Full-time study

4 years

prof. Ing. Miloslav Pekař, CSc.

Chairman :
prof. Ing. Miloslav Pekař, CSc.
Councillor internal :
prof. Ing. Martina Klučáková, Ph.D.
prof. RNDr. Ivana Márová, CSc.
prof. Ing. Stanislav Obruča, Ph.D.
prof. Ing. Adriána Kovalčík, Ph.D.
prof. Ing. Martin Weiter, Ph.D.
Councillor external :
prof. RNDr. Zbyněk Zdráhal, Dr.
prof. Mgr. Marek Koutný, Ph.D.
prof. RNDr. Jiří Doškař, CSc.
prof. RNDr. Jaroslav Turánek, CSc.

The main objective of the study is to train highly educated professionals in the field of biophysical chemistry, intended for independent creative, scientific and research activity. The objective of biophysical chemistry, as a field of science, is to provide physical-chemical and biochemical explanations of functions and activity of biological systems. The student is taught to independently formulate a scientific problem, suggest hypotheses and methods for its solution and perform experimental or theoretical trials to verify it. An integral part of the studies is a training of skills for critical assessment of published scientific information and abilities to express themselves, in writing and verbally, in English professional language.
The study program focuses on an independent creative activity in the field of biophysical chemistry, includes both, theoretical and experimental work and prepares the graduates for scientific and research activity. The studies are realized in cooperation with a foreign partner in the form of a “joint degree”. The key parts of studies are physical-chemical and biochemical rudiments of biological processes and biomaterials. These are further developed according the selected theme of a thesis in the field of biocolloid chemistry, nanobiotechnology, biophysical instrumental techniques, immunochemistry, technology of biomaterials. Students enroll subjects, theoretical and laboratory activities in the way to meet requirements of the FCH BUT and a specific foreign partner.
The focus of doctoral degree programs provides graduates with acquisition of theoretical knowledge and experimental erudition in basic and applied chemistry fields (physical chemistry, chemistry and technology of materials, macromolecular chemistry, food science and biotechnology and chemistry and technology of environment). Students’ qualification works are then oriented into fields that are dealt by academic and scientific research workers of the faculty, especially with the support of research projects. The faculty has contemporary technology equipment acquired inter alia within development and grant programs (e.g. the OP VaVpl project of Material research center), which usage is ensured by key academical workers of individual facilities. Thanks to this, the basic prerequisites for professional activity of doctoral candidates are created.

A graduate of the program is a professional with high competences, able to participate in highly qualified scientific research activity based on physical-chemical and biochemical principles and processes, especially at universities and Academy of Science, research institutions, but also in the industrial research. The graduate is capable of independent creative activity in the field of biophysical chemistry. Thanks to the wide range of uses of biophysical chemistry, graduates can very well employ not only in the fields of biophysical-chemical research, but also in other fields of healthcare or studies of living systems. Thanks to the compulsory internship and the obligation to present results in international magazines, they can also find employment at similar positions abroad.
The main objective of the study is to train highly educated professionals in the field of biophysical chemistry, with sufficient experiences from abroad, intended for the independent creative, scientific and research activity. The graduate is able to independently formulate a scientific problem, suggest hypotheses and methods for its solution and perform experimental or theoretical trials to verify it. An integral part of the studies is a training of skills for critical assessment of published scientific information and abilities to express themselves in common and professional English language, in writing and verbally, and work in an international team.
Pursuant to the European Qualifications Framework, the outcomes of the study in doctoral degree study program meet the highest level – the EQF 8 level, which characterizes graduates as highly educated individuals in the field, eventually in the interdisciplinary problematics, who masters specialized and highly advanced techniques, are able to independently solve problems, show authority, innovative potential and academic and professional integrity, develop new processes for the work, studies or research.

