Supervisors

Dean of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB – Technical University of Ostrava | Head of Signal Lab

KEY EXPERTISE

Artificial Intelligence • Biomedical Engineering • Signal Processing • Smart Sensors • Space Research

Who He Is

Prof. Radek Martinek is a leading Czech researcher in biomedical engineering, artificial intelligence, and advanced signal processing. He serves as Dean of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava and leads the Signal Lab research group at the Department of Cybernetics and Biomedical Engineering. He also acts as the university coordinator for space research, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between academia, industry, healthcare institutions, and international partners.

His work is driven by the belief that breakthrough innovations emerge at the intersection of disciplines and that research should create measurable benefits for society, industry, healthcare, and future space exploration. Throughout his career, he has focused on translating scientific discoveries into practical technologies with real-world impact, while simultaneously building strong research teams and international collaborations.

Research Profile and Scientific Topics

His research combines artificial intelligence, machine learning, advanced signal processing, intelligent sensing systems, and biomedical engineering. He is internationally recognized for his work on non-invasive fetal monitoring, particularly fetal ECG and fetal phonocardiography, where he has contributed to the development of innovative diagnostic and monitoring methods.

His expertise also includes explainable AI, edge AI, AIoT technologies, optical and fiber-optic sensors, intelligent transportation systems, industrial monitoring solutions, and next-generation communication technologies. Through Signal Lab, he develops advanced methods for real-time data analysis and intelligent decision support in healthcare and industrial environments.

In recent years, he has expanded his activities into space research, focusing on advanced sensing, data processing, autonomous technologies, and biomedical applications for future space missions. As the university coordinator for space research and principal investigator of the CONREX (Czech Orbital NanoRobots EXperiment) project, he actively supports the development of interdisciplinary initiatives connecting healthcare, engineering, artificial intelligence, robotics, and aerospace technologies.

Scientific Excellence

• Author of more than 400 scientific publications indexed in Scopus and Web of Science.
• More than 8,000 citations and an h-index of 45.
• Ranked among the Top 2% of the world's most-cited scientists according to Stanford University rankings (2020–2025).
• Principal investigator or co-investigator of projects funded by the European Space Agency (ESA) and major national and European research programmes.
• Author or co-author of 12 patents, numerous prototypes, utility models, and 21 licensed software solutions with demonstrated industrial and societal impact.
• Vice-Chair of Panel P102 (Electrical and Electronic Engineering) of the Czech Science Foundation (GA CR).
• IEEE Senior Member and active member of national and international scientific and evaluation bodies.

Collaboration and Mentoring

Prof. Martinek offers access to Signal Lab, a modern research environment focused on artificial intelligence, biomedical technologies, intelligent sensors, communication systems, and Industry 4.0 applications. He collaborates extensively with academic institutions, research organizations, and industrial partners across Europe, the United States, and Asia.

He has extensive experience supervising PhD candidates, postdoctoral researchers, and international research teams. He actively supports young researchers in publishing, grant preparation, international mobility, and career development, while promoting an open, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research culture.

Head of the Advanced Nanorobots and Multiscale Robotics Lab | Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB – Technical University of Ostrava

KEY EXPERTISE

Nanorobotics • Advanced Materials • Electrochemistry • Energy Storage • Biomedical Technologies

Who He Is

Prof. Martin Pumera is internationally recognized as one of the world's leading scientists in nanotechnology, nanorobotics, and advanced functional materials. He leads the Advanced Nanorobots and Multiscale Robotics Lab at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava and is also affiliated with CEITEC Brno, where he contributes to research in future energy technologies and advanced materials.

His scientific career spans some of the world's most prestigious research institutions. After earning his Ph.D. from Charles University in Prague, he completed postdoctoral appointments in the United States and Spain before becoming a group leader at the National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS) in Japan. He later joined Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, where he spent nearly a decade developing internationally recognized research programmes in nanotechnology and robotics.

