John Manrique, a National Scholarship Program (NSP) holder and PhD student in Geochemistry from Venezuela, is currently conducting research at the Earth Sciences Institute of the Slovak Academy of Sciences in Banská Bystrica. His six-month stay in Slovakia has opened new opportunities for advancing his work and career.

How has your time in Slovakia supported your research?

My stay in Slovakia has been incredibly valuable for my research. I’ve been able to gather excellent data on the mineralogical and chemical composition of sedimentary rock samples. The analytical equipment at the Earth Sciences Institute is state-of-the-art, which has allowed me to achieve high-quality results.

Could you describe your experience with your research team in Slovakia?

My experience with colleagues from the Earth Sciences Institute of the Slovak Academy of Sciences in Banska Bystrica has been very positive. They are very friendly and highly qualified in research and earth sciences. We have managed to meet the proposed schedule of activities, we have carried out the analyses of the samples and we have obtained valuable results. My experience in Slovakia has definitely influenced my future professional plans. I have managed to acquire new skills and new knowledge that will help me continue my professional career as a geochemist with an international focus.

What motivated you to choose Slovakia for your research stay? 

I was drawn to Slovakia because of the research environment. My colleagues at the Earth Sciences Institute of the Slovak Academy of Sciences in Banska Bystrica are welcoming and respectful of cultural differences,, friendly and they are always ready to help and resolve inconveniences. The laboratories are well-suited to my research in Geochemistry. The quietness of my workplace and accommodation allows me to concentrate on my research. And culturally, Slovakia is fascinating—it’s been a unique experience."

How has your scholarship experience in Slovakia influenced your perspective on international research collaboration?

International collaboration is essential in my field, and this experience has shown me just how impactful it can be. Working with researchers from different backgrounds has enhanced my work and led to excellent results. The professional and personal growth I’ve gained has truly changed my life.

What differences have you noticed between Slovakia and your home country?

There are quite a few differences between Slovakia and Venezuela, the language may be a limitation. On the positive side, Slovakia is a country with an interesting culture, climate and nature, in general the people are very friendly, it is safer than Venezuela, basic services work well, the work environment is motivating.

Are there any activities or places in Slovakia that you would recommend to others?

I’d recommend several places: visiting the History Museum in Banská Bystrica, the historic center of Bratislava, and the Tatra Mountains. Travelling by train through the country is a highly recommended experience, you can see the Slovak landscapes, welcoming villages, and its cultural wealth.

Which Slovak cities have you visited, and which did you enjoy the most

I’ve visited Bratislava, Banská Bystrica, Špania Dolina, Žilina, Košice, and Štrbské Pleso. My favorite places so far have been Banská Bystrica and Štrbské Pleso.