Hlavní stránka Info portálu ZČU

On May 6, the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen (UWB) signed a memorandum of understanding with Stevens Institute of Technology (SIT), a prestigious university from New Jersey. The document was signed by Vice-Rector for External Relations Jan Váně on behalf of UWB and by Dr. Constantine Chassapis, Vice Provost for Academics, for SIT.

“I’m proud that our university is hosting this event on the anniversary of Pilsen’s liberation. But I’m even more pleased that we are using this historical moment to look toward the future, through scientific cooperation,” said Jan Váně. “UWB contributes to the development of quantum technologies, from materials research to practical applications. This partnership is important to us not only scientifically, but also symbolically.”

“This is more than just a document on paper. It’s a framework we are already actively filling with content. In previous online discussions and during yesterday’s visit, we talked specifically about double-degree programs and potential joint research,” said Dr. Petr Kavalíř, Director of UWB’s New Technologies Research Centre (NTC) and Governmental Envoy for Quantum Technologies. “The initial connection was made by Minister for Science, Research and Innovation Marek Ženíšek during his visit to the U.S. last year. It quickly became clear that we have much to offer each other.”

The PILSEN 80 workshop was organized by NTC in collaboration with the American Center in Pilsen and UWB’s Faculty of Arts. Held in the West Bohemian Museum, the event focused on freedom, scientific cooperation, and transatlantic relations—from historical perspectives to current opportunities and challenges. The English-language program was open to experts, students, and the general public.

The event was opened by journalist Pavlína Horáková, followed by a keynote lecture from historian Dr. Roman Kodet of UWB’s Faculty of Arts. He outlined key moments of World War II, including the role of the Škoda armaments factory, the liberation of Pilsen by American and Belgian troops, and symbols still honoring U.S. soldiers today, such as the Native American logo on the Škoda Plzeň hockey team jerseys.

Talks by experts in scientific diplomacy also resonated with the audience. Former ambassador Michael Žantovský highlighted notable Americans of Czech descent who influenced politics, culture, and business. These included Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak, fatally wounded during an assassination attempt on President Roosevelt, and entrepreneurs such as Josef Kroutil, who helped shape Texas barbecue culture, and Ray Kroc, the visionary behind McDonald’s, whose family originated from Břasy near Rokycany. Žantovský also mentioned the critical support American communities offered to Czechoslovak dissidents during the Cold War.

The workshop also provided practical guidance for students. Daniela Lukavská from the American Center in Pilsen introduced study opportunities in the U.S., including Fulbright scholarships, and offered individual consultations during breaks. Dr. Chassapis presented specific opportunities for Ph.D. studies and collaboration with SIT.

Before the conference, UWB welcomed a visiting delegation from SIT led by Dr. Chassapis. The group included Dr. Cristina Comaniciu (Chair and Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering), Mr. Joe Huang (Graduate Admissions Manager), Dr. Xiaofeng Qian (Assistant Professor of Physics), and Dr. Chunlei Qu (Assistant Professor of Physics). They were joined by Professor Miloš Nesládek from Hasselt University and Mr. Jan Chmelík, Science and Innovation Attaché at the Czech Embassy in Washington, D.C.

During their visit, the delegation toured UWB’s key research centers—NTC, RICE, and NTIS—and held talks on student and research collaboration. Scientists from both institutions also gave presentations on quantum research and emerging technologies.