His research philosophy is built on the belief that transformative scientific advances emerge where disciplines intersect. By combining chemistry, materials science, robotics, and biomedical engineering, he seeks to translate fundamental discoveries into technologies with real-world impact.

Research Profile and Scientific Topics

Prof. Pumera's research focuses on the design and control of autonomous micro- and nanorobots, intelligent materials, and advanced nanotechnologies for applications in healthcare, environmental protection, and energy systems. His work explores how microscopic robotic systems can perform targeted tasks, respond to environmental stimuli, and operate in complex biological and technological environments.

A major part of his research is dedicated to nanorobotics and microrobotics, smart and responsive materials, advanced nanomaterials, and electrochemical systems. His team develops innovative solutions for biomedical applications, environmental remediation, energy storage technologies, and next-generation functional materials.

Current research directions include bioinspired robotic systems, medical microrobots, intelligent materials, soft robotics, and environmentally sustainable technologies. Through highly interdisciplinary experimental research, he continuously pushes the boundaries of what can be achieved with nanoscale and microscale systems.

Scientific Excellence

Scientific Excellence

• Recognized as a Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher, ranking among the world's most influential scientists in nanotechnology and nanorobotics.
• More than 86,000 citations and an h-index of 138.
• Author or co-author of nearly 1,000 scientific publications.
• Principal investigator of research projects with total funding exceeding €33 million throughout his career.
• Currently involved in major international initiatives, including Horizon Europe, MSCA Doctoral Networks, MSCA Fellowships, national health research programmes, and space-related projects.
• Frequent keynote speaker, invited lecturer, journal editor, and member of international scientific advisory boards.

Collaboration and Mentoring

Prof. Pumera offers access to a highly international research environment with state-of-the-art facilities for nanotechnology, electrochemistry, advanced materials, energy systems, and robotics. His laboratory provides expertise in material synthesis, characterization, electrochemical technologies, microrobotics, and interdisciplinary experimental research.

Throughout his career, he has supervised and mentored more than 200 postdoctoral researchers, over 30 PhD candidates, and hundreds of undergraduate and master's students from around the world. He actively supports young researchers in developing independent scientific careers, building international networks, publishing in leading journals, and preparing competitive research proposals. His mentoring approach combines scientific excellence, creativity, and openness to ambitious ideas that have the potential to address major global challenges.

Professor of Telecommunications | Head of the Department of Telecommunications | Head of the Networks and Applications Research Group

KEY EXPERTISE

Telecommunications • Network Security • Internet of Things • Artificial Intelligence • Quantum Communications

Who He Is

Prof. Miroslav Vozňák is one of the leading Czech experts in telecommunications and information and communication technologies (ICT). He serves as Head of the Department of Telecommunications at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB – Technical University of Ostrava, where he also leads the Networks and Applications research group. Throughout his career, he has combined academic excellence with a strong focus on practical applications, helping to bridge fundamental research and industrial innovation.

His professional philosophy is inspired by Michael Faraday’s motto: “Work, Finish, Publish.” This approach is reflected in his long-term commitment to building research teams, developing international collaborations, and delivering research outcomes with measurable scientific and societal impact.

Research Profile and Scientific Topics

Prof. Vozňák’s research focuses on intelligent communication systems, network security, Internet of Things technologies, artificial intelligence for network management, and next-generation communication infrastructures. His work addresses how future communication networks can become more secure, resilient, efficient, and autonomous while meeting the growing demands of digital society.

A major part of his research is dedicated to the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning in communication systems, including network automation, anomaly detection, cybersecurity, and service optimization. He is also actively involved in the development of advanced architectures for IoT and cyber-physical systems that support digital transformation across industry and public services.

In recent years, he has become increasingly engaged in quantum communications and quantum key distribution (QKD). His current research explores ways to improve the efficiency and practical deployment of quantum communication technologies, including the integration of QKD with post-quantum cryptography. Additional research interests include 6G communication systems, intelligent reflecting surfaces, edge computing, distributed intelligence, and trustworthy digital infrastructures.

