Get to know Nasser Mahdy, originally from Egypt, who is spending 10 months in Slovakia through the National Scholarship Programme. His research focuses on Earth Sciences, and thanks to his host institution, Comenius University, he has found himself working in research labs alongside other international researchers.

Budatín castle in Žilina Could you tell us where you’re from, what your field of research is, and how long you have been (or were) in Slovakia?
I am from Egypt, and my field of research is Earth Sciences, specifically ore deposits. I have been in Slovakia since March 1, 2024 (9 months), and I plan to stay one additional month.

How has your time in Slovakia supported your research?
My time in Slovakia has significantly supported my research through communication with skilled and experienced researchers at Comenius University. It allowed me to exchange ideas and utilize advanced laboratory techniques. Most importantly, I benefited from the global networks of scientists and scholars within the EU and beyond.

Could you describe your experience with your research team in Slovakia?
I have traveled to many countries, but I found something unique and exceptional in Slovakia. Research here often relies on a genuinely helpful and cooperative team. All team members work closely together to solve scientific problems, without any conflicts of interest. Every step is discussed collaboratively. This teamwork and exchange of ideas resulted in highly accurate findings, including the discovery of two new mineral species previously unidentified.

Exploring Slovakia: Carpathian mountainsWhat are the main differences between research in Slovakia and in your home country?
The main differences lie in two areas: teamwork and laboratory techniques. For me, the real teamwork here is the most remarkable distinction.

How did your research team welcome you to Slovakia?
My research team welcomed me warmly. In the first month, I gave a seminar to explain my research plan and the goals of my stay. They were very supportive in helping me achieve these objectives.

What resources or support have you found particularly helpful for your research in Slovakia?
I received support from SAIA and Comenius University, including access to research labs, global scientific journals, and advanced equipment like EPMA and Raman spectroscopy.

What have been the biggest challenges for your career while working here?
The biggest challenge here is that the duration of stay is very short for researchers. Due to this condition, now I will stay a month later to complete my research work.

Exploring Slovakia: Carpathian mountainsWhat motivated you to choose Slovakia for your research stay?
Firstly, I had previous collaborations with Slovak scientists and found them to be skilled and helpful. Secondly, the National Scholarship Programme has an excellent reputation in my country. Lastly, Slovakia’s location in Central Europe provided a unique opportunity to experience a new culture and life firsthand.

What has this scholarship experience provided for you, both professionally and personally?
Professionally, I did some important research and investigation and I achieved an important discovery in my field of study. In addition, I got a fund of knowledge and experience during my stay here. Personally, I have friends from many countries in the EU, and memories with very nice people that will never be forgotten.

Exploring capital city in SlovakiaHow has your scholarship experience in Slovakia influenced your perspective on international research collaboration?
It is important for scientists from over world to work with each other. The scientific problem will be resolved by different points of view based on their backgrounds. The science is a bridge between all cultures.

What differences have you noticed between Slovakia and your home country?
Most of people are very friendly and they call each other’s by their names, professor or student with complete respect to each other’s. It was strange for me and that means that there is no social classification. Everyone works and do his/her best with honesty and dedication.

Have you explored any local traditions or festivals?
I attended craft workshop with SAIA. I was a part of grape harvest for one day with the members of mineralogy, petrology, and economic geology department in the Comenius University. I attended a party for GESKO 2024. I was a part of field trip for Carpathian Mountains.

What surprised you the most about Slovakia? Did you experience any culture shock?
No, I didn’t experience any culture shock because I have traveled extensively and am familiar with many cultures. However, I did experience a positive surprise—the people. Most of the people here are very nice, civilized, friendly, cooperative, and beautiful both inside and out.

How have you found Slovak people? Are they welcoming and helpful to you as an international researcher, or did you face any challenges?
Most Slovak people have been welcoming, though some were initially cautious as they didn’t know me. Over time, as we worked together, they became friendlier and more supportive. It’s natural for people to feel hesitant about unfamiliar cultures at first.

Research team at Slovak academic of Science in Banská BystricaWhat advice would you give to other international researchers for adapting to life in Slovakia?
Respect yourself to find others respect you. Follow orders and respect other cultures, learn, and understand others to be understood.