Six outstanding young scientists from the Silesian University of Technology received scholarships from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education. On 9 September, the Vice Rector for Science and International Cooperation, Prof. Sebastian Werle met with them.

Out of 1,711 applications submitted in the competition for ministerial scholarships, the Minister of Science and Higher Education Marcin Kulasek awarded scholarships to 228 young scientists. Six representatives of the Silesian University of Technology were on the list of awardees. These are: Alina Brzęczek-Szafran, PhD, Eng.; Karolina Chodura, PhD, Eng. Arch.; Agnieszka Korus, PhD, Eng.; Jakub Ochmann, MSc Eng.; Adam Skowronek, PhD, Eng.; and Ida Skubis, PhD.

"This is a very important stage for our scientists. I had the pleasure of being a laureate of this competition - it is very difficult because it includes applications from all scientific disciplines. However, the winners derive many tangible benefits from it – including prestige, but also financial support, which is significant nowadays and allows them to pursue their scientific careers more freely," said Vice Rector, Sebastian Werle. "It is also important for our University that we have outstanding young scientists. In this way, we can show the next generation that it is worth participating in such competitions and that the success rate is high in our country."

 In order to receive the scholarship, winners had to demonstrate significant scientific achievements. The applications were evaluated using the scoring method within individual disciplines of science and art. Two separate rankings have been created in each discipline:

• first - doctoral degree holders, academic teachers without a doctoral degree, and those preparing a dissertation in the extramural mode,
• second – for doctoral students.

The scholarships were awarded for a period of three years, and their monthly amount is over PLN 5,000, which supports the early-career researchers’ budgets.

"This is a grat distinction, and I am delighted that my achievements so far have been recognised. Of course, it is also a motivation for further work and great support," said Karolina Chodura, PhD, Eng. Arch., from the Faculty of Architecture. "In my daily work, I focus on architectural design in the cultural context and the protection of cultural heritage, particularly in Silesia, but also beyond its borders."