Scientific Excellence

• Ranked among the Top 2% of the world’s most influential scientists according to Stanford University rankings since 2020.
• Author and co-author of numerous highly cited publications in telecommunications, networking, and cybersecurity.
• Principal investigator or key contributor in major European and international projects, including Horizon 2020 TETRAMAX, Horizon 2020 OpenQKD, Horizon Europe QUESTING, and NATO Quantum5.
• IEEE Senior Member and active contributor to international scientific and professional communities.
• Frequent invited speaker, reviewer, evaluator, and member of editorial boards, scientific committees, and expert panels.
• Successfully supervised more than 20 completed PhD candidates and contributed to the development of multiple research initiatives and laboratories.

Collaboration and Mentoring

Prof. Vozňák offers access to advanced research facilities dedicated to communication technologies, cybersecurity, network experimentation, and IoT systems. His team collaborates extensively with universities, research organizations, and industrial partners across Europe and beyond, providing opportunities for interdisciplinary and international research.

He has extensive experience in building research consortia, preparing competitive European projects, and leading collaborative initiatives that connect telecommunications, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and engineering disciplines. Young researchers joining his team benefit from strong mentoring, support in publishing and grant preparation, access to international networks, and opportunities for long-term scientific and professional development. His mentoring philosophy emphasizes independence, innovation, international mobility, and the development of future scientific leaders.

Vice-Rector for Science, Research and Doctoral Studies | Department of Computer Science, VSB – Technical University of Ostrava

KEY EXPERTISE

Artificial Intelligence • Machine Learning • Deep Learning • Time-Series Analysis • Industrial AI

Who He Is

Prof. Jan Platoš is a researcher, academic leader, and expert in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data-driven optimization of complex systems. As Vice-Rector for Science, Research and Doctoral Studies at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava, he plays a key role in shaping the university’s research strategy, supporting doctoral education, and strengthening international scientific cooperation.

His work is driven by a commitment to bridging cutting-edge AI research with real-world applications. He believes that the greatest value of artificial intelligence lies not only in technological advancement but also in its ability to solve practical challenges across industry, energy, healthcare, and society. Throughout his career, he has actively promoted interdisciplinary collaboration, technology transfer, and the development of resilient research environments.

Research Profile and Scientific Topics

Prof. Platoš focuses on artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, generative models, and time-series analysis. His research addresses how advanced AI methods can be used to model, predict, and optimize complex systems operating in dynamic and uncertain environments.

A significant part of his work is dedicated to predictive analytics, intelligent decision-making, and the analysis of large-scale data generated by industrial and technological processes. He is particularly interested in developing robust AI models capable of extracting valuable insights from imperfect, incomplete, or evolving datasets.

His current research includes optimization techniques, intelligent control systems, robotic trajectory planning, industrial automation, and the application of artificial intelligence to complex real-world problems. By combining strong theoretical foundations with application-oriented research, he contributes to the development of innovative solutions that improve efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in industrial environments.

Scientific Excellence

• Author and co-author of numerous scientific publications in artificial intelligence, machine learning, optimization, and data analytics.
• More than 1,100 citations in Web of Science and an h-index of 16.
• Publications in leading international journals, including Knowledge-Based Systems, Expert Systems with Applications, and PLOS ONE.
• Extensive experience leading national and international research teams and interdisciplinary projects.
• Director of the university's doctoral development initiatives and long-term supporter of early-career researchers.
• Recognized expert in research evaluation, doctoral education, research management, and technology transfer at both national and European levels.
• Active contributor to the application of artificial intelligence in industrial environments and complex technological systems.

Collaboration and Mentoring

Prof. Platoš offers access to advanced computing infrastructure, expertise in artificial intelligence, and strong connections to industrial partners and technology-transfer networks. His interdisciplinary perspective enables collaboration across computer science, manufacturing, energy systems, healthcare, and other application domains.

