Ostrava University offers ideal conditions for research, says Hungarian neurologist Istvan Szegedi
Hungarian neurologist Dr. Istvan Szegedi returned to Ostrava University for a long-term research stay after his first experience in 2020. “I felt that Ostrava University offers ideal conditions for translational neuroscience and cerebrovascular research,” he says.
I am a neurologist, assistant professor, and clinical researcher at the Department of Neurology of the University of Debrecen, and at the same time a postdoctoral researcher at Ostrava University. I obtained my medical degree in 2016 with summa cum laude honors, and five years later I completed my doctoral studies focused on biochemical and imaging predictors of successful reperfusion after thrombolysis. In 2022, I received the Promotio sub auspiciis Praesidentis Rei Publicae award for my academic achievements, which I greatly value.
Alongside my clinical and teaching work, I am actively involved in national and international research groups and professional societies focused on stroke and hemostasis. I focus on translational research and international collaboration, which is crucial for this field. Another important area of my interest is neurosonology—especially carotid ultrasound and vascular imaging in cerebrovascular diseases.
I was actually happy to return to Ostrava. I had already spent a month here in February 2020 under the supervision of Professor Školoudík, and that stay made a strong impression on me. I was very impressed by the high professional level of the department, the friendly and collaborative atmosphere, as well as the top-class clinical and research infrastructure. I felt that Ostrava University offers ideal conditions for translational neuroscience and cerebrovascular research. My current thirty-month stay is therefore a natural continuation of the collaboration that had already been established—an opportunity to develop it further while also gaining new experience in advanced neuroimaging and clinical research methods.
The main topic of my research is carotid artery atherosclerosis and its role in stroke prevention and vascular risk assessment. In Ostrava, we are conducting a population-based screening program using ultrasound examinations, through which we monitor the prevalence and risk factors of carotid atherosclerosis and seek to identify individuals at high vascular risk. Using multimodal imaging methods—ultrasound, CT, and MRI—we also analyze markers of unstable atherosclerotic plaques, such as intraplaque hemorrhage, lipid necrotic core, or inflammation.
In collaboration with the Institute for Research and Applications of Fuzzy Modeling, we incorporate artificial intelligence methods into data analysis, which significantly improves risk prediction and patient stratification. In addition, I participate in other neurosonology studies, for example research on the prevalence of the so-called carotid web in the general population as well as in patients after stroke, and in projects focused on post-stroke rehabilitation and on so-called stroke mimics. I am also involved in research on neurodegenerative diseases, which allows me to broaden my professional perspective beyond purely vascular issues.
Very well. The local environment has a clearly positive impact on my research. The healthcare system is well organized, and collaboration between clinical and academic institutions works excellently, which significantly facilitates patient recruitment and data collection. I also appreciate the support for interdisciplinary collaboration and the open, collegial atmosphere that makes it easier to share ideas and flexibly adjust research plans.
My main mentor is Professor Školoudík, with whom I work closely. He is an exceptionally knowledgeable and highly supportive supervisor—I have learned a great deal from him not only professionally but also on a personal level. I am also a member of the Atherosclerosis Research Working Group and collaborate with Dr. David Pakizer, a talented and very helpful young postdoctoral researcher from his team. On several projects I work as well with Professor Bar and Vice-Dean Ondřej Volný, who focus on stroke research.
I consider the research environment in Ostrava to be exceptionally well organized and accommodating. The laboratory facilities are excellent, as is access to clinical data, and the support of administrative and technical staff makes my daily work much easier.
Honestly, I did not experience any culture shock. Czech and Hungarian mentalities are similar in many respects. I found accommodation easily with the help of a local real estate agency, and the workplace support system works great—administrative staff are very helpful and quick to assist with almost anything. I usually get around the city by car, but I have also used public transport several times and was pleasantly surprised by its reliability and clarity. You could say that everyday life here is very comfortable.
Definitely yes. My family and I really enjoy discovering the Moravian-Silesian Region. We like the atmosphere of Ostrava′s city center as well as Poruba, and we often go on short trips into nature. One of our favorite places is Bolt Tower and the entire industrial complex—it is truly a unique space. We have also visited several beautiful historical landmarks, such as Raduň Chateau, Hradec nad Moravicí, and Opava, which made a strong impression on us. Last year, because of my wife′s pregnancy, we did not manage to attend local festivals, but we hope to make up for it this year.
Thank you very much! Becoming a father is a wonderful and life-changing experience. Since the grandparents live relatively far away, it can sometimes be challenging, but my wife and I work as a well-coordinated team. We are gradually finding our own daily rhythm, and so far we are managing everything well. Fortunately, I am able to balance my professional responsibilities and family life quite successfully. Paradoxically, this new role has given me even greater motivation and a new perspective not only on my work but also on my personal life.
Definitely yes. I would be very happy to continue collaborating with Ostrava University even after my postdoctoral stay ends. The work we are doing together here is highly valuable, and I see strong potential for a long-term partnership between our universities. At the same time, I would be glad if, in the future, opportunities could be created for other colleagues from Debrecen to undertake research stays in Ostrava as well. A distance of approximately 500 kilometers—roughly a six-hour drive by car—is more than manageable for maintaining close professional and scientific collaboration.
MSK Vouchers for Universities – a grant program of the Moravian-Silesian Region that supports excellent research at universities in the region through financial support for scientists. The aim is to create postdoctoral positions and excellent research teams using European funds from the Just Transition Operational Programme.
Updated: 17. 02. 2026
