of brittle UHTCs that exit to date (e.g. HfC, ZrB2). The topic includes the design of thermodynamically stable compositions, optimisation of processing route, structural characterization (e.g. XRD, SEM, EBSD) and mechanical testing of samples. The doctoral student will get familiarised with all techniques, however, basic knowledge of thermodynamics and the use of phase diagrams is required. Additionally, independent learning of new knowledge and good communication skills in English (both written and oral) is advantageous. Knowledge of CALPHAD software for calculations of phase diagrams, such as Thermo-Calc, is a great advantage during the selection process.
The dissertation work addresses the design and synthesis of novel ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs), the only group of materials that can withstand temperatures exceeding 2000°C, with superior strength and plasticity
journal literature
MSc. Tamás Csanádi, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Development of high – entropy ceramics: modelling, processing, characterization and testing
The dissertation work is focused on the development and characterization of High – Entropy Structural Ceramics with improved room and high/ultra-high temperature properties suitable for extreme operating conditions in different areas of industry. Systems based on ternary carbides and nitrides mixed in equimolar concentrations to reach the maximum molar configurational entropy with structural order and chemical disorder will be developed applying advanced modelling methods - numerical simulation, machine learning, etc., processing routes as high – energy milling, spark plasma sintering or hot – pressing. The developed systems will be tested using advanced methods as micro/nano – mechanical tests, tribology, strength/toughness tests, thermal shock, oxidation, ablation tests, etc. and characterized by SEM, EBSD, TEM/HREM, AFM etc. The proposed dissertation work will put forward a systematic study of high-entropy ceramics based on ternary carbides and nitrides in in the wide range and so completely, that new original results in this field of material science can be expected.
The proposed dissertation work will put forward a systematic study of high-entropy ceramics based on ternary carbides and nitrides in in the wide range and so completely, that new original results in this field of material science can be expected.
Current journal literature.
prof. RNDr. Ján Dusza, DrSc.
MSc. Tamás Csanádi, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Development of metal-based ceramic nanofibers from recycling waste by electrospinning
Dissertation thesis is oriented to nanofibers systems prepared by relatively novel, low-cost and productive method – needle-less electrospinning, from the metal solutions obtained by the hydrometallurgical treatment of waste products, which are expected to have a great potential in the field of various special technical applications. The expected contribution of the thesis is to study and explain the relationship between the preparation conditions, the microstructure formation and the selected functional properties of the developed nanofibers and it has all the prerequisites to shift the knowledge about the preparation of the nanofibers towards the real production possibilities. The aim of the thesis is to predict the application possibilities of the studied materials on the basis of the obtained results.
The aim of the thesis is to predict the application possibilities of the studied materials on the basis of the obtained results.
Current journal literature.
prof. RNDr. Ján Dusza, DrSc.
Ing. Eva Múdra, PhD.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
Development of methods for determining the proteolytic activity of industrially used bacterial toxins
This dissertation focuses on the fundamental research of toxin proteolytic activity, specifically their ability to cleave peptide sequences derived from SNARE proteins. This mechanism is crucial for toxin function, yet its precise kinetics and substrate specificity remain insufficiently explored. The project will develop methods for monitoring this activity, primarily rapid and routine assays based on FRET-labeled substrate peptides. The development of new experimental approaches will enable more precise quantification of cleavage kinetics and identification of factors influencing toxin substrate selectivity. The research is conducted within the framework of a so-called industrial doctorate cooperation with the private sector - the company JUHAPHARM, s.r.o., while the knowledge gained can contribute not only to the development of analytical tools, but also to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of toxins with potential applications in biotechnology and pharmaceutical research.
1. Develop methods for determining the activity of bacterial toxins used in industry 2. Characterize the robustness and reliability of the developed methods
1. Gregory RW, Werner WE, Ruegg C. A quantitative bifunctional in vitro potency assay for botulinum neurotoxin serotype A. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods. 2014 Mar-Apr;69(2):103-7. doi: 10.1016/j.vascn.2013.12.002. Epub 2013 Dec 12. PMID: 24333955. 2.Halliwell J, Gwenin C. A label free colorimetric assay for the detection of active botulinum neurotoxin type A by SNAP-25 conjugated colloidal gold. Toxins (Basel). 2013 Aug 6;5(8):1381-91. doi: 10.3390/toxins5081381. PMID: 23925142; PMCID: PMC3760041.
doc. RNDr. Gabriel Žoldák, DrSc.
Physics (FdAj)
Development of transport software for neutrino telescopes of the KM3NeT experiment and its implementation into the general simulation framework of the experiment
The KM3Net experiment is primarily focused on searching for galactic and extragalactic neutrino sources. It uses a high-energy neutrino telescope, consisting of a 1 km long garland network of scintillation detectors submerged in the water of the Mediterranean Sea. It uses water to detect Cherenkov radiation from secondary particles produced by high-energy neutrinos in or near a sensitive volume. Its main scientific goal is to map the sky in the high-energy neutrino region in the southern hemisphere, including the region of the Galactic center. The work will be part of a broader task focused on the simulations and analysis of muon treks produced by the astrophysical neutrino flux in the Earth's atmosphere and its differentiation from the background produced by other sources in the KM3Net experiment measurements. The physical simulations for the KM3Net experiment are performed in three main steps. Simulations of atmospheric muon flow at sea level, muon transport to the detector level, simulations of the response of the apparatus to Cherenkov radiation of muons, taking into account the work of the telescope's electronic systems. All steps are performed in the general simulation framework gSeaGen. The doctoral student's work is a partial task in the second step of the simulation chain. He will develop software in C++ connecting simulated data from CORSIKA with input to simulation packages for further transport of secondary muons by water to the ORCA and ARCA detectors of the KM3Net experiment. Currently, the collaboration uses the older Fortran package MUSIC for this transport, which needs to be replaced by a modern object-oriented software called PROPOSAL, which will require modification of the entire chain. Both of these approaches differ physically and in terms of programming. The plan is to develop a new propagation software and subsequently, to compare and analyze it in detail with the previous one. It is highly desirable to expand the propagation software to include the propagation of tau neutrinos (previously unused) using the gSeaGen applications TAUSIC and TAUOLA.
Recent publications
RNDr. Blahoslav Pastirčák, CSc.
RNDr. Pavol Bobík, PhD.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
Development of transport systems for drug targeted delivery into 3D model of cancer cells
Nanotechnology is increasingly being used in medicine, for example, to diagnose, treat and target tumours more safely and effectively. It enables the development of functional materials, devices, and systems at the atomic and molecular levels and the utilisation of novel properties and phenomena. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems have shown many advantages in cancer treatment, such as good pharmacokinetics, precise targeting of tumour cells, reduction of side effects and drug resistance. Various materials have been proposed as drug carriers, but much attention in the field of targeted drug delivery is devoted to micro- and mesoporous nanoparticles, namely metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). These materials belong to the group of hybrid inorganic-organic compounds consisting of metal cations/clusters that are subsequently bridged by organic linkers. They are characterised by a large capacity for drug encapsulation in pores, kinetic and thermodynamic stability, good biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity and the possibility of surface functionalisation with the acquisition of the desired physicochemical properties. The task of the doctoral student will be to characterise the developed transport systems with biophysical techniques and to evaluate their application in photodiagnosis and photodynamic therapy in different cell models. The student will use the methods of fluorescence spectroscopy, microscopy (confocal fluorescence microscopy and FLIM), bioimaging, flow cytometry, immunolabelling, western blot and PCR to complete the tasks in the dissertation project. The cell cultures in 2D and 3D, as well as a preclinical model of the avian chorioallantoic membrane, will be used for the study. As part of the project, the student will actively cooperate with other laboratories in Slovakia and abroad.
The aim of the work is to develop a reliable drug delivery system for the targeted therapy of cancer, to characterise it using biophysical techniques and to evaluate its use in photodiagnostics and photodynamic therapy in various cell models.
1) Zanoni, M., Piccinini, F., Arienti, C. et al. 3D tumor spheroid models for in vitro therapeutic screening: a systematic approach to enhance the biological relevance of data obtained. Sci Rep 6, 19103 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1038/srep19103 2) Benziane A, Huntošová V, Pevná V, Zauška L, Vámosi G, Hovan A, Zelenková G, Zeleňák V, Almáši M. Synergistic effect of folic acid and hypericin administration to improve the efficacy of photodynamic therapy via folate receptors. J Photochem Photobiol B. 2024 Dec;261:113046. doi: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2024.113046 3) Pevná V, Huntošová V. Imaging of heterogeneity in 3D spheroids of U87MG glioblastoma cells and its implications for photodynamic therapy. Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther. 2023 Dec;44:103821. doi: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2023.103821 4) Shano LB, Karthikeyan S, Kennedy LJ, Chinnathambi S, Pandian GN. MOFs for next-generation cancer therapeutics through a biophysical approach-a review. Front Bioeng Biotechnol. 2024 Jun 13;12:1397804. doi: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1397804
RNDr. Veronika Huntošová, PhD.
doc. RNDr. Miroslav Almáši, PhD.
Physics education (TVFdAj)
Development the skill of argumentation in the conceptual physics course
The student's understanding of physics concepts and phenomenon can be verified through qualitative tasks and their physics interpretation. The ability to appropriately use the most important arguments, to correctly organize them into a comprehensive explanation of a physics concept or phenomenon are signs of the skill of arguing. The content of conceptual physics courses will be analyzed as part of the dissertation. The doctoral student will process a thematically sorted set of qualitative tasks and their clarification at the level of high school physics. For physics teachers, he will create a education course, which will provide basic starting points and materials for the application of qualitative tasks in the teaching of physics at the secondary school. The development of the ability to argue and the level of the student's conceptual understanding of selected physical terms and phenomena will be investigated on a selected sample of high school students.
1. Map the approach to creating the content of conceptual physics courses and the teaching methods used in their implementation. 2. Process a thematically sorted set of qualitative tasks and their clarification at the level of high school physics. 3. Create and implement a course of continuous education for physics teachers focused on teaching conceptual physics in high school. 4. On a selected sample of high school students, examine the development of students' argumentative skills and the level of students' conceptual understanding.
[1] Taşlıdere, Erdal & Eryilmaz, Ali. (2009). Alternative to Traditional Physics Instruction: Effectiveness of Conceptual Physics Approach. Eurasian Journal of Educational Research (EJER). 9. 109-128. [2] Aina, Jacob. (2017). Investigating the Conceptual Understanding of Physics through an Interactive Lecture- Engagement. Cumhuriyet International Journal of Education-CIJE. 6. 82-96. [3] Price, Edward & Goldberg, Fred & Robinson, Steve & McKean, Michael. (2016). Validity of peer grading using Calibrated Peer Review in a guided-inquiry, conceptual physics course. Physical Review Physics Education Research. 12. 10.1103/PhysRevPhysEducRes.12.020145. [4] Walker, Jearl. (2023). The Flying Circus of Physics, 2nd ed.
doc. RNDr. Marián Kireš, PhD.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
Establishment of advanced techniques for insect cell-based production of proteins
The production of eukaryotic proteins in bacterial expression systems is challenging due to several factors—low solubility and yield of proteins, the absence of post-translational modifications, and limitations in the production of membrane proteins. Insect cell expression systems serve as an excellent alternative, offering reliable protein production with simple glycosylation, post-translational modifications, and good scalability. This work focuses on establishing a methodology for protein production in insect cells—preparing and optimizing the expression system for the production of selected model proteins. The properties of the protein preparations will be characterized in subsequent steps using biophysical methods.
Preparation of recombinant baculovirus vectors for the expression of selected proteins Transfection of Sf9 insect cells, small-scale protein expression, and quantification of expression using Western blot Optimization of expression and "upscaling" of protein production Chromatographic purification of proteins and optimization of the purification process Characterization of the biophysical properties of the prepared proteins using circular dichroism and calorimetry
Insect cells-baculovirus system for the production of difficult to express proteins (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25447865/) Efficient production of a functional G protein-coupled receptor in E. coli for structural studies (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33501610/) GPCR expression using baculovirus-infected Sf9 cells (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19513645/) Sf9 cells: a versatile model system to investigate the pharmacological properties of G protein-coupled receptors (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20705094/) Baculovirus-mediated expression of GPCRs in insect cells (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25857783/) Expression and purification of recombinant G protein-coupled receptors: A review (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31678667/)
prof. RNDr. Erik Sedlák, DrSc.
Mgr. Ľuboš Ambro, PhD.
Physics of Condensed Matter (FKLd)
Experimental study of superconductivity in systems with broken inversion symmetry
The discovery of superconductivity in materials with broken inversion symmetry has triggered great interest in the study of their electronic structure and its relation to the formation of a superconducting condensate. The absence of inversion symmetry in these so-called non-centrosymmetric (NCS) superconductors allows non-trivial states such as the mixing of spin-singlet and triplet components into a superconducting pairing or Ising superconductivity in 2D systems with extremely high values of the critical magnetic field. NCS superconductivity has been shown in most 2D monolayers and several bulk systems, such as La3Se4, CeRh2As2, TaIrB2, and others. Within the scope of this dissertation, we will study the superconducting properties of various bulk NCS superconductors. We plan to study the effect of broken inversion symmetry in these systems on their band structure and on the critical magnetic fields.
Experimental study of superconductors with broken inversion symmetry applying STM, point-contact spectroscopy a transport measurements
[1] KITTEL Ch., Úvod do fyziky pevných látek, Academia, Praha, 1985 [2] F. Košuth, et al.,Two-gap superconductivity in the noncentrosymmetric La3Se4 compound, Phys. Rev. B 110, 174518.
Mgr. Pavol Szabó, CSc.
doc. RNDr. Peter Samuely, DrSc.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
FEM of micromechanil tests of hard coatings
The work is focused on a detail study of the processes of stress and deformation states during instrumented nanoindentation, scratch and tribological tests in the coated composite systems using finite element modelling (FEM) externded FEM (xFEM) and Cohesive Zone Model (CZM) methods and subsequent experimental verification. The work will be performed on thin coatings on substrates with different mechanical properties. The aim is to understand the details of damage mechanisms in coatings in dependence on the loading conditions as well as the optimization of the conditions for the measurement of the mechanical properties and tribological properties of the studied coatings.
Detail study of the stress and deformation states during instrumented nanoindentation, scratch and tribological tests in the composite systems coating/substrate using finite element modelling (FEM)
1. A.K. Bhattacharya, W.D. Nix, Finite element simulation of indentation experiments, Int. J. Solids Structures 24 (1988) 881-891. doi: 10.1016/0020-7683(88)90039-X 2. H. ur Rehman, F. Ahmed, Ch. Schmid, J. Schaufler, K. Durst, Study on the deformation mechanics of hard brittle coatings on ductile substrates using in situ tensile testing and cohesive zone modelling, Surf. Coat Technol. 207 (2012)163-169. doi: 10.1016/j.surfcoat.2012.06.049 3. Sun, T. Bell, S. Zheng, Finite element analysis of the critical ratio of coating thickness to indentation depth for coating property measurements by nanoindentation, Thin Solid Films 258 (1995) 198-204. doi: 10.1016/0040-6090(94)06357-5 4. T, Csanádi, D. Németh, F. Lofaj, Mechanical Properties of Hard W-C Coating on Steel Substrate Deduced from Nanoindentation and Finite Element Modeling, Exp. Mechanics 57 (2017) 1057 – 1069. Doi: 10.1007/s11340-016-0190-x
doc. RNDr. František Lofaj, DrSc.
Physics (FdAj)
Field-theoretic renormalization group methods in nonequilibrium stochastic dynamics
In recent years, an interdisciplinary field of research dealing with different reaction-diffusion models has gained considerable importance. Such models can be used to describe diverse phenomena such as the propagation of disturbances in matter, the evolution of infections in biological systems, or even political views. The main focus will be on the investigation of scaling behaviour and its aspects in different types of percolation process. The dynamics of processes with a variable number of agents is described using governing equations for probabilities, which can be reformulated into equations for state vectors using the Doi mechanism, and these can then be transformed as field-theoretic models for fluctuating fields with certain effective effects. A typical feature of these models is the presence of strong fluctuations in the critical region that preclude the use of ordinary perturbation theory. It is necessary to apply the perturbation methods of quantum-field theory, functional integration and renormalization group. Using these, the effects in question would be investigated in order to identify the macroscopic behavior of interest. From a practical point of view, similar to critical phenomena theory, universal quantities of the type of critical indices would be studied and computed within a given perturbation scheme. Specific calculations would be implemented in the form of Feynman diagrams, with efforts directed at improving existing multi-loop results.
Solving actual problems of nonequilibrium phase transitions in different models of percolation process using statistical field theory and perturbation renormalization group methods. The main aim will consist in the application of many-loop calculations of representative universal quantities.
J. Zinn Justin, Quantum Field Theory and Critical Phenomena, (Oxford Univers Press, 1989) A. N. Vasil’ev The Field Theoretic Renormalization Group in Critical Behavior Theory and Stochastic Dynamics, Boca Raton:Chapman & Hall/CRC (2004) U. C. Tauber, Critical Dynamics: A Field Theory Ap- proach to Equilibrium and Non-equilibrium Scaling Be- havior (Cambridge University Press, 2014)] H.-K. Janssen and U. C. Tauber, Annals of Physics 315, 147 (2005), U. C. Tauber, M. Howard, and B. P. Vollmayr-Lee, Journal of Physics A: Mathematical and General 38, R79 (2005) H.-K. Janssen. O. Stenull 2017 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 50 324002
RNDr. Tomáš Lučivjanský, PhD., univerzitný docent
prof. RNDr. Michal Hnatič, DrSc.
Physics education (TVFdAj)
Formative assessment in physics teaching at secondary school
Formative assessment is one of the most effective educational interventions to influence students´ achievements in their process of learning. Formative assessment is aimed at providing feedback to assist students´ learning. The main thesis goal is to analyse available formative assessment tools and consider their implementation to support learning in physics. The PhD student is expected to design a set of formative assessment tools for inquiry activities that will be consistently implemented into the inquiry-based learning scenario in order to develop understanding as well as inquiry skills so that learners assume more responsibility and become more independent in their own learning. The effectivity of the designed model will be evaluated by pedagogical research.
1. Analyze methods, strategies, and assessment tools used in secondary school teaching with an emphasis on formative assessment. 2. Assess the possibilities of implementing formative assessment tools into physics teaching at the secondary school level. 3. Propose a set of formative assessment tools for inquiry-based activities, which will be purposefully and systematically integrated into the structure of inquiry-oriented teaching. 4. Verify the effectiveness of the proposed model through educational research
[1] Black, P. & WIiliam, P. 1998. Assessment and classroom learning, Assessment in Education: Principles, Policy & Practice, 5(1), 7-74, https://doi.org/10.1080/0969595980050102 [2] Etkina, E., Karelina, A., Murthy, S. & Ruibal-Villasenor, M. 2009. Using action research to improve learning and formative assessment to conduct research, Phys. Rev. St Phys. Educ. Res. 5, 010109 [3] Harlen, W. 2013. Assessment & Inquiry-Based Science Education: Issues in Policy and Practice. Global Network of Science Academies (IAP) Science Education Programme (SEP), available at https://www.interacademies.org/sites/default/files/publication/ibse_assessment_guide_iap_sep_0.pdf
doc. RNDr. Zuzana Ješková, PhD.
Physics education (TVFd)
Formative assessment in physics teaching at secondary school
Formative assessment is one of the most effective educational interventions to influence students´ achievements in their process of learning. Formative assessment is aimed at providing feedback to assist students´ learning. The main thesis goal is to analyse available formative assessment tools and consider their implementation to support learning in physics. The PhD student is expected to design a set of formative assessment tools for inquiry activities that will be consistently implemented into the inquiry-based learning scenario in order to develop understanding as well as inquiry skills so that learners assume more responsibility and become more independent in their own learning. The effectivity of the designed model will be evaluated by pedagogical research.
1. Analyze methods, strategies, and assessment tools used in secondary school teaching with an emphasis on formative assessment. 2. Assess the possibilities of implementing formative assessment tools into physics teaching at the secondary school level. 3. Propose a set of formative assessment tools for inquiry-based activities, which will be purposefully and systematically integrated into the structure of inquiry-oriented teaching. 4. Verify the effectiveness of the proposed model through educational research
[1] Black, P. & WIiliam, P. 1998. Assessment and classroom learning, Assessment in Education: Principles, Policy & Practice, 5(1), 7-74, https://doi.org/10.1080/0969595980050102 [2] Etkina, E., Karelina, A., Murthy, S. & Ruibal-Villasenor, M. 2009. Using action research to improve learning and formative assessment to conduct research, Phys. Rev. St Phys. Educ. Res. 5, 010109 [3] Harlen, W. 2013. Assessment & Inquiry-Based Science Education: Issues in Policy and Practice. Global Network of Science Academies (IAP) Science Education Programme (SEP), available at https://www.interacademies.org/sites/default/files/publication/ibse_assessment_guide_iap_sep_0.pdf
doc. RNDr. Zuzana Ješková, PhD.
Physics (Fd)
Photometric and Spectroscopic Study of Dwarf Novae with Applications of Machine Learning Methods
Dwarf novae are a subclass of cataclysmic variable stars consisting of a white dwarf primary and a late-type main-sequence secondary star in a close binary system. Mass is transferred from the secondary to the white dwarf via an accretion disk, leading to characteristic outbursts caused by thermal-viscous instabilities in the disk. These outbursts provide valuable insights into accretion physics, mass transfer processes, and the evolution of compact binary systems. This dissertation focuses on the photometric and spectroscopic study of dwarf novae, utilizing both original observations and archival data from various sky surveys (e.g., ZTF, ASAS-SN, Gaia, SDSS, LAMOST). The research aims to analyze light curves and spectral properties to characterize their variability, outburst mechanisms, and spectral evolution. Machine learning techniques will be employed to classify and predict the activity states of dwarf novae, detect periodicities in time-series data, and identify key spectral features associated with accretion dynamics. By integrating advanced computational methods with traditional observational techniques, this study will contribute to a deeper understanding of dwarf nova outbursts and the broader astrophysical processes governing accretion in compact binaries. Additionally, the development of automated analysis methods may facilitate future large-scale studies of cataclysmic variables.
To analyze light curves and spectral properties of dwarf novae to characterize their variability, outburst mechanisms, and Tpectral evolution using machine learning methods
Frank, J., King, A., & Raine, D. (2002). Accretion Power in Astrophysics (3rd ed.). Cambridge University Press. Hellier, C. (2001). Cataclysmic Variable Stars: How and Why They Vary. Springer. Chaty, S. (2022), Accreting Binaries, Nature, formation and evolution. IOP Publishing Warner, B. (1995). Cataclysmic Variable Stars. Cambridge University Press.
doc. Mgr. Štefan Parimucha, PhD.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
Hypericin, a potential Bcl2 proteins regulator, and its effect on cancer cells apoptosis and autophagy.
Members of the Bcl2 family of proteins are key regulators of apoptosis. The intricate network of protein-protein interactions between multi BH domain anti- and pro-apoptotic Bcl2 proteins, and/or BH3-only proteins control cell survival or death via regulation of mitochondria function and fission/fusion processes. The BH3-only proteins has been shown to fulfill role of either sensitizer or direct activator of pro-apoptotic Bax and Bak. The importance of interaction between pro-survival Bcl2 proteins and BH3 motifs of either pro-apoptotic or BH3 only proteins for cell death or survival decisions makes this interaction an appealing target for cancer therapy and at the present, more than 20 small molecule inhibitors of pro-survival Bcl2 proteins, termed as BH3 mimetics, were explored. We have shown evidence that Hypericin (Hyp) may be another naturally occurring BH3 mimetic. The goal of this study will focus on Hyp interaction with anti-apoptotic Bcl2, BclXL and Mcl1 in apoptosis and autophagy pathways in cancer cells. We will use interdisciplinary approach of confocal fluorescent microscopy, molecular biology and spectroscopy.
To study Hyp interaction with anti-apoptotic Bcl2, BclXL and Mcl1 in apoptosis and autophagy pathways in cancer cells.