He has extensive experience supervising PhD candidates, mentoring young researchers, and leading doctoral development initiatives. Through his involvement in doctoral education and research management, he actively supports early-career scientists in building international networks, developing competitive research proposals, publishing high-quality results, and establishing independent research careers. His mentoring approach emphasizes openness, collaboration, and the exploration of ambitious research topics with real-world impact.

Professor of Telecommunications | Head of the Optical Communications and Sensors Research Group | Department of Telecommunications, VSB – Technical University of Ostrava

KEY EXPERTISE

Photonics • Optical Communications • Fiber-Optic Sensors • Smart Cities • Biomedical Monitoring

Who He Is

Prof. Jan Nedoma is a leading researcher in photonics, optical communications, and fiber-optic sensing technologies. He works at the Department of Telecommunications of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava, where he leads the Optical Communications and Sensors research group. His work focuses on connecting fundamental photonics research with practical applications that address challenges in healthcare, transportation, infrastructure monitoring, industry, and smart city development.

His research philosophy is based on the belief that optical fibers are not only a medium for data transmission but also a highly sensitive sensing platform capable of monitoring and protecting the world around us. By combining scientific excellence with practical implementation, he contributes to the development of technologies that improve safety, sustainability, and quality of life.

Research Profile and Scientific Topics

Prof. Nedoma’s research focuses on fiber-optic sensors, photonic systems, optical communications, and optoelectronic technologies. A central objective of his work is to develop reliable and accurate sensing solutions capable of operating in demanding real-world environments and providing valuable data for monitoring critical infrastructure, industrial processes, transportation systems, and biomedical applications.

His expertise covers distributed fiber-optic sensing systems, photonic communication technologies, optical access networks, visible light communications (VLC), optoelectronics, and advanced data processing methods for optical sensing applications. He is particularly interested in integrating photonic technologies into interdisciplinary solutions that support digital transformation and intelligent monitoring systems.

Current research activities include advanced photonic sensing systems for health monitoring, optical technologies for structural diagnostics and infrastructure monitoring, sensing applications in transportation and geotechnical engineering, and intelligent sensor systems incorporating artificial intelligence. His work contributes to emerging concepts such as Smart Cities, Smart Home Care, Industry 4.0, and next-generation healthcare technologies.

Scientific Excellence

• Author and co-author of more than 250 scientific publications.
• More than 5,200 citations according to Google Scholar.
• H-index of 37 and i10-index exceeding 120.
• Author or co-author of more than 10 patents and technological innovations.
• Principal investigator or team member in numerous national and international research and innovation projects.
• Leader of the Optical Communications and Sensors research group, coordinating academic staff, researchers, and doctoral students.
• Long-term collaboration with industrial partners and international research institutions, connecting scientific research with practical applications.

Collaboration and Mentoring

Prof. Nedoma offers access to specialized research facilities focused on optical communications, photonic technologies, optoelectronics, and fiber-optic sensing systems. His research group has extensive experience in the design, development, testing, and deployment of advanced optical technologies for both scientific and industrial applications.

A key strength of the group is its interdisciplinary character. Research projects frequently combine photonics with biomedical engineering, transportation, civil engineering, geotechnics, industrial automation, and smart technologies. Through strong partnerships with industry and international collaborators, researchers gain opportunities to participate in projects with significant scientific and societal impact.

Prof. Nedoma has extensive experience mentoring undergraduate, master's, PhD, and early-career researchers. He actively supports young scientists in publishing, international collaboration, project development, and career growth. His mentoring approach emphasizes scientific independence, teamwork, innovation, and the development of research ideas that can successfully bridge academic excellence and real-world application.

