In the current academic year 2026/2027
Topics offered / available
Towards a cleaner future with electrochemistry
Supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Mgr. Anna Kityk, PhD.
Abstract: Electrochemistry plays an important role in hydrogen production as well as in protecting materials against corrosion. The aim of the work is to carry out simple electrochemical experiments, monitor the course of reactions and demonstrate the potential of electrochemistry in addressing energy and environmental challenges.
Study of the chemical stability of protective layers on anode materials using different electrolytes
Supervisor: Mgr. Magdaléna Precnerová, PhD.
Abstract: This work focuses on studying the chemical stability of thin protective layers deposited by atomic layer deposition on advanced carbon-silicon anodes for lithium batteries. In the experimental part, a model beaker cell will be prepared to compare electrochemical properties using different electrolytes. Monitoring the influence of the electrolyte type on the stability of the protective layer provides important insights for the development of safer batteries with longer lifetime.
Effect of electrolyte concentration on the electrochemical properties of advanced battery anodes
Supervisor: Mgr. Magdaléna Precnerová, PhD.
Abstract: This work examines the influence of electrolyte concentration on the stability of advanced carbon-silicon anodes. In the experimental part, a model beaker cell will be prepared to compare the electrochemical properties of the material at different ion concentration levels in the solution. The measurement results will demonstrate the rate of anode degradation depending on electrolyte strength, providing important insights for optimising the lifetime of modern batteries.
Topics in progress / occupied
Can a thin protective layer increase the performance and lifetime of a battery?
(being solved by a student from SPMNDaG, Bratislava)
Supervisor: Mgr. Erik Šimon, PhD.
Abstract: The presented work focuses on research into safer solid-electrolyte batteries, which currently represent a new generation of batteries. The aim is to determine whether a special protective Li₃PO₄ layer deposited on the cathode material can prevent undesirable chemical reactions at its interface. The practical work involves investigating how this new barrier helps maintain stable battery performance even during repeated charging and discharging. To monitor these microscopic processes in real time (in operando), a measurement method based on impedance spectroscopy will be used.
Production of green hydrogen using renewable energy sources
(being solved by a student from SPMNDaG, Bratislava)
Supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Mgr. Anna Kityk, PhD.
Abstract: Hydrogen is one of the promising zero-emission energy carriers of the future. The aim of the work is to assemble a simple system consisting of a solar panel, a power source and an electrolyser, which will allow the demonstration of hydrogen production by water electrolysis. The student will investigate the influence of voltage, current and electrode type on the amount of hydrogen produced and the energy efficiency of the process. The work may also include the design of custom electrodes created by 3D printing.
New materials for future nuclear reactors
(being solved by a student from SPMNDaG, Bratislava)
Supervisor: Ing. Viliam Pavlík, PhD.
Abstract: Materials used in next-generation reactors must withstand extreme conditions. The aim of the work is to become familiar with material corrosion in high-temperature environments, prepare simple model experiments and use microscopy to compare surface changes of various metallic and ceramic materials.
From 3D scan to functional material
(being solved by a student from SPMNDaG, Bratislava)
Supervisor: Ing. Viliam Pavlík, PhD.
Abstract: The work focuses on the use of 3D scanning of scientific samples and 3D printing in the development of models of functional materials. Digitised objects will be modified and printed, and their properties will be verified through simple experiments in materials engineering and electrochemistry. This approach represents a modern way of linking digital technologies with scientific research.
EFFECT OF ATOMIC LAYER DEPOSITION OF ZINC OXIDE ON THE STRUCTURE OF A CARBON-SILICON ELECTRODE
(being solved by a student from SPMNDaG, Bratislava)
Supervisor: Mgr. Magdaléna Precnerová, PhD.
Abstract: The work deals with monitoring structural changes in a carbon-silicon (Si/C) electrode after the deposition of thin zinc oxide (ZnO) layers by atomic layer deposition (ALD). The research focuses on the use of nanotechnologies in the development of advanced materials for batteries, particularly on improving the properties of high-capacity silicon-based anodes intended for next-generation lithium-ion batteries.
Successfully completed SOČ projects
In the academic year 2025/2026
Influence of Atomic Layer Deposition of Zinc Oxide on the Structure of Silicon-Carbon Electrodes
(being solved by a student from SPMNDaG, Bratislava)
Consultant: Mgr. Magdaléna Precnerová, PhD.
Abstract: The work investigates structural changes in silicon-carbon (Si/C) electrodes induced by the deposition of zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films using atomic layer deposition (ALD). The research focuses on the application of nanotechnology in the development of advanced battery materials, particularly in improving the properties of high-capacity silicon-based anodes for next-generation lithium-ion batteries.
In the academic year 2024/2025
Targeted Photothermal Therapy of Aggressive Tumors
(being solved by a student from SPMNDaG, Bratislava)
Consultant: Mgr. Eliška Švastová, PhD.
Abstract: Targeted therapy of aggressive tumors represents one of the key prerequisites for effective treatment. By employing antibodies that recognize the tumor protein CAIX—a marker of tumor hypoxia—highly specific targeting of aggressive tumor cells is achieved. The conjugation of therapeutic nanoparticles to the antibody enables their direct transport to the tumor site. Subsequent activation of these nanoparticles induces a photothermal reaction, resulting in the ablation of tumor cells via hyperthermia while minimizing impact on surrounding healthy tissue.
Effect of Gold Nanoparticles in the Treatment of Liver Cancer
(being solved by a student from SPMNDaG, Bratislava)
Consultant: Mgr. Michal Šelc, PhD.
Abstract: Gold nanoparticles ranging from 5 to 30 nm in size exhibit significant biomedical potential for the treatment of various diseases. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of gold nanoparticles coated with bioactive compounds derived from milk thistle (Silybum marianum) on cell cultures under in vitro laboratory conditions. The cytotoxic effects of these nanoparticles will be assessed on both tumor and non-tumor liver cell lines. Cells will be exposed to varying concentrations of the nanoparticles, and their cytotoxic effects will be evaluated and compared between non-tumor and tumor cell lines. In addition to gold nanoparticles conjugated with the therapeutic agent (milk thistle-derived compounds), the effects of uncoated gold nanoparticles and the isolated bioactive compounds alone will also be investigated to determine which formulation most effectively inhibits or eliminates tumor cells. During the project, the student will acquire skills in working with cell cultures, including seeding onto multi-well plates and treatment with nanoparticles. Cytotoxicity will be determined using the MTT assay, with data analysis performed in MS Excel. The student will generate graphs with error bars and assess the statistical significance of the results.
Solid Electrolytes Based on Li₃InCl₆
(being solved by a student from SPMNDaG, Bratislava)
Consultant: Mgr. Erik Šimon, PhD.
Abstract: Monitoring of phase transformations during the preparation of a solid electrolyte from its precursors using grazing-incidence wide-angle X-ray scattering (GI-WAXS) in a glovebox. Measurement of the temperature- and pressure-dependent ionic conductivity of the solid electrolyte.
Morphological Characterization of Components in Thin-Film Solid-State Batteries
(being solved by a student from SPMNDaG, Bratislava)
Consultant: Ing. Anna Kálosi, PhD.
Abstract: Characterization of thin films comprising the battery structure using atomic force microscopy (AFM).
Modification of Nanomaterials for Biomedical Applications
(being solved by a student from SPMNDaG, Bratislava)
Consultant: Mgr. Adriana Annušová
Abstract: Investigation of changes in the physicochemical properties of non-stoichiometric MoOₓ nanomaterials following functionalization with various linkers and bioentities.
* SPMNDaG – School for Exceptionally Gifted Children and Gymnasium, Bratislava