1. Llambi, Moldoveanu et al. (2011) Molecular Cell 44(4): 517-531 2. Certo, Del Gaizo Moore et al. (2006) Cancer Cell 9(5): 351-365. 3. Vogler (2014) Adv Med 2014: 943648. 4. Correia, Lee et al. (2015) Biochimica et Biophysica Acta 1853(7): 1658-1671. 5. Gong, Khong et al. (2016) Journal of Biological Chemistry 285(33): 25570-25581. 6. Doroshenko A., Tomkova S., Kozar T., and Stroffekova K. (2022) Hypericin, a potential new BH3 mimetic. Front. Pharmacol. 13:991554, doi: 10.3389/fphar.2022.991554 7. Doroshenko A., Tomkova S., Kozar T., and Stroffekova K. (2022) Hypericin, a potential new BH3 mimetic. Front. Pharmacol. 13:991554, doi: 10.3389/fphar.2022.991554 8. Stroffekova K., Tomkova S., Huntosova V. and T. Kozar, (2019) Importance of Hypericin-Bcl2 interactions for biological effects at subcellular levels. Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy 28 (2019) 38-52 9. Huntosova, V., M. Novotova, et al. (2017). "Assessing light-independent effects of hypericin on cell viability, ultrastructure and metabolism in human glioma and endothelial cells." Toxicol In Vitro 40: 184-195. 10. Huntosova, V. and K. Stroffekova (2016). "Hypericin in the Dark: Foe or Ally in Photodynamic Therapy?" Cancers (Basel) 8(10).
doc. RNDr. Katarína Štroffeková, PhD.
Biophysics (BFd)
Hypericin, a potential Bcl2 proteins regulator, and its effect on cancer cells apoptosis and autophagy.
Members of the Bcl2 family of proteins are key regulators of apoptosis. The intricate network of protein-protein interactions between multi BH domain anti- and pro-apoptotic Bcl2 proteins, and/or BH3-only proteins control cell survival or death via regulation of mitochondria function and fission/fusion processes. The BH3-only proteins has been shown to fulfill role of either sensitizer or direct activator of pro-apoptotic Bax and Bak. The importance of interaction between pro-survival Bcl2 proteins and BH3 motifs of either pro-apoptotic or BH3 only proteins for cell death or survival decisions makes this interaction an appealing target for cancer therapy and at the present, more than 20 small molecule inhibitors of pro-survival Bcl2 proteins, termed as BH3 mimetics, were explored. We have shown evidence that Hypericin (Hyp) may be another naturally occurring BH3 mimetic. The goal of this study will focus on Hyp interaction with anti-apoptotic Bcl2, BclXL and Mcl1 in apoptosis and autophagy pathways in cancer cells. We will use interdisciplinary approach of confocal fluorescent microscopy, molecular biology and spectroscopy.
To study Hyp interaction with anti-apoptotic Bcl2, BclXL and Mcl1 in apoptosis and autophagy pathways in cancer cells.
1. Llambi, Moldoveanu et al. (2011) Molecular Cell 44(4): 517-531 2. Certo, Del Gaizo Moore et al. (2006) Cancer Cell 9(5): 351-365. 3. Vogler (2014) Adv Med 2014: 943648. 4. Correia, Lee et al. (2015) Biochimica et Biophysica Acta 1853(7): 1658-1671. 5. Gong, Khong et al. (2016) Journal of Biological Chemistry 285(33): 25570-25581. 6. Doroshenko A., Tomkova S., Kozar T., and Stroffekova K. (2022) Hypericin, a potential new BH3 mimetic. Front. Pharmacol. 13:991554, doi: 10.3389/fphar.2022.991554 7. Doroshenko A., Tomkova S., Kozar T., and Stroffekova K. (2022) Hypericin, a potential new BH3 mimetic. Front. Pharmacol. 13:991554, doi: 10.3389/fphar.2022.991554 8. Stroffekova K., Tomkova S., Huntosova V. and T. Kozar, (2019) Importance of Hypericin-Bcl2 interactions for biological effects at subcellular levels. Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy 28 (2019) 38-52 9. Huntosova, V., M. Novotova, et al. (2017). "Assessing light-independent effects of hypericin on cell viability, ultrastructure and metabolism in human glioma and endothelial cells." Toxicol In Vitro 40: 184-195. 10. Huntosova, V. and K. Stroffekova (2016). "Hypericin in the Dark: Foe or Ally in Photodynamic Therapy?" Cancers (Basel) 8(10).
doc. RNDr. Katarína Štroffeková, PhD.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
Interaction of serum proteins with IgG light chains: mechanisms of stabilization and aggregation suppression
This dissertation focuses on the interactions of serum proteins with pathological IgG light chains associated with oncohematological diseases, such as light chain amyloidosis and multiple myeloma. The research aims to understand aggregation mechanisms, identify low-molecular-weight stabilizers, investigate the role of protein chaperones in inhibiting aggregation, and structurally characterize stabilizer-hLC interactions. The thesis is a continuation of and funded by the project APVV-23-0212 Unraveling the Molecular Mechanisms of IgG Light Chain Aggregation in Oncohematological Diseases: From Serum Proteins to Kinetic Stabilizers The findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of pathogenesis and potential therapeutic strategies.
1. Identify serum proteins that interact with immunoglobulin G light chain 2. Characterize thermodynamic and kinetic parameters of binding of identified serum proteins to immunoglobulin G light chain
1. Guman T, Sýkora J, Demčáková V, Žoldák G. Protein Misfolding and Aggregation of Pathological Igg Light Chains in Oncohematological Dyscrasias: From Molecular Pathways to Clinical Implications. Curr Protein Pept Sci. 2025 Jan 2. doi: 10.2174/0113892037336731241029075530. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39757641. 2. Džupponová V, Žoldák G. Aggregation mechanism and branched 3D morphologies of pathological human light chain proteins under reducing conditions. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces. 2023 Jan;221:112983. doi: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2022.112983. Epub 2022 Nov 2. PMID: 36401959. 3. Džupponová V, Huntošová V, Žoldák G. A kinetic coupling between protein unfolding and aggregation controls time-dependent solubility of the human myeloma antibody light chain. Protein Sci. 2020 Dec;29(12):2408-2421. doi: 10.1002/pro.3968. Epub 2020 Oct 19. PMID: 33030218; PMCID: PMC7679964.
doc. RNDr. Gabriel Žoldák, DrSc.
Physics education (TVFdAj)
Interactive methods and technologies in teaching physics of the microworld
The thesis is focused on physic education research in the new curriculum (content and approaches) in teaching physics using the latest interactive teaching methods and digital technology. The new curriculum should more reflect the current scientific knowledge and technological progress as traditional. At the same time, it should provide the necessary foundation for future natural scientists and engineers, who will be working on such problems as the design of new conductive materials, data storage of high density and access speed, new communications technologies, nanoscience and nanotechnology, alternative energy sources, quantum computers, computer drug design, and modelling of complex systems involving extreme climatic and geophysical phenomena. The work of a Ph.D. student will be concentrated on a study, selection, and preparation of educational activities in physics of the microworld, supported by experiments. The main goal will be the research dealing with the implementation of the new content in the micro-world physics in the school curriculum with subsequent analysis of the impact and effectiveness of selected methods and technologies. The applicant must have some experience in Jupyter technology, Geogebra modelling, and fundamentals of modern physics, especially Feynman’s spacetime approach to quantum physics and Einstein’s theory of relativity.
The work of a Ph.D. student will be concentrated on a study, selection, and preparation of educational activities in physics of the microworld, supported by experiments. The main goal will be the research dealing with the implementation of the new content in the micro-world physics in the school curriculum with subsequent analysis of the impact and effectiveness of selected methods and technologies.
[1] R. Chabay and B. Sherwood, Matter & Interactions. 4th ed. New York, NY, USA: Wiley, 2020. ISBN 978-1-119-08081-7. [2] M. G. Jones, Nanoscale Science: Activities for Grades 6-12. Arlington, VA, USA: NSTA Press, 2007. ISBN 978-1-933531-05-2. [3] T. A. Moore, Six Ideas that Shaped Physics: Units C, N, E, T, R, Q. 3rd ed., Vols. 1–6. Boston, MA, USA: McGraw-Hill Education, 2022. ISBN: 978-1-26-488144-4. [4] C. Hughes, J. Isaacson, A. Perry, R. F. Sun and J. Turner, Quantum Computing for the Quantum Curious. London, UK: Springer International Publishing, 2021. ISBN: 978-3-030-61600-7. [5] D. Prutchi, Exploring Quantum Physics through Hands-on Projects. John Wiley & Sons, 2012. ISBN 978-1-118-14066-6.
doc. RNDr. Jozef Hanč, PhD.
Biophysics (BFd)
Interaction of serum proteins with IgG light chains: mechanisms of stabilization and aggregation suppression
This dissertation focuses on the interactions of serum proteins with pathological IgG light chains associated with oncohematological diseases, such as light chain amyloidosis and multiple myeloma. The research aims to understand aggregation mechanisms, identify low-molecular-weight stabilizers, investigate the role of protein chaperones in inhibiting aggregation, and structurally characterize stabilizer-hLC interactions. The thesis is a continuation of and funded by the project APVV-23-0212 Unraveling the Molecular Mechanisms of IgG Light Chain Aggregation in Oncohematological Diseases: From Serum Proteins to Kinetic Stabilizers The findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of pathogenesis and potential therapeutic strategies.
1. Identify serum proteins that interact with immunoglobulin G light chain 2. Characterize thermodynamic and kinetic parameters of binding of identified serum proteins to immunoglobulin G light chain
1. Guman T, Sýkora J, Demčáková V, Žoldák G. Protein Misfolding and Aggregation of Pathological Igg Light Chains in Oncohematological Dyscrasias: From Molecular Pathways to Clinical Implications. Curr Protein Pept Sci. 2025 Jan 2. doi: 10.2174/0113892037336731241029075530. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39757641. 2. Džupponová V, Žoldák G. Aggregation mechanism and branched 3D morphologies of pathological human light chain proteins under reducing conditions. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces. 2023 Jan;221:112983. doi: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2022.112983. Epub 2022 Nov 2. PMID: 36401959. 3. Džupponová V, Huntošová V, Žoldák G. A kinetic coupling between protein unfolding and aggregation controls time-dependent solubility of the human myeloma antibody light chain. Protein Sci. 2020 Dec;29(12):2408-2421. doi: 10.1002/pro.3968. Epub 2020 Oct 19. PMID: 33030218; PMCID: PMC7679964.
doc. RNDr. Gabriel Žoldák, DrSc.
Physics education (TVFd)
Interactive methods and technologies in teaching physics of the microworld
The thesis is focused on physic education research in the new curriculum (content and approaches) in teaching physics using the latest interactive teaching methods and digital technology. The new curriculum should more reflect the current scientific knowledge and technological progress as traditional. At the same time, it should provide the necessary foundation for future natural scientists and engineers, who will be working on such problems as the design of new conductive materials, data storage of high density and access speed, new communications technologies, nanoscience and nanotechnology, alternative energy sources, quantum computers, computer drug design, and modelling of complex systems involving extreme climatic and geophysical phenomena. The work of a Ph.D. student will be concentrated on a study, selection, and preparation of educational activities in physics of the microworld, supported by experiments. The main goal will be the research dealing with the implementation of the new content in the micro-world physics in the school curriculum with subsequent analysis of the impact and effectiveness of selected methods and technologies. The applicant must have some experience in Jupyter technology, Geogebra modelling, and fundamentals of modern physics, especially Feynman’s spacetime approach to quantum physics and Einstein’s theory of relativity.
The work of a Ph.D. student will be concentrated on a study, selection, and preparation of educational activities in physics of the microworld, supported by experiments. The main goal will be the research dealing with the implementation of the new content in the micro-world physics in the school curriculum with subsequent analysis of the impact and effectiveness of selected methods and technologies.
[1] R. Chabay and B. Sherwood, Matter & Interactions. 4th ed. New York, NY, USA: Wiley, 2020. ISBN 978-1-119-08081-7. [2] M. G. Jones, Nanoscale Science: Activities for Grades 6-12. Arlington, VA, USA: NSTA Press, 2007. ISBN 978-1-933531-05-2. [3] T. A. Moore, Six Ideas that Shaped Physics: Units C, N, E, T, R, Q. 3rd ed., Vols. 1–6. Boston, MA, USA: McGraw-Hill Education, 2022. ISBN: 978-1-26-488144-4. [4] C. Hughes, J. Isaacson, A. Perry, R. F. Sun and J. Turner, Quantum Computing for the Quantum Curious. London, UK: Springer International Publishing, 2021. ISBN: 978-3-030-61600-7. [5] D. Prutchi, Exploring Quantum Physics through Hands-on Projects. John Wiley & Sons, 2012. ISBN 978-1-118-14066-6.
doc. RNDr. Jozef Hanč, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Single-directional growth of REBCO bulk crystals, structure and superconducting properties
The topic is focused on the preparation of REBCO (REBCO stands for the compound REBa2Cu3O7, where RE is Y or a rare earth) bulk single-crystal superconductors (BSS) by single-direction melt-growth (SDMG) from a large-area seed and the study of their microstructure and superconducting properties. SDMG technology has only recently been developed [1,2] and represents a significant advance in the preparation of REBCO BSS for practical applications, as it allows the preparation of large-sized crystals with complicated geometry. Growth of bulk REBCO crystals, structural analysis and measurement of macroscopic superconducting properties will be performed on the equipment of the Department of Materials Physics IEP SAS using crucible-free crystal growth methods, X-ray diffraction, optical and electron microscopy, measurement of the trapped magnetic field and levitation force at 77 K. Magnetization measurements will be performed on the equipment of the Institute of Experimental Physics. The topic falls within the framework of the project APVV-21-0387, REBCO bulk superconductors based on Y, Gd, Sm and Eu for practical applications
The topic is focused on the preparation of REBCO (REBCO stands for the compound REBa2Cu3O7, where RE is Y or a rare earth) bulk single-crystal superconductors (BSS) by single-direction melt-growth (SDMG) from a large-area seed and the study of their microstructure and superconducting properties.
[1] T. Motoki, R. Sasada, T. Tomihisa, M. Miwa, S. Nakamura, J. Shimoyama, Development of homogeneous and high-performance REBCO bulks with various shapes by the single-direction melt-growth (SDMG) method, Superconducting Science and Technology 35 (2022), 094003. [2] P. Diko, K. Zmorayová, T. Motoki, J. Shimoyama, Microstructure of DyBCO bulk superconductors prepared using single-direction melt-growth (SDMG) method, Ceramics International 49 (2023), 39280-39288.
Ing. Pavel Diko, DrSc.
RNDr. Jozef Bednarčík, PhD., univerzitný docent
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Crystal plasticity and fracture of entropy-stabilized carbides: micro/nanomechanical testing and FEM modelling
The dissertation work addresses the development of deformable ceramics, through the understanding and modification of crystal plasticity and fracture of grains, using micro/nanomechanical testing and finite element method (FEM) modelling. The research focuses mainly on entropy-stabilised carbides, which is a large new group of materials, primarily as promising next-generation ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs) for hypersonic and space applications. The topic includes the structural characterization (e.g. XRD, SEM, EBSD) of samples, but the main tasks will be the state-of-the-art micro/nanomechanical testing of grains (nanoindentation, micropillar compression, microcantilever bending) and their FEM modelling, including both plastic deformation and plasticity. The doctoral student will get familiarised with all techniques, however, basic knowledge of FEM modelling is required. Additionally, independent learning of new knowledge and good communication skills in English (both written and oral) is advantageous. Knowledge of cohesive zone and/or crystal plasticity modelling in FEM is a great advantage during the selection process.
The topic includes the structural characterization (e.g. XRD, SEM, EBSD) of samples, but the main tasks will be the state-of-the-art micro/nanomechanical testing of grains (nanoindentation, micropillar compression, microcantilever bending) and their FEM modelling, including both plastic deformation and plasticity.
journal literature
MSc. Tamás Csanádi, PhD.
Physics of Condensed Matter (FKLd)
Quantum materials under extreme conditions
Quantum materials, such as frustrated magnets, topological insulators, strongly correlated metals or exotic superconductors, are highlights in the theoretical and experimental study of solids and are beginning to be used in applications connected with quantum technologies. Understanding the ground state of these systems requires their investigation under extreme conditions, i.e. at very low temperatures, high magnetic fields or pressures. Specifically, the dissertation would deal with the study of the influence of a high magnetic field and hydrostatic pressure on the thermal, transport and magnetic properties of selected tetra-, hexa- and dodecaborides at kelvin to millikelvin temperatures.
The study of the influence of a high magnetic field and hydrostatic pressure on the thermal, transport and magnetic properties of selected tetra-, hexa- and dodecaborides at kelvin to millikelvin temperatures.
[1] KITTEL Ch., Úvod do fyziky pevných látek, Academia, Praha, 1985 [2] GABÁNI S. et al., Magnetism and superconductivity of rare earth borides, Journal of Alloys and Compounds 821 (2020), 153201 [3] GABÁNI S. a kol., Fyzika a technika vysokých tlakov II., skriptá, ÚEF SAV Košice, 2016
doc. RNDr. Slavomír Gabáni, PhD.
RNDr. Oleksandr Onufriienko, PhD.
Physics (FdAj)
Magnetic and structural properties of two-dimensional metal halides
Atomically thin two-dimensional magnetic materials represent systems with significant technological and innovative potential. Their magnetic and structural properties are intimately interconnected and the knowledge of which is crucial in the design of nanotechnological components. Theoretical research will be focused on the study of structural and magnetic stability using first-principles computational techniques applied to atomically thin layers as well as the influence of proximity effects in graphene based van der Waals heterostructures.
Calculation of electronic structure, structural and magnetic properties, and their effect on transport properties in two-dimensional metal halides.
[1] K. Mustonen et al., Advanced Materials 34, 2106922 (2022) [2] Tony F. Heinz, 2D Materials Properties and Devices, Cambridge University Press, 2017 ISBN 9781316681619 [3] R. M. Martin, Electronic Structure: Basic Theory and Practical Methods, Cambridge Press, 2004 ISBN 9780521782852 [4] E. Kaxiras, J. D. Joannopoulos, Quantum Theory of Materials, Cambridge University Press, 2019 ISBN 9781139030809
RNDr. Martin Gmitra, PhD.
Physics of Condensed Matter (FKLdAj)
Magnetic and thermal studies of the soft magnetic composites
The study is oriented on the preparation and the investigation of the iron based magnetic composite materials. Due to their unique properties, soft magnetic composites have been used in recent years, for example, in electric motors and power electronics. The warming in the working condition can change the magnetic properties of the material, which makes it necessary to consider the temperature effect in the process of core loss prediction. Therefore, the thermal analysis of the magnetic materials will be one of the important issues in motor design, especially for high-speed motors. Composite materials will be prepared by pressing under different physical conditions. The hysteresis loops and their magnetic losses, the electrical resistivity and wideband complex permeability will be studied on prepared materials in a temperature range close to operating temperatures in practice. The aim of the study is the knowledge of temperature behaviour and the optimization of preparation process of soft magnetic materials with required soft magnetic properties at middle-frequencies.
The study of the physical properties of soft magnetic composites, their preparation and thermal treatment. The learning of the magnetic measurements methods. Preparation of the Fe based composite materials with inorganic or organic nonconductive binder. Setting up the method for temperature investigation of the electro-magnetic properties of the prepared samples in the temperature range close to operating temperatures in practice. Optimization of the preparation process for the soft magnetic materials with required magnetic properties in studied temperature interval at middle-frequencies.
1. R. M. Bozorth, Ferromagnetism, third edition (IEEE Press, Piscataway, NJ), 1993. 2. S. Chikazumi, Physics of Ferromagnetism, Oxford University press, 1997 3. scientific publications on the subject of soft magnetic composites
doc. RNDr. Ján Füzer, PhD.
Physics (Fd)
Magnetic and structural properties of two-dimensional metal halides
Atomically thin two-dimensional magnetic materials represent systems with significant technological and innovative potential. Their magnetic and structural properties are intimately interconnected and the knowledge of which is crucial in the design of nanotechnological components. Theoretical research will be focused on the study of structural and magnetic stability using first-principles computational techniques applied to atomically thin layers as well as the influence of proximity effects in graphene based van der Waals heterostructures.
Calculation of electronic structure, structural and magnetic properties, and their effect on transport properties in two-dimensional metal halides.
[1] K. Mustonen et al., Advanced Materials 34, 2106922 (2022) [2] Tony F. Heinz, 2D Materials Properties and Devices, Cambridge University Press, 2017 ISBN 9781316681619 [3] R. M. Martin, Electronic Structure: Basic Theory and Practical Methods, Cambridge Press, 2004 ISBN 9780521782852 [4] E. Kaxiras, J. D. Joannopoulos, Quantum Theory of Materials, Cambridge University Press, 2019 ISBN 9781139030809
RNDr. Martin Gmitra, PhD.
Physics of Condensed Matter (FKLd)
Magnetic and thermal studies of the soft magnetic composites
doc. RNDr. Ján Füzer, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Soft magnetic nanocrystalline alloys metals prepared by unconventional thermal processing techniques.
The PhD thesis is focused on the employment of unconventional techniques of thermal processing in order to tailor the structural and magnetic properties of nanocrystalline alloys based on 3-d metals. We plan to use facility for ultra-rapid annealing of thin metallic ribbons constructed recently at IEP SAS. In this facility, the annealed samples are clamped between pair of the pre-heated massive Cu-blocks and typical annealing times take few seconds. High heating rates and much shorter processing times as compared to conventional annealing allow extend the composition interval where the annealed samples are still capable to form nanocrystalline structure. The other technique of thermal processing in this work is the annealing in a presence of high magnetic fields. We plan to perform a detailed study of structural and magnetic properties of selected alloy systems. The main goal of thesis is improvement of functional properties of studied materials for potential technical applications.
The main goal of thesis is improvement of functional properties of studied materials for potential technical applications.
current journal literature
RNDr. Ivan Škorvánek, CSc.
Ing. Branislav Kunca, PhD.
RNDr. Jozef Marcin, PhD.
Physics (Fd)
Field-theoretic renormalization group methods in nonequilibrium stochastic dynamics
In recent years, an interdisciplinary field of research dealing with different reaction-diffusion models has gained considerable importance. Such models can be used to describe diverse phenomena such as the propagation of disturbances in matter, the evolution of infections in biological systems, or even political views. The main focus will be on the investigation of scaling behaviour and its aspects in different types of percolation process. The dynamics of processes with a variable number of agents is described using governing equations for probabilities, which can be reformulated into equations for state vectors using the Doi mechanism, and these can then be transformed as field-theoretic models for fluctuating fields with certain effective effects. A typical feature of these models is the presence of strong fluctuations in the critical region that preclude the use of ordinary perturbation theory. It is necessary to apply the perturbation methods of quantum-field theory, functional integration and renormalization group. Using these, the effects in question would be investigated in order to identify the macroscopic behavior of interest. From a practical point of view, similar to critical phenomena theory, universal quantities of the type of critical indices would be studied and computed within a given perturbation scheme. Specific calculations would be implemented in the form of Feynman diagrams, with efforts directed at improving existing multi-loop results.
Solving actual problems of nonequilibrium phase transitions in different models of percolation process using statistical field theory and perturbation renormalization group methods. The main aim will consist in the application of many-loop calculations of representative universal quantities.
J. Zinn Justin, Quantum Field Theory and Critical Phenomena, (Oxford Univers Press, 1989) A. N. Vasil’ev The Field Theoretic Renormalization Group in Critical Behavior Theory and Stochastic Dynamics, Boca Raton:Chapman & Hall/CRC (2004) U. C. Tauber, Critical Dynamics: A Field Theory Ap- proach to Equilibrium and Non-equilibrium Scaling Be- havior (Cambridge University Press, 2014)] H.-K. Janssen and U. C. Tauber, Annals of Physics 315, 147 (2005), U. C. Tauber, M. Howard, and B. P. Vollmayr-Lee, Journal of Physics A: Mathematical and General 38, R79 (2005) H.-K. Janssen. O. Stenull 2017 J. Phys. A: Math. Theor. 50 324002
RNDr. Tomáš Lučivjanský, PhD., univerzitný docent
prof. RNDr. Michal Hnatič, DrSc.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
Misfolding proteins in amyloid diseases and their prevention/therapy
As our life expectancy increases, so does the likelihood of diseases such as Alzheimer's disease or diabetes. One of the causes of these amyloid diseases is an impaired synthesis of functional protein molecules and insufficient degradation of non-functional, misfolded protein molecules. As a result, misfolded proteins accumulate in the form of amyloid aggregates with a high content of β-sheets in various human body tissues. There is currently a lack of detailed knowledge of the causes of amyloid formation and no treatment for any known amyloid diseases. We will use modern biophysical methods to study the mechanisms of amyloid aggregates formation of globular and intrinsically disordered proteins associated with diseases such as AD, diabetes or systemic lysozyme amyloidosis. At the same time, we will focus on the systematic search for interaction partners to prevent these diseases, respectively treat them.