Professor of Computer Science | Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB – Technical University of Ostrava | IT4Innovations National Supercomputing Center

KEY EXPERTISE

Artificial Intelligence • Quantum Computing • Cybersecurity • Evolutionary Algorithms • Swarm Intelligence

Who He Is

Prof. Ivan Zelinka is a renowned computer scientist whose research spans artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cybersecurity, and computational intelligence. He is a professor at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science of VSB – Technical University of Ostrava and is affiliated with the IT4Innovations National Supercomputing Center. He is also the founder of the NAVY research group, which focuses on advanced methods of artificial intelligence, optimization, and unconventional computing.

Throughout his career, Prof. Zelinka has combined theoretical research with practical applications, exploring how intelligent systems can solve complex real-world problems. His work is characterized by an interdisciplinary approach that integrates computer science, mathematics, engineering, and emerging technologies. He is particularly interested in technologies that have the potential to reshape the future of digital society, including artificial intelligence and quantum technologies.

Research Profile and Scientific Topics

Prof. Zelinka’s research focuses on artificial intelligence, evolutionary computation, swarm intelligence, quantum computing, cybersecurity, and nonlinear systems. His work investigates how intelligent algorithms can be designed to solve highly complex optimization and decision-making problems and how unconventional computational approaches can enhance the capabilities of modern digital systems.

A significant part of his research is devoted to evolutionary algorithms, machine learning, deep learning, deterministic chaos, fractal geometry, and intelligent optimization methods. In cybersecurity, he explores advanced approaches to threat detection, malware analysis, and AI-driven security solutions. His research also addresses the growing role of artificial intelligence in cyberspace and the challenges associated with the security and reliability of modern AI systems.

In recent years, he has focused extensively on quantum intelligence, automated quantum circuit synthesis, quantum optimization, and the security of large language models. His work contributes to the development of next-generation computing technologies that combine the strengths of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and high-performance computing.

Scientific Excellence

• Ranked among the Top 2% of the world’s most-cited scientists according to Stanford University rankings.
• Recipient of the Siemens Award for his doctoral dissertation and the Czech Visionary Award 2019.
• Author and co-author of numerous scientific publications, books, and research monographs.
• Frequent keynote speaker and invited lecturer at conferences and universities across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
• Principal investigator, co-investigator, or work-package leader in projects funded by FP5, FP7, Horizon 2020, TA CR, GA CR, and other national and international programmes.
• Member of the Scientific Panel of Independent Experts established under Article 68 of the EU AI Act, supporting the European Commission and the AI Office on advanced AI systems and systemic risk assessment.

Collaboration and Mentoring

Prof. Zelinka offers access to an interdisciplinary research environment that combines artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, optimization, quantum technologies, and high-performance computing. Through his affiliation with VSB–TUO and IT4Innovations, collaborators benefit from advanced computing infrastructure and a strong international research network.

He has extensive experience leading research teams, supervising doctoral students, mentoring young researchers, and coordinating international collaborations. His professional network spans universities, research institutes, and industrial partners across Europe, Asia, and beyond. He actively supports early-career researchers in developing independent research profiles, publishing high-impact results, preparing competitive grant proposals, and engaging in international scientific cooperation. His mentoring approach emphasizes creativity, scientific curiosity, interdisciplinarity, and the pursuit of ambitious research challenges with global relevance.

Professor of Energy Engineering | Founder of the ENET Centre | Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB – Technical University of Ostrava

KEY EXPERTISE

Energy Systems • Renewable Energy • Circular Economy • Waste-to-Energy • Energy Resilience

Who She Is

Prof. Dagmar Juchelková is one of the leading Czech experts in sustainable energy systems, alternative fuels, and environmental technologies. Throughout her career, she has focused on developing practical solutions that combine technological innovation, environmental responsibility, and economic viability. As a researcher, educator, and founder of the ENET Centre (Energy Units for Utilization of Non-Traditional Energy Sources), she has played a significant role in shaping energy research at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava and beyond.

Her scientific philosophy is based on the belief that energy challenges should be approached holistically. She often emphasizes that energy is available in abundance, but its efficient use depends on finding the right technology, at the right place, and at the right time. This perspective drives her research at the intersection of engineering, environmental science, digitalization, and sustainability.

