The appointment certificates were presented to the new associate professors by MU Rector Martin Bareš. In his speech, he highlighted the range of disciplines and areas of research that are cultivated not only at Masaryk University, thereby fulfilling the idea of the ‘universitas’ – a concept of approach to education, science and the cultivation of society across a wide range of fields. He thanked the newly appointed associate professors for their work and efforts, and emphasised that they would now bear even greater responsibility for the education of students and future researchers. “I believe that Masaryk University, through its internal rules, structure and culture, provides ample scope for the development of the talent we have in Czech higher education,” said Rector Martin Bareš. He also wished the newly appointed associate professors every success in continuing to do what they love.
Speaking on behalf of the new associate professors, surgeon Luboš Nachtnebl commented with great insight and humour on the sometimes arduous journey towards a successful habilitation. He expressed his gratitude for the ceremonial occasion, but also pointed out that one realises one has written hundreds of pages of work that almost nobody has read, spent hundreds of hours in windowless rooms, can describe one’s research in English in a matter of minutes, yet at home cannot even manage to mow the lawn. He noted that the habilitation process is a team effort involving a whole host of people – he thanked the faculties, colleagues, students and, above all, his loved ones for their support and for “occasionally reminding us that there is life beyond the university”. “Masaryk University is a place that not only has a rich tradition but also the great courage to look ahead, and that is why it is an honour for us to be part of it. It is a space where ideas are born, where people learn to think, to find connections and to explain things – such as why an article isn’t finished yet.”
The newly appointed associate professors are:
Associate Professor Tomáš Bárta
Associate Professor Bárta completed his habilitation in the field of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology. He focuses on the investigation and treatment of visual impairments.
In his habilitation thesis, Bárta explores the use of retinal organoids as an innovative three-dimensional model for studying the development, physiology and pathology of human vision. Using stem cells, he simulates the complex cellular structure of the retina, which enables the investigation of genetic mechanisms and the testing of new therapeutic strategies without the limitations arising from a shortage of primary tissue. The research focuses in particular on the role of microRNAs in regulating the development of the retina and on the effect of light stimulation on molecular processes in retinal cells. Through his methodological approaches and international collaboration, he has significantly raised the standard of Czech biomedical science within a European context. Tomáš Bárta is the head of the ‘Stem Cell Biology and Vision Research’ research group at the Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, and Brno University Hospital.
Associate Professor Marek Dostál
Associate Professor Dostál obtained his habilitation in the field of Radiology. He specialises in magnetic resonance imaging, particularly diffusion-weighted imaging and methods for eliminating interfering artefacts in images.
In his habilitation thesis, he aims to optimise data acquisition and image analysis, placing particular emphasis on the diagnosis of the cervical spine and spinal cord. In his work, he combines theoretical foundations with practical approaches to solving problems such as the suppression of image artefacts or semi-automatic tissue segmentation. Colleagues in the field regard his work as highly beneficial to modern clinical radiology, as it offers universally applicable solutions for improving the quality of cervical spine examinations. Dostál is recognised for his ability to apply theoretical knowledge to clinical practice and also for his active participation in international research into multiple sclerosis. He works at the Institute of Biophysics and the Department of Neurology at the Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, and Brno University Hospital.
Associate Professor Luboš Nachtnebl
Associate Professor Nachtnebl obtained his habilitation in the field of Surgery. He focuses primarily on knee, hip and shoulder joint replacement.
In his habilitation thesis, Associate Professor Nachtnebl examines the use of all-polyethylene tibial components in total knee replacements. He combines an analysis of the specialist literature with extensive clinical research involving nearly five hundred patients and experimental modelling of biomechanical loading on bone. The results confirm the excellent long-term survival of the implants, which achieve comparable or better outcomes than more expensive metal variants. His work emphasises, above all, the cost-effectiveness of these components, which, whilst maintaining high quality and a low complication rate, enable more efficient treatment of a larger number of patients. Colleagues in the field appreciate the direct contribution of the habilitation thesis to modern orthopaedic practice. Luboš Nachtnebl serves as deputy head of the First Department of Orthopaedics at Masaryk University and St Anne’s University Hospital in Brno.
