The 18th annual “Slovak Woman of the Year 2026” reader poll culminated in a gala evening at the Slovak Philharmonic in Bratislava on June 26, 2026. During the gala evening, 12 awards were presented in individual categories, along with one grand prize—”Absolute Slovak Woman of the Year“—which recognizes the overall winner across all categories. The title of “Absolute Slovak Woman of the Year 2026” was awarded to Associate Professor Andrea Straková Fedorková, former Vice Dean for Science and Research at the Faculty of Science of P. J. Šafárik University in Košice, a successful young scientist working at the Institute of Chemistry at the Faculty of Science, P. J. Šafárik University in Košice.
As a recognized expert in the field of physical chemistry and materials research, she has achieved results that have transcended Slovakia’s borders and earned her respect both at home and abroad. Her scientific work, her ability to bridge the gap between research and practice, and her active involvement of students in scientific projects represent values that the jury recognized as exceptional and awarded her the Slovak Woman of the Year award in the science and research category.
For over 15 years, the associate professor Strakova Fedorkova has been engaged in electrochemistry, nanotechnology, and research on battery systems. She is the chair of the Slovak Battery Alliance, an organization dedicated to developing the country’s battery ecosystem. Her expertise has contributed to the creation of battery prototypes with unique designs. She is the co-author of six patents in the field of advanced battery technologies, the author of more than 160 publications, an evaluator of international projects, and a reviewer of scientific papers and publications.
Another significant affirmation of its scientific excellence is the award of a million-grant for the SUNFLOWERS Technology and Innovation Consortium (TIK), supported by the European Recovery and Resilience Plan for the Slovak Republic, which focuses on research and development in the field of battery technologies. The project strengthens the position of UPJŠ in Košice in the strategically important field of energy storage, materials research, and innovation with the potential for direct practical application.
The title “Absolute Slovak Woman of the Year” represents the survey’s highest honor—it is awarded annually to one woman who most prominently embodies professional excellence, humanity, social contribution, and an inspiring personal story.
In 2026, this honor went to a prominent figure in our natural sciences community, Associate Professor Andrea Straková Fedorková, whose work proves that Slovak science has strong and internationally respected female leaders.
Congratulations!
Photo: PF UPJŠ
