My name is Šárka Lísková; I come from Mělník and I’m a second-year student in the Computer Physics follow-up master’s programme at the Department of Laser Physics and Photonics (DLPP). I took a somewhat unconventional path by enrolling at Jaderka specifically for my follow-up master’s studies, having earned my Bachelor’s degree at the Technical University of Liberec.
I love trying new things and setting myself small personal challenges—which is probably why I’m at Jaderka now. I broadened my Computer Physics studies through the inter-university prg.ai Minor programme focused on ML and AI. Thanks to this, I’ve been able to take fascinating subjects outside of my home faculty—at the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics (CU), the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, and the Faculty of Information Technology.
In my spare time, you can find me in the pool, out for a walk, grabbing a coffee with friends, or at an interesting popular-science lecture.
- Why did you enrol at Jaderka?
By the time I was deciding on Jaderka, my previous studies had already made it clear that I wanted to move towards numerical simulations in the field of optics. Therefore, choosing the programme and the department was quite straightforward.
And why FNSPE specifically? I’ll admit that Jaderka was on my shortlist even when choosing my Bachelor’s degree. At the time, due to various circumstances, I chose differently, but the question “What is it actually like at Jaderka?” never quite left me. I was simply curious to see if I could handle it. It turns out I can, and I certainly wouldn’t change a thing.
- Would you recommend Jaderka? And who do you think it is not for?
Based on my own experience, I believe the most important thing for studying at Jaderka is the interest and determination to keep moving forward. Because I transferred from another university, I still have some gaps in my knowledge in certain areas compared to other students. However, this hasn't significantly limited me yet, mainly thanks to the friendly environment full of students and lecturers who are willing to lend a helping hand, provide materials, or offer a consultation.
Jaderka is definitely for everyone who has a passion for science and technology, even if they might doubt their own knowledge. At the same time, the studies are demanding, so if your only goal is to have letters before your name, FNSPE isn't the right place for you.
- What do you enjoy about the faculty and what is there to do here?
The faculty offers countless opportunities that you practically stumble upon at every turn –whether it’s excursions, internships, seminars, lectures, or workshops. In recent months, I’ve broadened my horizons at a workshop on image analysis in nuclear research and another on the basics of quantum programming.
That’s not even mentioning the trips and possibilities that open up if you proactively reach out to a lecturer. Being affiliated with the faculty also grants access to opportunities that the faculty isn't directly involved in, such as the prg.ai Minor programme.
There’s also a wide range of social and sporting activities—personally, I play recreational volleyball on Tuesday evenings thanks to the Tralalalala club, and I certainly won’t be missing Night at Jaderka.
- Do you take part in any activities outside of Jaderka?
Outside of Jaderka (but also thanks to the faculty), I’m currently gaining new experience through an internship at ELI Beamlines, which is linked to my Master’s thesis on lens-free imaging methods. I’ve also been collaborating long-term with the TOPTEC special optics research centre at the Institute of Plasma Physics (CAS) on optical system simulations. I also enjoy following the latest tech news and expanding my interdisciplinary knowledge.
Aside from research, I like to spend time outdoors, ideally in nature and staying active. Cooking is another big hobby of mine; I enjoy the preparation as much as the moments spent with family or friends when we can all enjoy the results together.