IOCB Prague and Faculty of Science, Charles University Strengthen Partnership
The Faculty of Science, Charles University (CU Faculty of Science) and IOCB Prague have formalized their strategic partnership. Dean of the Faculty Vladimír Krylov and IOCB Director Jan Konvalinka signed a memorandum outlining extensive scientific and educational cooperation, as well as a joint approach to knowledge and technology transfer.
The partnership aims to connect cutting-edge research across a wide range of fields, from organic and medicinal chemistry to biochemistry, immunology, nanotechnology, and materials science. Both institutions plan to establish joint research facilities with shared instrumentation, both at their existing sites and in the Albertov Biocentre, currently under construction.
The collaboration will also focus on strong support for early-career researchers and the development of doctoral programs – including a planned joint doctoral school – and science outreach. Together, the two institutions aim to transfer research results into practical applications more effectively, launch spin-off companies, and coordinate their positions on legislation and the funding of Czech science.
“Our institutions have been close for a long time, but with this signature, we are giving our cooperation a clear framework and a new momentum. Science today simply cannot thrive in isolation. By pooling our expertise, equipment, and ideas, we will create an environment for students and researchers that rivals the best in the world. Personally, I am very much looking forward to bringing this collaborative spirit to the new Albertov Biocentre as well,” commented Vladimír Krylov, Dean of the CU Faculty of Science
“With a touch of exaggeration, one could say we now have a single task: not to waste time and to turn this agreement into concrete, outstanding projects. We share common roots with the CU Faculty of Science and are connected by many outstanding people. We want to show that a university and a research institute can work together – whether it's training talented doctoral students, establishing new start-ups, or advocating for a sound framework for research funding,” added Jan Konvalinka, Director of IOCB Prague.
To fulfill the memorandum, both institutions will establish a joint working group. Its members will oversee individual projects, share best practices, and regularly report to the Dean of the CU Faculty of Science and the IOCB Director.