1. Study of the mechanisms of amyloid aggregation of poly/peptides, which are related to Alheimer´s disease and other amyloidosis. 2. Identification of substances able to reduce amount of amyloid structures. 3. Elucidation of the relationship between the structure and anti-amyloid activity of substances.
[1] Knowles T- et al., The amyloid state and its association with protein misfolding disease, Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 2014, 15, 384 – 396. [2] Matthew G. Iadanza et al., A new era for understanding amyloid structures and disease, Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 2018, 19, 755 – 773 [3] Amyloidosis: History and Perspectives., Ed. By J. S. Harrison, IntechOpen, London, UK, 2022, Online ISBN: 978-1-83969-298-7
doc. RNDr. Zuzana Gažová, DrSc.
RNDr. Zuzana Bednáriková, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
FEM of micromechanil tests of hard coatings
The work is focused on a detail study of the processes of stress and deformation states during instrumented nanoindentation, scratch and tribological tests in the coated composite systems using finite element modelling (FEM) externded FEM (xFEM) and Cohesive Zone Model (CZM) methods and subsequent experimental verification. The work will be performed on thin coatings on substrates with different mechanical properties. The aim is to understand the details of damage mechanisms in coatings in dependence on the loading conditions as well as the optimization of the conditions for the measurement of the mechanical properties and tribological properties of the studied coatings.
Detail study of the stress and deformation states during instrumented nanoindentation, scratch and tribological tests in the composite systems coating/substrate using finite element modelling (FEM)
1. A.K. Bhattacharya, W.D. Nix, Finite element simulation of indentation experiments, Int. J. Solids Structures 24 (1988) 881-891. doi: 10.1016/0020-7683(88)90039-X 2. H. ur Rehman, F. Ahmed, Ch. Schmid, J. Schaufler, K. Durst, Study on the deformation mechanics of hard brittle coatings on ductile substrates using in situ tensile testing and cohesive zone modelling, Surf. Coat Technol. 207 (2012)163-169. doi: 10.1016/j.surfcoat.2012.06.049 3. Sun, T. Bell, S. Zheng, Finite element analysis of the critical ratio of coating thickness to indentation depth for coating property measurements by nanoindentation, Thin Solid Films 258 (1995) 198-204. doi: 10.1016/0040-6090(94)06357-5 4. T, Csanádi, D. Németh, F. Lofaj, Mechanical Properties of Hard W-C Coating on Steel Substrate Deduced from Nanoindentation and Finite Element Modeling, Exp. Mechanics 57 (2017) 1057 – 1069. Doi: 10.1007/s11340-016-0190-x
doc. RNDr. František Lofaj, DrSc.
Physics education (TVFdAj)
Model of teaching University General physics course
At University level there are mostly traditional teaching methods based on lectures used. However, after the implementation of curriculum reform there is a significant decrease in the level of knowledge and skills of students entering University. The current situation calls for changes in education, concerning the first physics courses that students take part, in particular. These changes should lead to higher students´ engagement in their own learning by implementing interactive methods even during the lectures shifting the traditional way of teaching to more active learning environment. The thesis is aimed at the analysis of students’ level of understanding and skills before they start their University study, development of activities based on interactive approach, their implementation and analysis of their efficiency.
1. Analyze available interactive methods suitable primarily for teaching physics at the university level. 2. Evaluate and select appropriate interactive methods for teaching the General Physics course at the University. 3. Prepare a series of activities for systematic implementation into the teaching of the General Physics course, both for lecture-based instruction and to support the conduct of practical exercises. 4. Verify the developed teaching model for the General Physics course through a pedagogical experiment.
[1] Proceedings ICPE-EPEC 2013 conference, August 5-9, 2013, Prague, Czech republic, Amsterdam, Active learning in a changing world of new technologies, Charles University in Prague, MATFYZPRESS publisher, Prague 2013, available on <http://www.icpe2013.org/proceedings> [2] Thornton, R., Sokoloff, D. Interactive Lecture Demonstrations, Active learning in Introductory Physics, 2004 John Wiley and Sons [3] Redish, F., J. Research-Based Reform of University Physics, available on <http://per-central.org/per_reviews/media/volume1/> [4] Beichner, R., J., et al. ThHe Student-Centered Activities for Large Enrollment Undergraduate Programs (SCALE-UP) Project, available on http://www.per-central.org/document/ServeFile.cfm?ID=4517 [5] Redish, E,F., Teaching Physics with the Physics Suite, 2003 John Wiley and Sons [6] Laws, P. et al. Physics with Video Analysis, published by Vernier Software and Technology, 2009, ISBN-978-1-929075-11-9
doc. RNDr. Zuzana Ješková, PhD.
Physics education (TVFd)
Model of teaching University General physics course
At University level there are mostly traditional teaching methods based on lectures used. However, after the implementation of curriculum reform there is a significant decrease in the level of knowledge and skills of students entering University. The current situation calls for changes in education, concerning the first physics courses that students take part, in particular. These changes should lead to higher students´ engagement in their own learning by implementing interactive methods even during the lectures shifting the traditional way of teaching to more active learning environment. The thesis is aimed at the analysis of students’ level of understanding and skills before they start their University study, development of activities based on interactive approach, their implementation and analysis of their efficiency.
1. Analyze available interactive methods suitable primarily for teaching physics at the university level. 2. Evaluate and select appropriate interactive methods for teaching the General Physics course at the University. 3. Prepare a series of activities for systematic implementation into the teaching of the General Physics course, both for lecture-based instruction and to support the conduct of practical exercises. 4. Verify the developed teaching model for the General Physics course through a pedagogical experiment.
[1] Proceedings ICPE-EPEC 2013 conference, August 5-9, 2013, Prague, Czech republic, Amsterdam, Active learning in a changing world of new technologies, Charles University in Prague, MATFYZPRESS publisher, Prague 2013, available on <http://www.icpe2013.org/proceedings> [2] Thornton, R., Sokoloff, D. Interactive Lecture Demonstrations, Active learning in Introductory Physics, 2004 John Wiley and Sons [3] Redish, F., J. Research-Based Reform of University Physics, available on <http://per-central.org/per_reviews/media/volume1/> [4] Beichner, R., J., et al. ThHe Student-Centered Activities for Large Enrollment Undergraduate Programs (SCALE-UP) Project, available on http://www.per-central.org/document/ServeFile.cfm?ID=4517 [5] Redish, E,F., Teaching Physics with the Physics Suite, 2003 John Wiley and Sons [6] Laws, P. et al. Physics with Video Analysis, published by Vernier Software and Technology, 2009, ISBN-978-1-929075-11-9
doc. RNDr. Zuzana Ješková, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Modelling of phase diagrams and thermodynamic properties of the systems for high temperature applications
The work will be focused on the study of phases, phase equilibria and phase diagrams in the systems for high-temperature applications. The aim is to refine the uncertainty of phase diagrams and to investigate unknown parts of selected systems by experimental methods of differential thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy and subsequently to model their phase diagrams and thermodynamic properties using the semi-empirical Calphad-method. The subjects of the study are systems containing mainly refractory metals and boron as the basis of materials potentially suitable for high-temperature use. The results of the thesis will allow extending the possibility of designing new materials for high-temperature use by computational methods without the need for time-consuming experimental testing.
The aim is to refine the uncertainty of phase diagrams and to investigate unknown parts of selected systems by experimental methods of differential thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy and subsequently to model their phase diagrams and thermodynamic properties using the semi-empirical Calphad-method.
journal literature
RNDr. Viera Homolová, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Modelling of phase diagrams and thermodynamic properties of the systems for high temperature applications
The work will be focused on the study of phases, phase equilibria and phase diagrams in the systems for high-temperature applications. The aim is to refine the uncertainty of phase diagrams and to investigate unknown parts of selected systems by experimental methods of differential thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy and subsequently to model their phase diagrams and thermodynamic properties using the semi-empirical Calphad-method. The subjects of the study are systems containing mainly refractory metals and boron as the basis of materials potentially suitable for high-temperature use. The results of the thesis will allow extending the possibility of designing new materials for high-temperature use by computational methods without the need for time-consuming experimental testing.
The aim is to refine the uncertainty of phase diagrams and to investigate unknown parts of selected systems by experimental methods of differential thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy and subsequently to model their phase diagrams and thermodynamic properties using the semi-empirical Calphad-method.
journal literature
RNDr. Viera Homolová, PhD.
Biophysics (BFd)
Modulation of protein amyloid aggregation – insight into molecular mechanisms of amyloid formation and inhibition
Amyloid structures of poly/peptides have been associated with diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, systematic amyloidoses, diabetes mellitus and others. Recently, it has been found that amyloids are important for many essential processes in organisms - from bacteria to humans. The aim of this work is to contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms of the formation and inhibition of protein amyloid aggregation through their modulation by various substances (inorganic and organic molecules, biomolecules, nanoparticles). Based on this, it is possible to better understand the pathological and physiological effects of amyloid structures at the molecular level. Various physico-chemical methods will be used, mainly spectroscopic, calorimetric, chromatographic techniques and atomic force microscopy.
1. Characterization of protein conformers associated with the formation of amyloid structures 2. Modulation of amyloid fibrillization using various substances (inorganic and organic molecules, biomolecules, nanoparticles). 3. Elucidation of the effect of effective modulators on amyloid structures
[1] Amyloid fibrils and Prefibrillar Aggregates: Molecular and Biological Properties. Edited by D. E. Otzen, Wiley-VCH and Co., 2013, ISBN: 978-3-527-33200-7 [2] Eichner T. and Radford, A. E., A diversity of Assembly Mechanisms of a generic amyloid fold, Molecular Cell, 2011, 43, 1(8), 8 – 18. [3] Fändlich, M., Oligomeric Intermediates in Amyloid Formation: Structure Determination and Mechanism of Toxicity, Journal of Molecular Biology, 2012, 421, 427 - 440
doc. RNDr. Zuzana Gažová, DrSc.
Mgr. Andrea Antošová, PhD.
Biophysics (BFd)
Targeting amyloid aggregition of proteins: exploring small molecule and peptide-based Inhibitors for neurodegenerative diseases
The prevalence of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases (AD, PD) continues to rise with aging of human population. These diseases often result from impaired protein synthesis, leading to the accumulation of misfolded proteins in the brain. The proteins aggregate into amyloid structures rich in β-sheets throughout various brain regions. Despite their widespread impact, the precise mechanisms driving amyloid formation remain poorly understood, and effective treatments remain elusive. This thesis will investigate novel inhibitors capable of modulating amyloid aggregation of intrinsically disordered proteins, focusing on Amyloid β peptides, Tau, and α-synuclein, which amyloid aggregation is associated with AD and PD. The research will evaluate the mechanisms of inhibition, structural interactions, and the impact of these inhibitors on pathological processes associated with neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
1. Identify and characterize novel inhibitors (small molecules and peptides) that modulate amyloid aggregation of intrinsically disordered proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases (Amyloid-β, Tau, and α-synuclein). 2. Understand the molecular mechanisms by which these inhibitors interact with amyloid-forming proteins to influence aggregation pathways. 3. Evaluate the therapeutic potential of these inhibitors by assessing their effects on protein aggregation, toxicity, and cellular models of neurodegeneration.
1. Hartl F.U. Protein misfolding diseases. Annu. Rev. Biochem. 2017;86:21–26. doi: 10.1146/annurev-biochem-061516-044518 2. Zaman M, Khan AN, Wahiduzzaman, Zakariya SM, Khan RH. Protein misfolding, aggregation and mechanism of amyloid cytotoxicity: An overview and therapeutic strategies to inhibit aggregation. Int J Biol Macromol. 2019 Aug 1;134:1022-1037. doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.05.109. 3. Gregoire, S., Irwin, J. & Kwon, I. Techniques for monitoring protein misfolding and aggregation in vitro and in living cells. Korean J. Chem. Eng. 29, 693–702 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11814-012-0060-x
RNDr. Zuzana Bednáriková, PhD.
doc. RNDr. Zuzana Gažová, DrSc.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
Modulation of protein amyloid aggregation – insight into molecular mechanisms of amyloid formation and inhibition
Amyloid structures of poly/peptides have been associated with diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, systematic amyloidoses, diabetes mellitus and others. Recently, it has been found that amyloids are important for many essential processes in organisms - from bacteria to humans. The aim of this work is to contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms of the formation and inhibition of protein amyloid aggregation through their modulation by various substances (inorganic and organic molecules, biomolecules, nanoparticles). Based on this, it is possible to better understand the pathological and physiological effects of amyloid structures at the molecular level. Various physico-chemical methods will be used, mainly spectroscopic, calorimetric, chromatographic techniques and atomic force microscopy.
1. Characterization of protein conformers associated with the formation of amyloid structures 2. Modulation of amyloid fibrillization using various substances (inorganic and organic molecules, biomolecules, nanoparticles). 3. Elucidation of the effect of effective modulators on amyloid structures
[1] Amyloid fibrils and Prefibrillar Aggregates: Molecular and Biological Properties. Edited by D. E. Otzen, Wiley-VCH and Co., 2013, ISBN: 978-3-527-33200-7 [2] Eichner T. and Radford, A. E., A diversity of Assembly Mechanisms of a generic amyloid fold, Molecular Cell, 2011, 43, 1(8), 8 – 18. [3] Fändlich, M., Oligomeric Intermediates in Amyloid Formation: Structure Determination and Mechanism of Toxicity, Journal of Molecular Biology, 2012, 421, 427 - 440
doc. RNDr. Zuzana Gažová, DrSc.
Mgr. Andrea Antošová, PhD.
Physics education (TVFd)
AI tools in innovative physics education.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, especially chatbots based on advanced large-scale neural language models such as ChatGPT, Gemini, or Mistral, earned significant attention in 2023-2024 across various human activity sectors, including physics education and STEM subjects, due to their impressive capabilities. This dissertation will focus on an in-depth analysis of the current state, impact, dynamic development, and potential of these technologies within the context of innovative physics education. It will explore the possibilities of integrating AI into curricula and teaching methods, aiming to prepare exemplary educational activities supported by AI in a selected area of physics, along with methodological guidelines for their effective use. The empirical mixed methods research will be oriented towards analyzing the impact of these technologies on motivation and teaching efficiency at secondary and tertiary education levels. The work should also evaluate new perspectives on using AI, which could significantly enrich and transform current pedagogical practices in physics education.
The main goal of this dissertation is to theoretically and empirically evaluate the impact and potential of AI tools on improving physics education. Achieving this goal should be realized through integrating AI into physics curricula, creating corresponding educational activities supported by AI, and verifying and analyzing their impact on motivation and efficiency in secondary and tertiary education.
[1] J. W. Creswell and V. L. P. Clark, Designing and Conducting Mixed Methods Research, 3rd ed. London: SAGE Publications, Inc, 2017. ISBN 978-1-483346-98-4 [2] J. A. Bowen and C.E. Watson, Teaching with AI: A Practical Guide to a New Era of Human Learning. Baltimore, Maryland: Johns Hopkins University Press, 2024. [3] M. N. Dahlkemper, S. Z. Lahme, and P. Klein, “How do physics students evaluate artificial intelligence responses on comprehension questions? A study on the perceived scientific accuracy and linguistic quality of ChatGPT,” Phys. Rev. Phys. Educ. Res., vol. 19, no. 1, p. 010142, 2023 [4] A. Al-Marzouqi (ed.) et al., Artificial Intelligence in Education: The Power and Dangers of ChatGPT in the Classroom. Springer, 2024. ISBN 978-3-031-52280-2. [5] G. Kortemeyer, “Toward AI grading of student problem solutions in introductory physics: A feasibility study,” Phys. Rev. Phys. Educ. Res., vol. 19, no. 2, p. 020163, 2023 [6] D. Borovský, J. Hanč, and M. Hančová, “Innovative approaches to high school physics competitions: Harnessing the power of AI and open science”, J. Phys.: Conf. Ser., roč. 2715, č. 1, s. 012011, 2024 [7] W. Xu and F. Ouyang, "The Application of AI Technologies in STEM Education: A Systematic Review from 2011 to 2021," International Journal of STEM Education, vol. 9, no. 1, p. 59, 2022.
doc. RNDr. Jozef Hanč, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Design and synthesis of entropy-stabilized ultra-high temperature ceramics with superior strength and plasticity
The dissertation work addresses the design and synthesis of novel ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs), the only group of materials that can withstand temperatures exceeding 2000°C, with superior strength and plasticity. The research focuses on entropy-stabilised UHTCs as a large new group of materials, consisting of at least four different transition metals in the crystal lattice. The large compositional space makes it possible to design deformable ceramics instead of brittle UHTCs that exit to date (e.g. HfC, ZrB2). The topic includes the design of thermodynamically stable compositions, optimisation of processing route, structural characterization (e.g. XRD, SEM, EBSD) and mechanical testing of samples. The doctoral student will get familiarised with all techniques, however, basic knowledge of thermodynamics and the use of phase diagrams is required. Additionally, independent learning of new knowledge and good communication skills in English (both written and oral) is advantageous. Knowledge of CALPHAD software for calculations of phase diagrams, such as Thermo-Calc, is a great advantage during the selection process.
The dissertation work addresses the design and synthesis of novel ultra-high temperature ceramics (UHTCs), the only group of materials that can withstand temperatures exceeding 2000°C, with superior strength and plasticity
journal literature
MSc. Tamás Csanádi, PhD.
Biophysics (BFd)
Misfolding proteins in amyloid diseases and their prevention/therapy
As our life expectancy increases, so does the likelihood of diseases such as Alzheimer's disease or diabetes. One of the causes of these amyloid diseases is an impaired synthesis of functional protein molecules and insufficient degradation of non-functional, misfolded protein molecules. As a result, misfolded proteins accumulate in the form of amyloid aggregates with a high content of β-sheets in various human body tissues. There is currently a lack of detailed knowledge of the causes of amyloid formation and no treatment for any known amyloid diseases. We will use modern biophysical methods to study the mechanisms of amyloid aggregates formation of globular and intrinsically disordered proteins associated with diseases such as AD, diabetes or systemic lysozyme amyloidosis. At the same time, we will focus on the systematic search for interaction partners to prevent these diseases, respectively treat them.
1. Study of the mechanisms of amyloid aggregation of poly/peptides, which are related to Alheimer´s disease and other amyloidosis. 2. Identification of substances able to reduce amount of amyloid structures. 3. Elucidation of the relationship between the structure and anti-amyloid activity of substances.
[1] Knowles T- et al., The amyloid state and its association with protein misfolding disease, Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 2014, 15, 384 – 396. [2] Matthew G. Iadanza et al., A new era for understanding amyloid structures and disease, Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 2018, 19, 755 – 773 [3] Amyloidosis: History and Perspectives., Ed. By J. S. Harrison, IntechOpen, London, UK, 2022, Online ISBN: 978-1-83969-298-7
doc. RNDr. Zuzana Gažová, DrSc.
RNDr. Zuzana Bednáriková, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Novel hybrid 2D magnets based on layered double hydroxides
Layered double hydroxides (LDH) are natural 2D materials with the unique flexibility of chemical composition. LDH are composed of the M2+-M3+ mixed metal layers where the metal cations are surrounded by the edge-linked hydroxide octahedra. The positive charge of the metal layers is compensated by anions intercalated in between. More than one type of anions can be intercalated and exchanged with other anionic species, which are different in their composition, size, and charge. LDH compositions with M2+= Co, Ni and/or M3+= Fe, Cr, Mn demonstrate magnetic ordering at low temperatures. The magnetic properties of those LDH depend on the cation content and ratio as well as the interlayer distance. Moreover, these properties are morphology-dependent and can be tuned via controlled synthesis and formation of arranged layers of crystallites. Such features make the magnetic LDH very attractive for experimental modelling of effects in 2D magnetic systems including quantum magnets. Besides, they can be used to develop hybrid magnets and related materials for practical use. The main objective of this PhD research is to prepare and study of crystal structure, morphology and magnetic behaviour of new magnetic LDH intercalated with functional species such as molecular magnets. During the PhD research, a candidate will acquire the following practical skills: preparation of LDH using coprecipitation, hydrothermal synthesis, anion exchange as well as operating an X-ray powder diffractometer including in-situ measurement in non-ambient conditions, sampling and operating scanning and transmission electron microscopes, operating SQUID magnetometers.
The main objective of this PhD research is to prepare and study of crystal structure, morphology and magnetic behaviour of new magnetic LDH intercalated with functional species such as molecular magnets.
Current journal literature.
doc. RNDr. Erik Čižmár, PhD.
Physics of Condensed Matter (FKLd)
New superconductors based on high-entropy alloys
High-entropy alloys (HEAs) represent a relatively new class of materials, which has recently been the subject of considerable interest in both basic and applied research. These alloys consist of several constituent elements (4 - 6), while individual elements occupy lattice positions with a high degree of disorder, i.e. with high configurational entropy. Superconductivity of HEAs, with transition temperature Tc up to approx. 10 K and a critical magnetic field up to approx. 20 T, is very stable and resistant to various chemical and mechanical influences. The topic of the proposed dissertation will be the preparation and research of the properties of new superconductors based on HEAs. These will include HEAs, which will incorporate light elements, e.g. nitrogen, carbon or hydrogen, which will lead to changes in their superconducting properties. In addition, the influence of pressure and thickness of HEAs thin films on their superconducting parameters will also be investigated. Under the guidance of the supervisor, the student will participate in the preparation and characterization of samples, experimental research, data analysis and presentation of the achieved results.
The aim of the proposed dissertation will be the preparation and research of the properties of new superconductors based on high-entropy alloys.
1. G. Pristáš, G.C. Gruber, M. Orendáč, J. Bačkai, J. Kačmarčík, F. Košuth, S. Gabáni, P. Szabó, Ch. Mitterer, K. Flachbart: Multiple transition temperature enhancement in superconducting TiNbMoTaW high entropy alloy films through tailored N incorporation, Acta Materialia 262 (2024) 119428. 2. G. Pristáš, J. Bačkai, Mat. Orendáč, S. Gabáni, F. Košuth, M. Kuzmiak, P. Szabó, E. Gažo, R. Franz, S. Hirn, G. C. Gruber, Ch. Mitterer, S. Vorobiov, K. Flachbart: Superconductivity in medium- and high-entropy alloy thin films: Impact of thickness and external pressure, Physical Review B 107 (2023) 024505.
RNDr. Gabriel Pristáš, PhD.
doc. RNDr. Karol Flachbart, DrSc.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Novel enhanced oxidation-resistant ultra-high temperature carbides
Dissertation work is focused on development of novel oxidation-resistant UHTCs through a systematic experimental based study in which the high-temperature properties (oxidation and ablation resistance, thermal shock resistance etc.) and mechanical behaviour of mono and binary refractory carbides will be studied. Different secondary phase materials with the incorporation of silicon will also be tested in the form of SiC and transitional metal silicides, which are known as protective glassy phase-forming compounds that can further improve the oxidation resistance of newly developed UHTCs. The accomplishment of the present PhD. thessis will generate fundamental knowledge that is needed for the design of novel more complex multi-principal element ceramics. Filling this lack of knowledge would be of great importance for whole materials science community.
