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30 Sep 2025, 10:10
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Newsletter for PhD students and Postdocs
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Dear PhD students and Postdocs,
With the start of autumn, we are all returning to the rhythm of study, research, and other responsibilities. University corridors are slowly becoming full of students again, bringing the exciting atmosphere typical for new beginnings.
We’ve been keeping busy over the summer too, preparing a wide range of activities for you – designed to broaden your knowledge across disciplines, strengthen your soft skills, support networking, and boost your well-being. Whatever the focus of your doctoral journey, we believe this newsletter will be a helpful companion along the way. May your coffee be strong and your experiments successful!
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“From Labs to Life: PhD Journeys Unplugged”
Students explored the twists and turns of the PhD journey with those who’ve walked the path before them.
As in previous years, we organised the MUNI SCI PhD Day this year for early-stage PhD and master’s students interested in pursuing doctoral studies. The event aimed to provide a practical package of information on PhD studies, complemented by useful advice from more experienced students, who shared their own interesting career paths with the newcomers. The packed programme attracted more than 50 current and prospective doctoral candidates.
Among the highlights of this year’s programme were the presentations by PhD student Barbora Jankovičová and graduate Dr Lucie Ráčková. Both are already recognised as successful and prominent scientists who, in addition to their own fields, are actively engaged in science popularisation. In her talk, Barbora reflected, “Every challenge during my PhD taught me something I could apply not only in research but also in life.” Lucie added, “Exploring opportunities outside your immediate field shaped my career path and opened unexpected doors.”
The programme also included presentations of mobility programmes, an integral part of doctoral studies, and an introduction to the MUNI Mendel Doctorandus programme, presented by the vice-dean of SCI MUNI, Prof. Luděk Bláha, as well as offerings from libraries, competitions, and development activities focused on Early-stage Researchers. Students were encouraged to prepare specific questions, which were then addressed during the coffee break by experienced students and the vice-dean. One student commented, “Hearing real stories from those a few steps ahead made the advice feel much more tangible and motivating.” Watch the highlights reel.
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Call For Applications – Support For Doctoral Students’ Conference Participation
The one-time call to support active participation of PhD students in international conferences or related events in 2025 is now open!
Eligible activities: presentation, poster, or active participation at workshops, summer/winter schools, or similar non-predatory events abroad.
Not eligible: events in the Czech Republic
Who can apply: all active PhD students
Note: Applications can be retrospective or prospective for any 2025 event. Scholarship is paid in CZK to the bank account stated in IS MU. Funding is up to 15,000 CZK per student. Final amount decided by the Vice-Dean, may be adjusted if funds are limited.
 How to apply:
Submit via Document Office IS MU (Application for Support for Doctoral Students‘ Conference Participation)
1 application per student
Attach proof of acceptance + conference link
Record in IS MU (Student → During studies → Internships and Stays → Stay abroad other) is mandatory
 Deadline: October 31, 2025.
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Erasmus+ Short-term PhD Mobilities – Spring 2026
We are excited to announce that applications are open for the Erasmus+ Short-Term PhD Mobilities. This unique programme supports short-term training stays abroad (5-30 days), allowing you to expand your academic horizons and strengthen your professional network. It is an ideal option for those looking to spend up to one month abroad. (Stay abroad has to be arranged in advance)
Application deadline: October 31, 2025
Who can apply: All current PhD students
When can you go abroad: Spring 2026
How long can the stay abroad be: 5 - 30 days
Mandatory attachments: Motivation letter and LA for Traineeship (it is already part of the application)
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your academic journey. For more information and application guidelines, see here.
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AKTION - Research Stays in Austria
PhD students can apply for scholarships within the AKTION Austria – Czech Republic programme. It supports short-term research and study stays in Austria.
1 – 5 month research stays with a scholarship of EUR 1,300/month
Sommerkolleg – intensive Czech – German language courses
Summer schools and internships in selected fields
Who can apply?
PhD (and MA) students from Czech public universities who are EU/EHP/Swiss citizens.
Deadlines: October 15, 2025 (summer semester 2026) / March 15, 2026 (winter semester 2026)
Application: online via scholarships.at
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Fulbright Fellowships: Opportunities for Czech Early-stage Researchers!
Looking for an international research or study experience? Fulbright fellowships offer PhD students, postdocs, and researchers the chance to spend time in the USA, work with leading experts, and expand their professional network. Applications for the 2026/2027 academic year are now open – don’t miss the deadlines and upcoming webinars to guide you through the process!
 Fulbright Postgraduate Fellowship
For PhD students; research stay of 4 – 9 months
Requirements: completed MSc’s degree, good English proficiency, invitation from a US host institution. More info
Deadline: February 1, 2026 (research projects)
Fulbright Fellowship for Researchers and Lecturers
For PhD holders and experienced researchers in all fields More info
Duration: 3 – 10 months
Deadline: November 1, 2025
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Fulbright-Masaryk Fellowship
For academics active in both research and public life
Categories: junior (pre-PhD), postdoctoral (PhD within 5 years), senior (PhD over 5 years) More info
Duration: 3 – 10 months
Deadline: November 1, 2025
Other Relevant Programmes for PhD Students and Postdocs
Fulbright-Schuman: EU–US topics for PhD students and postdocs. More info
Webinars for Applicants:
October 2, 2025, 15:00 – Q&A webinar for applicants working on their application
October 8, 2025, 15:00 – Programme for Visiting Research Students (till February 1, 2026)
 Registration and details
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PhD Position – Bacterial Synthetic & Systems Biology
Doc. Pavel Dvořák’s group at Masaryk University, Brno is seeking a motivated PhD student starting Jan/Feb 2026.
