Marián Janík of the Institute of Electrical Engineering of the Slovak Academy of Sciences has received the ESET Science Award in the “Outstanding Scientist Under 35” category for his work on semiconductor quantum dots and the properties of individual electrons and photons. His doctoral research in Austria culminated in a publication in Nature Communications before he returned to Slovakia to contribute to fellowQUTE, the Slovak National Center for Quantum Technologies, the company says. Janík aims to establish a quantum technologies laboratory in Slovakia, encouraging collaboration and opportunities for young scientists.
Janík’s Quantum Dot Research Earns ESET Science Award
His research centers on understanding the fundamental properties of these quantum dots, nanoscale semiconductors with potential applications in advanced computing and secure communication. The award acknowledges not only Janík’s current work but also his earlier achievements, including a publication detailing his doctoral research at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) in Nature Communications. The ESET Science Award committee, chaired by 2012 Nobel laureate in Physics Serge Haroche, specifically highlighted Janík’s contributions to building a stronger quantum research presence within Slovakia.
The fellowQUTE programme was established to support the development of internationally competitive postdoctoral positions in quantum technologies in Slovakia. It is part of the activities of QUTE.sk, the Slovak National Center for Quantum Technologies, which aims to strengthen Slovakia’s research ecosystem and create an environment where talented scientists can build their careers.
The concluding paragraph of the article warmly congratulates Marián Janík on receiving the 2026 ESET Science Award and wishes him every success as he continues his research and works towards building a strong quantum research team in Slovakia, according to fellowQUTE. This award highlights a deliberate strategy to cultivate quantum research capabilities within Slovakia, using the expertise of scientists who have gained experience at leading international institutions.
ESET’s support helps bring the accomplishments of scientists like Janík to wider public attention, as the company recognizes the importance of encouraging both research and the people behind it. Janík’s work promises to contribute to the growing body of knowledge surrounding quantum dots and their potential to revolutionize future technologies.
fellowQUTE Program Facilitates Return of Quantum Scientists
The fellowQUTE program actively cultivates a research environment designed to attract scientists back to Slovakia, as evidenced by the recent ESET Science Award presented to Marián Janík. FellowQUTE’s investment extends beyond funding, focusing on establishing internationally competitive postdoctoral positions within Slovakia’s quantum technology sector. The program’s core philosophy, as stated on QUTE. sk, centers on the belief that sustained advancement relies on supporting the researchers themselves, not simply providing advanced laboratories.
This approach aims to strengthen the national quantum research community and encourage conditions conducive to scientific excellence. “Through fellowQUTE, we aim to support talented researchers, strengthen Slovakia’s quantum research community and create better conditions for scientific excellence to flourish,” the program’s representatives explain.
Stable research conditions and collaborative opportunities are critical for attracting scientists to return home, according to the program’s principles.
Haroche Commends Slovak Quantum Research & Long-Term Support
His presence as chair of the international committee highlighted the award’s growing recognition within the international scientific community and validated the quality of research emerging from the region. Haroche’s commendation extended beyond acknowledging current achievements, emphasizing the critical need for sustained investment in scientific endeavors and their broader societal impact, the company says. The long-term vision required for advancing quantum technologies necessitates more than just excellent research; it demands an environment that supports the development of new experts and facilitates international collaboration, according to Haroche’s remarks during the award gala.
This perspective directly supports the goals of QUTE. The program’s structure aims to empower researchers to pursue independent projects, access advanced infrastructure and forge new partnerships to accelerate their professional growth. Marián Janík’s decision to return to Slovakia, following research experience, exemplifies this commitment to building a robust national quantum research ecosystem.
He intends to not only continue his work on quantum technologies but also to establish a research group, extending the impact beyond his individual career. His comments highlight the value of supporting researchers and encouraging an environment where sustained progress can occur, rather than focusing solely on individual projects.
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