The accomplishment of the present PhD. thessis will generate fundamental knowledge that is needed for the design of novel more complex multi-principal element ceramics. Filling this lack of knowledge would be of great importance for whole materials science community
journal literature
Ing. Alexandra Kovalčíková, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Novel hybrid 2D magnets based on layered double hydroxides
Layered double hydroxides (LDH) are natural 2D materials with the unique flexibility of chemical composition. LDH are composed of the M2+-M3+ mixed metal layers where the metal cations are surrounded by the edge-linked hydroxide octahedra. The positive charge of the metal layers is compensated by anions intercalated in between. More than one type of anions can be intercalated and exchanged with other anionic species, which are different in their composition, size, and charge. LDH compositions with M2+= Co, Ni and/or M3+= Fe, Cr, Mn demonstrate magnetic ordering at low temperatures. The magnetic properties of those LDH depend on the cation content and ratio as well as the interlayer distance. Moreover, these properties are morphology-dependent and can be tuned via controlled synthesis and formation of arranged layers of crystallites. Such features make the magnetic LDH very attractive for experimental modelling of effects in 2D magnetic systems including quantum magnets. Besides, they can be used to develop hybrid magnets and related materials for practical use. The main objective of this PhD research is to prepare and study of crystal structure, morphology and magnetic behaviour of new magnetic LDH intercalated with functional species such as molecular magnets. During the PhD research, a candidate will acquire the following practical skills: preparation of LDH using coprecipitation, hydrothermal synthesis, anion exchange as well as operating an X-ray powder diffractometer including in-situ measurement in non-ambient conditions, sampling and operating scanning and transmission electron microscopes, operating SQUID magnetometers.
The main objective of this PhD research is to prepare and study of crystal structure, morphology and magnetic behaviour of new magnetic LDH intercalated with functional species such as molecular magnets.
Current journal literature.
doc. RNDr. Erik Čižmár, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Optical emission and electron spectroscopy of reactive sputtering and of the multicomponent ceramic coatings
The advanced ceramic coatings for ultrahigh temperature applications consist of high melting point and heavy (Zr, Hf, Ru, W..) metallic elements strongly bonded with light elements (boron, nitrogen, oxygen, carbon with hydrogen) which result in difficulties in quantitative analysis when using conventional chemical methods. Usually, a combination of several analytical methods is necessary to obtain quantitative characterization of both light and heavy elements at the same time in the resulting compounds. However, the control of the coating composition requires also the control of the plasma composition during the deposition. Thus, the in situ methods of plasma composition should be combined with the methods applied to the coatings to determine the relationships controlling their chemistry, structure and properties. The work should employ both in-situ optical emission spectroscopy for the plasma control with the ex-situ glow discharge optical emission spectrocopy (GDOES), Raman spectroscopy as well as energy and wavelength disperse electron spectroscopy (and potentially also X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Secondary Ion Mass Spectrocopy (SIMS)) methods on the carbide and boride based coatings for quantification of their chemistry to establish the correlations between the plasma characteristics and their structure and properties. The plasma study will be performed on the existing iPVD systems using OES system (Avantes, The Netherlands) and Raman microscope (XploRa, Horiba, France), GDOES (GD2, Horiba, France) as well as on the EDS and WDS (Oxford, UK) attached to the scanning electron microscopes. The introduction of new XPS and SIMS facilities is also anticipated.
Investigation of the relationships among the plasma characteristics and chemical composition and eventually, also structure and properties of the multicomponent ceramic coatings by means of in situ optical emission spectroscopy for the plasma control with the ex-situ glow discharge optical emission spectrocopy (GDOES), Raman spectroscopy as well as energy and wavelength disperse electron spectroscopy.
1. D.M. Mattox, Handbook of Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) processing, Mattox D.M., Noyes Publ., New Jersey, 1998. 2. N. Britun, T. Minea, S. Konstantinidis, R. Snyders, Plasma diagnostics for understanding the plasma-surface interactions in HIPIMS discharges” a review, J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys., 47 (2014) 224001. doi: 10.1088/0022-3727/47/22/224001 3. F. Lofaj, M. Kabátová, J. Dobrovodský, G. Cempura, Hydrogenation and hybridization in hard W-C:H coatings prepared by hybrid PVD-PECVD method with methane and acetylene, Int. J. Ref. Met. Hard Mat., 88 (2020), 105211. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2020.105211
doc. RNDr. František Lofaj, DrSc.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Optical emission and electron spectroscopy of reactive sputtering and of the multicomponent ceramic coatings
The advanced ceramic coatings for ultrahigh temperature applications consist of high melting point and heavy (Zr, Hf, Ru, W..) metallic elements strongly bonded with light elements (boron, nitrogen, oxygen, carbon with hydrogen) which result in difficulties in quantitative analysis when using conventional chemical methods. Usually, a combination of several analytical methods is necessary to obtain quantitative characterization of both light and heavy elements at the same time in the resulting compounds. However, the control of the coating composition requires also the control of the plasma composition during the deposition. Thus, the in situ methods of plasma composition should be combined with the methods applied to the coatings to determine the relationships controlling their chemistry, structure and properties. The work should employ both in-situ optical emission spectroscopy for the plasma control with the ex-situ glow discharge optical emission spectrocopy (GDOES), Raman spectroscopy as well as energy and wavelength disperse electron spectroscopy (and potentially also X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Secondary Ion Mass Spectrocopy (SIMS)) methods on the carbide and boride based coatings for quantification of their chemistry to establish the correlations between the plasma characteristics and their structure and properties. The plasma study will be performed on the existing iPVD systems using OES system (Avantes, The Netherlands) and Raman microscope (XploRa, Horiba, France), GDOES (GD2, Horiba, France) as well as on the EDS and WDS (Oxford, UK) attached to the scanning electron microscopes. The introduction of new XPS and SIMS facilities is also anticipated.
Investigation of the relationships among the plasma characteristics and chemical composition and eventually, also structure and properties of the multicomponent ceramic coatings by means of in situ optical emission spectroscopy for the plasma control with the ex-situ glow discharge optical emission spectrocopy (GDOES), Raman spectroscopy as well as energy and wavelength disperse electron spectroscopy.
1. D.M. Mattox, Handbook of Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) processing, Mattox D.M., Noyes Publ., New Jersey, 1998. 2. N. Britun, T. Minea, S. Konstantinidis, R. Snyders, Plasma diagnostics for understanding the plasma-surface interactions in HIPIMS discharges” a review, J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys., 47 (2014) 224001. doi: 10.1088/0022-3727/47/22/224001 3. F. Lofaj, M. Kabátová, J. Dobrovodský, G. Cempura, Hydrogenation and hybridization in hard W-C:H coatings prepared by hybrid PVD-PECVD method with methane and acetylene, Int. J. Ref. Met. Hard Mat., 88 (2020), 105211. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijrmhm.2020.105211
doc. RNDr. František Lofaj, DrSc.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
PEM electrolyzer with new catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction
Proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers, using only renewable energy and water, are a promising tool for green hydrogen production. The production process call electrolysis and it includes two half-reactions of water decomposition: reduction of hydrogen and oxidation of oxygen. A PEM electrolyzer can quickly respond to fluctuations typical of renewable energy production, making this technology ideal for balancing the grid and energy deficits. In order for the PEM electrolysis of water to become capable of competition to fossil fuel and produce hydrogen as the fuel of the future, it is necessary to make its individual components cheaper. Catalysts in PEM electrolysis are represented by platinum metals, which represent a limitation in terms of price and scarcity. Therefore, the dissertation will be focused on the preparation of cheap electrocatalysts based on chalcogenides and phosphides, which can be directly placed in PEM electrolyzers. The effectiveness and efficiency of the newly assembled PEM customs will be monitored.
Preparation of a PEM cell with electrocatalysts based on chalcogenides and phosphides for efficient production of hydrogen as the fuel of the future.
Strecková M. et al, Nanoarchitectonics of binary transition metal phosphides embedded in carbon fibers as a bifunctional electrocatalysts for electrolytic water splitting, Journal of Alloys and CompoundsVolume 92325 November 2022 Durovic M. et al, Efficient cathode for the hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline membrane water electrolysis based on NiCoP embedded in carbon fibres, Journal of Power Sources, Volume 5561 February 2023
RNDr. Magdaléna Strečková, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
PEM electrolyzer with new catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction
Proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers, using only renewable energy and water, are a promising tool for green hydrogen production. The production process call electrolysis and it includes two half-reactions of water decomposition: reduction of hydrogen and oxidation of oxygen. A PEM electrolyzer can quickly respond to fluctuations typical of renewable energy production, making this technology ideal for balancing the grid and energy deficits. In order for the PEM electrolysis of water to become capable of competition to fossil fuel and produce hydrogen as the fuel of the future, it is necessary to make its individual components cheaper. Catalysts in PEM electrolysis are represented by platinum metals, which represent a limitation in terms of price and scarcity. Therefore, the dissertation will be focused on the preparation of cheap electrocatalysts based on chalcogenides and phosphides, which can be directly placed in PEM electrolyzers. The effectiveness and efficiency of the newly assembled PEM customs will be monitored.
Preparation of a PEM cell with electrocatalysts based on chalcogenides and phosphides for efficient production of hydrogen as the fuel of the future.
Strecková M. et al, Nanoarchitectonics of binary transition metal phosphides embedded in carbon fibers as a bifunctional electrocatalysts for electrolytic water splitting, Journal of Alloys and CompoundsVolume 92325 November 2022 Durovic M. et al, Efficient cathode for the hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline membrane water electrolysis based on NiCoP embedded in carbon fibres, Journal of Power Sources, Volume 5561 February 2023
RNDr. Magdaléna Strečková, PhD.
Physics (FdAj)
Photometric and Spectroscopic Study of Dwarf Novae with Applications of Machine Learning Methods
Dwarf novae are a subclass of cataclysmic variable stars consisting of a white dwarf primary and a late-type main-sequence secondary star in a close binary system. Mass is transferred from the secondary to the white dwarf via an accretion disk, leading to characteristic outbursts caused by thermal-viscous instabilities in the disk. These outbursts provide valuable insights into accretion physics, mass transfer processes, and the evolution of compact binary systems. This dissertation focuses on the photometric and spectroscopic study of dwarf novae, utilizing both original observations and archival data from various sky surveys (e.g., ZTF, ASAS-SN, Gaia, SDSS, LAMOST). The research aims to analyze light curves and spectral properties to characterize their variability, outburst mechanisms, and spectral evolution. Machine learning techniques will be employed to classify and predict the activity states of dwarf novae, detect periodicities in time-series data, and identify key spectral features associated with accretion dynamics. By integrating advanced computational methods with traditional observational techniques, this study will contribute to a deeper understanding of dwarf nova outbursts and the broader astrophysical processes governing accretion in compact binaries. Additionally, the development of automated analysis methods may facilitate future large-scale studies of cataclysmic variables.
To analyze light curves and spectral properties of dwarf novae to characterize their variability, outburst mechanisms, and Tpectral evolution using machine learning methods
Frank, J., King, A., & Raine, D. (2002). Accretion Power in Astrophysics (3rd ed.). Cambridge University Press. Hellier, C. (2001). Cataclysmic Variable Stars: How and Why They Vary. Springer. Chaty, S. (2022), Accreting Binaries, Nature, formation and evolution. IOP Publishing Warner, B. (1995). Cataclysmic Variable Stars. Cambridge University Press.
doc. Mgr. Štefan Parimucha, PhD.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
Preparation and realisation of flow-imaging experiments involving individual biological particles and/or their dynamics – customization of multiprojection experiment and its 4D reconstruction
The imaging of individual biological particles with high temporal and spatial resolution has multiple pitfalls, and individual imaging modalities have specific limits. For imaging in a hard X-ray area, the limit is the size and time profile of available photon budget, as well as the quality of the optics, the key advantage is the ability to display arbitrary materials and environments. The high repeating frequency of modern free-electron lasers or synchrotrons with a sufficient photon budget makes it possible to reconstruct in principle the 4D dynamics of optically opaque objects of interest in fundamental science but also in applications. In our experiments on EuXFEL but also on 3rd generation synchrotron sources, we managed to demonstrate the technical feasibility of such 4D multi-projection imaging with submicrometer resolution and megahertz sampling rates. The PhD project is an integral part of a longer-term project of multi-projection X-ray MHz microscopy built on EuXFEL by an international consortium, awarded by the prestigious EU's EIC Horizon Europe project. The longer-term aim is to take advantage of the experience obtained by constructing a prototype of multi-projection X-ray microscopy for a specific design of the experiment for imaging biological particles in a stream and demonstrating its feasibility in pilot measurements. In addition to biological particles, the use of microscopic calibration particles designed theoretically and printed by 3D printers in partner institutions is also envisaged. The main role of the PhD candidate will be the generation of synthetic data by multiscale dynamics techniques, the numerical simulation of an imaging experiment and the use of machine learning techniques to recognize useful behavioral patterns and to accelerate the interpretation of projections in high-throughput experiments. This approach is required by transition from direct imaging techniques to lensless imaging, where 4D reconstruction requires the design/modification of existing reconstruction algorithms] to solve the inverse problem for extreme dataflows generated by multiprojection experiments. PhD student is expected to take part in EuXFEL and/or another experiments of the consortium within the EuXFEL Guest PhD scheme based on bilateral contract between the UPJš university and EuXFEL.
The aim of the PhD topic is to generate synthetic data using multiscale dynamics techniques, numerical simulation of an imaging experiment, and to create machine learning technique procedures to recognize useful behavioral patterns and accelerate the interpretation of projections in high-throughput experiments. The specificity of the approach lies in the transition from direct imaging techniques to lensless imaging, where 4D reconstruction requires design/modification of existing reconstruction algorithms to solve the inverse problem.
1. Vagovič, P., Sato, T., Mikeš, L., Mills, G., Graceffa, R., Mattsson, F., Villanueva-Perez, P., Ershov, A., Faragó, T., Uličný, J., et al. (2019). Megahertz x-ray microscopy at x-ray free-electron laser and synchrotron sources. Optica, OPTICA 6, 1106–1109. 2. Perepelytsya, S., Uličný, J., Laaksonen, A., and Mocci, F. (2019). Pattern preferences of DNA nucleotide motifs by polyamines putrescine2+, spermidine3+ and spermine4+. Nucleic Acids Res 47, 6084–6097. 3. Rebič, M., Mocci, F., Laaksonen, A., and Uličný, J. (2015). Multiscale simulations of human telo-meric G-quadruplex DNA. J Phys Chem B 119, 105–113. 4. Hrivňak, S., Hovan, A., Uličný, J., and Vagovič, P. (2018). Phase retrieval for arbitrary Fresnel-like linear shift-invariant imaging systems suitable for tomography. Biomed Opt Express 9, 4390–4400., 5. Hrivňak, S., Uličný, J., Mikeš, L., Cecilia, A., Hamann, E., Baumbach, T., Švéda, L., Zápražný, Z., Korytár, D., Gimenez-Navarro, E., et al. (2016). Single-distance phase retrieval algorithm for Bragg Magnifier microscope. Opt Express 24, 27753–27762. 6. Buakor, K.; Zhang, Y.; Birnšteinová, Š.; Bellucci, V.; Sato, T.; Kirkwood, H.; Mancuso, A. P.; Vagovic, P.; Villanueva-Perez, P. Shot-to-Shot Flat-Field Correction at X-Ray Free-Electron Lasers. Opt. Express 2022, 30 (7), 10633. 7. Han, H.; Round, E.; Schubert, R.; Gül, Y.; Makroczyová, J.; Meza, D.; Heuser, P.; Aepfel-bacher, M.; Barák, I.; Betzel, C.; Fromme, P.; Kursula, I.; Nissen, P.; Tereschenko, E.; Schulz, J.; Uetrecht, C.; Ulicný, J.; Wilmanns, M.; Hajdu, J.; Lamzin, V. S.; Lorenzen, K. The XBI BioLab for Life Science Experiments at the European XFEL. J Appl Crystallogr 2021, 54 (1), 7–21. 8. Project: 101046448 — MHz-TOMOSCOPY — HORIZON-EIC-2021- PATHFINDEROPEN-01 , https://www.tomoscop
doc. RNDr. Jozef Uličný, CSc.
Dr. Patrik Vagovič, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Preparation and study of photocatalysts and electrocatalysts for production of hydrogen
The sphere of use of catalysts is incredibly broad – practically all chemical reactions in industry are catalytic. Nowadays the problem of developing clean energy is particularly acute, and the hydrogen economy is one of its leading sectors. Catalysts play an important role in development of hydrogen economy, in particular, they are able to improve the efficiency of water electrolysis, photodecomposition of water, or to enhance the performance of fuel cells when converting the chemical bound energy of hydrogen and oxygen directly into electrical energy. Hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions as well as oxygen reduction reaction are catalytic reactions, which play a key role in the efficiency of obtaining hydrogen and in generation of electrical energy. That is why the main goal of postdoctoral research will be directed to the obtaining of catalysts for the above-mentioned reactions.
The goal of this dissertation thesis is the preparation of photocatalysts and electrocatalysts using magnetron sputtering and the study of their catalytic activity for hydrogen production
journal literature
doc. Mgr. Vladimír Komanický, Ph.D.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Preparation and the experimental study of magnetic nanoparticles for biomedical applications
The work is focused on the preparation and study of magnetic, structural and functional properties of nanoparticle systems that can be used in biomedicine as drug carriers, for magnetic separation in PCR diagnostics and for magnetic hyperthermia. The results of magnetic measurements will be explained with regard to the correlation of their structural parameters (particle size, influence of surface anisotropy, etc.). Magnetic parameters that affect the use of studied nanoparticles in biomedicine will be specified. The appropriateness of the use of nanoparticles for a specific biomedical application will be monitored.
The work is focused on the preparation and study of magnetic, structural and functional properties of nanoparticle systems
journal literature
doc. RNDr. Adriana Zeleňáková, DrSc.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Preparation and the study of the soft magnetic composites with ferrite as an insulation part
The study is oriented on the preparation and the investigation of magnetic composite materials based on the Fe particles coated by ferrite. Due to their unique properties, soft magnetic composites have been used in recent years, for example, in electric motors and power electronics. Potential advantage of soft magnetic ferrites when used as electro insulating layer instead of other insulations is their ferrimagnetic behaviour, improving the magnetic interaction between the ferromagnetic powder particles in the final composite. Composite materials will be prepared by pressing under different physical conditions. The hysteresis loops and their energy losses, the electrical resistivity and wideband complex permeability will be studied on prepared materials. The aim is the optimization of preparation process (composition, method of preparation of hybrid powder material, pressing parameters, annealing parameters) of soft magnetic materials with required magnetic properties at middle-frequencies.
The study of the physical properties of soft magnetic composites, their preparation and thermal treatment. The learning of the magnetic measurements methods. Preparation of the Fe based composite materials with ferrite as a nonconductive binder. Setting up the method for preparation of ferro/ferrit hybrid composite and the optimization of the preparation process for the soft magnetic materials with required magnetic properties in studied frequency interval.
1. R. M. Bozorth, Ferromagnetism, third edition (IEEE Press, Piscataway, NJ), 1993. 2. S. Chikazumi, Physics of Ferromagnetism, Oxford University press, 1997 3. scientific publications on the subject of soft magnetic composites.
doc. RNDr. Ján Füzer, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Preparation of compacted and composite soft magnetic materials for low frequency applications
The work is oriented to the investigation of the influence of technological procedures and dielectrics at the preparation of compacted and composite materials on their magnetic properties at magnetization reversal process in alternating magnetic fields in the range of low frequencies in a wide range of maximum magnetic inductions. The ferromagnetic component will be based on iron and nickel and the insulating binder are inorganic materials. The goal is also to compare the magnetic properties of the prepared materials with conventional ones used under similar physical conditions.
1. R. M. Bozorth Ferromagnetism, third edition (IEEE Press, Piscataway, NJ), 1993 2. H. Shokrollahi, K. Janghorban J. Mater. Proc. Technol. 189 (2007) 1 3. E. A. Périgo, B. Weidenfeller, P. Kollár, J. Füzer, Applied Physics Reviews 5, 031301 (2018);
prof. RNDr. Peter Kollár, DrSc.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Preparation and the experimental study of magnetic nanoparticles for biomedical applications
The work is focused on the preparation and study of magnetic, structural and functional properties of nanoparticle systems that can be used in biomedicine as drug carriers, for magnetic separation in PCR diagnostics and for magnetic hyperthermia. The results of magnetic measurements will be explained with regard to the correlation of their structural parameters (particle size, influence of surface anisotropy, etc.). Magnetic parameters that affect the use of studied nanoparticles in biomedicine will be specified. The appropriateness of the use of nanoparticles for a specific biomedical application will be monitored.
The work is focused on the preparation and study of magnetic, structural and functional properties of nanoparticle systems
journal literature
doc. RNDr. Adriana Zeleňáková, DrSc.
Physics of Condensed Matter (FKLd)
Preparation and characterization of van der Waals heterostructures with novel quantum properties
Van der Waals heterostructures allow for the combination of materials that don't normally interact. They are made up of two-dimensional layers of different materials held together by weak van der Waals forces, allowing for the formation of unique structures with unique properties. This opens a range of possibilities to explore novel quantum effects and the design of new quantum devices. We will focus on the preparation of superconducting heterostructures by our novel fabrication technique that enables the assembly and deterministic placement of van der Waals heterostructures in a glovebox. Subsequently, the heterostructures will be transferred into our ultra-high vacuum system without being exposed to air. There we will explore their electronic properties utilizing our state-of-the-art low temperature scanning tunneling microscope.
We will focus on the preparation of heterostructures comprised of superconducting and topologically non-trivial layers by our novel fabrication technique that enables the assembly and deterministic placement of van der Waals heterostructures in a glovebox. Subsequently, the heterostructures will be transferred into our ultra-high vacuum system without being exposed to air. There we will explore their electronic properties utilizing our state-of-the-art low temperature scanning tunneling microscope.
Lupke, F. et al. Proximity-induced superconducting gap in the quantum spin Hall edge state of monolayer WTe2. Nat. Phys. 16, 526–530 (2020) Fu, L. & Kane, C. L. Superconducting proximity effect and Majorana fermions at the surface of a topological insulator. Phys. Rev. Lett. 100, 096407 (2008). Kezilebieke, S. et al. Topological superconductivity in a van der Waals heterostructure. Nature 588, 424–428 (2020).
Mgr. Tomáš Samuely, PhD., univerzitný docent
Biophysics (BFd)
Preparation and realisation of flow-imaging experiments involving individual biological particles and/or their dynamics – customization of multiprojection experiment and its 4D reconstruction
The imaging of individual biological particles with high temporal and spatial resolution has multiple pitfalls, and individual imaging modalities have specific limits. For imaging in a hard X-ray area, the limit is the size and time profile of available photon budget, as well as the quality of the optics, the key advantage is the ability to display arbitrary materials and environments. The high repeating frequency of modern free-electron lasers or synchrotrons with a sufficient photon budget makes it possible to reconstruct in principle the 4D dynamics of optically opaque objects of interest in fundamental science but also in applications. In our experiments on EuXFEL but also on 3rd generation synchrotron sources, we managed to demonstrate the technical feasibility of such 4D multi-projection imaging with submicrometer resolution and megahertz sampling rates. The PhD project is an integral part of a longer-term project of multi-projection X-ray MHz microscopy built on EuXFEL by an international consortium, awarded by the prestigious EU's EIC Horizon Europe project. The longer-term aim is to take advantage of the experience obtained by constructing a prototype of multi-projection X-ray microscopy for a specific design of the experiment for imaging biological particles in a stream and demonstrating its feasibility in pilot measurements. In addition to biological particles, the use of microscopic calibration particles designed theoretically and printed by 3D printers in partner institutions is also envisaged. The main role of the PhD candidate will be the generation of synthetic data by multiscale dynamics techniques, the numerical simulation of an imaging experiment and the use of machine learning techniques to recognize useful behavioral patterns and to accelerate the interpretation of projections in high-throughput experiments. This approach is required by transition from direct imaging techniques to lensless imaging, where 4D reconstruction requires the design/modification of existing reconstruction algorithms] to solve the inverse problem for extreme dataflows generated by multiprojection experiments. PhD student is expected to take part in EuXFEL and/or another experiments of the consortium within the EuXFEL Guest PhD scheme based on bilateral contract between the UPJš university and EuXFEL.
The aim of the PhD topic is to generate synthetic data using multiscale dynamics techniques, numerical simulation of an imaging experiment, and to create machine learning technique procedures to recognize useful behavioral patterns and accelerate the interpretation of projections in high-throughput experiments. The specificity of the approach lies in the transition from direct imaging techniques to lensless imaging, where 4D reconstruction requires design/modification of existing reconstruction algorithms to solve the inverse problem.
