The event/breakfast was organized in alignment with the IUPAC Global Women's Breakfast 2026 (GWB) initiative that promotes a global network aimed at closing the gender gap in science. This year’s motto, “Many Voices, One Science,” highlights the importance of diversity, inclusion, and open dialogue in scientific research — values that are strongly reflected at FunGlass.

Unity in Diversity

The 'Many Voices, One Science' motto perfectly captures the daily reality at FunGlass, with researchers coming from 16 different countries and half of them being women. But the diversity is not just a statistic. FunGlass exemplifies how diversity in science – whether through gender, nationality, or background – strengthens research outcomes and creates a more vibrant/inclusive scientific community.

An Inspiring Morning Program

The event opened with a welcome speech by FunGlass Director Professor Dušan Galusek, who drew upon his personal meeting with renowned primatologist and anthropologist Dr. Jane Goodall to praise the invaluable contributions of women researchers at FunGlass. His reflections set an inspiring and thoughtful tone for the morning.

Attendees were then treated to two inspirational talks from accomplished women researchers within the FunGlass community:

‍Dr. Akansha Mehta, Researcher from the Department of Glass Processing, was a 2024 laureate of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science programme in Slovakia. She was also a finalist in the ESET Science Award in the category Outstanding Scientist in Slovakia under 35. She shared her scientific journey – emphasizing the importance of everyday routine.

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‍Dr. Zuzana Neščáková, Researcher from the Department of Biomaterials, has been featured by student science outreach highlighting women in science, such as the SAVIA “Her Science, Her Story” project, where students chose her as an inspiring scientist. She shared her perspective on building and navigating a career in science.

The program continued with a networking breakfast, providing researchers with valuable time to connect, exchange ideas, and build lasting professional relationships in a relaxed atmosphere.

Supported by GlaCerHub

The event was made possible through the support of the GlaCerHub project, which continues to support initiatives that promote inclusivity and collaboration in the scientific community. As FunGlass looks to the future, events like this networking breakfast underscore the center's commitment to fostering an environment where every voice is heard, valued, and contributes to advancing scientific knowledge.