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 program were the presentations by PhD student Barbora Jankovičová and fresh 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 program also included presentations of mobility programs, 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.”
