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Quantum technologies are opening up new possibilities, but they also raise many questions that scientists are still working to answer. Marián Janík’s research focuses on semiconductor quantum dots, where he investigates the properties of individual electrons and photons. His work contributes to a better understanding of quantum systems and could help pave the way for new technologies, including quantum computers.

Advancing this kind of research takes more than good ideas. It requires talented people, excellent research facilities, and the right conditions for scientists to pursue challenging questions and push the boundaries of knowledge.

From world-class research abroad to advancing quantum science at home

Marián began focusing more intensively on quantum technologies during his PhD studies at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA). His doctoral research produced significant results, including publications in the prestigious scientific journal Nature Communications.

After gaining experience in a leading international research environment, he decided to bring his expertise back to Slovakia. He is now a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute of Electrical Engineering of the Slovak Academy of Sciences and also teaches at the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava.

His ambition is to establish a laboratory and research group focused on quantum technologies in Slovakia. He wants not only to advance his own research, but also to create opportunities for other young scientists, foster collaboration with international research teams, and help build a strong community of experts in Slovakia.

However, returning home requires more than personal motivation and scientific expertise. It also depends on access to high-quality infrastructure, collaboration opportunities, and stable conditions that enable researchers to pursue their research goals over the long term.

fellowQUTE: Investing in people and the future of quantum Technologies

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 programme provides financial support to QUTE.sk partner institutions to employ postdoctoral researchers at career stages R2 and R3. Its goal is to enable researchers to develop their own research projects, access high-quality research infrastructure, establish new collaborations, and gain experience that supports their further professional growth.

Support at this stage of a researcher’s career is particularly important because it can help bridge the transition from independent research to building a research team and developing long-term research projects. In this way, fellowQUTE supports not only individual researchers, but also the growth of expertise and research capacity in Slovakia.

Marián Janík is one of the first researchers supported by fellowQUTE. His work at the Institute of Electrical Engineering of the Slovak Academy of Sciences illustrates how targeted support can help bring expertise gained abroad into Slovakia’s research environment and strengthen national capabilities in a strategically important field.

Advancing quantum technologies requires a long-term vision. Beyond excellent research itself, it is essential to create an environment where new experts can develop, international collaborations can flourish, and research teams can grow and compete on the global stage.

Quantum physics in the spotlight

This year’s ESET Science Award gala held special significance for us for another reason. The international committee was chaired by Serge Haroche, a French physicist and the 2012 Nobel Prize laureate in Physics. He received the prize for developing groundbreaking experimental methods to measure and manipulate individual quantum systems without destroying them. These advances have laid important foundations for modern quantum science and research into quantum technologies. We are therefore particularly pleased that quantum physics was also brought into the spotlight at an award ceremony celebrating scientific excellence.

During the gala, Haroche praised the high standard of research conducted by Slovak scientists and the diversity of fields represented by the finalists. He also emphasised the importance of long-term support for science and its contribution to society. His remarks further highlight the value of initiatives that help talented researchers advance their work and create the conditions for future scientific discoveries.

Science needs talent and trust

Marián Janík returned to Slovakia with a clear ambition: to continue his research in quantum technologies and build his own research group. But his vision goes beyond his own career. He also wants to create opportunities for other researchers and help establish Slovakia as a place where ambitious scientific projects can thrive and make an international impact.

His achievement is a reminder that scientific progress takes more than talent and good ideas. It also requires dedication, perseverance and long-term support. Initiatives that recognise outstanding researchers and showcase their work help raise the profile of science and highlight its importance to society.

At QUTE.sk, we believe that the future of quantum technologies depends not only on cutting-edge laboratories, but above all on the people behind the research. Through fellowQUTE, we aim to support talented researchers, strengthen Slovakia’s quantum research community and create better conditions for scientific excellence to flourish.

We warmly congratulate Marián Janík on receiving the 2026 ESET Science Award and wish him every success as he continues his research and works towards building a strong quantum research team in Slovakia. We would also like to thank ESET for its continued support of scientific excellence and for helping bring the achievements of outstanding scientists to public attention.