The annual celebration of Dies academicus took place on Thursday afternoon in the Karel Engliš Auditorium in the Faculty of Law building. The MU Rector’s Award is given in several categories to personalities who have made a significant contribution to the development of Masaryk University in recognition of their outstanding achievements in science and research, sport, teaching, the arts and civic participation. Recipients can be individual MU students and staff, or entire teams of people.
In his opening speech, which is a regular part of the ceremony, the Rector, Prof. MUDr. Martin Bareš, Ph.D., emphasized the importance of the award itself within the Dies academicus. "We have gathered together to appreciate those who brign distinction to their faculty and our university. They are and can be an example for others and together they cultivate our environment. I thank and sincerely congratulate all the awardees," the Rector concluded his speech.
Professor Karel Šmejkal received the MU Rector's Award for Long-term Excellence in Research in the field of Natural Sciences and Medicine. He is an internationally recognised expert in the field of Phytochemistry, especially in the separation and identification of natural substances. His secondary focus is on bioassays of natural substances, especially anti-cancer (effect on cell cycle), anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial activity.
We would like to extend our warmest congratulations and appreciation for Professor Šmejkal, and wish him all the best in his further professional, as well as personal endeavours!