Project: Unlock bacterial metabolism via rational design of substrate transporters.
Requirements: Background in molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, or related fields; English B2+; independent, flexible, curious.
We Offer: 4-year interdisciplinary project, advanced methods, supportive international team, research stays abroad, competitive salary.
Apply: Send CV (max 3 pages), motivation letter (1 page), and 2 references to pdvorak@sci.muni.cz. More info on web.
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BIOTOP Seminars for Early-stage Researchers
Curious about careers beyond academia? BIOTOP seminars bridge the gap between academia and industry in Life Sciences. Meet scientists who transitioned from academia to private-sector research, explore career options, build your network, and get practical tips on skills, job search, and interviews. Open to PhD students and all career stages. Held in English. More info and programme on web.
The first lecture is scheduled for October 7, 2025 (16:00) E35/145, UCB.
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The Albert Einstein World Award of Science
The Albert Einstein Prize is awarded to eminent scientists whose achievements can serve as an inspiration for future generations. Considerations will be given to individuals or institutions in one of the Life Sciences, such as Neuroscience, Earth Science, Biology, Biochemistry, or Chemistry; or in one of the Natural Sciences such as Physics, Mathematics or Astronomy. The application form is available here.
Nominations must be supported by the Rector, so please send the documents to Mrs. Švestková by October 31, 2025. Further information can be found on the competition website.
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The Werner von Siemens Prize
Are you finishing your dissertation? Don't keep it only to yourselves and apply for the Werner von Siemens. Prize to win CZK 70,000!
The aim of the competition is to reward the authors of the best student and scientific papers and university teachers focusing on natural sciences and thus contribute to the development of Czech higher education, science and research.
Categories announced:
Most Outstanding Basic Research Result
Best teaching staff member
Best thesis (first three places + thesis supervisor)
Best dissertation (first three places + supervisor)
Award for overcoming obstacles to study (the candidate is nominated by academic staff from among the university's undergraduate, master's and doctoral students)
Special award for excellence in women's scientific work
Best graduate thesis (master's/dissertation) dealing with Industry 4.0 concepts
Best graduate thesis (master's/dissertation) dealing with smart infrastructure and energy
Nominations are also open to the general public this year – candidates and their work can be nominated via the website www.cenasiemens.cz. An award of CZK 10,000 also awaits a nominator of a successful candidate!
Application deadline: November 30, 2025
Announcement of winners: March 11, 2026
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Present Like a Pro
Being able to present and communicate convincingly is a powerful skill in today’s competitive world. This full-day training will show you how to prepare, structure, and deliver presentations that truly engage your audience. You will learn how to use your voice and body language effectively, manage stress, and make your message memorable. This workshop will help you discover your authentic presentation style and turn public speaking into an empowering experience. The workshop will be held in person and in Czech. Registration needed.
The programme covers:
Setting goals and adapting to your audience
Preparing and delivering persuasive presentations
Rhetoric, delivery, and audience engagement
Managing stress, stage fright, and challenging situations
Practical training with feedback
When: November 19, 2025 (9:00 - 16:00)
Where: CERPEK Training Room (Room 328), Komenského náměstí 2, Brno
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Research Breakfast – Join the Conversation!
Kick off your morning with coffee, breakfast, and inspiring science discussions!
Research Breakfast is a monthly informal meeting where PhD students and researchers gather to share knowledge, experiences, and ideas. Since June 2022, we’ve been meeting over coffee to discuss grants, science support, and topics you care about. Each session features a prominent scientist alongside Tomáš Kašpárek, Vice Dean for Research and PhD Studies, addressing questions submitted by doctoral students, academics, and researchers. Held in person / English.
Upcoming Guests:
Jan Krejčí - October 21, 2025
Šárka Pospíšilová - November 11, 2025
 Don’t miss this chance to network, share ideas, and get inspired!
When: Upcoming events, (8:00 - 9:00)
Where: UCB Library (B09)
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Conferences and Workshops
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Tune in to a Positive Vibe on Well-being Days Conference
On the occasion of World Mental Health Day (October 10.), the MU Counseling Center invites all students and staff to the Well-being Days Conference.
 You can look forward to:
talks and discussions with experts (both from Masaryk University and beyond),
practical tips on self-care and strengthening your resilience,
afternoon workshops exploring techniques to support your well-being,
opportunities to share experiences with fellow participants,
light refreshments.
When: October 9 - 10, 2025 (9:30 - 20:00)
Where: Komenského nám. 2, Brno
Registration for individual sessions is required. Web in CZ / Web in EN
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So… they’ve asked you to teach?
Don’t panic—CERPEK has your back! The Development Programme for Beginning Teachers is here to help doctoral students and early-stage researchers survive (and actually enjoy) their first teaching experiences.
Across four semesters you’ll mix e-learning, workshops, mentoring, and plenty of reflection—so you’ll gain not only teaching know-how, but also a supportive community. By the end, you’ll have more confidence in the classroom and also micro-certificate to boost your CV. Please note: the programme is offered in Czech only. More info.
Registration is open until October 31, 2025.
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Sites we recommend to follow:
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Distributed by:
Office for Doctoral Studies, Quality, Academic Affairs and Internationalization (noskova@sci.muni.cz)
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