Research Profile and Scientific Topics

Prof. Juchelková’s research focuses on energy conversion technologies, renewable and secondary energy sources, biomass utilization, waste-to-energy systems, alternative fuels, and circular economy solutions. Her work addresses one of the key challenges of the energy transition: how to create energy systems that are efficient, environmentally sustainable, economically accessible, and resilient to future disruptions.

A significant part of her research is devoted to thermochemical conversion processes, including combustion, gasification, and pyrolysis. She investigates how waste materials, biomass, and low-value feedstocks can be transformed into energy, fuels, and high-value products while minimizing environmental impacts. Her expertise also includes energy efficiency assessment, life-cycle analysis (LCA), and the integration of digital technologies into energy systems.

Current research activities focus on energy resilience, Positive Energy Districts, low-carbon technologies, digital twins, artificial intelligence for energy management, energy security, and circular economy strategies. Increasingly, her work contributes to the development of sustainable cities and regions capable of responding to climate, economic, and societal challenges through innovative energy solutions.

Scientific Excellence

• Internationally recognized expert in energy engineering, renewable resources, and environmental technologies.
• More than 3,800 citations and an h-index exceeding 30 according to major scientific databases.
• Author and co-author of numerous publications in leading journals, including Fuel, Energy Conversion and Management, Biochar, Case Studies in Thermal Engineering, and International Journal of Hydrogen Energy.
• Principal investigator or co-investigator of national and international projects funded by programmes such as GA CR, TA CR, COST, Interreg, and industry-oriented research initiatives.
• Founder of the ENET Centre and long-term contributor to the development of energy research infrastructure.
• Active collaborations with international organizations, including the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the European Energy Research Alliance (EERA).

Collaboration and Mentoring

Prof. Juchelková offers access to a highly interdisciplinary research environment connecting energy engineering, environmental technologies, electrical engineering, chemistry, data science, and applied research. Researchers working with her benefit from strong links to industry, public institutions, and international academic partners across Europe and beyond.

She has extensive experience supervising doctoral students, mentoring young researchers, and leading multidisciplinary teams. Her mentoring approach combines scientific rigor with practical relevance, encouraging researchers to develop innovative solutions that can contribute to the future of sustainable energy. She actively supports early-career scientists in publishing, project development, international networking, and building independent research careers with long-term societal impact.

Associate Professor and Researcher | Neutron Generator Laboratory | Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB – Technical University of Ostrava

KEY EXPERTISE

Nuclear Engineering • Radiation Detection • Space Radiation • Medical Physics • Radiation Imaging

Who He Is

Doc. Carlos Granja is an internationally recognized researcher in nuclear engineering and experimental nuclear physics. He is affiliated with the Neutron Generator Laboratory at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB – Technical University of Ostrava, where he develops advanced technologies for radiation detection, imaging, and characterization. His work combines fundamental research with practical applications in space exploration, medicine, and the nuclear industry.

His scientific philosophy is centered on using cutting-edge instrumentation and innovative measurement methods to better understand radiation and its interaction with matter. By connecting advanced detector technologies with real-world challenges, he contributes to the development of solutions that improve safety, scientific knowledge, and technological innovation.

Research Profile and Scientific Topics

Doc. Granja’s research focuses on the development of advanced methods for radiation detection, imaging, and particle tracking. His work explores how radiation can be measured, identified, and visualized with greater precision in complex environments, enabling new applications in space missions, medical diagnostics, and nuclear technologies.

A major part of his research is dedicated to radiation monitoring in space. He develops and applies advanced detector systems capable of measuring cosmic radiation aboard satellites and spacecraft, helping scientists better understand the radiation environment encountered during space missions and its impact on both equipment and human crews.

Another important area of his work is medical physics, particularly applications related to proton and ion-beam radiotherapy. His research contributes to improving radiation measurement and imaging techniques used in advanced cancer treatment. He is also involved in projects addressing radiation monitoring in accelerators, nuclear reactors, and other complex nuclear environments.