Associate Professor Věra Špatenková
Associate Professor Špatenková obtained her habilitation in the field of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care Medicine and Algesiology. She focuses on research into preventive factors influencing the prognosis of patients in neuro-intensive care.
In her habilitation thesis, she analyses the effectiveness of a multimodal preventive protocol, the long-term implementation of which has led to a demonstrable reduction in the incidence of hospital-acquired infections among patients with brain and spinal disorders. Colleagues in the field particularly highlight the high clinical value of the studies presented and their direct impact on improving both the safety and quality of healthcare provision. Her work is recognised for its methodological rigour, the extensive dataset collected over a period of ten years, and the successful integration of scientific findings into everyday medical practice. Věra Špatenková is the Head of the Intensive Care Unit at the Neurocentre of Liberec Regional Hospital.
Associate Professor Tereza Dědinová
Associate Professor Dědinová obtained her habilitation in the field of Czech Literature. She specialises in environmental humanities, speculative fiction and cognitive literary studies.
In her habilitation thesis, she examines speculative fiction in the context of the environmental crisis and the Anthropocene. In this extensive work, the author analyses how literary narratives shape our perception of the relationship between nature and culture, as well as the environmental crisis. Colleagues in the field highlight the work’s interdisciplinary scope, its ability to critically synthesise modern global trends in research on speculative fiction, and its precise treatment of theoretical concepts such as ecocriticism and climate fiction. The thesis is regarded as a major contribution to understanding how narratives serve as an ideological laboratory for exploring the future of our planet. Tereza Dědinová is based at the Institute of Czech Literature, Faculty of Arts, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Zuzana Fonioková
Associate Professor Fonioková completed her habilitation in the field of Czech Literature. Her research focuses on narratology, issues relating to autobiographical and autofictional narrative, and contemporary prose.
In her habilitation thesis, Associate Professor Fonioková examines the evolution of autobiographical writing. In her work, she explores the transition from the traditional understanding of biographical genres to a modern conception of writing about one’s own life and the concept of autofiction, drawing on interdisciplinary links between literary studies, narrative psychology and cultural studies. Her work examines how literary strategies engage with the relationship between lived experience and narrative, drawing on examples from works by both international and Czech authors. Colleagues in the field particularly highlight her ability to analyse identity as a dynamic construct and appreciate her capacity to view writing about one’s own life as a form of cultural resistance or self-presentation in the digital age. Zuzana Fonioková serves as Deputy Head of the Department of Czech Literature at the Faculty of Arts, Masaryk University, and plays a significant role in the ‘Literature and Intercultural Communication’ study programme.
Associate Professor Vojtěch Juřík
Associate Professor Juřík obtained his habilitation in the field of Psychology. He specialises in experimental cognitive psychology and the methodology of psychological research.
In his habilitation thesis, he focuses on the use of immersive virtual reality as a key methodological tool in psychological research and practical applications. The author develops a comprehensive theoretical framework that links mental simulations with technologically advanced virtual environments, thereby resolving traditional contradictions between the control of experimental conditions and their real-world validity. In the practical section of the thesis, he documents the benefits of virtual simulations in areas such as the treatment of phobias, education and the modelling of crisis evacuations using artificial intelligence. His work represents a fundamental contribution to the modern transformation of psychology, setting standards for future research into human–machine interaction. Vojtěch Juřík works at the Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Jana Mikulová
Associate Professor Mikulová obtained her habilitation in Classical Philology. Her research focuses on Late Latin, direct speech, grammaticalisation and pragmatics in Latin.
