Dive into the world of research infrastructures with Ondrej Hradil, the Research Infrastructures Coordinator at Masaryk University. Discover how innovative projects and international collaborations are shaping the future of research, and learn about the pivotal role that core facilities play in fostering scientific advancement.
Ondrej Hradil holds a degree in business administration, though his career path diverged from this field. After spending a few years in Brussels, he returned to Brno, Czechia, and joined Masaryk University. This marked the beginning of a journey in research support, particularly with the Central European Institute of Technology (CEITEC) – a consortium of six major research institutes. The investment of over 200 million EUR from EU Structural Funds brought new dynamics and opportunities, focusing heavily on infrastructure and equipment, which sparked Hradil's interest in research infrastructures and core facilities.
Q: Are there any specific projects or research collaborations you're particularly excited about at the moment?
Ondrej Hradil: I had the pleasure of attending ICRI 2024, which was an inspiring event for international collaboration in research infrastructures. It sparked a new partnership between cleanrooms across Europe, the U.S., Australia, and Japan. Additionally, I'm thrilled about the RIFF project, which aims to create the first Ukrainian roadmap for research infrastructures. It's my personal contribution to Ukraine, aligning with the EDUC alliance's support since Precarpathian National University joined two years ago.
Q: Could you share an example of a successful project made possible by CEITEC’s core facilities?
Ondrej Hradil: A fascinating project involved the study of proteins in Czech pilsner beer, which contributed to its EU Protected Geographical Indication status. This exemplifies how CEITEC's proteomics facility can impact diverse fields, from brewing to biotechnology.
Q: What are some current trends in technology and research infrastructure shaping the future of core facilities?
Ondrej Hradil: Digitalisation is a key trend, revolutionising scientific work with tools like AlphafoldData. The rise of open science and data management, exemplified by initiatives like EOSC, is also transforming the landscape. CEITEC is leading Czech efforts to connect to the European Open Science Cloud.
Q: What challenges do you face in promoting core facility services to researchers?
Ondrej Hradil: The culture of resource sharing is still developing in Czechia. Researchers often prefer owning instruments, but core facilities offer more than just equipment—they provide expertise built from diverse scientific projects. We promote these services through traditional channels and direct engagement with core facility heads.
Q: How do you see core facilities contributing to international collaboration within the EDUC alliance?
Ondrej Hradil: Core facilities serve as natural hubs for collaboration, bringing together researchers across EDUC universities. Projects like EDUC-Share and EDUC-WIDE pilot access to infrastructures, fostering partnerships and knowledge exchange.
Q: How do you see the future of core facilities evolving?
Ondrej Hradil: Masaryk University is developing BioPharmHub, enhancing support for research across faculties. On a European scale, updates to the ESFRI Roadmap and the European Charter of Access to Research Infrastructures are emphasising data and open science.
Q: How does the EDUC-WIDE project support the development of core facilities across partner universities?
Ondrej Hradil: EDUC-WIDE facilitates access to core facilities and encourages strategic collaboration. Open-access policies ensure researchers can utilize these resources freely, enhancing cross-border scientific projects.
Q: What advice would you give to someone pursuing a career in managing core facilities?
Ondrej Hradil: Working in core facilities offers a unique career path, ideal for those who enjoy technology and interaction with the scientific community. Tailored training programs, such as EMBL ARISE, provide valuable opportunities for career growth in this field.