Current research activities include neutron detection and identification in mixed radiation fields, radiation imaging technologies, space radiation monitoring in low Earth orbit, and the development of next-generation detector systems for scientific and industrial applications.

Scientific Excellence

• Internationally recognized expert in radiation detection and imaging technologies.
• Active participant in projects supported by the European Space Agency (ESA).
• Long-standing collaborator of the CERN Medipix collaboration and contributor to advanced detector technologies.
• Extensive cooperation with leading institutions including CERN, Czech Technical University in Prague, the Czech Academy of Sciences, MedAustron, the German Aerospace Center (DLR), and the European Space Agency.
• Frequent participant in international scientific initiatives focused on space research, radiation monitoring, and advanced instrumentation.
• Research activities with strong technology-transfer potential and applications in industry, healthcare, and aerospace.

Collaboration and Mentoring

Doc. Granja offers access to specialized infrastructure for radiation detection, imaging, and nuclear measurements, including unique expertise in advanced detector technologies and instrumentation. His research environment combines nuclear engineering, physics, space technologies, medical applications, and data analysis within a highly interdisciplinary framework.

Through collaborations with leading research institutions across Europe, the United States, and Asia, he provides opportunities for international scientific cooperation and participation in cutting-edge research projects. He has experience supervising doctoral students and young researchers from both the Czech Republic and abroad and actively supports their integration into international research teams. His mentoring approach emphasizes scientific curiosity, practical impact, and collaboration across disciplines to address complex technological and societal challenges.

Professor of Applied Mathematics | Head of ModellingLab | Department of Applied Mathematics, VSB – Technical University of Ostrava

KEY EXPERTISE

High-Performance Computing • Numerical Mathematics • Scientific Computing • Optimization • Domain Decomposition Methods

Who He Is

Prof. David Horák is a leading Czech expert in applied mathematics, scientific computing, and high-performance computing (HPC). He serves as Professor at the Department of Applied Mathematics of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava and leads the ModellingLab research group. His work focuses on developing advanced mathematical algorithms capable of solving some of the most computationally demanding scientific and engineering problems.

Throughout his career, he has combined mathematical theory, algorithm development, and large-scale computing infrastructures to create efficient computational methods for real-world applications. He strongly believes that modern science is built on collaboration and that the most valuable asset of every research team is a new generation of talented young scientists. This philosophy is reflected in his commitment to mentoring and international scientific cooperation.

Research Profile and Scientific Topics

Prof. Horák’s research focuses on numerical mathematics, optimization, domain decomposition methods, and high-performance computing. He specializes in the development of scalable algorithms capable of efficiently solving large-scale scientific and engineering problems on modern supercomputers.

A major part of his work is dedicated to quadratic programming, FETI-based domain decomposition methods, massively parallel solvers, and advanced optimization techniques. His research addresses the challenge of how to efficiently solve complex mathematical models arising in engineering, physics, geosciences, and industrial applications while fully exploiting modern HPC architectures.

His current research interests include the adaptation of FETI methods for singular problems, the acceleration of optimization algorithms, communication-avoiding and communication-hiding techniques for parallel computing, and the development of next-generation solvers for large-scale numerical simulations. He is also actively involved in the development of PERMON, an open-source software library for quadratic programming, domain decomposition methods, and machine-learning applications.

Through the combination of mathematical innovation and computational performance, his work contributes to solving challenging problems ranging from engineering simulations to energy systems and radioactive waste management.