Her habilitation thesis is a seminal linguistic study focusing on the hitherto neglected development of the marking of direct speech in Latin from the Classical period through to late antiquity. Through a diachronic analysis of an extensive corpus of prose texts, Associate Professor Mikulová examines how the syntactic and semantic strategies for introducing quotations changed over the centuries. In her work, she analyses in detail various types of verbal and non-verbal markers and examines their position within sentence structure in the context of the contemporary practice of reading aloud. Her work is highly regarded for its integration of cognitive and syntactic methods, thereby filling a significant gap in Latin philology. Jana Mikulová serves as Deputy Head of the Department of Classical Studies at the Faculty of Arts, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Roman Švaříček
Associate Professor Švaříček obtained his habilitation in the field of Pedagogy. He specialises in the philosophy of education, dialogic teaching and the professional development of teachers.
In his habilitation thesis, he systematically examines classroom communication at lower secondary level and ways of supporting teachers’ professional development. Through the analysis of video recordings of lessons and school-based ethnographic research, he investigates the impact of the cognitive complexity of teachers’ questions, feedback and visual stimuli on pupils’ learning. In his research, he also focuses on teachers’ professional development, changes in teachers’ professional identity, and finding ways to promote higher-quality teaching through reflection and dialogue. Through his research, he has contributed to the development of the renowned Brno school of qualitative research in educational sciences and has long focused on applying research findings to address current challenges in education. Roman Švaříček is Head of the Department of Educational Sciences at the Faculty of Arts, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Eva Skopečková
Associate Professor Skopečková obtained her habilitation in the field of Foreign Language Didactics. Her research focuses on the use of literary texts in a foreign language, issues relating to the mother tongue and translation, and interdisciplinarity in foreign language teaching.
In her habilitation thesis, she focuses on the issues surrounding and the role of the mother tongue in foreign language teaching, specifically the teaching of English, and the closely related topic of the optimal integration of translation and the act of translating into foreign language teaching. In translation theory, she explores the functional approach to translation and seeks ways to integrate it effectively into language teaching, as well as into the training of future foreign language teachers. Colleagues in the field commend her choice of a topic that has so far been little explored and her exceptional integration of theory and practice. Her research has considerable potential to contribute to the development of the field of foreign language didactics. Eva Skopečková works at the Department of English Language at the Faculty of Education, University of West Bohemia in Plzeň.
Associate Professor Jana Zerzová
Associate Professor Zerzová completed her habilitation in the field of Foreign Language Didactics. She specialises in the development and assessment of intercultural communication competence and in providing guidance on foreign language learning for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
Her habilitation thesis presents innovative research focused on inclusive education in the field of foreign language learning for people with autism spectrum disorder in the Czech context. It analyses the experiences and attitudes of learners, parents and teachers, thereby providing a comprehensive overview of the strengths and specific difficulties faced by these pupils when acquiring a foreign language. The main contribution of the thesis is the proposal of a teaching model that offers specific strategies for adapting the classroom environment, the teaching process, assessment and collaboration with teaching assistants. The resulting study serves as a key resource for the pedagogical practice of foreign language teachers, based on respect for neurodiversity within mainstream education. Jana Zerzová is a member of the Department of English Language and Literature at the Faculty of Education, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Jakub Hlávka
Associate Professor Hlávka obtained his habilitation in the field of Public Economics. He specialises in health economics, with a particular focus on innovation in healthcare and ageing.
In his habilitation thesis, he focuses on the economic sustainability of modern healthcare and the financing of costly innovative therapies, including in the fields of oncology, neurology and cardiovascular treatment. In his work, the author analyses various payment models and pricing strategies designed to strike a balance between supporting medical progress and ensuring the availability of treatment for patients. In his research, he utilises a wide range of methodologies, from theoretical modelling of market interactions to empirical studies of the impact of clinical guidelines on drug development, particularly in the field of Alzheimer’s disease. Colleagues in the field appreciate the work’s international scope as well as its practical contribution to healthcare policymakers. Jakub Hlávka is Head of the Institute for Health Economics, Policy and Innovation at the Faculty of Economics and Public Administration, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Katarína Šipulová
Associate Professor Šipulová obtained her habilitation in Political Science. Her research focuses on the interaction between the judiciary and politics, with a particular emphasis on regimes in Central and Eastern Europe.
