My postdoctoral stay at Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Slovakia, from April 2023 to April 2026, was a highly valuable and formative period in my academic career.
During this time, I focused on the study of subterranean biodiversity, particularly the morphological and molecular diversity of cave-dwelling arthropods, with an emphasis on Collembola. The university provided a supportive and collaborative research environment that allowed me to develop both independent research and international collaborations. Through my work, I was able to conduct extensive field sampling in cave systems, primarily in Iran, and contribute to the taxonomic description of several new species.
One of the most important aspects of my stay at UPJŠ was the opportunity to collaborate with researchers from different countries and institutions. This not only strengthened my scientific work but also broadened my perspective on biodiversity research and international cooperation. The academic environment at the Institute of Biology and Ecology was open, constructive, and encouraging, which played a key role in maintaining consistent research productivity.
In addition to research activities, life in Košice was a very positive experience. The city offers a calm, safe, and friendly environment, and the university provides excellent support for international researchers. Over time, I was able to adapt smoothly to both academic and daily life in Slovakia. Alongside my research work, I also benefited from the cultural and social activities organized through the EURAXESS Welcome Office at UPJŠ. These included city tours, hiking trips, and various community events, which provided a great opportunity to explore Slovakia, meet people from different backgrounds, and experience the country beyond the academic environment. Together with my spouse, we actively participated in these activities, which contributed to a well-balanced and enriching stay. Overall, this combination of research environment and social integration made my experience at UPJŠ both productive and personally fulfilling.
Overall, my experience at UPJŠ contributed significantly to my professional development, both scientifically and personally. I would recommend this university as a supportive place for international researchers seeking to develop their careers in a collaborative and productive environment.
