Marek is a graduate of Nuclear and Particle Physics at FNSPE. After earning his PhD, his postdoctoral research took him to the Swiss university ETH Zurich, where he began his search for dark matter. Having recently returned to the Czech Republic, he is now designing new quantum detectors based on chiral phonons, which—thanks to their high sensitivity—could potentially capture this mysterious particle. For his research in quantum chromodynamics, he has received several awards from both Czech and international organisations. In addition to his research, he enjoys surfing, jazz guitar, and learning foreign languages.
- Why did you enrol at Jaderka?
I enjoyed physics and wanted to learn more about the field. I was actually afraid to go to Jaderka because I thought it would be too difficult for me, but a friend told me not to be afraid to give it a go. She pointed out that I hadn't actually failed out of anywhere yet, so I might as well try it for the first time! So, I went.
- Would you study here again?
Most definitely!
- What are you working on right now?
Designing new strategies for the search for dark matter. Specifically, I’m working on new, high-sensitivity quantum detectors that could potentially be capable of capturing it.
- Who would you recommend Jaderka to? And who do you think it is not for?
Recommended for: Anyone who likes to keep asking "but why?" until they reach the very boundaries of human knowledge.
Not for: People who don't enjoy thinking for themselves and prefer to just memorise facts.
- How did Jaderka help you in choosing a career?
Without my studies at Jaderka, I wouldn't have been able to pursue a career in science—which is a grand adventure I certainly wouldn't want to miss out on.
- What do you think is the biggest myth about Jaderka?
That it’s full of socially awkward, slightly antisocial people. I witnessed the exact opposite. I made many lifelong friends at university who are cheerful, communicative, and very pleasant. I don’t think I’ve had as much fun anywhere else as I did here.