Jan is an exceptional student who completed his Bachelor’s studies at the Department of Laser Physics and Photonics at FNSPE with honours. He is currently in his second year of Master’s studies, focusing on optics and electronics, and is involved in research on semiconductor nanostructures at the Institute of Photonics and Electronics of the Czech Academy of Sciences. Outside of his studies, he is a dedicated practitioner of the martial art Aikido.
My name is Jan Macháček and I am a second-year Master’s student at the Faculty of Nuclear Sciences and Physical Engineering at CTU (FNSPE). My studies focus on optics and electronics—fields that fascinate me due to their complexity and broad applications in modern science and technology. During my Bachelor’s degree, I began researching semiconductor nanostructures at the Institute of Photonics and Electronics (IPE) at the Czech Academy of Sciences. These nanostructures have dimensions of roughly one micrometre, which is about a hundred times thinner than a human hair. I defended my Bachelor’s thesis and passed my final exams with honours.
Studying at Jaderka has provided me with many unique opportunities and experiences. Besides conducting research at the IPE, I participated in a summer school on crystal growth in Warsaw (ESCG), where I broadened my horizons and gained valuable practical experience in materials research.
Alongside my studies, I am deeply involved in Aikido, which plays a vital role in my life. I have been practising Aikido for several years and recently passed my second dan exam, which was a significant personal milestone. Aikido helps me develop both physically and mentally. In addition to my own training, I also teach Aikido to children, which brings me great joy. Working with children is a challenge, but it is also a source of endless inspiration and satisfaction to see them enjoying themselves. I also co-organised a large Aikido seminar for children, which was an invaluable experience in terms of both organisation and leadership.
In my spare time, I enjoy cycling, computer games, and travelling. One of my favourite destinations is France, where I regularly go to attend Aikido seminars and further perfect my skills. These trips are an opportunity not only to train but to discover a new culture and find inspiration that motivates me in both my personal and professional life.
I am currently focusing on writing and defending my Master’s thesis, which is a crucial step towards completing my degree. In the future, I would like to pursue a career in scientific research, whether in the public or private sector. My goal is to contribute to the advancement of science and technology and to apply my knowledge to real-world projects that benefit society.
I believe my experience in Aikido has taught me discipline, patience, and precision—qualities I apply to my academic and scientific work. Balancing physical and intellectual development allows me to maintain a healthy lifestyle and constantly improve. Whether working in the lab or leading a training session, I always strive to approach things with enthusiasm. My long-term goals include advancing in the field of science while continuing to pass on my skills to the next generation, both in Aikido and in the scientific community.
- Why did you enrol at Jaderka?
Ever since I was a child, I’ve enjoyed discovering the world and wondering how things work. This curiosity naturally led me to physics and mathematics (my favourite subjects at secondary school). When choosing a university, I was left with two options: "Matfyz" (FMP at Charles University) or Jaderka. Of the two, Jaderka felt like a slightly smaller, more pleasant, and friendlier environment—perhaps even a bit more practically oriented.
- Would you recommend Jaderka? And who do you think it is not for?
I would recommend Jaderka to anyone interested in physics and mathematics who is looking for a deep understanding of these disciplines. It’s been my experience that Jaderka is mainly for those with a passion for natural sciences who are determined to stick with it, even if it means pulling an all-nighter over textbooks. Let’s be honest: studying here is hard. It requires effort, hard work, and steady nerves (mostly steady nerves). Being a genius in maths doesn’t mean much if you aren’t prepared to spend a week straight revising for an exam. That’s why I think Jaderka isn’t for lazy geniuses, but rather for enthusiastic hard-workers (though being a genius who works hard is an advantage!).
- What do you enjoy about the faculty and what is there to do here?
So many things. The faculty offers various Erasmus opportunities abroad, and students can collaborate with top research centres like IPE, ELI, or HiLASE. We also go on unique excursions and exchange trips. Then there are the Student Union events, such as the "Night at Jaderka," the Všejaderná fúze Ball, careers fairs, and regular activities like pub quizzes, board game nights, and pizza parties.
- Do you have any hobbies outside of Jaderka?
My biggest hobby is definitely the Japanese martial art Aikido, which I practise actively while also leading classes for children.
- What is student life like at FNSPE?
The best word to describe it is "diverse." As I mentioned, there are so many official and unofficial events that student life covers everything from a night at the pub to visiting a nuclear reactor. Of course, there are the less pleasant parts, like late nights studying or writing lab reports, but in the end, you even have fond memories of those midnight coffee sessions.
We would like to thank the Institute of Photonics and Electronics of the Czech Academy of Sciences for providing the laboratory for the photoshoot. Photo: David Březina