Young scientists from the Silesian University of Technology receive START scholarships from the Foundation for Polish Science
Four young scientists from the Silesian University of Technology are among the winners of the START program of the Foundation for Polish Science. The scholarship award ceremony took place on June 13, 2026, at the Wawel Royal Castle in Krakow. During the event, the scholarship holders were accompanied by the Vice-Rector for Student Affairs and Education of the Silesian University of Technology, Prof. Anna Chrobok.
Scholarships were awarded to:
Dr Eng. Anna Wolny (chemical technology); M.Sc. Eng. Łukasz Jakubski (chemical technology); M.Sc. Eng. Maksymilian Jędrzejowski (geophysics); Dr Hamed Ghiasirad (mining and power industry)
Additionally, Dr Eng. Anna Wolny was among three people whose research achievements were assessed by the competition reviewers as outstanding (chemical and materials sciences).
The START program is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs in Poland aimed at young researchers at the beginning of their scientific careers. Scholarships may be applied for by people with significant scientific achievements documented by publications and conducting research in Poland. This year's competition received over 800 applications.
Winners receive a scholarship of PLN 30,000, while honourable mention recipients receive PLN 38,000.
Profiles of the winners:
Dr Eng. Anna Wolny conducts research at the intersection of chemistry, materials engineering and biotechnology. Her work focuses on the development of intelligent biocatalysts for sustainable chemical processes. The technologies she develops are intended to support modern industry by reducing energy consumption, reducing waste, and reducing the use of hazardous substances in the production of chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
– The START scholarship from the Foundation for Polish Science is an important confirmation for me of the value of my work so far and an additional motivation to pursue ambitious research goals in the future. It is an honour to be recognized by such a prestigious organization – emphasizes Dr Eng. Anna Wolny.
M.Sc. Eng. Łukasz Jakubski researches polymer membranes containing magnetic powders used for pervaporative dehydration of ethanol used in sustainable biofuel production. Currently, he is developing an innovative method of producing them using an external magnetic field, which allows for the control of the structure and properties of the obtained materials.
– The START FNP scholarship is an incredible motivation for me and will certainly be the fuel for further development. I am extremely happy to be among this year's laureates – says M.Sc. Eng. Łukasz Jakubski.
M.Sc. Eng. Maksymilian Jędrzejowski conducts research related to the radiocarbon method, which allows the age of organic materials to be determined based on the measurement of radiocarbon content. This technique is used in archaeology, geology, paleo chronology and environmental research, among others. The scientist is involved in both improving measurement techniques and using the radiocarbon method to solve specific research problems.
– Receiving the START FNP scholarship is a great honour for me and a motivation for further scientific development – emphasizes M.Sc. Eng. Maksymilian Jędrzejowski.
The fourth laureate of the START 2026 program associated with the Silesian University of Technology is Dr. Hamed Ghiasirad. As a research assistant and investment scenario analyst in the Net-Zero Poland project, he conducts research on the costs of future energy systems. His work focuses on identifying the most cost-effective pathways to achieving climate neutrality and net-zero emissions by 2050.
– I had the honour of receiving the START 2026 diploma during this ceremony. It was a proud moment when I could stand shoulder to shoulder with other laureates from our University and celebrate this academic achievement in the beautiful interiors of Wawel Royal Castle – emphasizes the laureate.
START scholarships from the Foundation for Polish Science are awarded to the most talented young researchers under the age of 30. The program supports individuals who distinguish themselves by the high quality of their research and significant scientific achievements. The success of the laureates from the Silesian University of Technology confirms the high level of research conducted at the University and the potential of the young generation of scientists who develop innovative solutions that respond to the contemporary challenges of science, technology and the economy.
For more info go to the website: https://fnp.org.pl/component/fnp_programs/program/start
Photos by Anna Wolny and the Foundation for Polish Science