The main objective of the Biophysical chemistry program is to train highly educated professionals in the field of biophysical chemistry, intended for independent creative, scientific and research activity. The objective of biophysical chemistry, as a field of science, is to provide physical-chemical and biochemical explanations of functions and activity of biological systems. The student is taught to independently formulate a scientific problem, suggest hypotheses and methods for its solution and perform experimental or theoretical trials to verify it. An integral part of the studies is a training of skills for critical assessment of published scientific information and abilities to express themselves, in writing and verbally, in English professional language.
Within this program, professionals with high competences will be trained, who will be able to participate in highly qualified scientific research activity based on physical-chemical and biochemical principles and processes, especially at universities and Academy of Science, research institutions, but also in the industrial research. The graduate is capable of independent creative activity in the field of biophysical chemistry and has sufficient foreign experiences. Thanks to the wide range of uses of biophysical chemistry, graduates can very well employ not only in the fields of biophysical-chemical research, but also in other fields of healthcare or studies of living systems, in the Czech Republic or in international teams.
Graduates of the doctoral studies has prerequisites to find employment at institutions of applied or basic nature, both in scientific-pedagogical and managerial positions. They can also find employment in an industrial praxis at highly specialized technological positions, acquired skills and competences allows them to be at managerial and controlling functions. They can apply in all above stated fields without problems, both in the Czech Republic and abroad.

Requirements of the study are generally set by the BUT Study and Examination Regulations. Specific study obligations are determined in the individual study plan. The realization of the double-degree international study program of Biophysical Chemistry is performed within the close cooperation with the partner university – University of Huelva, Spain, and with other foreign experts and experts from the application field. An individual study plan is made for every student with precise definition of responsibilities in individual countries.
A student enrolled to study at the FCH BUT enrolls and passes exams from one compulsory and at least two compulsory electives with respect to the focus of his / her thesis. He / She can sign up for the state doctoral examination only after passing all examinations given by his / her individual study plan. Prior to the state doctoral exam, the student elaborates a treatise on dissertation thesis in which he / she describes objectives of the work in detail, thoroughly evaluates the state of knowledge in the field dealt within the dissertation, eventually nature of methods that will be used for solving. The defense of the treatise, which is opposed, is a part of the state doctoral exam. In the next part of the exam, the student has to show thorough theoretical knowledge of the field. The state doctoral exam is in the verbal form and consists of thematic areas related to compulsory theoretical subject of Biophysical Chemistry and compulsory electives.
The student signs-up for the dissertation thesis defense after passing the state doctoral examination and after meeting the conditions for graduation, such as participation in lectures, at least six-month long study or work internship abroad, at least one oral presentation in English (conferences, workshops…) and meeting the below stated conditions of the creative activity.
For Spain students, conditions given by the UHU regulations are binding, they do not contain partial exams or the state doctoral exam. It is necessary to elaborate a dissertation thesis, publish its results and submit the thesis supplemented by publications to defense. The graduate acquires the Dr. degree. Czech students at the UHU are offered practical courses that are alternative to the practical courses at the FCH.
Within the double degree program, it is possible to gain a degree at both universities in the case that the student meets the binding conditions given by the regulations of corresponding university and perform a part of the study at a partner university. Regarding to the fact that at the UHU no partial exams are required, the student can choose from several practical courses as an alternative to the Czech courses.

The realization of the double-degree international study program of Biophysical Chemistry is performed within the close cooperation with the partner university – University of Huelva, Spain, and with other foreign experts and experts from the application field. An individual study plan is made for every student with precise definition of responsibilities in individual countries.
The set of subject reflects current development of the interdisciplinary area of biophysical chemistry including the specter of its practical applications. The study follows the rules of the parent university, including admission procedure conditions and the students’ obligations.
For students enrolled to study at FCH BUT, rules and conditions of the individual study plans creations and all responsibilities related to study are given by the BUT Study and Examination Regulations, Article 32, and they are specified by the relevant faculty directive. Upon the commencement of the study, the content of the study and related creative activities are determined, together with at least three study subjects that are compulsory (for all students, the Biophysical Chemistry is compulsory), related activities (foreign, eventually domestic, internships, participation in conferences) and teaching practice. The time schedule of all activities for the first grade, overlooking the years to come, is determined as well. Compliance with the individual study plan is annually assessed by the student and the supervisor, and subsequently it is discussed by the subject committee that approves it.
During the first five semesters, a doctoral candidate passes exams from the one compulsory subject and two compulsory electives and intensively focuses on the study and analysis of knowledge in the field determined by the topic of the dissertation thesis and its publication. By the end of the third year of study, the doctoral candidate passes the state doctoral exam, by which he proves a broad overview and deep knowledge of the field related to the dissertation thesis topic. In the third and fourth grade of study, the doctorand candidate continues his / her research activities, publishes obtained results and elaborates his / her dissertation thesis. In the fourth year of study, doctoral candidates submit the unfinished dissertation thesis to their supervisor by the end of the winter examination period. The finished dissertation thesis shall be submitted by the end of the 4th grade of study. One part of the dissertation thesis are results published in international impacted magazines, with at least one publication of which the doctoral candidate is the first author.
For Spain students, the binding conditions are given by the UHU rules, they do not contain partial exams, neither the state doctoral exam. It is necessary to elaborate a dissertation thesis, publish results and submit the thesis supplemented by publications for defense. The graduate acquires the Dr. degree. Czech students at the UHU are offered practical courses that are alternative to the practical courses at the FCH.
Within the double degree program, it is possible to gain a degree at both universities in the case that the student meets the binding conditions given by the regulations of corresponding university and perform a part of the study at a partner university. Regarding to the fact that at the UHU no partial exams are required, the student can choose from several practical courses as an alternative to the Czech courses.