1. Vagovič, P., Sato, T., Mikeš, L., Mills, G., Graceffa, R., Mattsson, F., Villanueva-Perez, P., Ershov, A., Faragó, T., Uličný, J., et al. (2019). Megahertz x-ray microscopy at x-ray free-electron laser and synchrotron sources. Optica, OPTICA 6, 1106–1109. 2. Perepelytsya, S., Uličný, J., Laaksonen, A., and Mocci, F. (2019). Pattern preferences of DNA nucleotide motifs by polyamines putrescine2+, spermidine3+ and spermine4+. Nucleic Acids Res 47, 6084–6097. 3. Rebič, M., Mocci, F., Laaksonen, A., and Uličný, J. (2015). Multiscale simulations of human telo-meric G-quadruplex DNA. J Phys Chem B 119, 105–113. 4. Hrivňak, S., Hovan, A., Uličný, J., and Vagovič, P. (2018). Phase retrieval for arbitrary Fresnel-like linear shift-invariant imaging systems suitable for tomography. Biomed Opt Express 9, 4390–4400., 5. Hrivňak, S., Uličný, J., Mikeš, L., Cecilia, A., Hamann, E., Baumbach, T., Švéda, L., Zápražný, Z., Korytár, D., Gimenez-Navarro, E., et al. (2016). Single-distance phase retrieval algorithm for Bragg Magnifier microscope. Opt Express 24, 27753–27762. 6. Buakor, K.; Zhang, Y.; Birnšteinová, Š.; Bellucci, V.; Sato, T.; Kirkwood, H.; Mancuso, A. P.; Vagovic, P.; Villanueva-Perez, P. Shot-to-Shot Flat-Field Correction at X-Ray Free-Electron Lasers. Opt. Express 2022, 30 (7), 10633. 7. Han, H.; Round, E.; Schubert, R.; Gül, Y.; Makroczyová, J.; Meza, D.; Heuser, P.; Aepfel-bacher, M.; Barák, I.; Betzel, C.; Fromme, P.; Kursula, I.; Nissen, P.; Tereschenko, E.; Schulz, J.; Uetrecht, C.; Ulicný, J.; Wilmanns, M.; Hajdu, J.; Lamzin, V. S.; Lorenzen, K. The XBI BioLab for Life Science Experiments at the European XFEL. J Appl Crystallogr 2021, 54 (1), 7–21. 8. Project: 101046448 — MHz-TOMOSCOPY — HORIZON-EIC-2021- PATHFINDEROPEN-01 , https://www.tomoscop
doc. RNDr. Jozef Uličný, CSc.
Dr. Patrik Vagovič, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Preparation and the study of the soft magnetic composites with ferrite as an insulation part
The study is oriented on the preparation and the investigation of magnetic composite materials based on the Fe particles coated by ferrite. Due to their unique properties, soft magnetic composites have been used in recent years, for example, in electric motors and power electronics. Potential advantage of soft magnetic ferrites when used as electro insulating layer instead of other insulations is their ferrimagnetic behaviour, improving the magnetic interaction between the ferromagnetic powder particles in the final composite. Composite materials will be prepared by pressing under different physical conditions. The hysteresis loops and their energy losses, the electrical resistivity and wideband complex permeability will be studied on prepared materials. The aim is the optimization of preparation process (composition, method of preparation of hybrid powder material, pressing parameters, annealing parameters) of soft magnetic materials with required magnetic properties at middle-frequencies.
The study of the physical properties of soft magnetic composites, their preparation and thermal treatment. The learning of the magnetic measurements methods. Preparation of the Fe based composite materials with ferrite as a nonconductive binder. Setting up the method for preparation of ferro/ferrit hybrid composite and the optimization of the preparation process for the soft magnetic materials with required magnetic properties in studied frequency interval.
1. R. M. Bozorth, Ferromagnetism, third edition (IEEE Press, Piscataway, NJ), 1993. 2. S. Chikazumi, Physics of Ferromagnetism, Oxford University press, 1997 3. scientific publications on the subject of soft magnetic composites.
doc. RNDr. Ján Füzer, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Preparation and study of photocatalysts and electrocatalysts for production of hydrogen
The sphere of use of catalysts is incredibly broad – practically all chemical reactions in industry are catalytic. Nowadays the problem of developing clean energy is particularly acute, and the hydrogen economy is one of its leading sectors. Catalysts play an important role in development of hydrogen economy, in particular, they are able to improve the efficiency of water electrolysis, photodecomposition of water, or to enhance the performance of fuel cells when converting the chemical bound energy of hydrogen and oxygen directly into electrical energy. Hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions as well as oxygen reduction reaction are catalytic reactions, which play a key role in the efficiency of obtaining hydrogen and in generation of electrical energy. That is why the main goal of postdoctoral research will be directed to the obtaining of catalysts for the above-mentioned reactions.
The goal of this dissertation thesis is the preparation of photocatalysts and electrocatalysts using magnetron sputtering and the study of their catalytic activity for hydrogen production
journal literature
doc. Mgr. Vladimír Komanický, Ph.D.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Preparation of compacted and composite soft magnetic materials for low frequency applications
The work is oriented to the investigation of the influence of technological procedures and dielectrics at the preparation of compacted and composite materials on their magnetic properties at magnetization reversal process in alternating magnetic fields in the range of low frequencies in a wide range of maximum magnetic inductions. The ferromagnetic component will be based on iron and nickel and the insulating binder are inorganic materials. The goal is also to compare the magnetic properties of the prepared materials with conventional ones used under similar physical conditions.
1. R. M. Bozorth Ferromagnetism, third edition (IEEE Press, Piscataway, NJ), 1993 2. H. Shokrollahi, K. Janghorban J. Mater. Proc. Technol. 189 (2007) 1 3. E. A. Périgo, B. Weidenfeller, P. Kollár, J. Füzer, Applied Physics Reviews 5, 031301 (2018);
prof. RNDr. Peter Kollár, DrSc.
Physics (Fd)
Strange particles production studied via two-particle angular correlations in the ALICE experiment at the LHC
Two-particle angular correlations provide an interesting tool to study jets and their modification in ultra-relativistic heavy-ion collisions as well as in proton-proton (pp) collisions with high multiplicity [1]. Study of correlations involving (multi-)strange identified particles may offer an additional information about the particle production mechanisms at LHC energies either in small (e.g. pp or p-Pb) or in big collision systems (e.g. Pb-Pb). The aim of the thesis is to study angular correlations of (multi-)strange hadrons with non-identified charged hadrons as a function of multiplicity and transverse momenta in data of ALICE experiment at the CERN LHC. Literature: [1] ALICE Collaboration: Investigating strangeness enhancement with multiplicity in pp collisions using angular correlations, JHEP 09 (2024) 204
Recent publications
doc. RNDr. Marek Bombara, PhD.
Mgr. Lucia Anna Tarasovičová, Dr. rer. nat.
Physics education (TVFd)
Professional development of the physics teacher as a tool for eliminating burnout syndrome
Burnout syndrome is caused by chronic stress and mental strain that have not been successfully managed. In teachers, it is caused by professional situations associated with unreasonable demands, problems, frustration, conflicts and deprivation. Its most common symptom is emotional and cognitive wear and tear, exhaustion, general fatigue associated with a decrease in work performance. It manifests itself in stereotypes, lack of interest in an active approach to the educational process and ultimately inefficiency in the development of the pupil's personality. High demands are placed on a physics teacher, as one of the science subjects in which a long-term decline in science literacy has been reported. One of the possibilities of eliminating the burnout syndrome is the continuous education of teachers. Professional development programs for teachers, which are on the rise in recent years, have a predisposition to be a tool for eliminating the burnout syndrome. The dissertation is focused on analyzing the burnout syndrome of physics teachers in the context of their professional development, on determining the current level of burnout syndrome of physics teachers through the MBI-ED questionnaire (Maslach Burnout Inventory – Educators Survey), on identifying correlations between the burnout syndrome and completed professional development programs for teachers of physics, as well as the proposal of a specific program of professional development for teachers focused on the possibilities of eliminating burnout syndrome.
1. To analyze the burnout syndrome of physics teachers in the context of their professional development. 2. To find out the current level of burnout syndrome of physics teachers through the MBI-ED questionnaire (Maslach Burnout Inventory – Educators Survey). 3. To identify the correlation between burnout syndrome and completed professional development programs for physics teachers. 4. Design and pilot-validate a teacher's professional development program focused on the possibilities of eliminating burnout syndrome.
[1] Bianchi, R., Schonfeld, I. S., & Laurent, E. (2017). Is it Time to Characterize Burnout as a Depressive Syndrome? European Psychiatry, 41(1), 141, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eurpsy.2017.01.1976 [2] Özer, N., & Beycioglu, K. (2010). The relationship between teacher professional development and burnout. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, 2(2), 4928–4932. DOI:10.1016/j.sbspro.2010.03.797 [3] Safari, I., Davaribina, M., & Khoshnevis, I. (2020). The Influence of EFL Teachers’ Self-Efficacy, Job Satisfaction and Reflective Thinking on their Professional Development: A Structural Equation Modeling. Journal on Efficiency and Responsibility in Education and Science, 13(1), 27–40. https://doi.org/10.7160/eriesj.2020.130103 [4] Petlák, E., & Baranovská, A. (2016). Stres v práci učiteľa a syndróm vyhorenia. Bratislava: Wolters Kluwer. [5] Burisch, M. (2014). Das Burnout-Syndrom: Theorie der inneren Erschöpfung – Zahlreiche Fallbeispiele – Hilfen zur Selbsthilfe. Verlag: Springer Berlin Heidelberg.
doc. PaedDr. Renáta Orosová, PhD.
doc. RNDr. Marián Kireš, PhD.
Physics education (TVFdAj)
Professional development of the physics teacher as a tool for eliminating burnout syndrome
Burnout syndrome is caused by chronic stress and mental strain that have not been successfully managed. In teachers, it is caused by professional situations associated with unreasonable demands, problems, frustration, conflicts and deprivation. Its most common symptom is emotional and cognitive wear and tear, exhaustion, general fatigue associated with a decrease in work performance. It manifests itself in stereotypes, lack of interest in an active approach to the educational process and ultimately inefficiency in the development of the pupil's personality. High demands are placed on a physics teacher, as one of the science subjects in which a long-term decline in science literacy has been reported. One of the possibilities of eliminating the burnout syndrome is the continuous education of teachers. Professional development programs for teachers, which are on the rise in recent years, have a predisposition to be a tool for eliminating the burnout syndrome. The dissertation is focused on analyzing the burnout syndrome of physics teachers in the context of their professional development, on determining the current level of burnout syndrome of physics teachers through the MBI-ED questionnaire (Maslach Burnout Inventory – Educators Survey), on identifying correlations between the burnout syndrome and completed professional development programs for teachers of physics, as well as the proposal of a specific program of professional development for teachers focused on the possibilities of eliminating burnout syndrome.
1. To analyze the burnout syndrome of physics teachers in the context of their professional development. 2. To find out the current level of burnout syndrome of physics teachers through the MBI-ED questionnaire (Maslach Burnout Inventory – Educators Survey). 3. To identify the correlation between burnout syndrome and completed professional development programs for physics teachers. 4. Design and pilot-validate a teacher's professional development program focused on the possibilities of eliminating burnout syndrome.
[1] Bianchi, R., Schonfeld, I. S., & Laurent, E. (2017). Is it Time to Characterize Burnout as a Depressive Syndrome? European Psychiatry, 41(1), 141, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eurpsy.2017.01.1976 [2] Özer, N., & Beycioglu, K. (2010). The relationship between teacher professional development and burnout. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, 2(2), 4928–4932. DOI:10.1016/j.sbspro.2010.03.797 [3] Safari, I., Davaribina, M., & Khoshnevis, I. (2020). The Influence of EFL Teachers’ Self-Efficacy, Job Satisfaction and Reflective Thinking on their Professional Development: A Structural Equation Modeling. Journal on Efficiency and Responsibility in Education and Science, 13(1), 27–40. https://doi.org/10.7160/eriesj.2020.130103 [4] Petlák, E., & Baranovská, A. (2016). Stres v práci učiteľa a syndróm vyhorenia. Bratislava: Wolters Kluwer. [5] Burisch, M. (2014). Das Burnout-Syndrom: Theorie der inneren Erschöpfung – Zahlreiche Fallbeispiele – Hilfen zur Selbsthilfe. Verlag: Springer Berlin Heidelberg.
doc. PaedDr. Renáta Orosová, PhD.
doc. RNDr. Marián Kireš, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Properties of soft magnetic composites based on structurally modified ferromagnetics
The subject of the study will be soft magnetic materials prepared from powdered ferromagnetic particles and dielectric nanostructured ceramics. Mechanical and mechano-chemical methods will modify the geometrical, structural and technological characteristics of ferromagnetic powder particles. By modifying the shape, size, surface morphology, and chemical and phase composition of the particles, a large variability of the technological properties of the powders will be achieved, e.g. a significant change in the compressibility. By studying the development of the structure and analysing the physical properties of the composites depending on the compaction parameters, the mechanisms of the formation of functional properties will be identified and described, with a focus on clarifying the influence of the geometric characteristics of the ferromagnetic on the macroscopic properties of soft magnetic composites.
The subject of the study will be soft magnetic materials prepared from powdered ferromagnetic particles and dielectric nanostructured ceramics
Journal literature
Ing. Radovan Bureš, CSc.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
Protein stability and aggregation in biocompatible organic solvents
The identification of effective solvents capable of modulating protein stability and aggregation is of great importance for various applications in biotechnology or medicine. The production and long-term storage of proteins requires setting appropriate environmental conditions that preserve the native structure of the proteins and prevent their aggregation. Similarly, the formation of a special type of ordered aggregates - amyloid fibrils, is modulated by external conditions. Amyloid aggregates represent new potential biomaterials due to their unique properties. Therefore, finding conditions capable of inducing the formation of defined amyloid aggregates is of interest. This work aims to study the effect of special solvents - ionic liquids and deep eutectic mixtures – on the stability, kinetics of amyloid aggregation, and morphology of amyloid fibrils of various proteins (lysozyme, insulin). The objective is to determine the relationship between solvent’s composition and physicochemical properties and their ability to stabilize/destabilize protein structure and inhibit/accelerate amyloid aggregation to find solvents capable of stabilizing studied proteins or inducing amyloid aggregate formation with defined morphology. Spectroscopic (UV-VIS, CD, FTIR) and calorimetric (DSC, ITC) methods, as well as atomic force microscopy (AFM) and computer image analysis methods, will be used.
1. Spectrophotometric and calorimetric study of the protein structural changes, activity and stability in biocompatible organic solvents 2. Identification of solvents able to modulate protein amyloid aggregation – kinetics of aggregation, structure and morphology of amyloid fibrils
1. Amyloidosis: History and Perspectives., Ed. By J. S. Harrison, IntechOpen, London, UK, 2022, Online ISBN: 978-1-83969-298-7 2. Takekiyo T., Yoshimura Y., Suppression and dissolution of amyloid aggregates using ionic liquids. Biophys Rev 2018, 10(3), 853-860 3. Hagen, M. L., Harper, J. B., Croft, A. K., Recent advances in the use of ionic liquids as solvents for protein-based materials and chemistry. Curr. Opin. Green Sustain. Chem. 2022, 36, 100637 4. vedecké články/Scientific articles
RNDr. Diana Fedunová, PhD.
RNDr. Miroslav Gančár, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Reactive sputtering of the compositionally complex ceramic coatings
The development of magnetron sputtering is oriented toward technologies with high ionization degree of the sputtered material which provides better control of the deposition process as well as better coating properties. The most famous ionized PVD is the High Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering (HiPIMS) and the relatively new technology High Target Utilization Sputtering (HiTUS) also belongs among these methods. High degree of ionization is achieved in the case of HiPIMS by very short duty cycle impulses with extremely high power density whereas in HiTUS by the power at an independent plasma source. The work should focus on the optimization of the deposition parameters of hard multicomponent carbide, boride and nitride coatings from the viewpoint of the control of their elastic and plastic properties by means of determination of dependencies among the deposition parameters, plasma characteristics, coating structures and their mechanical and tribological properties. The work will be performed on the iPVD systems Cryofox Discovery (Polyteknik, Denmark) and HiTUS C500 (PQL, UK) in combination with the electron microscopy observations (SEM, TEM) and measurements of mechanical properties.
Investigation of the influence of the deposition parameters of hard multicomponent carbide, boride and nitride coatings on their mechanical and tribological properties
1. D.M. Mattox, Physical sputtering and sputter deposition (sputtering), pp. 343-405 in Handbook of Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) processing, Mattox D.M., Noyes Publ., New Jersey, 1998. 2. B. Cantor, I.T.H. Chang, P. Knight, A.J.B. Vincent, Microstructural development in equiatomic multicomponent alloys (2004) Mater. Sci. Eng. A, 375-377 (1-2 SPEC. ISS.), pp. 213-218. doi: 10.1016/j.msea.2003.10.257 3. E. Lewin, E. Multi-component and high-entropy nitride coatings - A promising field in need of a novel approach J. Appl. Phys. 127, 160901 (2020); doi: 10.1063/1.5144154 4. F. Lofaj, L. Kvetková, T. Roch, J. Dobrovodský, V. Girman, M. Kabátová, M. Beňo, Reactive HiTUS TiNbVTaZrHf-Nx coatings: structure, composition and mechanical properties, Materials 16 (2) (2023) 563. https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16020563
doc. RNDr. František Lofaj, DrSc.
Physics education (TVFd)
Development the skill of argumentation in the conceptual physics course
The student's understanding of physics concepts and phenomenon can be verified through qualitative tasks and their physics interpretation. The ability to appropriately use the most important arguments, to correctly organize them into a comprehensive explanation of a physics concept or phenomenon are signs of the skill of arguing. The content of conceptual physics courses will be analyzed as part of the dissertation. The doctoral student will process a thematically sorted set of qualitative tasks and their clarification at the level of high school physics. For physics teachers, he will create a education course, which will provide basic starting points and materials for the application of qualitative tasks in the teaching of physics at the secondary school. The development of the ability to argue and the level of the student's conceptual understanding of selected physical terms and phenomena will be investigated on a selected sample of high school students.
1. Map the approach to creating the content of conceptual physics courses and the teaching methods used in their implementation. 2. Process a thematically sorted set of qualitative tasks and their clarification at the level of high school physics. 3. Create and implement a course of continuous education for physics teachers focused on teaching conceptual physics in high school. 4. On a selected sample of high school students, examine the development of students' argumentative skills and the level of students' conceptual understanding.
[1] Taşlıdere, Erdal & Eryilmaz, Ali. (2009). Alternative to Traditional Physics Instruction: Effectiveness of Conceptual Physics Approach. Eurasian Journal of Educational Research (EJER). 9. 109-128. [2] Aina, Jacob. (2017). Investigating the Conceptual Understanding of Physics through an Interactive Lecture- Engagement. Cumhuriyet International Journal of Education-CIJE. 6. 82-96. [3] Price, Edward & Goldberg, Fred & Robinson, Steve & McKean, Michael. (2016). Validity of peer grading using Calibrated Peer Review in a guided-inquiry, conceptual physics course. Physical Review Physics Education Research. 12. 10.1103/PhysRevPhysEducRes.12.020145. [4] Walker, Jearl. (2023). The Flying Circus of Physics, 2nd ed.
doc. RNDr. Marián Kireš, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Single-directional growth of REBCO bulk crystals, structure and superconducting properties
The topic is focused on the preparation of REBCO (REBCO stands for the compound REBa2Cu3O7, where RE is Y or a rare earth) bulk single-crystal superconductors (BSS) by single-direction melt-growth (SDMG) from a large-area seed and the study of their microstructure and superconducting properties. SDMG technology has only recently been developed [1,2] and represents a significant advance in the preparation of REBCO BSS for practical applications, as it allows the preparation of large-sized crystals with complicated geometry. Growth of bulk REBCO crystals, structural analysis and measurement of macroscopic superconducting properties will be performed on the equipment of the Department of Materials Physics IEP SAS using crucible-free crystal growth methods, X-ray diffraction, optical and electron microscopy, measurement of the trapped magnetic field and levitation force at 77 K. Magnetization measurements will be performed on the equipment of the Institute of Experimental Physics. The topic falls within the framework of the project APVV-21-0387, REBCO bulk superconductors based on Y, Gd, Sm and Eu for practical applications
The topic is focused on the preparation of REBCO (REBCO stands for the compound REBa2Cu3O7, where RE is Y or a rare earth) bulk single-crystal superconductors (BSS) by single-direction melt-growth (SDMG) from a large-area seed and the study of their microstructure and superconducting properties.
[1] T. Motoki, R. Sasada, T. Tomihisa, M. Miwa, S. Nakamura, J. Shimoyama, Development of homogeneous and high-performance REBCO bulks with various shapes by the single-direction melt-growth (SDMG) method, Superconducting Science and Technology 35 (2022), 094003. [2] P. Diko, K. Zmorayová, T. Motoki, J. Shimoyama, Microstructure of DyBCO bulk superconductors prepared using single-direction melt-growth (SDMG) method, Ceramics International 49 (2023), 39280-39288.
Ing. Pavel Diko, DrSc.
RNDr. Jozef Bednarčík, PhD., univerzitný docent
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Soft magnetic nanocrystalline alloys metals prepared by unconventional thermal processing techniques.
The PhD thesis is focused on the employment of unconventional techniques of thermal processing in order to tailor the structural and magnetic properties of nanocrystalline alloys based on 3-d metals. We plan to use facility for ultra-rapid annealing of thin metallic ribbons constructed recently at IEP SAS. In this facility, the annealed samples are clamped between pair of the pre-heated massive Cu-blocks and typical annealing times take few seconds. High heating rates and much shorter processing times as compared to conventional annealing allow extend the composition interval where the annealed samples are still capable to form nanocrystalline structure. The other technique of thermal processing in this work is the annealing in a presence of high magnetic fields. We plan to perform a detailed study of structural and magnetic properties of selected alloy systems. The main goal of thesis is improvement of functional properties of studied materials for potential technical applications.
The main goal of thesis is improvement of functional properties of studied materials for potential technical applications.
current journal literature
RNDr. Ivan Škorvánek, CSc.
Ing. Branislav Kunca, PhD.
RNDr. Jozef Marcin, PhD.
Physics of Condensed Matter (FKLdAj)
Specifics of magnetization processes in soft magnetic composites
The work is focused on investigating the specifics of magnetization processes in DC and AC magnetic fields in soft magnetic composites in comparison with magnetization processes in conventional ferromagnets.
1. R. M. Bozorth Ferromagnetism, third edition (IEEE Press, Piscataway, NJ), 1993 2. H. Shokrollahi, K. Janghorban J. Mater. Proc. Technol. 189 (2007) 1 3. E. A. Périgo, B. Weidenfeller, P. Kollár, J. Füzer, Applied Physics Reviews 5, 031301 (2018)
prof. RNDr. Peter Kollár, DrSc.
Physics of Condensed Matter (FKLd)
Spectroscopic study of 2D superconductors and sandwich heterostructures
Ultralow temperatures have become an important tool for new research avenues in nanoscience, materials research and particularly in quantum nanotechnologies. Scaling down a physical system towards the sizes when the quantum properties surpass classical physics opens a plethora of new quantum-driven effects, thus giving rise to new classes of quantum materials. Within the thesis we will focus our study on low-dimensional quantum devices, heterostrucures consisting of atomically thin superconducting slabs and aditional layers with different order (inslulator, metal, ferromagnet). In such systems symmetries can be broken possibly allowing for non trivial topological quantum states relevant for future technologies. Atomically thin layered materials are systems with zero limit bulk-to-surface ratio. Their physical properties are strongly affected by interfacing with other systems. Therefore, they represent an accessible platform for the abundance of quantum effects that can be engineered by combining them into vertical stacks using exfoliation techniques. In the framework of this thesis, we will prepare sandwich nanostructures of different 2D materials, and characterize them by transport and STM experiments at very low temperatures. We will also focus on the characterization of bulk samples with broken symmetry.