Her habilitation thesis examines the crucial role of the judiciary and individual judges in the protection and restoration of democratic regimes. The author analyses the functioning of the judiciary across three phases of the political cycle: during democratic transition, during the decline of democracy, and subsequently during its reconstruction. The thesis emphasises that it is not only formal institutions that are key to the resilience of the system, but above all internal integrity, informal relationships and a deeply rooted judicial culture. Colleagues in the field particularly highlight her extensive empirical research focusing on Central and Eastern Europe, which bridges the disciplines of legal science, political science and sociology. Katarína Šipulová works at the Institute for Judicial Studies and the Department of Constitutional Law and Political Science at the Faculty of Law, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Lenka Vochocová
Associate Professor Vochocová completed her habilitation in the field of Media and Journalism Studies. She specialises in online political participation, as well as gender media studies, the political economy of communication and the theory of public spheres.
In her habilitation thesis, she focuses on persistent gender inequality in the field of online political participation. Using a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, the author refutes the original optimistic assumptions about digital equality and demonstrates how online toxicity and structural barriers continue to disadvantage women. The thesis not only analyses the causes of women’s exclusion from public discourse, but also examines their strategies for resilience and their participation in alternative digital spaces. This habilitation thesis is regarded as a major contribution to understanding how gender hierarchies shape contemporary digital democracy. Lenka Vochocová is a member of the Department of Media Studies at the Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University in Prague.
Associate Professor Jan Čech
Associate Professor Čech obtained his habilitation in the field of plasma physics. He specialises in modern plasma technologies and materials processing.
In his habilitation thesis, he focused primarily on two innovative systems: the coplanar barrier discharge (DCSBD) for rapid surface treatment of materials, and the large-volume liquid purification technology (CaviPlasma), which effectively combines an electrical discharge with hydrodynamic cavitation. Colleagues in the field highlight his contribution to time- and space-resolved optical diagnostics, which has enabled the dynamics of discharges to be described in detail. Furthermore, his work is valued for its ability to bridge the gap between basic research and practical application, as evidenced by the international patents he has been granted and the Dean’s Award from the Faculty of Education at Masaryk University. Together with his entire research team, Associate Professor Čech has thus significantly pushed the boundaries of modern plasma technologies. Jan Čech works at the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Vocational Education at the Faculty of Education, Masaryk University, and in the Applied Plasma Chemistry research group at the Institute of Physics and Plasma Technologies, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Jiří Kohoutek
Associate Professor Kohoutek obtained his habilitation in the field of Molecular Biology and Genetics. He specialises in the regulation of transcription.
In his habilitation thesis, he examines the significance of specific cyclin-dependent kinases and their regulatory partners in the process of transcription. Using molecular, biochemical and genetic methods, he elucidates how these complexes control transcription and ensure genome stability. For his research, he utilises unique mouse models which have confirmed the indispensability of these factors for successful embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. The findings of his work have significant implications not only for basic research but also for oncology, particularly in the development of new therapies utilising the concept of synthetic lethality. Colleagues in the field highlight his ability to bridge the gap between basic research and clinical applications. Jiří Kohoutek works at the Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, and also serves as Vice-Dean for Research at the Faculty of Science, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Petr Králík
Associate Professor Králík obtained his habilitation in the field of Molecular Biology and Genetics. He specialises in microbiological diagnostics.