The condition for to study is a certificate of health fitness to study. The study is connected with work in chemical and technological laboratories and operations, where students have access to wide range of chemical substances, they work with it and are in a direct contact with them. Within the laboratory practice, not only the health of the student can be endangered, but the student can also endanger the health of other people. Therefore, in addition to general health fitness, the illnesses and diseases states, which can be in contradiction to work with chemical substances, or cause certain limitations for this work, are taken into account during the assessment of health fitness to study. For more information about illnesses and diseases, see the electronic application or the website for an applicant at http://www.fch.vut.cz/cs/zajemce-o-studium.html

Program in general continues master study programs in chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology, eventually biology or medicine. Regarding programs realized at the Faculty of Chemistry, the program continues master study programs of Chemistry for Medical Application, Consumer Chemistry and Food Science and Biotechnology.

1. Biomedical applications of non-equilibrium plasma

   Low temperature plasma generated by plasma jet systems has a significant potential in biomedical applications focused on sterilisation or wound healing stimulation. The aim of the work is evaluation of plasma effects at various conditions on real biological materials (microorganisms, skin cells, etc.).

   Tutor: Krčma František, prof. RNDr., Ph.D.

2. Biomedical applications of plasma systems

   Low temperature plasma generated by plasma jet systems has a significant potential in biomedical applications focused on sterilisation or wound healing stimulation. The aim of the work is evaluation of plasma effects at various conditions on real biological materials (microorganisms, skin cells, etc.).

   Tutor: Kozáková Zdenka, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

3. Development of bioelectronic devices based on organic semiconductors

   The thesis is focused on the study of the relationship between the structure of materials for use in bioelectronic devices and their optical, optoelectric and electrical properties. The biocompatibility of these materials and the effect of their modification will be also studied. A typical device will be sensor of living cells physiological functions and platform for influencing cell behavior. The study will include preparation of model devices and their characterization.

   Tutor: Vala Martin, prof. Mgr., Ph.D.

4. Effect of soil conditioners on the soil physico-chemical and microbiological characteristics

   Definition and optimization of a set of physico-chemical and (micro)biological methods and procedures suitbale for evaluation of the effect of soil conditioners (biochar, hydrosorbent, lignite and others) on the basic soil and soil organic matter characteristics. Determination of the specific action of selected conditioners on soil properties, of conditioners optimum application form and dosage in relation to their exploitation in future conventional agriculture.

   Tutor: Klučáková Martina, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

5. Encapsulation of microorganisms for application in food industry, agriculture and medicine

   This Ph.D. thesis focuses on utilization of hydrogel matrices based on selected biopolymers for encapsulation of industrially relevant microorganisms for their application in food industry and agriculture. Apart from hydrogel-forming components, the matrices will be also functionalized by selected components providing desirable transport, mechanical and other additional properties. The focus will be directed on development and optimization of preparation protocol for hydrogel matrices, viability, physiological state and stability of entrapped microbial cells as well as rheological and other chemico-mechanical properties of prepared matrices.

   Tutor: Obruča Stanislav, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

6. Fluorescence spectroscopy in the study of properties of associative colloidal systems

   This work is focused on the use of stationary, time resolved and microscopic fluorescence techniques in research of physical properties of associative colloids. The information obtained will be correlated with technological parameters of associative colloids such as solubilization and solubilization capacity, stability, size distribution, etc. The study will acquire not only skills in various techniques of fluorescence spectroscopy, but also in comparative techniques such as light scattering techniques.

   Tutor: Mravec Filip, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

7. Hydration of biocolloids

   Study of hydration of several biocolloids (e.g. chitosan, hyaluronic acid, humic substances) by means of several methods chosen on the basis of students' review, study of phenomenons related to interactions of biocolloids with water and aqueous solutions (dissolving, dissociation).