Scientific Excellence

• Internationally recognized expert in scientific computing and high-performance numerical methods.
• Author and co-author of numerous publications in numerical mathematics, optimization, and parallel computing.
• Co-developer of the PERMON library, an advanced framework for quadratic programming and domain decomposition methods.
• Participant in major European projects, including PRACE, EXA2CT, READEX, and EURAD.
• Recipient of the Babuška Prize for his doctoral dissertation and the Rector’s Award of VSB–TUO.
• Head of ModellingLab and leader of the PERMON research team.
• Long-term collaborations with leading institutions such as Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, CSC Finland, KAUST, Argonne National Laboratory, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Collaboration and Mentoring

Prof. Horák offers access to a unique research environment combining advanced mathematics, software development, and high-performance computing. Researchers benefit from direct access to modern computational resources, including the IT4Innovations National Supercomputing Center, one of Europe's leading supercomputing facilities.

His team collaborates with experts from academia, research institutes, and industry on challenging interdisciplinary projects involving engineering, computational sciences, and applied mathematics. He has extensive experience supervising bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral students and actively supports young researchers through international collaborations, research stays, conference participation, and involvement in scientific projects. His mentoring approach emphasizes teamwork, scientific excellence, and the development of independent researchers capable of addressing complex computational challenges on a global scale.

Associate Professor of Lighting Engineering | Department of Power Engineering, VSB – Technical University of Ostrava

KEY EXPERTISE

Lighting Engineering • Light Pollution • Smart Lighting • Road Safety • Urban Environment

Who He Is

Assoc. Prof. Tomáš Novák is a specialist in lighting engineering with expertise spanning outdoor lighting, smart illumination systems, visibility and safety in transportation, and the environmental impacts of artificial light. At the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science of VSB – Technical University of Ostrava, he focuses on research that combines technical innovation with societal and environmental responsibility.

His work is driven by the belief that light is far more than a technical utility—it influences safety, human health, energy consumption, urban development, and ecosystems. With a characteristic sense of curiosity, he often describes his research philosophy as a continuous search for “the light at the end of the tunnel,” reflecting both scientific inquiry and the pursuit of practical solutions.

Research Profile and Scientific Topics

Assoc. Prof. Novák’s research focuses on lighting technologies and their impact on people, infrastructure, and the environment. A central theme of his work is the study of light pollution and its effects on urban and natural ecosystems. He investigates how outdoor lighting systems can be designed to improve safety and functionality while minimizing negative environmental consequences.

A significant part of his research is dedicated to road and street lighting, particularly the relationship between visibility conditions and traffic safety. His work explores how lighting parameters influence human perception and decision-making in nighttime environments, contributing to the development of safer and more efficient transportation infrastructure.

Another important area of interest is smart lighting and intelligent lighting control systems. He develops and evaluates approaches that integrate advanced technologies, energy efficiency, and data-driven management into modern lighting solutions. His research also includes modelling of light propagation in outdoor environments and the assessment of artificial light in complex urban settings.

Because lighting affects a wide range of disciplines, his work naturally extends into collaboration with experts in civil engineering, biology, environmental sciences, public health, architecture, transportation, and urban planning.

Scientific Excellence

• Internationally recognized expert in lighting engineering and light pollution research.
• Chairman of the Czech Lighting Society (ČSO).
• Active member of numerous national and international professional bodies, including the International Commission on Illumination (CIE).
• Representative of the Czech Republic in CIE Division 4 and contributor to international technical committees focused on road lighting and outdoor illumination.
• Member of scientific, technical, and editorial boards dedicated to lighting technologies and standards development.
• Long-standing contributor to the advancement of lighting research, standardization, and professional practice in the Czech Republic and internationally.

Collaboration and Mentoring

Assoc. Prof. Novák offers access to a specialized lighting laboratory with unique experimental capabilities, including a 20-metre optical testing facility. His expertise in light pollution modelling and lighting performance assessment provides valuable opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration in both research and applied projects.

He maintains strong connections with international experts, professional organizations, and industrial partners in the lighting sector. Researchers working with him benefit from access to a broad network spanning academia, public institutions, and industry. He has extensive experience supervising PhD students and supporting young researchers in developing interdisciplinary projects, international collaborations, and innovative solutions that address technological, environmental, and societal challenges related to lighting.