Preparation of nanostructures from various 2D materials and their characterization using low-temperature transport and STM measurements.
[1] K. Jin, et al., Assembly of Arbitrary Designer Heterostructures with Atomically Clean Interfaces, Adv. Mater. Interfaces 2300658 (2023). [2] M. Kuzmiak, et al., Disorder- and magnetic field–tuned fermionic superconductor-insulator transition in MoN thin films: Transport and scanning tunneling microscopy, Phys. Rev. B 108, 184511 (2023). [3] A. Pálinkás, et al., Novel graphene/Sn and graphene/SnOx hybrid nanostructures: induced superconductivity and band gaps revealed by scanning probe measurements, Carbon 124 (2017), 611
Mgr. Pavol Szabó, CSc.
doc. RNDr. Peter Samuely, DrSc.
Biophysics (BFd)
Protein stability and aggregation in biocompatible organic solvents
The identification of effective solvents capable of modulating protein stability and aggregation is of great importance for various applications in biotechnology or medicine. The production and long-term storage of proteins requires setting appropriate environmental conditions that preserve the native structure of the proteins and prevent their aggregation. Similarly, the formation of a special type of ordered aggregates - amyloid fibrils, is modulated by external conditions. Amyloid aggregates represent new potential biomaterials due to their unique properties. Therefore, finding conditions capable of inducing the formation of defined amyloid aggregates is of interest. This work aims to study the effect of special solvents - ionic liquids and deep eutectic mixtures – on the stability, kinetics of amyloid aggregation, and morphology of amyloid fibrils of various proteins (lysozyme, insulin). The objective is to determine the relationship between solvent’s composition and physicochemical properties and their ability to stabilize/destabilize protein structure and inhibit/accelerate amyloid aggregation to find solvents capable of stabilizing studied proteins or inducing amyloid aggregate formation with defined morphology. Spectroscopic (UV-VIS, CD, FTIR) and calorimetric (DSC, ITC) methods, as well as atomic force microscopy (AFM) and computer image analysis methods, will be used.
1. Spectrophotometric and calorimetric study of the protein structural changes, activity and stability in biocompatible organic solvents 2. Identification of solvents able to modulate protein amyloid aggregation – kinetics of aggregation, structure and morphology of amyloid fibrils
1. Amyloidosis: History and Perspectives., Ed. By J. S. Harrison, IntechOpen, London, UK, 2022, Online ISBN: 978-1-83969-298-7 2. Takekiyo T., Yoshimura Y., Suppression and dissolution of amyloid aggregates using ionic liquids. Biophys Rev 2018, 10(3), 853-860 3. Hagen, M. L., Harper, J. B., Croft, A. K., Recent advances in the use of ionic liquids as solvents for protein-based materials and chemistry. Curr. Opin. Green Sustain. Chem. 2022, 36, 100637 4. vedecké články/Scientific articles
RNDr. Diana Fedunová, PhD.
RNDr. Miroslav Gančár, PhD.
Physics (FdAj)
Strange particles production studied via two-particle angular correlations in the ALICE experiment at the LHC
Two-particle angular correlations provide an interesting tool to study jets and their modification in ultra-relativistic heavy-ion collisions as well as in proton-proton (pp) collisions with high multiplicity [1]. Study of correlations involving (multi-)strange identified particles may offer an additional information about the particle production mechanisms at LHC energies either in small (e.g. pp or p-Pb) or in big collision systems (e.g. Pb-Pb). The aim of the thesis is to study angular correlations of (multi-)strange hadrons with non-identified charged hadrons as a function of multiplicity and transverse momenta in data of ALICE experiment at the CERN LHC. Literature: [1] ALICE Collaboration: Investigating strangeness enhancement with multiplicity in pp collisions using angular correlations, JHEP 09 (2024) 204
Recent publications
doc. RNDr. Marek Bombara, PhD.
Mgr. Lucia Anna Tarasovičová, Dr. rer. nat.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Structural modifications study of metallic glasses under the influence of external parameters using techniques based on high-intensity X-ray sources of large-scale facilities.
Due to the lack of long-range periodic atomic arrangement, metallic glasses exhibit several exceptional characteristics that surpass or significantly differ from the commonly used crystalline metallic alloys of the same composition. These characteristics include excellent mechanical properties (nearly theoretical strength values, extreme hardness, excellent elastic properties, etc.), high corrosion resistance, and excellent magnetic properties (low coercivity and high magnetic saturation, low thermal expansion at temperatures below the Curie temperature). The aim of this work will be to monitor and understand the relationship between changes in the local atomic structure and the macroscopic properties in selected metallic glass systems under the influence of external parameters such as force (tension/compression), temperature, or magnetic field. These changes will be studied in-situ using modern scattering and imaging techniques employing high-intensity X-ray sources of large scale national and international facilities. These measurements will be combined with standard laboratory techniques such as SEM, DSC, AFM, TEM, and more.
The aim of this work will be to monitor and understand the relationship between changes in the local atomic structure and the macroscopic properties in selected metallic glass systems under the influence of external parameters such as force (tension/compression), temperature, or magnetic field.
Current journal literature
prof. RNDr. Pavol Sovák, CSc.
RNDr. Štefan Michalik, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Structural study of disordered and quasi-ordered metallic alloys using electron and XRD scattering.
Phase transitions of solids from the disordered state to complex structures ordering are subject of modern research. The relationship between initial and final structure state play an important role at forming of the new structures having advanced physical and chemical properties. The variations of external conditions, e.g. strong magnetic fields or extremal temperature changes, can substantially affect the final properties of solids as well. The main highlight of dissertation thesis will be the study of atomic structure and stability of inducted phases of promising advanced materials in relation to their properties, employing electron and X-ray diffraction techniques. The experimental approach, using transmission electron microscope JEOL 2100F UHR, will be emphasized. However, for successful completing of dissertation thesis, it will be necessary to carry out experiments at electron microscopy centres and synchrotron facility abroad.
1.) Preparation of master alloys and bulk metallic glasses. 2.) Thermo-mechanical processing and testing of mechanical and physical properties of bulk metallic glasses. 3.) Local atomic structure investigation of amorphous phases and its correlation to physical and mechanical properties. 4.) Study of amorphization and crystallization processes and related thermo-mechanically induced phase transformations in crystalline phases.
Williams D. B. and Crater C. B.: Transmission electron microscopy. 2nd ed., Springer Science, 2009, ISBN 978-0-387-76500-6. Inoue A. and Suryanarayana C.: Bulk metallic glasses. CRC Press, Talyor and Francis Group, 2011, ISBN-13: 978-1-4200-8597-6 Miller M. and Liaw P.: Bulk metallic glasses: An overview. Springer Science, 2008, ISBN 978-0-387-48920-9. Als-Nielsen J. and McMorrow D.: Elements of Modern X-ray Physics. 2nd ed., John Wiley & Sons Ltd, 2011, ISBN 978-0-470-97395-0
Ing. Vladimír Girman, PhD.
prof. RNDr. Pavol Sovák, CSc.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Structure and properties of lead-free ferroelectric ceramics
The dissertation will be focused on the research and development of advanced electroceramics, derived from lead-free perovskite-structured ferroelectrics. In course of dissertation work, theoretical and experimental approaches will be employed including material processing, X-ray diffraction and the Rietveld refinement method, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and characterization of specific electro-physical properties of functional ceramics. For analytical assessment of the macroscopic properties with respect to the chemical and structural nature of electroceramics, an extended technique of dielectric spectroscopy will be adopted to study ferroelectric phase transitions.
The dissertation will be focused on the research and development of advanced electroceramics, derived from lead-free perovskite-structured ferroelectrics. In course of dissertation work, theoretical and experimental approaches will be employed including material processing, X-ray diffraction and the Rietveld refinement method, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and characterization of specific electro-physical properties of functional ceramics.
Current journal literature.
RNDr. Vladimír Kovaľ, DrSc.
Physics (FdAj)
Study of angular substructures of particles produced in heavy ion collisions
An important aim of nucleus collisions investigation at high energies is to search for a phenomena connecting with large densities obtained in such collisions. As an example, the transition from the QGP (quark - gluon plasma) back to the normal hadronic phase is predicted to contribute to fluctuations in the number of produced particles in local regions of phase space. Using unique method collisions of proton-proton and heavy-ion collisions at momenta between 1 AGeV/c and 160 AGeV/c will be analyzed. The methods of transverse momentum, principal vectors, azimuthal correlation functions, Fourier expansion of azimuthal angle distributions and other methods will be applied. Experimental results will be compared with model calculations.
scientific literature
doc. RNDr. Adela Kravčáková, PhD.
Physics (FdAj)
Study of high-energy particles interactions in the atmosphere by CORSIKA7 and CORSIKA8 software frameworks, comparison of the results obtained by them and their comparison with data, especially from the KM3NeT experiment
CORSIKA is a long-established software for simulations of atmospheric showers induced by cosmic rays. It has been developed mainly in Fortran 77 continuously for the last thirty years. It is very difficult to add new physics functions to CORSIKA7. CORSIKA8 is a modern rewrite in C++17 with a modular structure that improves flexibility and extensibility. It uses modern concepts in object-oriented programming. The CORSIKA8 project aims to achieve high performance by using techniques such as vectorization, gpu/cpu parallelization, extended use of static polymorphism and to have the most accurate physical models available. We plan to compare the results, especially fluences, energy distributions and transport in media (water, air, rock, ...) between these software concepts and to compare them with data from the KM3NeT experiment in particular. The results can be used to calibrate detection systems and analyze experimental data from the KM3NeT experiment detectors, but in principle also from others.
Recent publications
RNDr. Blahoslav Pastirčák, CSc.
RNDr. Ivan Králik, CSc.
Physics (FdAj)
Study of light (anti)nuclei production at LHC in ALICE experiment
The study of light (anti)nuclei production in high-energy hadronic collisions is important for understanding loosely bound system formation in high temperature environment present at the LHC. On top of that the production of light (anti)nuclei represents a valuable information for estimation of a visible background in dark matter searches in cosmic rays [1,2]. Thanks to its excellent tracking and particle identification capabilities, ALICE is the ideal experiment at the LHC to study light (anti)nuclei production. In the thesis the production of deuteron and anti-deuteron will be investigated as a function of multiplicity and other experimental variables in hadron collisions at the CERN LHC in the ALICE detector. Literature: [1] ALICE Collaboration: Measurement of the Low-Energy Antideuteron Inelastic Cross Section, Physical Review Letters 125, 162001 (2020) [2] ALICE Collaboration: (Anti-)deuteron production in pp collisions at √s = 13 TeV, Eur. Phys. J. C (2020) 80:889
Recent publications
doc. RNDr. Marek Bombara, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Study of magnetic and thermal properties of high-entropy functional alloys
The main idea of the dissertation thesis is to find a suitable chemical composition that will meet the criteria for high-entropic functional alloys. Appropriately chosen composition of individual chemical elements leads to the preparation of such materials, focusing on selected physical properties. We will focus on combining elements belonging to the group of half Heusler alloys with the stoichiometric formula XYZ, where X and Y represent a transition element and Z an element from the p block. The preparation of samples in the form of strips and microwires using the Taylor-Ulitovsky method seems very advantageous for the materials we want to deal with. Part of the work is also the design of possible cooling technology and its implementation in technical practice.
The main aim of the dissertation thesis is to research high-entropy alloys as thermoelectric materials. The work will be devoted to finding a suitable composition that will meet the criteria for high-entropy alloys and simultaneously belong to the group of thermoelectric materials. We will focus on combining elements from the group of half Heusler alloys with the stoichiometric formula XYZ, where X and Y represent the transition element and Z is the element from the p block.
[1] S. Skipidarov, M. Nikitin (Eds.): Novel Thermoelectric Materials and Device Design Concepts, Springer 2019, ISBN: 978-3-030-12056-6 [2] H. Fukuyama, Y. Waseda (Eds): High-Temperature Measurements of Materials, Springer 2009, ISBN: 978-3-540-85917 [3] P. Sharma, V. K. Dwivedi, S. P. Dwivedi: Development of high entropy alloys: A review, Materials Today: Proceedings 43, 2021, 502-509
prof. RNDr. Rastislav Varga, DrSc.
Ing. RNDr. Andrea Džubinská, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Study of shape memory effect stability in Ni2FeGa microwires
The ferromagnetic Heusler alloy Ni2FeGa has broad application potential in sensors and actuators due to the combination of its magnetic properties and the existence of the shape memory phenomenon (SMP). The temperature range of the thermo-elastic phase transformation of the SMP can be controlled by varying the chemical composition of the alloy, more precisely by the changing atomic configuration of the ordered parent phase. While the equilibrium chemical composition of the ordered phase has a transformation temperature of around 50 K, it is possible to shift the transformation above the temperature of 300 K by supersaturating the ordered phase. The pilot experiment showed that the alloy in the form of microwires has, due to its thickness (< 30 m), a unique resistance to cyclic transition through the temperature phase transformation region. Changes in material structure and properties were not observed after more than 106 cycles. The topic of the dissertation is focused on the study of the Heusler alloy shape memory effect and the properties concerning their structure and the form of the prepared alloy. The work is focused on determining the thermal and mechanical stability of the ordered parent phase and justifying the effects on the transformation temperature of the produced microwires.
The topic of the dissertation is focused on the study of the Heusler alloy shape memory effect and the properties concerning their structure and the form of the prepared alloy. The work is focused on determining the thermal and mechanical stability of the ordered parent phase and justifying the effects on the transformation temperature of the produced microwires.
Current journal literature.
doc. Ing. Ondrej Milkovič, PhD.
prof. RNDr. Rastislav Varga, DrSc.
Physics (FdAj)
Study of strange particles production in high multiplicity proton-proton collisions in ALICE experiment at CERN LHC
A recent hardware and software upgrade of the ALICE experiment allowed in 2022 to increase the actual statistics of the proton-proton collisions (obtained in 2009-2018) more than 300 times. The data taking is planned until 2026 with a further rapid statistical increase. The increase offers new opportunities of studying rare processes in pp collisions or in heavy ion collisions. One of the open problems in this field is an origin of the enhanced production of the strange and multi-strange particles with respect to non-strange particle production in high multiplicity pp collisions [1]. It is still unknown whether the strangeness enhancement dependency as a function of multiplicity in pp collisions will follow the similar trend in peripheral heavy ion collisions or it will be significantly different. The thesis will focus on studying strange particle production in high multiplicity proton-proton collisions collected with unprecedented statistics in Run3 (2022-2026) at the LHC. [1] ALICE Collaboration., Adam, J., Adamová, D. et al. Enhanced production of multi-strange hadrons in high-multiplicity proton–proton collisions. Nature Phys 13, 535–539 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1038/nphys4111
Recent publications
doc. RNDr. Marek Bombara, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
Study of the crystallization kinetics of Fe-based amorphous precursors
Kinetics of phase transformations of the first order is without doubt the most intensively studied subject in the field of materials science. The main reason for such increased interest is the fact, that it represents a powerful tool to modify microstructure of studied materials and thus tailor their properties. Understanding the kinetics of a phase transformation and the associated change of microstructure is a prerequisite to utilize this tool to its full extent. Rapid quenching of a melt represents typical example of highly non steady state process which results in formation of metastable materials such as metallic glasses. Amorphous structure characteristic for a liquid state is preserved in solid state by rapid quenching. As a result of their unique structure, which is characterized by short-range order, metallic glasses exhibit excellent magnetic and mechanical properties. In case of magnetic properties metallic glasses exhibit very low values of coercivity, magnetostriction and loses which are complemented by very high values of permeability. One of the main goals of the proposed dissertation will be a detailed study of the kinetics of the crystallization process of the Fe-based amorphous precursor. Emphasis will be placed on optimizing the resulting microstructure to improve the resulting magnetic properties. In addition to standard laboratory methods such as DSC, SEM, TEM, XRD, MSB, modern methods using synchrotron radiation scattering will be used during the study.
One of the main goals of the proposed dissertation will be a detailed study of the kinetics of the crystallization process of the Fe-based amorphous precursor. Emphasis will be placed on optimizing the resulting microstructure to improve the resulting magnetic properties.
relevant scientific literature
RNDr. Jozef Bednarčík, PhD., univerzitný docent
Physics (FdAj)
Study of top quark properties in proton-proton collisions in ATLAS experiment
Top quark, is the heaviest of all known quarks with extraordinary properties for analysis of processes which could reveal physics beyond Standard Model (SM), eventually they could predict SM parameters with higher precision. ATLAS detector is delivering top quark production and its decay products data at highest energies ever and with high statistics. There is a need to analyze these data for many processes (cross-sections, spin correlations, branching ratios, ...), as well as to repeat the analyses with higher precision and at lower energies and smaller statistics. The PhD study will be focused on methodological tasks of ATLAS calorimetry (contribution to data quality improvement in the high luminosity environment of the future HL-LHC accelerator), as well as on some of these data analyses (according to the collaboration needs and ability). The work supposes to acquire knowledge of programming in the ROOT analysis environment and in the ATLAS software environment (python and C++). The understanding of theoretical SM prediction will also be needed, as well as good communication skills in English (frequent presentations on collaboration meetings). Visits to CERN and participation on international conferences and workshops are assumed during the study.
Recent publications
doc. RNDr. Jozef Urbán, CSc.
RNDr. Pavol Stríženec, CSc.
Physics of Condensed Matter (FKLd)
Specifics of magnetization processes in soft magnetic composites.
The work is focused on investigating the specifics of magnetization processes in DC and AC magnetic fields in soft magnetic composites in comparison with magnetization processes in conventional ferromagnets.
1. R. M. Bozorth Ferromagnetism, third edition (IEEE Press, Piscataway, NJ), 1993 2. H. Shokrollahi, K. Janghorban J. Mater. Proc. Technol. 189 (2007) 1 3. E. A. Périgo, B. Weidenfeller, P. Kollár, J. Füzer, Applied Physics Reviews 5, 031301 (2018)
prof. RNDr. Peter Kollár, DrSc.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Structure and properties of lead-free ferroelectric ceramics
The dissertation will be focused on the research and development of advanced electroceramics, derived from lead-free perovskite-structured ferroelectrics. In course of dissertation work, theoretical and experimental approaches will be employed including material processing, X-ray diffraction and the Rietveld refinement method, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and characterization of specific electro-physical properties of functional ceramics. For analytical assessment of the macroscopic properties with respect to the chemical and structural nature of electroceramics, an extended technique of dielectric spectroscopy will be adopted to study ferroelectric phase transitions.
The dissertation will be focused on the research and development of advanced electroceramics, derived from lead-free perovskite-structured ferroelectrics. In course of dissertation work, theoretical and experimental approaches will be employed including material processing, X-ray diffraction and the Rietveld refinement method, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and characterization of specific electro-physical properties of functional ceramics.
Current journal literature.
RNDr. Vladimír Kovaľ, DrSc.
Biophysics (BFd)
The cell response study in 2D and 3D cellular models of neurodegenerative diseases.
The etiology of the most neurodegenerations is not clear, however, interactions between genetic and environmental factors, lifestyles and dietary factors were shown to play a role in Parkinson (PD) or Alzheimer (AD) disease and ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). Long-term/low dose exposure to metals, pesticides, solvents, and petrochemicals were indicated as environment risk factors in PD, AD and ALS. PD was positively associated with two groups of pesticides, including rotenone (ROT) and paraquat (PAR), defined by mechanisms that impair mitochondrial function and those that increase oxida¬tive stress further supporting a role for these mechanisms in PD pathophysiology. ROT induced PD models in vitro and in vivo display clinical symptoms of Parkinsons such as loss of dopaminergic neurons, increased oxida¬tive stress, and aggregates of alpha-synuclein (aSNC) (Lewy body inclusions). Despite NDDs intensive research, including PD in post-mortem brain tissue, animal models, and 2D cellular models, no cure exist. In the last two decades, people have been developing 3D cellular models and organoids for investigating brain functions, including neural synapses, differentiation, cell migration, and cell-cell contact in the 3D environment. Therefore, 3D organoid models represent a cutting-edge tool with great promise for advancing our understanding and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases NDDs. This project will investigate and compare cell responses of neuronal cells in 2D and 3D models of Parkinson´s disease. The study will focus on photobiomodulation, as an alternative treatment, on oxidative stress and aSNC aggregates in 2D and 3D cellular structures. The project findings will help to better understand mechanisms underlying PD and to develop new treatment procedures for neurodegenerative diseases NDDs. The research will use an interdisciplinary approach using fluorescent microscopy, AFM, biochemistry, spectroscopy and molecular biology.
Determination of differences between 2D and 3D PD models in cellular response to stress signals.
1. Baltazar et al. (2014) Toxicology Letters 230 85– 2. Tanner et al. (2011) Environmental Health Perspectives 119 (6) 3. Johnson & Bobrovskaya (2015) NeuroToxicology 46 (2015) 101–116 4. Henderson, T.A. and L.D. Morries, Neuropsych. Dis. and Treat. (2015) 11: p. 2191-2208 5. Johnstone, D.M. et al. (2016) Frontiers in Neuroscience, 9. 6. Tang, X., et al. (2014) Front Physiol, 5: p. 175. 7. Yang et al (2018) Experimental Neurology 299 86–96. 8. Stroffekova, K; Kolesarova, S and Tomkova, S (2021) EUR. BIOPHYS. J. WITH BIOPHYS. LETT. 50 (SUPPL 1) 9. Babu et al (2024) Life Sciences 345 (2024) 122610 10. Toh et al (2023) Oxford Open Neuroscience, 2, 1–14 11. Sabate-Soler et al. Glia. 2022;70:1267–1288
doc. RNDr. Katarína Štroffeková, PhD.
RNDr. Zuzana Bednáriková, PhD.
Physics of Condensed Matter (FKLd)
Study of phase coherence and energy dissipation processes in piezo-resonators
This dissertation is focused on a study of the transition of piezo-mechanical resonators to the coherent state. There are experimental indications that these resonators belong to physical systems with so-called phase coherence. Previous studies of SiO2-based piezo-resonators have shown that, when cooled below 20 K, they transition to a state with a high Q-factor (quality factor) and, moreover, their resonant frequency measured at constant temperature (below 1 K) is extremely stable, comparable to the stability of commercial gas (CO2) lasers. The main aim of the work will be to investigate the physical nature of the phase transition to the coherent state, to clarify the decoherence processes, to find out whether these piezoresonators exhibit the phenomenon of scaling of the frequency stability with the value of the resonant frequency, and to verify whether the above phase transition has a universal character, i.e. whether it is observable in other classes of piezoelectric materials (e.g. GaPO4, etc.).
Thesis goals: 1. To study experimentally the phase transition of piezo-resonators to the coherent state and to verify the universality of this phase transition in other classes of piezo-resonators 2. To check whether the frequency stability scales with the value of the resonant frequency of a given piezo-resonator 3. To understand the physical nature of the decoherence and energy dissipation processes occurring in a piezo-resonator at low temperatures
1. Kittel, Charles. Introduction to Solid State Physics. 8th ed., John Wiley & Sons, 2004. 2. Pobell, Frank. Matter and Methods at Low Temperatures. Springer, 2007. 3. Cady, Walter Guyton. Piezoelectricity: Volume One: An Introduction to the Theory and Applications of Electromechanical Phenomena in Crystals. Dover Publications, 2018. 4. Cleland, Andrew. Foundations of nanomechanics. Springer, 2003
RNDr. Marcel Človečko, PhD.
Physics (Fd)
Study of high-energy particles interactions in the atmosphere by CORSIKA7 and CORSIKA8 software frameworks, comparison of the results obtained by them and their comparison with data, especially from the KM3NeT experiment
CORSIKA is a long-established software for simulations of atmospheric showers induced by cosmic rays. It has been developed mainly in Fortran 77 continuously for the last thirty years. It is very difficult to add new physics functions to CORSIKA7. CORSIKA8 is a modern rewrite in C++17 with a modular structure that improves flexibility and extensibility. It uses modern concepts in object-oriented programming. The CORSIKA8 project aims to achieve high performance by using techniques such as vectorization, gpu/cpu parallelization, extended use of static polymorphism and to have the most accurate physical models available. We plan to compare the results, especially fluences, energy distributions and transport in media (water, air, rock, ...) between these software concepts and to compare them with data from the KM3NeT experiment in particular. The results can be used to calibrate detection systems and analyze experimental data from the KM3NeT experiment detectors, but in principle also from others.
