We are pleased to inform you that our colleague Nikola Hanžek has successfully defended his dissertation and obtained the academic degree of Doctor of Science in the field of biology.

In his thesis entitled “Application of Environmental DNA analysis and Phytoplankton Morphological Analysis in Assessing the Ecological Status of Karst Lakes”,” Nikola focused on assessing the ecological status of karst lakes using these tools, which are important indicators of water quality. His research provides valuable insights into how environmental factors such as temperature, light and nutrients affect aquatic ecosystems, especially in the context of climate change.

The thesis is based on four scientific publications and its findings contribute to the development of more effective methods for monitoring and protecting vulnerable karst lakes that are part of our natural and scientific heritage.

This work was carried out under the mentorship of our colleague Igor Stanković, which further confirms the excellence and scientific level of our Institute’s staff.