His habilitation thesis focuses on the innovative use of PCR methods in microbiological diagnostics. In his research, the author focuses primarily on the detection of the pathogen Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis, having developed methods for its precise quantification and for distinguishing between live and dead cells in complex samples such as milk or faeces. The thesis also presents the advanced multiplex diagnostic technologies xMAP and MOL-PCR, which enable the simultaneous identification of a wide range of foodborne pathogens and biological threats. The habilitation thesis demonstrates a contribution to the standardisation of molecular methods used in veterinary medicine and food safety control. Petr Králík works at the Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, and at the Institute of Hygiene and Technology of Food of Animal Origin and Gastronomy, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno.
Associate Professor Ondřej Mulíček
Associate Professor Mulíček completed his habilitation in the field of Social Geography and Regional Development. He focuses on issues relating to settlement systems, spatio-temporal rhythms and everyday mobility.
In his habilitation thesis, he conducts an in-depth examination of space and time through the lens of everyday activities in an urban environment. He analyses how daily routines are intertwined with the physical layout of cities. In his work, he highlights the concept of the ‘chronopolis’, which explains the functioning of the city as a system coordinated through shared rhythms and temporal structures. He further combines philosophical perspectives with modern data from digital platforms and tracks the transformations of urban life in the context of global crises and technological development. This research, based on the example of Brno, thus offers an original theoretical framework for understanding how human activity, in turn, shapes social and temporal order. Ondřej Mulíček is based at the Institute of Geography, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Robert Osman
Associate Professor Osman obtained his habilitation in the field of Social Geography and Regional Development. He specialises in the geography of time, the geography of disadvantage and inclusive design.
In his habilitation thesis entitled ‘Crip Cities: Nonlinear temporalities of Post-socialist Cities’, he reframes the concept of the post-socialist city from a purely spatial entity to a set of complex temporal problems. The thesis critically examines non-linear temporalities and challenges the traditional notion of linear transformation and ‘catching up’ with the West through the decolonisation of modernity’s time. In it, the author links the theory of the post-socialist city with concepts of postcolonialism and crip temporalities, thereby demonstrating how diverse temporalities – ranging from public transport and shop opening hours to the everyday spatio-temporal experiences of people with disabilities – collectively shape the urban environment. This approach enables him to view the city as a dynamic clash of distinct temporal registers, which are inscribed in both its material form and its institutional plans. Robert Osman is based at the Institute of Geography, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Simon Karl-Maria Rasso Rittmann
Associate Professor Rittmann completed his habilitation in the field of Microbiology. He specialises in the physiology and biotechnology of microorganisms, specifically archaea.
In his habilitation thesis, he focuses on the biology of archaea and their practical applications in biotechnology. The thesis explores how these extremophile organisms can be used for CO₂ sequestration, the production of biofuels, or the production of valuable substances such as lipids and amino acids. Colleagues in the field highlight the author’s extensive experience in leading research projects and his ability to link basic research with industrial applications. They further agree that he is an internationally recognised expert who makes a significant contribution to the development of methods for the genetic manipulation of microbes and the optimisation of their cultivation, and a key figure in modern research with great potential for addressing environmental challenges and driving technological innovation. Simon Karl-Maria Rasso Rittmann works at the Department of Functional and Evolutionary Ecology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Vienna in Austria.
Associate Professor Michal Zajaček
Associate Professor Zajaček obtained his habilitation in the field of Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics. His research focuses on high-energy astrophysics, particularly galactic nuclei.
His habilitation thesis focuses on the study of active galactic nuclei and their evolution. This work makes a significant contribution to our understanding of the relationship between luminosity and the size of regions surrounding black holes, thereby refining measurements of their mass across the universe. Experts in the field highlight his ability to link detailed observations of the centre of our Galaxy with the analysis of distant quasars, which serve as key tools for modern cosmology. They also commend his discovery of the influence of interstellar dust on the accuracy of cosmological measurements and his confirmation of the evolutionary link between active and quiescent galactic nuclei. Michal Zajaček contributed to the discovery of the first binary star near the supermassive black hole at the centre of the Galaxy. He works at the Institute of Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Luca Fumarco
Associate Professor Fumarco obtained his habilitation in the field of Economics. His research focuses on the economics of labour, education and healthcare, particularly discrimination in various types of markets, such as the labour, housing and services markets.