Recent publications
RNDr. Blahoslav Pastirčák, CSc.
RNDr. Ivan Králik, CSc.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Study of the crystallization kinetics of Fe-based amorphous precursors
Kinetics of phase transformations of the first order is without doubt the most intensively studied subject in the field of materials science. The main reason for such increased interest is the fact, that it represents a powerful tool to modify microstructure of studied materials and thus tailor their properties. Understanding the kinetics of a phase transformation and the associated change of microstructure is a prerequisite to utilize this tool to its full extent. Rapid quenching of a melt represents typical example of highly non steady state process which results in formation of metastable materials such as metallic glasses. Amorphous structure characteristic for a liquid state is preserved in solid state by rapid quenching. As a result of their unique structure, which is characterized by short-range order, metallic glasses exhibit excellent magnetic and mechanical properties. In case of magnetic properties metallic glasses exhibit very low values of coercivity, magnetostriction and loses which are complemented by very high values of permeability. One of the main goals of the proposed dissertation will be a detailed study of the kinetics of the crystallization process of the Fe-based amorphous precursor. Emphasis will be placed on optimizing the resulting microstructure to improve the resulting magnetic properties. In addition to standard laboratory methods such as DSC, SEM, TEM, XRD, MSB, modern methods using synchrotron radiation scattering will be used during the study.
One of the main goals of the proposed dissertation will be a detailed study of the kinetics of the crystallization process of the Fe-based amorphous precursor. Emphasis will be placed on optimizing the resulting microstructure to improve the resulting magnetic properties.
relevant scientific literature
RNDr. Jozef Bednarčík, PhD., univerzitný docent
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Study of magnetic and thermal properties of high-entropy functional alloys
The main idea of the dissertation thesis is to find a suitable chemical composition that will meet the criteria for high-entropic functional alloys. Appropriately chosen composition of individual chemical elements leads to the preparation of such materials, focusing on selected physical properties. We will focus on combining elements belonging to the group of half Heusler alloys with the stoichiometric formula XYZ, where X and Y represent a transition element and Z an element from the p block. The preparation of samples in the form of strips and microwires using the Taylor-Ulitovsky method seems very advantageous for the materials we want to deal with. Part of the work is also the design of possible cooling technology and its implementation in technical practice.
The main aim of the dissertation thesis is to research high-entropy alloys as thermoelectric materials. The work will be devoted to finding a suitable composition that will meet the criteria for high-entropy alloys and simultaneously belong to the group of thermoelectric materials. We will focus on combining elements from the group of half Heusler alloys with the stoichiometric formula XYZ, where X and Y represent the transition element and Z is the element from the p block.
[1] S. Skipidarov, M. Nikitin (Eds.): Novel Thermoelectric Materials and Device Design Concepts, Springer 2019, ISBN: 978-3-030-12056-6 [2] H. Fukuyama, Y. Waseda (Eds): High-Temperature Measurements of Materials, Springer 2009, ISBN: 978-3-540-85917 [3] P. Sharma, V. K. Dwivedi, S. P. Dwivedi: Development of high entropy alloys: A review, Materials Today: Proceedings 43, 2021, 502-509
prof. RNDr. Rastislav Varga, DrSc.
Ing. RNDr. Andrea Džubinská, PhD.
Physics (Fd)
Study of angular substructures of particles produced in heavy ion collisions
An important aim of nucleus collisions investigation at high energies is to search for a phenomena connecting with large densities obtained in such collisions. As an example, the transition from the QGP (quark - gluon plasma) back to the normal hadronic phase is predicted to contribute to fluctuations in the number of produced particles in local regions of phase space. Using unique method collisions of proton-proton and heavy-ion collisions at momenta between 1 AGeV/c and 160 AGeV/c will be analyzed. The methods of transverse momentum, principal vectors, azimuthal correlation functions, Fourier expansion of azimuthal angle distributions and other methods will be applied. Experimental results will be compared with model calculations.
doc. RNDr. Adela Kravčáková, PhD.
Physics (Fd)
Study of light (anti)nuclei production at LHC in ALICE experiment
The study of light (anti)nuclei production in high-energy hadronic collisions is important for understanding loosely bound system formation in high temperature environment present at the LHC. On top of that the production of light (anti)nuclei represents a valuable information for estimation of a visible background in dark matter searches in cosmic rays [1,2]. Thanks to its excellent tracking and particle identification capabilities, ALICE is the ideal experiment at the LHC to study light (anti)nuclei production. In the thesis the production of deuteron and anti-deuteron will be investigated as a function of multiplicity and other experimental variables in hadron collisions at the CERN LHC in the ALICE detector. Literature: [1] ALICE Collaboration: Measurement of the Low-Energy Antideuteron Inelastic Cross Section, Physical Review Letters 125, 162001 (2020) [2] ALICE Collaboration: (Anti-)deuteron production in pp collisions at √s = 13 TeV, Eur. Phys. J. C (2020) 80:889
Recent publications
doc. RNDr. Marek Bombara, PhD.
Physics (Fd)
Study of strange particles production in high multiplicity proton-proton collisions in ALICE experiment at CERN LHC
A recent hardware and software upgrade of the ALICE experiment allowed in 2022 to increase the actual statistics of the proton-proton collisions (obtained in 2009-2018) more than 300 times. The data taking is planned until 2026 with a further rapid statistical increase. The increase offers new opportunities of studying rare processes in pp collisions or in heavy ion collisions. One of the open problems in this field is an origin of the enhanced production of the strange and multi-strange particles with respect to non-strange particle production in high multiplicity pp collisions [1]. It is still unknown whether the strangeness enhancement dependency as a function of multiplicity in pp collisions will follow the similar trend in peripheral heavy ion collisions or it will be significantly different. The thesis will focus on studying strange particle production in high multiplicity proton-proton collisions collected with unprecedented statistics in Run3 (2022-2026) at the LHC. [1] ALICE Collaboration., Adam, J., Adamová, D. et al. Enhanced production of multi-strange hadrons in high-multiplicity proton–proton collisions. Nature Phys 13, 535–539 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1038/nphys4111
Recent publications
doc. RNDr. Marek Bombara, PhD.
Physics (Fd)
Vector meson production study at ALICE experiment
The study of the quark-gluon plasma (QGP) makes it possible to answer questions about the origin of the Universe, the fundamental properties of matter and the strong interactions, which is crucial for particle physics, but also for cosmology, for example. The ALICE experiment at the LHC is aimed at studying heavy ion collisions, which create extreme conditions similar to those that prevailed in the Universe shortly after the Big Bang. Research on vector mesons provides valuable information on hadronic interactions and QGP dynamics, contributing to a better understanding of QGP, quark interactions and the strong interaction that is fundamental to many processes in particle physics, astrophysics and cosmology. A PhD student is expected to familiarize themselves with the physical phenomena of the behavior of strongly interacting nuclear matter at extreme energy densities and high temperatures, study the results of previous experiments mainly at RHIC and SPS and their interpretation. They should study the detectors and the trigger system of the experiment, learn how to use simulated cases and programs such as ROOT and Online-Offline Computing System (O2) to determine the detector response from Run 3 data, processing efficiency, establish and verify criteria for the selection of studied particles. They should be able to work in a distributed system such as Hyperloop and compare the results of physical analysis with model results.
1. The ALICE experiment: A journey through QCD, CERN-EP-2022-227, https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2211.04384
RNDr. Martin Vaľa, PhD.
doc. RNDr. Janka Vrláková, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Study of shape memory effect stability in Ni2FeGa microwires
The ferromagnetic Heusler alloy Ni2FeGa has broad application potential in sensors and actuators due to the combination of its magnetic properties and the existence of the shape memory phenomenon (SMP). The temperature range of the thermo-elastic phase transformation of the SMP can be controlled by varying the chemical composition of the alloy, more precisely by the changing atomic configuration of the ordered parent phase. While the equilibrium chemical composition of the ordered phase has a transformation temperature of around 50 K, it is possible to shift the transformation above the temperature of 300 K by supersaturating the ordered phase. The pilot experiment showed that the alloy in the form of microwires has, due to its thickness (< 30 m), a unique resistance to cyclic transition through the temperature phase transformation region. Changes in material structure and properties were not observed after more than 106 cycles. The topic of the dissertation is focused on the study of the Heusler alloy shape memory effect and the properties concerning their structure and the form of the prepared alloy. The work is focused on determining the thermal and mechanical stability of the ordered parent phase and justifying the effects on the transformation temperature of the produced microwires.
The topic of the dissertation is focused on the study of the Heusler alloy shape memory effect and the properties concerning their structure and the form of the prepared alloy. The work is focused on determining the thermal and mechanical stability of the ordered parent phase and justifying the effects on the transformation temperature of the produced microwires.
Current journal literature.
doc. Ing. Ondrej Milkovič, PhD.
prof. RNDr. Rastislav Varga, DrSc.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Structural study of disordered and quasi-ordered metallic alloys using electron and XRD scattering.
Phase transitions of solids from the disordered state to complex structures ordering are subject of modern research. The relationship between initial and final structure state play an important role at forming of the new structures having advanced physical and chemical properties. The variations of external conditions, e.g. strong magnetic fields or extremal temperature changes, can substantially affect the final properties of solids as well. The main highlight of dissertation thesis will be the study of atomic structure and stability of inducted phases of promising advanced materials in relation to their properties, employing electron and X-ray diffraction techniques. The experimental approach, using transmission electron microscope JEOL 2100F UHR, will be emphasized. However, for successful completing of dissertation thesis, it will be necessary to carry out experiments at electron microscopy centres and synchrotron facility abroad.
1.) Preparation of master alloys and bulk metallic glasses. 2.) Thermo-mechanical processing and testing of mechanical and physical properties of bulk metallic glasses. 3.) Local atomic structure investigation of amorphous phases and its correlation to physical and mechanical properties. 4.) Study of amorphization and crystallization processes and related thermo-mechanically induced phase transformations in crystalline phases.
Williams D. B. and Crater C. B.: Transmission electron microscopy. 2nd ed., Springer Science, 2009, ISBN 978-0-387-76500-6. Inoue A. and Suryanarayana C.: Bulk metallic glasses. CRC Press, Talyor and Francis Group, 2011, ISBN-13: 978-1-4200-8597-6 Miller M. and Liaw P.: Bulk metallic glasses: An overview. Springer Science, 2008, ISBN 978-0-387-48920-9. Als-Nielsen J. and McMorrow D.: Elements of Modern X-ray Physics. 2nd ed., John Wiley & Sons Ltd, 2011, ISBN 978-0-470-97395-0
Ing. Vladimír Girman, PhD.
prof. RNDr. Pavol Sovák, CSc.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Structural modifications study of metallic glasses under the influence of external parameters using techniques based on high-intensity X-ray sources of large-scale facilities.
Due to the lack of long-range periodic atomic arrangement, metallic glasses exhibit several exceptional characteristics that surpass or significantly differ from the commonly used crystalline metallic alloys of the same composition. These characteristics include excellent mechanical properties (nearly theoretical strength values, extreme hardness, excellent elastic properties, etc.), high corrosion resistance, and excellent magnetic properties (low coercivity and high magnetic saturation, low thermal expansion at temperatures below the Curie temperature). The aim of this work will be to monitor and understand the relationship between changes in the local atomic structure and the macroscopic properties in selected metallic glass systems under the influence of external parameters such as force (tension/compression), temperature, or magnetic field. These changes will be studied in-situ using modern scattering and imaging techniques employing high-intensity X-ray sources of large scale national and international facilities. These measurements will be combined with standard laboratory techniques such as SEM, DSC, AFM, TEM, and more.
The aim of this work will be to monitor and understand the relationship between changes in the local atomic structure and the macroscopic properties in selected metallic glass systems under the influence of external parameters such as force (tension/compression), temperature, or magnetic field.
Current journal literature
prof. RNDr. Pavol Sovák, CSc.
RNDr. Štefan Michalik, PhD.
Physics (Fd)
Study of top quark properties in proton-proton collisions in ATLAS experiment
Top quark, is the heaviest of all known quarks with extraordinary properties for analysis of processes which could reveal physics beyond Standard Model (SM), eventually they could predict SM parameters with higher precision. ATLAS detector is delivering top quark production and its decay products data at highest energies ever and with high statistics. There is a need to analyze these data for many processes (cross-sections, spin correlations, branching ratios, ...), as well as to repeat the analyses with higher precision and at lower energies and smaller statistics. The PhD study will be focused on methodological tasks of ATLAS calorimetry (contribution to data quality improvement in the high luminosity environment of the future HL-LHC accelerator), as well as on some of these data analyses (according to the collaboration needs and ability). The work supposes to acquire knowledge of programming in the ROOT analysis environment and in the ATLAS software environment (python and C++). The understanding of theoretical SM prediction will also be needed, as well as good communication skills in English (frequent presentations on collaboration meetings). Visits to CERN and participation on international conferences and workshops are assumed during the study.
Recent publications
doc. RNDr. Jozef Urbán, CSc.
RNDr. Pavol Stríženec, CSc.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
Targeting amyloid aggregition of proteins: exploring small molecule and peptide-based Inhibitors for neurodegenerative diseases
The prevalence of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases (AD, PD) continues to rise with aging of human population. These diseases often result from impaired protein synthesis, leading to the accumulation of misfolded proteins in the brain. The proteins aggregate into amyloid structures rich in β-sheets throughout various brain regions. Despite their widespread impact, the precise mechanisms driving amyloid formation remain poorly understood, and effective treatments remain elusive. This thesis will investigate novel inhibitors capable of modulating amyloid aggregation of intrinsically disordered proteins, focusing on Amyloid β peptides, Tau, and α-synuclein, which amyloid aggregation is associated with AD and PD. The research will evaluate the mechanisms of inhibition, structural interactions, and the impact of these inhibitors on pathological processes associated with neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
1. Identify and characterize novel inhibitors (small molecules and peptides) that modulate amyloid aggregation of intrinsically disordered proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases (Amyloid-β, Tau, and α-synuclein). 2. Understand the molecular mechanisms by which these inhibitors interact with amyloid-forming proteins to influence aggregation pathways. 3. Evaluate the therapeutic potential of these inhibitors by assessing their effects on protein aggregation, toxicity, and cellular models of neurodegeneration.
1. Hartl F.U. Protein misfolding diseases. Annu. Rev. Biochem. 2017;86:21–26. doi: 10.1146/annurev-biochem-061516-044518 2. Zaman M, Khan AN, Wahiduzzaman, Zakariya SM, Khan RH. Protein misfolding, aggregation and mechanism of amyloid cytotoxicity: An overview and therapeutic strategies to inhibit aggregation. Int J Biol Macromol. 2019 Aug 1;134:1022-1037. doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.05.109. 3. Gregoire, S., Irwin, J. & Kwon, I. Techniques for monitoring protein misfolding and aggregation in vitro and in living cells. Korean J. Chem. Eng. 29, 693–702 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11814-012-0060-x
RNDr. Zuzana Bednáriková, PhD.
doc. RNDr. Zuzana Gažová, DrSc.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
The cell response study in 2D and 3D cellular models of neurodegenerative diseases.
The etiology of the most neurodegenerations is not clear, however, interactions between genetic and environmental factors, lifestyles and dietary factors were shown to play a role in Parkinson (PD) or Alzheimer (AD) disease and ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). Long-term/low dose exposure to metals, pesticides, solvents, and petrochemicals were indicated as environment risk factors in PD, AD and ALS. PD was positively associated with two groups of pesticides, including rotenone (ROT) and paraquat (PAR), defined by mechanisms that impair mitochondrial function and those that increase oxida¬tive stress further supporting a role for these mechanisms in PD pathophysiology. ROT induced PD models in vitro and in vivo display clinical symptoms of Parkinsons such as loss of dopaminergic neurons, increased oxida¬tive stress, and aggregates of alpha-synuclein (aSNC) (Lewy body inclusions). Despite NDDs intensive research, including PD in post-mortem brain tissue, animal models, and 2D cellular models, no cure exist. In the last two decades, people have been developing 3D cellular models and organoids for investigating brain functions, including neural synapses, differentiation, cell migration, and cell-cell contact in the 3D environment. Therefore, 3D organoid models represent a cutting-edge tool with great promise for advancing our understanding and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases NDDs. This project will investigate and compare cell responses of neuronal cells in 2D and 3D models of Parkinson´s disease. The study will focus on photobiomodulation, as an alternative treatment, on oxidative stress and aSNC aggregates in 2D and 3D cellular structures. The project findings will help to better understand mechanisms underlying PD and to develop new treatment procedures for neurodegenerative diseases NDDs. The research will use an interdisciplinary approach using fluorescent microscopy, AFM, biochemistry, spectroscopy and molecular biology.
Determination of differences between 2D and 3D PD models in cellular response to stress signals.
1. Baltazar et al. (2014) Toxicology Letters 230 85– 2. Tanner et al. (2011) Environmental Health Perspectives 119 (6) 3. Johnson & Bobrovskaya (2015) NeuroToxicology 46 (2015) 101–116 4. Henderson, T.A. and L.D. Morries, Neuropsych. Dis. and Treat. (2015) 11: p. 2191-2208 5. Johnstone, D.M. et al. (2016) Frontiers in Neuroscience, 9. 6. Tang, X., et al. (2014) Front Physiol, 5: p. 175. 7. Yang et al (2018) Experimental Neurology 299 86–96. 8. Stroffekova, K; Kolesarova, S and Tomkova, S (2021) EUR. BIOPHYS. J. WITH BIOPHYS. LETT. 50 (SUPPL 1) 9. Babu et al (2024) Life Sciences 345 (2024) 122610 10. Toh et al (2023) Oxford Open Neuroscience, 2, 1–14 11. Sabate-Soler et al. Glia. 2022;70:1267–1288
doc. RNDr. Katarína Štroffeková, PhD.
RNDr. Zuzana Bednáriková, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMdAj)
The development of functional nanomaterials using electrochemical deposition
The work's main aim is to study functional nanomaterials prepared using electrochemical deposition in the form of nanowires. Based on the study of scientific literature, select suitable multi-element alloys with outstanding physical properties and investigate the possibilities of their preparation. The prepared materials should then be characterized by available analytical methods in order to analyze their structural, magnetic and other physical properties.
The goal of the work is the development of Heusler nanowires with outstanding physical properties suitable for bioapplications.
1. M. Varga, L. Galdun, P. Diko, K. Saksl, R. Varga, Analysis of magnetocaloric effect in parallel Ni-Mn-Ga Heusler alloy nanowires J. Alloys Compd., 944 (2023) 169196. 2. L. Galdun, P. Szabo, V. Vega, E. D. Barriga-Castro, R. Mendoza-Reséndez, C. Luna, J. Kovac, O. Milkovic, R. Varga, V. M. Prida, High Spin Polarisation in Co2FeSn Heusler Nanowires for Spintronics, ACS Appl. Nano Mater., 3, 8, (2020) 7438-7445. 3. T. Graf, C. Felser, S. S. P. Parkin, Simple Rules for the Understanding of Heusler Compounds. Prog. Solid State Chem., 39, (2011), 1−50.
prof. RNDr. Rastislav Varga, DrSc.
RNDr. Ladislav Galdun, PhD.
Biophysics (BFdeAj)
The effect of selected pesticides on the genetic material of cells
The use of pesticides is a persistent ecological problem, so it is necessary to study their action at different levels of living organisms. At present, many scientific institutions deal with the effect of these toxic substances from several perspectives, for example from the point of view of their genetic action or effects on the formation of free radicals in tissues. The dissertation project is focused on investigating the interactions of pesticide molecules with the genetic material of eukaryotic cells, which will be in the first stage of linear and circular DNA. Another target are histones - small basic proteins that form the nucleus of nucleosomes located in the cell nucleus. The nucleosome nucleus consists of the so-called histone octamer, enveloped by circular DNA, which we will focus on after obtaining the results from the previous study. The task of the PhD student will be to determine by biophysical, physico-chemical and thermodynamic methods the mode and strength of interaction between pesticide molecules and the above-mentioned objects. The project will use spectrophotometric methods such as absorption, fluorescence, infrared spectroscopy, spatial spectra, optical dichroism, calorimetry and, in cooperation with the Institute of Genetics, genetic methods.
The aim of the thesis is to determine the manner and strength of the interaction between pesticide molecules and the genetic material in cells, which is represented by the DNA molecule, followed by histones and the nucleus of nucleosomes.
• Vinay Mohan Pathak et al: Current status of pesticide effects on environment, human health and it´s eco-friendly management as bioremediation: A comprehensive review, 2022, Front. Microbil. Vol. 2, 1-22 p. • Verebová Valéria et al: Monitoring of DNA structural changes after incorporation of the phenylpyrazole insecticide fipronil, 2024, Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Vol. 756, 110001, 1-10 p. • Verebová Valéria et al: The effect of neonicotinoid insecticide Thiacloprid on the structure and stability of DNA, 2019, Physiological Research, Vol. 69, suppl. 4, S459-S466.
doc. RNDr. Jana Staničová, PhD.
Biophysics (BFdAj)
The use of protein evolution methods in modifying the properties of proteins and enzymes
Directed protein evolution methods offer an efficient way to change the properties of proteins on a local as well as global level. The ambition of this project is to change the local properties of enzymes such as specificity, affinity and catalytic properties and to change global properties such as protein solubility. The object of this project will be selected enzymes from the family of haloalkane dehalogenases (HLDs) and the -opioid receptor, an integral protein from the family of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR). HLDs are microbial enzymes that catalyze the splitting of the carbon-halogen bond and participate in the conversion of toxic halogenated hydrocarbons into less toxic compounds – alcohols. These enzymes therefore have great potential in bioremediation of toxic environmental pollutants, decontamination of chemical warfare agents, biomonitoring of pollutants in the environment and, thanks to their specific reaction, also in protein labeling during cell imaging. GPCRs are cell surface receptors that mediate responses to many endogenous signaling molecules as well as exogenous signals. GPCRs belong to the center of interest of the pharmaceutical industry, since more than 50% of drugs used today act on GPCRs. Improving the specified specific properties of these proteins would significantly help the understanding of the functionality of these proteins and their practical use. This project assumes the mastery of several biophysical, biochemical and molecular biological methods.
Utilization of directed evolution methods for the development of efficient HLDs. Development of highly efficient methods for detecting HLD activity. Evolution of a water-soluble GPCR variant.
Goverde et al. (2024) Computational design of soluble and functional membrane protein analogues. Nature. 2024 Jul;631(8020):449-458. doi: 10.1038/s41586-024-07601-y
prof. RNDr. Erik Sedlák, DrSc.
Mgr. Mária Tomková, PhD.
Physics (FdAj)
Topological phases in frustrated antiferromagnetics
An antisymmetric Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya spin exchange interaction (DMI) can lead to the formation of twisted magnetic structures. These topological states have attracted much interest mainly after the experimental observation of nontrivial magnetic configurations, called magnetic skyrmion lattices, which have potential technological applications [1]. In ferromagnetic (FM) systems, the skyrmion phase arises from the competition between FM interactions and DMI and it is stabilized by a magnetic field and thermal fluctuations. A similar antiferromagnetic (AFM) skyrmion phase has been discovered in the frustrated classical AFM triangular-lattice Heisenberg model in the field not only with DMI [2] but also without DMI due to further neighbor exchange interactions [3]. It has been shown that magnetic frustration can improve stability of the skyrmion phase [4] and that the usage of AFMs in skyrmion-based devices has certain advantages over the implementation of FM magnets [5].
Theoretical search for suitable candidates among frustrated antiferromagnets that would display skyrmion or other topological phases with physically and technologically interesting properties.
1. N. Romming, C. Hanneken, M. Menzel, J. E. Bickel, B.Wolter, K. von Bergmann, A. Kubetzka, and R. Wiesendanger, Science 341, 636 (2013). 2. H. D. Rosales, D. C. Cabra, and Pierre Pujol, Phys. Rev. B. 92, 214439 (2015). 3. T. Okubo, S. Chung and H. Kawamura, Phys. Rev. Lett. 108, 017206 (2012). 4. H. Y. Yuan, O. Gomonay, and Mathias Kläui, Phys. Rev. B 96, 134415 (2017). 5. J. Barker, O. A. Tretiakov, Phys. Rev. Lett. 116, 147203 (2016); W. Legrand et al., Nature materials 19, 34 (2020).
prof. RNDr. Milan Žukovič, PhD.
