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How would you explain your research and its benefits to a complete layperson?
I am developing a methodology for evaluating the strength of composites, which are combinations of at least two different materials that, together, exhibit better properties than either material alone. I am not inventing these composites; rather, I combine calculations and experiments to test their durability and determine their suitability for industrial use, for example, in aircraft, cars, bicycle frames, or wind turbine blades. If these components can be made lighter while remaining strong, the operation of all these machines and devices will also become more environmentally friendly. My methodology is intended to be as broadly applicable as possible across different practical fields.

Why did you decide to pursue a PhD instead of going straight into practice after your master’s degree?
I completed several internships and placements at companies. Still, I realized I wanted to be the one who actually comes up with ideas, be directly involved in development, research, and innovation, and help set the direction in the field of composites. Development is constantly moving forward. Whether it is composites, computational methods, 3D printing, nanotechnology, and so on, everything is interconnected. We already have incredible computing power today. What we were unable to calculate in the past can now be done in minutes or hours. That is something I really like, and I believe there is still plenty of work to be done for decades to come.

And why did you choose this particular topic?
I had already been working with composites and their applications during my master’s thesis. As a trainee at Škoda, I chose a project focused on reducing the weight of train handrails, and one approach was to make them from composite materials. Whether it is trains, cars, or aircraft, composite materials have the potential to make structures lighter and, with natural fibers, even more environmentally friendly. They are the future of lightweight, durable components. I was also strongly drawn to combining the virtual world with the real one, meaning linking simulations with experiments and conducting research in this way.

What does your typical workday as a PhD student look like?
Every day is completely different. For example, in the morning, I work on simulations - preparing geometry, meshing, or evaluating results. In the afternoon, I might be in the laboratory, with teaching or meetings in between. In the evening, I may be writing papers or brainstorming ideas for how to do things differently or better. I break up my work with coffee and sports to keep my mind running at full capacity.

What is PhD study like at the University of West Bohemia? What should someone know before applying?
It is essential to be as curious as possible and prepared for independence, because opportunities are available and motivation is the main factor being assessed. The research topic can also be adjusted if needed. It is also good to know that during a PhD, you need to teach, publish papers, attend conferences, continuously work on your research topic, and participate in projects. At the same time, it is possible to travel abroad. I, for example, had the opportunity to go to Abu Dhabi.

How much do finances influence students’ decisions about whether to pursue and complete a PhD?
I think quite significantly. In the past, doing a PhD was not financially worthwhile, but now at the University of West Bohemia, we have a minimum income threshold for PhD students. On top of that, there are additional incentive systems, so the final income can be quite good if the student is motivated and really works on it.

Do you think anything should be changed about how PhD studies are run?
I think it works quite well. However, I see a problem: ordinary people often do not really know what is happening at the university. There should be more outreach, not only presenting results, but also the topics people are currently working on, and it should be aimed more at the general public. I think this would attract not only potential PhD candidates but also new opportunities from companies and similar partners. We cannot really do this kind of promotion ourselves. Since we are in daily contact mainly with each other - researchers with researchers - we become somewhat detached from the outside world, and then explaining your topic, for example, at a family dinner, is not exactly easy.

Where do you see yourself after completing your PhD?
I want to stay in research and development. It does not necessarily have to be only composites, but I believe there is always something to invent in the field of virtual prototyping. I think it is a very good field, because the pressure for change, improvement, and further development is essential. It already makes sense to me simply because the work is constantly different. There are excellent opportunities at the faculty, and one of my options will definitely be to stay here at the Regional Technology Institute, the research center of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering.


Three words that describe a PhD:
Independence, motivation, and science.

The best advice from your supervisor:
Sometimes, too much detail is simply too much.

The biggest myth about PhD students:
A PhD is just another form of study. It really isn’t; it is a creative activity.

One thing you would change about PhD studies starting tomorrow:
Doctoral studies should be treated as full-time employment and, for example, counted as income when applying for a mortgage.


Are you pursuing a follow-up master’s degree and interested in science? Stay and discover. Applications for doctoral studies at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering can be submitted until 8 June 2026.