In his habilitation thesis, he examines how demographic characteristics influence inequality in access to resources and overall quality of life. He uses experimental methods to uncover discrimination in the field of mental health, where he identifies barriers particularly affecting transgender people and ethnic minorities. He also analyses the effects of relative age among adolescents. He combines field experiments with extensive international data to identify causal links between innate traits and social disadvantage. The findings of the study highlight the need for systemic reforms in both healthcare and education to ensure equal opportunities for marginalised groups. Luca Fumarco is based at the Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics and Public Administration, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Dušan Mladenović
Associate Professor Mladenović obtained his habilitation in the field of Business Economics and Management. His research focuses on digital marketing communication, with particular emphasis on the dissemination of information among consumers.
His habilitation thesis presents a comprehensive analysis of the phenomenon of electronic word-of-mouth, which the author divides into three key dimensions: searching for, sharing and passing on information. The thesis covers a wide range of topics, from the impact of digital media on healthcare management during the pandemic to the revolutionary concept of metaWOM in the metaverse. This research provides valuable insights for marketing practice and public policy-making, whilst emphasising the importance of online visibility and consumers’ psychological motivations. Colleagues in the field appreciate his ability to innovatively link established theories with modern technological trends. Dušan Mladenović works at the Department of Business Economics and Management, Faculty of Economics and Public Administration, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Marta Gimunová
Associate Professor Gimunová obtained her habilitation in the field of Kinesiology. Her research focuses primarily on the sports physiology of women and the biomechanical analysis of movement.
In her habilitation thesis, she focuses on the as yet little-studied influence of the phases of the menstrual cycle on postural stability and gait parameters in healthy women. Through systematic reviews and her own research, the author examines the impact of hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle on postural stability and gait, including in situations requiring the simultaneous performance of cognitive tasks. Her thesis also analyses the relationship between the age at menarche and these fundamental aspects of locomotion, thereby providing a comprehensive perspective on female physiology in relation to movement. The research has practical implications for optimising women’s sporting performance and training, as well as for injury prevention. Marta Gimunová works at the Department of Physical Activity and Health, Faculty of Sports Studies, Masaryk University.
Associate Professor Iva Šeflová
Associate Professor Šeflová obtained her habilitation in the field of Kinesiology. She specialises in the field of biomedicine, with a focus on motor competence, psychomotor skills and physical literacy within the general population, school education, competitive sport and elite sport.
In her habilitation thesis, she focuses on the conceptualisation, operationalisation and implementation of motor competence within the Czech cultural context. She highlights the alarmingly low level of motor competence among Czech schoolchildren and the trend for this to decline as pupils get older. Within the discipline, she is particularly recognised for her development of standardised diagnostic tools and proposals for intervention measures. Her work effectively links academic research with practical applications to support the development of children’s motor skills. Iva Šeflová works at the Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Humanities and Education, Technical University of Liberec.
Associate Professor Jana Vyskotová
Associate Professor Vyskotová obtained her habilitation in the field of Kinesiology. She focuses on fine motor skills and communicative motor skills at the intersection of kinesiology and clinical rehabilitation.
Her habilitation thesis systematically addresses the development and diagnosis of fine and communicative motor skills. The thesis links theoretical knowledge of the phylogenetic and ontogenetic development of the human individual with practical needs in the fields of rehabilitation. It analyses in detail the relationship between manipulative skills and the ability to communicate, emphasising their common neurophysiological basis. Colleagues in the field appreciate the comprehensive overview of standardised testing methods presented, which enable the objective assessment of motor functions in both healthy individuals and patients with disabilities. Jana Vyskotová serves as Deputy Head of the Institute of Clinical Rehabilitation at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Palacký University in Olomouc.