   Tutor: Klučáková Martina, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

8. Characterisation and application of plasma activated water

   Nowadays, plasma activated water is a hot topic both in biomedical applications thanks to its high oxidation and sterilisation potential, and in agriculture as an alternative method of fertilisation due to the enhanced amount of nitrogen species. The aim of the work is characterisation of plasma activated water prepared by various plasma systems from the viewpoint of physical, chemical as well as biological or ecotoxicological parameters, and evaluation of its utilisation in praxis.

   Tutor: Kozáková Zdenka, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

9. Mechanical properties of biohydrogels on the macro- and microlevel

   Study of rheological properties of hydrogels relevant in biological applications, especially models of or real extracellular matrices. These properties will be studied by the techniques of both traditional rheometry and microrheology, links and differences between rheological data on the macro- and microlevel will be analyzed. The ultimate goal is to gain knowledge on causes of differences in the mechanical properties on both levels and their consequences for the functioning of biological environment.

   Tutor: Pekař Miloslav, prof. Ing., CSc.

10. Mobility and reactivity of pharmaceuticals in soil ecosystems

    Study of interactions of hormones and drugs with soil organic matter, stability of formed complexes. Study of transport of hormones and drugs in model and real soils. Study of relationships between reactivity, mobility and bio-availability of pharmaceuticals.

    Tutor: Klučáková Martina, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

11. Modelling of transport phenomena in biological environment

    Modelling of nano- and microparticles diffusion in simulated biological environment, especially in hydrogels. Thesis tasks will be solved using COMSOL packet. The tasks include also construction of realistic structural model of the environment and modelling support of microrheological experiments in hydrogels.

    Tutor: Pekař Miloslav, prof. Ing., CSc.

12. Plasma polymerization of layers for biomedical applications

    Preparation of layers in the atmospheric pressure discharges. Optimization of deposition conditions (monomer flow, substrate temperature ...). Characterization of layers by physical and biological tests.

    Tutor: Mazánková Věra, doc. Mgr., Ph.D.

13. Plasma processing of nanofibers targeted to bioapplications

    The goal of this thesis is to understand and control biocompatibility, bioactivity and antibacterial properties of polycaprolactone nanofibrous mats modified by metal ion implantation, deposition of metal-containing films and by plasma polymerization enabling immobilization of antifungal and antibacterial drugs, and ECM proteins.

    Tutor: Zajíčková Lenka, doc. Mgr., Ph.D.

14. Preparation and application of complex microbial and plant extracts in food and cosmetics

    This thesis is focused on preparation and characterization of natural microbial, algal and plynt extracts. The main goal is to evaluate a complex biological effect of these extracts and their mixtures and application potential to some food and cosmetic products. Extracts will be stabilized by encapsulation into different types of organic micr- and nanoparticles and fibres. Characterization of application forms will be performed by microscopy, chromatography and spectoscopy. As a part of thesis development of methods for analysis of active substances as well as testing biological effects and safety (EFSA rules) will be solved. Long-term stability in model and real foods and model physiological conditions will be evaluated. Cytotoxicity and biocompatibility will be studied using cell cultures.

    Tutor: Márová Ivana, prof. RNDr., CSc.

15. Preparation of bioactive packaging materials for food chemistry and study of diffusion of bioactive compounds

    The work will aim to design sources from which it would be possible to isolate active substances to prepare bioactive packaging. Resources should originate from waste management in the food industry. The methodologies used in this work will include 1) extraction of active substances, purification, and determination of their composition and effect. 2) Incorporation of isolated materials into polymers used in the packaging industry. 3) Synthesis or preparation of a polymer that is not yet commonly used in the food industry, but would be suitable for functional packaging materials that would be edible or at least biodegradable. 4) Determination of physicomechanical properties of packaging, including gas permeability and commitment of the release and diffusion of active substances into the environment, especially into packaged food. 5) Evaluation and design of model bioactive packaging material for various types of food.

    Tutor: Kovalčík Adriána, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

16. Soil hydrocolloids

    Isolation of sol and gel fractions from real soil samples, their physico-chemical characterization with a special focus on the real existence oh the humic supramolecular structures in the sol fraction. The ultimate goal is to obtain new data for the ongoing discussion on the character of humic substances in real environment and to compare obtained characteristics with those which were historically obtained after the laboratory isolation of humic acids from natural matrices.

    Tutor: Pekař Miloslav, prof. Ing., CSc.