Physics (Fd)
Topological phases in frustrated antiferromagnetics
An antisymmetric Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya spin exchange interaction (DMI) can lead to the formation of twisted magnetic structures. These topological states have attracted much interest mainly after the experimental observation of nontrivial magnetic configurations, called magnetic skyrmion lattices, which have potential technological applications [1]. In ferromagnetic (FM) systems, the skyrmion phase arises from the competition between FM interactions and DMI and it is stabilized by a magnetic field and thermal fluctuations. A similar antiferromagnetic (AFM) skyrmion phase has been discovered in the frustrated classical AFM triangular-lattice Heisenberg model in the field not only with DMI [2] but also without DMI due to further neighbor exchange interactions [3]. It has been shown that magnetic frustration can improve stability of the skyrmion phase [4] and that the usage of AFMs in skyrmion-based devices has certain advantages over the implementation of FM magnets [5].
Theoretical search for suitable candidates among frustrated antiferromagnets that would display skyrmion or other topological phases with physically and technologically interesting properties.
prof. RNDr. Milan Žukovič, PhD.
Physics (FdAj)
Vector meson production study at ALICE experiment
The study of the quark-gluon plasma (QGP) makes it possible to answer questions about the origin of the Universe, the fundamental properties of matter and the strong interactions, which is crucial for particle physics, but also for cosmology, for example. The ALICE experiment at the LHC is aimed at studying heavy ion collisions, which create extreme conditions similar to those that prevailed in the Universe shortly after the Big Bang. Research on vector mesons provides valuable information on hadronic interactions and QGP dynamics, contributing to a better understanding of QGP, quark interactions and the strong interaction that is fundamental to many processes in particle physics, astrophysics and cosmology. A PhD student is expected to familiarize themselves with the physical phenomena of the behavior of strongly interacting nuclear matter at extreme energy densities and high temperatures, study the results of previous experiments mainly at RHIC and SPS and their interpretation. They should study the detectors and the trigger system of the experiment, learn how to use simulated cases and programs such as ROOT and Online-Offline Computing System (O2) to determine the detector response from Run 3 data, processing efficiency, establish and verify criteria for the selection of studied particles. They should be able to work in a distributed system such as Hyperloop and compare the results of physical analysis with model results.
1. The ALICE experiment: A journey through QCD, CERN-EP-2022-227, https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2211.04384
RNDr. Martin Vaľa, PhD.
doc. RNDr. Janka Vrláková, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Properties of soft magnetic composites based on structurally modified ferromagnetics
The subject of the study will be soft magnetic materials prepared from powdered ferromagnetic particles and dielectric nanostructured ceramics. Mechanical and mechano-chemical methods will modify the geometrical, structural and technological characteristics of ferromagnetic powder particles. By modifying the shape, size, surface morphology, and chemical and phase composition of the particles, a large variability of the technological properties of the powders will be achieved, e.g. a significant change in the compressibility. By studying the development of the structure and analysing the physical properties of the composites depending on the compaction parameters, the mechanisms of the formation of functional properties will be identified and described, with a focus on clarifying the influence of the geometric characteristics of the ferromagnetic on the macroscopic properties of soft magnetic composites.
The subject of the study will be soft magnetic materials prepared from powdered ferromagnetic particles and dielectric nanostructured ceramics
Journal literature
Ing. Radovan Bureš, CSc.
Biophysics (BFde)
The effect of selected pesticides on the genetic material of cells
The use of pesticides is a persistent ecological problem, so it is necessary to study their action at different levels of living organisms. At present, many scientific institutions deal with the effect of these toxic substances from several perspectives, for example from the point of view of their genetic action or effects on the formation of free radicals in tissues. The dissertation project is focused on investigating the interactions of pesticide molecules with the genetic material of eukaryotic cells, which will be in the first stage of linear and circular DNA. Another target are histones - small basic proteins that form the nucleus of nucleosomes located in the cell nucleus. The nucleosome nucleus consists of the so-called histone octamer, enveloped by circular DNA, which we will focus on after obtaining the results from the previous study. The task of the PhD student will be to determine by biophysical, physico-chemical and thermodynamic methods the mode and strength of interaction between pesticide molecules and the above-mentioned objects. The project will use spectrophotometric methods such as absorption, fluorescence, infrared spectroscopy, spatial spectra, optical dichroism, calorimetry and, in cooperation with the Institute of Genetics, genetic methods.
The aim of the thesis is to determine the manner and strength of the interaction between pesticide molecules and the genetic material in cells, which is represented by the DNA molecule, followed by histones and the nucleus of nucleosomes.
• Vinay Mohan Pathak et al: Current status of pesticide effects on environment, human health and it´s eco-friendly management as bioremediation: A comprehensive review, 2022, Front. Microbil. Vol. 2, 1-22 p. • Verebová Valéria et al: Monitoring of DNA structural changes after incorporation of the phenylpyrazole insecticide fipronil, 2024, Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Vol. 756, 110001, 1-10 p. • Verebová Valéria et al: The effect of neonicotinoid insecticide Thiacloprid on the structure and stability of DNA, 2019, Physiological Research, Vol. 69, suppl. 4, S459-S466.
doc. RNDr. Jana Staničová, PhD.
Biophysics (BFd)
The use of protein evolution methods in modifying the properties of proteins and enzymes
Directed protein evolution methods offer an efficient way to change the properties of proteins on a local as well as global level. The ambition of this project is to change the local properties of enzymes such as specificity, affinity and catalytic properties and to change global properties such as protein solubility. The object of this project will be selected enzymes from the family of haloalkane dehalogenases (HLDs) and the -opioid receptor, an integral protein from the family of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCR). HLDs are microbial enzymes that catalyze the splitting of the carbon-halogen bond and participate in the conversion of toxic halogenated hydrocarbons into less toxic compounds – alcohols. These enzymes therefore have great potential in bioremediation of toxic environmental pollutants, decontamination of chemical warfare agents, biomonitoring of pollutants in the environment and, thanks to their specific reaction, also in protein labeling during cell imaging. GPCRs are cell surface receptors that mediate responses to many endogenous signaling molecules as well as exogenous signals. GPCRs belong to the center of interest of the pharmaceutical industry, since more than 50% of drugs used today act on GPCRs. Improving the specified specific properties of these proteins would significantly help the understanding of the functionality of these proteins and their practical use. This project assumes the mastery of several biophysical, biochemical and molecular biological methods.
Utilization of directed evolution methods for the development of efficient HLDs. Development of highly efficient methods for detecting HLD activity. Evolution of a water-soluble GPCR variant.
Goverde et al. (2024) Computational design of soluble and functional membrane protein analogues. Nature. 2024 Jul;631(8020):449-458. doi: 10.1038/s41586-024-07601-y
prof. RNDr. Erik Sedlák, DrSc.
Mgr. Mária Tomková, PhD.
Biophysics (BFd)
Application of modern methods of confocal microscopy and respirometry to study metabolic cardiac load
Cardiovascular complications represent the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in the world. For the detailed study of these conditions, modern biophysical methods such as biophotonics, confocal and super-resolution microscopy, or high-performance respirometry are increasingly being used in the context of research of the cell structure and function, its organelles and specific proteins. Therefore, we will use above-mentioned methods to study calcium signaling and mitochondrial metabolism in selected experimental models of metabolic load on the heart.
Application of modern biophysical methods to study calcium signaling and mitochondrial metabolism in selected experimental models of metabolic load on the heart.
1. Cagalinec M, Zahradníková A, Zahradníková A Jr, Kováčová D, Paulis L, Kureková S, Hot'ka M, Pavelková J, Plaas M, Novotová M, Zahradník I. Calcium Signaling and Contractility in Cardiac Myocyte of Wolframin Deficient Rats. Front Physiol. 2019 Mar 13;10:172. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00172. 2. Marcek Chorvatova A, Cagalinec M, Chorvat D Jr. Time-Resolved Imaging of Mitochondrial Flavin Fluorescence and Its Applications for Evaluating the Oxidative State in Living Cardiac Cells. Methods Mol Biol. 2021;2275:403-414. doi: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1262-0_26. 3. Baglaeva I, Iaparov B, Zahradník I, Zahradníková A. Analysis of noisy transient signals based on Gaussian process regression. Biophys J. 2023 Feb 7;122(3):451-459. doi: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.01.003.
RNDr. Michal Cagalinec, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
The development of functional nanomaterials using electrochemical deposition
The work's main aim is to study functional nanomaterials prepared using electrochemical deposition in the form of nanowires. Based on the study of scientific literature, select suitable multi-element alloys with outstanding physical properties and investigate the possibilities of their preparation. The prepared materials should then be characterized by available analytical methods in order to analyze their structural, magnetic and other physical properties.
The goal of the work is the development of Heusler nanowires with outstanding physical properties suitable for bioapplications.
1. M. Varga, L. Galdun, P. Diko, K. Saksl, R. Varga, Analysis of magnetocaloric effect in parallel Ni-Mn-Ga Heusler alloy nanowires J. Alloys Compd., 944 (2023) 169196. 2. L. Galdun, P. Szabo, V. Vega, E. D. Barriga-Castro, R. Mendoza-Reséndez, C. Luna, J. Kovac, O. Milkovic, R. Varga, V. M. Prida, High Spin Polarisation in Co2FeSn Heusler Nanowires for Spintronics, ACS Appl. Nano Mater., 3, 8, (2020) 7438-7445. 3. T. Graf, C. Felser, S. S. P. Parkin, Simple Rules for the Understanding of Heusler Compounds. Prog. Solid State Chem., 39, (2011), 1−50.
prof. RNDr. Rastislav Varga, DrSc.
RNDr. Ladislav Galdun, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Development of metal-based ceramic nanofibers from recycling waste by electrospinning
Dissertation thesis is oriented to nanofibers systems prepared by relatively novel, low-cost and productive method – needle-less electrospinning, from the metal solutions obtained by the hydrometallurgical treatment of waste products, which are expected to have a great potential in the field of various special technical applications. The expected contribution of the thesis is to study and explain the relationship between the preparation conditions, the microstructure formation and the selected functional properties of the developed nanofibers and it has all the prerequisites to shift the knowledge about the preparation of the nanofibers towards the real production possibilities. The aim of the thesis is to predict the application possibilities of the studied materials on the basis of the obtained results.
The aim of the thesis is to predict the application possibilities of the studied materials on the basis of the obtained results.
Current journal literature.
prof. RNDr. Ján Dusza, DrSc.
Ing. Eva Múdra, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Reactive sputtering of the compositionally complex ceramic coatings
The development of magnetron sputtering is oriented toward technologies with high ionization degree of the sputtered material which provides better control of the deposition process as well as better coating properties. The most famous ionized PVD is the High Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering (HiPIMS) and the relatively new technology High Target Utilization Sputtering (HiTUS) also belongs among these methods. High degree of ionization is achieved in the case of HiPIMS by very short duty cycle impulses with extremely high power density whereas in HiTUS by the power at an independent plasma source. The work should focus on the optimization of the deposition parameters of hard multicomponent carbide, boride and nitride coatings from the viewpoint of the control of their elastic and plastic properties by means of determination of dependencies among the deposition parameters, plasma characteristics, coating structures and their mechanical and tribological properties. The work will be performed on the iPVD systems Cryofox Discovery (Polyteknik, Denmark) and HiTUS C500 (PQL, UK) in combination with the electron microscopy observations (SEM, TEM) and measurements of mechanical properties.
Investigation of the influence of the deposition parameters of hard multicomponent carbide, boride and nitride coatings on their mechanical and tribological properties
1. D.M. Mattox, Physical sputtering and sputter deposition (sputtering), pp. 343-405 in Handbook of Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) processing, Mattox D.M., Noyes Publ., New Jersey, 1998. 2. B. Cantor, I.T.H. Chang, P. Knight, A.J.B. Vincent, Microstructural development in equiatomic multicomponent alloys (2004) Mater. Sci. Eng. A, 375-377 (1-2 SPEC. ISS.), pp. 213-218. doi: 10.1016/j.msea.2003.10.257 3. E. Lewin, E. Multi-component and high-entropy nitride coatings - A promising field in need of a novel approach J. Appl. Phys. 127, 160901 (2020); doi: 10.1063/1.5144154 4. F. Lofaj, L. Kvetková, T. Roch, J. Dobrovodský, V. Girman, M. Kabátová, M. Beňo, Reactive HiTUS TiNbVTaZrHf-Nx coatings: structure, composition and mechanical properties, Materials 16 (2) (2023) 563. https://doi.org/10.3390/ma16020563
doc. RNDr. František Lofaj, DrSc.
Biophysics (BFd)
Development of methods for determining the proteolytic activity of industrially used bacterial toxins
This dissertation focuses on the fundamental research of toxin proteolytic activity, specifically their ability to cleave peptide sequences derived from SNARE proteins. This mechanism is crucial for toxin function, yet its precise kinetics and substrate specificity remain insufficiently explored. The project will develop methods for monitoring this activity, primarily rapid and routine assays based on FRET-labeled substrate peptides. The development of new experimental approaches will enable more precise quantification of cleavage kinetics and identification of factors influencing toxin substrate selectivity. The research is conducted within the framework of a so-called industrial doctorate cooperation with the private sector - the company JUHAPHARM, s.r.o., while the knowledge gained can contribute not only to the development of analytical tools, but also to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of toxins with potential applications in biotechnology and pharmaceutical research.
1. Develop methods for determining the activity of bacterial toxins used in industry 2. Characterize the robustness and reliability of the developed methods
1. Gregory RW, Werner WE, Ruegg C. A quantitative bifunctional in vitro potency assay for botulinum neurotoxin serotype A. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods. 2014 Mar-Apr;69(2):103-7. doi: 10.1016/j.vascn.2013.12.002. Epub 2013 Dec 12. PMID: 24333955. 2.Halliwell J, Gwenin C. A label free colorimetric assay for the detection of active botulinum neurotoxin type A by SNAP-25 conjugated colloidal gold. Toxins (Basel). 2013 Aug 6;5(8):1381-91. doi: 10.3390/toxins5081381. PMID: 23925142; PMCID: PMC3760041.
doc. RNDr. Gabriel Žoldák, DrSc.
Physics (Fd)
Cosmic ray trajectory in the Earth's magnetosphere model development
Cosmic ray trajectories simulations are a tool for describing the radiation situation in the Earth's magnetosphere. They are connected to several research topics from the radiation situation in the magnetosphere, space weather topics, through the influence of cosmic radiation on the formation of clouds and the wider influence on the climate to the investigation of the accuracy of the dating method of radioactive carbon C14. The aim of the work is to improve the current models for calculating the trajectory of cosmic rays in the magnetosphere and to use them to investigate selected problems associated with cosmic rays in the Earth's magnetosphere. Selected topics include the development of a model enabling the simulation of cosmic radiation intensities during geomagnetic storms, the search for an optimal methodology for investigating the influence of cosmic radiation on cloud formation, and determining the influence of the crustal geomagnetic field on the energy thresholds of cosmic radiation on the Earth's surface and in the magnetosphere.One of the open problems in this field is an origin of the enhanced production of the strange and multi-strange particles with respect to non-strange particle production in high multiplicity pp collisions [1]. It is still unknown whether the strangeness enhancement dependency as a function of multiplicity in pp collisions will follow the similar trend in peripheral heavy ion collisions or it will be significantly different. The thesis will focus on studying strange particle production in high multiplicity proton-proton collisions collected with unprecedented statistics in Run3 (2022-2026) at the LHC. [1] ALICE Collaboration., Adam, J., Adamová, D. et al. Enhanced production of multi-strange hadrons in high-multiplicity proton–proton collisions. Nature Phys 13, 535–539 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1038/nphys4111
Recent publications
RNDr. Pavol Bobík, PhD.
RNDr. Blahoslav Pastirčák, CSc.
Physics (Fd)
Development of transport software for neutrino telescopes of the KM3NeT experiment and its implementation into the general simulation framework of the experiment
The KM3Net experiment is primarily focused on searching for galactic and extragalactic neutrino sources. It uses a high-energy neutrino telescope, consisting of a 1 km long garland network of scintillation detectors submerged in the water of the Mediterranean Sea. It uses water to detect Cherenkov radiation from secondary particles produced by high-energy neutrinos in or near a sensitive volume. Its main scientific goal is to map the sky in the high-energy neutrino region in the southern hemisphere, including the region of the Galactic center. The work will be part of a broader task focused on the simulations and analysis of muon treks produced by the astrophysical neutrino flux in the Earth's atmosphere and its differentiation from the background produced by other sources in the KM3Net experiment measurements. The physical simulations for the KM3Net experiment are performed in three main steps. Simulations of atmospheric muon flow at sea level, muon transport to the detector level, simulations of the response of the apparatus to Cherenkov radiation of muons, taking into account the work of the telescope's electronic systems. All steps are performed in the general simulation framework gSeaGen. The doctoral student's work is a partial task in the second step of the simulation chain. He will develop software in C++ connecting simulated data from CORSIKA with input to simulation packages for further transport of secondary muons by water to the ORCA and ARCA detectors of the KM3Net experiment. Currently, the collaboration uses the older Fortran package MUSIC for this transport, which needs to be replaced by a modern object-oriented software called PROPOSAL, which will require modification of the entire chain. Both of these approaches differ physically and in terms of programming. The plan is to develop a new propagation software and subsequently, to compare and analyze it in detail with the previous one. It is highly desirable to expand the propagation software to include the propagation of tau neutrinos (previously unused) using the gSeaGen applications TAUSIC and TAUOLA.
Recent publications
RNDr. Blahoslav Pastirčák, CSc.
RNDr. Pavol Bobík, PhD.
Biophysics (BFd)
Development of transport systems for drug targeted delivery into 3D model of cancer cells
Nanotechnology is increasingly being used in medicine, for example, to diagnose, treat and target tumours more safely and effectively. It enables the development of functional materials, devices, and systems at the atomic and molecular levels and the utilisation of novel properties and phenomena. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems have shown many advantages in cancer treatment, such as good pharmacokinetics, precise targeting of tumour cells, reduction of side effects and drug resistance. Various materials have been proposed as drug carriers, but much attention in the field of targeted drug delivery is devoted to micro- and mesoporous nanoparticles, namely metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). These materials belong to the group of hybrid inorganic-organic compounds consisting of metal cations/clusters that are subsequently bridged by organic linkers. They are characterised by a large capacity for drug encapsulation in pores, kinetic and thermodynamic stability, good biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity and the possibility of surface functionalisation with the acquisition of the desired physicochemical properties. The task of the doctoral student will be to characterise the developed transport systems with biophysical techniques and to evaluate their application in photodiagnosis and photodynamic therapy in different cell models. The student will use the methods of fluorescence spectroscopy, microscopy (confocal fluorescence microscopy and FLIM), bioimaging, flow cytometry, immunolabelling, western blot and PCR to complete the tasks in the dissertation project. The cell cultures in 2D and 3D, as well as a preclinical model of the avian chorioallantoic membrane, will be used for the study. As part of the project, the student will actively cooperate with other laboratories in Slovakia and abroad.
The aim of the work is to develop a reliable drug delivery system for the targeted therapy of cancer, to characterise it using biophysical techniques and to evaluate its use in photodiagnostics and photodynamic therapy in various cell models.
1) Zanoni, M., Piccinini, F., Arienti, C. et al. 3D tumor spheroid models for in vitro therapeutic screening: a systematic approach to enhance the biological relevance of data obtained. Sci Rep 6, 19103 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1038/srep19103 2) Benziane A, Huntošová V, Pevná V, Zauška L, Vámosi G, Hovan A, Zelenková G, Zeleňák V, Almáši M. Synergistic effect of folic acid and hypericin administration to improve the efficacy of photodynamic therapy via folate receptors. J Photochem Photobiol B. 2024 Dec;261:113046. doi: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2024.113046 3) Pevná V, Huntošová V. Imaging of heterogeneity in 3D spheroids of U87MG glioblastoma cells and its implications for photodynamic therapy. Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther. 2023 Dec;44:103821. doi: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2023.103821 4) Shano LB, Karthikeyan S, Kennedy LJ, Chinnathambi S, Pandian GN. MOFs for next-generation cancer therapeutics through a biophysical approach-a review. Front Bioeng Biotechnol. 2024 Jun 13;12:1397804. doi: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1397804
RNDr. Veronika Huntošová, PhD.
doc. RNDr. Miroslav Almáši, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Novel enhanced oxidation-resistant ultra-high temperature carbides
Dissertation work is focused on development of novel oxidation-resistant UHTCs through a systematic experimental based study in which the high-temperature properties (oxidation and ablation resistance, thermal shock resistance etc.) and mechanical behaviour of mono and binary refractory carbides will be studied. Different secondary phase materials with the incorporation of silicon will also be tested in the form of SiC and transitional metal silicides, which are known as protective glassy phase-forming compounds that can further improve the oxidation resistance of newly developed UHTCs. The accomplishment of the present PhD. thessis will generate fundamental knowledge that is needed for the design of novel more complex multi-principal element ceramics. Filling this lack of knowledge would be of great importance for whole materials science community.
The accomplishment of the present PhD. thessis will generate fundamental knowledge that is needed for the design of novel more complex multi-principal element ceramics. Filling this lack of knowledge would be of great importance for whole materials science community
journal literature
Ing. Alexandra Kovalčíková, PhD.
Advanced Materials (PMd)
Development of high – entropy ceramics: modelling, processing, characterization and testing
The dissertation work is focused on the development and characterization of High – Entropy Structural Ceramics with improved room and high/ultra-high temperature properties suitable for extreme operating conditions in different areas of industry. Systems based on ternary carbides and nitrides mixed in equimolar concentrations to reach the maximum molar configurational entropy with structural order and chemical disorder will be developed applying advanced modelling methods - numerical simulation, machine learning, etc., processing routes as high – energy milling, spark plasma sintering or hot – pressing. The developed systems will be tested using advanced methods as micro/nano – mechanical tests, tribology, strength/toughness tests, thermal shock, oxidation, ablation tests, etc. and characterized by SEM, EBSD, TEM/HREM, AFM etc. The proposed dissertation work will put forward a systematic study of high-entropy ceramics based on ternary carbides and nitrides in in the wide range and so completely, that new original results in this field of material science can be expected.
The proposed dissertation work will put forward a systematic study of high-entropy ceramics based on ternary carbides and nitrides in in the wide range and so completely, that new original results in this field of material science can be expected.
Current journal literature.
prof. RNDr. Ján Dusza, DrSc.
MSc. Tamás Csanádi, PhD.
Biophysics (BFd)
Establishment of advanced techniques for insect cell-based production of proteins
The production of eukaryotic proteins in bacterial expression systems is challenging due to several factors—low solubility and yield of proteins, the absence of post-translational modifications, and limitations in the production of membrane proteins. Insect cell expression systems serve as an excellent alternative, offering reliable protein production with simple glycosylation, post-translational modifications, and good scalability. This work focuses on establishing a methodology for protein production in insect cells—preparing and optimizing the expression system for the production of selected model proteins. The properties of the protein preparations will be characterized in subsequent steps using biophysical methods.
Preparation of recombinant baculovirus vectors for the expression of selected proteins Transfection of Sf9 insect cells, small-scale protein expression, and quantification of expression using Western blot Optimization of expression and "upscaling" of protein production Chromatographic purification of proteins and optimization of the purification process Characterization of the biophysical properties of the prepared proteins using circular dichroism and calorimetry
Insect cells-baculovirus system for the production of difficult to express proteins (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25447865/) Efficient production of a functional G protein-coupled receptor in E. coli for structural studies (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33501610/) GPCR expression using baculovirus-infected Sf9 cells (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19513645/) Sf9 cells: a versatile model system to investigate the pharmacological properties of G protein-coupled receptors (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20705094/) Baculovirus-mediated expression of GPCRs in insect cells (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25857783/) Expression and purification of recombinant G protein-coupled receptors: A review (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31678667/)
prof. RNDr. Erik Sedlák, DrSc.
Mgr. Ľuboš Ambro, PhD.