Slovak Universities Cooperate with Imperial College London in Nuclear Technology

Bratislava, 23 January (TASR) - The Slovak University of Technology (STU), Comenius University (UK) and the Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAV) are strengthening their cooperation with Imperial College London in the field of nuclear technology, the Education Ministry has told TASR, stressing the growing demand for nuclear experts across the EU. The cooperation is expected to cover international research projects, new research initiatives and the education of students, doctoral candidates and young researchers. "The cooperation with Imperial College London is a result of our efforts to systematically connect Slovak universities and research institutions with the world's top institutions. We are thus strengthening not only education and research in Slovakia, but also Europe's capacities in nuclear technology," stated Education Minister Tomas Drucker (Voice-SD). This effort began with Drucker's working meetings in the United Kingdom, and it entered the next phase over recent days when representatives of Imperial College London paid a visit to Slovak universities. With SAV also in attendance, the talks focused on specific areas of joint research, education and talent mobility in the field of nuclear technology, as well as the preparation of a joint study programme and cooperation in doctoral studies and academic mobility. More specifically, stated Comenius University's Vice-rector for Science and Doctoral Studies Jozef Masarik, the cooperation also includes nuclear chemistry and radioecology. STU is focusing mainly on materials research, mechanical engineering and other technical disciplines that are key to the development of nuclear energy. Michael Bluck, professor of nuclear engineering at Imperial College London, noted that both countries have a great deal of experience in nuclear energy, while their approach is both strategic and systematic, whether it's with regard to the maintenance and modernisation of an existing nuclear fleet, the construction of new reactors or addressing the long-term management of radioactive waste. He added that the visit to Slovakia "clearly showed how many common challenges and opportunities we share, which makes cooperation between our countries natural and very beneficial". Imperial College London was placed second globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026. It's currently ranked as the best university in Europe and is considered to be the European equivalent of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Specialising in science, engineering, medicine and business, it can boast of fourteen Nobel Prizes and three Fields Medal winners. jrg/df