CATRIN leadership honoured Markéta Paloncýová and Aristeidis Bakandritsos
The chemist Aristeidis Bakandritsos, leader of the Magnetic Nanostructures research group, received the Outstanding Scientific Output Award at this year’s CATRIN Annual Conference. For the first time ever, the CATRIN General Director Pavel Banáš also presented the Jan Belza Award for Inspiring Spirit, which went to the computational chemist Markéta Paloncýová from the Carbon Nanostructures, Biomacromolecules and Simulations research group.
Aristeidis Bakandritsos was recognized for his long-term contributions to the development of new materials for energy storage, as well as chemical and biomedical applications. Last year, he played a key role in developing organic nanomaterials that improve the performance of lithium batteries.
The award-winning scientist admitted the recognition both surprised and delighted him. “This award is the result of long hours of work, critical discussions, and the supportive environment that CATRIN fosters—an environment where bold ideas have the space to grow from a concept to results. I also owe great thanks to my family, who have patiently supported and accompanied me on this journey—it is because of them that this path is so rewarding. To me, this recognition is not only a celebration of what we’ve accomplished so far, but also motivation to keep going with new ideas and ambitious goals,” said Bakandritsos.
He also expressed gratitude to the CATRIN leadership, his team, and both domestic and international collaborators who share his research journey. “It’s a path that demands focus, resilience, creative thinking, and collaboration,” he added.
Markéta Paloncýová received the Jan Belza Award for her outstanding work in computational chemistry, where she exceptionally and inspiringly integrates theoretical modelling with experimental approaches. Her research brings innovative connections between physical and computational chemistry, biochemistry, and materials science, thereby significantly contributing to interdisciplinary understanding of complex chemical and biological systems. The award also reflects her important role in promoting diversity and the involvement of women in science, where she serves as an inspiring role model for young female researchers across the scientific community.
The award is named after a late colleague whose passion for science and enthusiasm for research continue to inspire many. His wife, Františka Belzová Konvalinková, also attended the award ceremony.
“Honza was someone who left a deep impression on me, and I miss him very much. He was easy to talk to, a great listener, and genuinely interested—in the people he spoke with, in topics, in the world around us. I greatly value this award bearing his name, but it’s also a big responsibility. A responsibility to uphold and pass on the passion and enthusiasm for science worthy of his legacy,” said Markéta Paloncýová.
As in previous years, science was the focal point of the CATRIN Annual Conference. Researchers from all three CATRIN divisions presented their work and current findings.
“Three years ago, we heard about individual achievements across various fields, whether it be in materials research, biotechnology, or biomedicine. I’m very pleased that this year, many of the presentations showed significant interconnection between these areas. That’s precisely why CATRIN was established,” noted CATRIN Director Pavel Banáš.