Meet Yaser Sabzevari, a dedicated hydrology researcher from Isfahan University of Technology (IUT) in Iran, who spent 10 months in Slovakia as a scholarship holder of the National Scholarship Programme (NSP). During his research stay at the Institute of Hydrology of the Slovak Academy of Sciences (IH SAS) in Bratislava, Yaser collaborated with leading Slovak experts while deepening his expertise in mountain hydrology. His time in Slovakia offered not only scientific progress, but also valuable cultural experiences - from academic conferences to discovering traditional Slovak cuisine.

I am Yaser Sabzevari, a hydrology researcher from Isfahan University of Technology (IUT) in Iran. Thanks to the National Scholarship of the Slovak Republic (NSP), I had the opportunity to spend 10 enriching months conducting research at the Institute of Hydrology of the Slovak Academy of Sciences in Bratislava (IH SAS) in Bratislava.

This mobility experience offered a unique blend of scientific advancement, international collaboration, and cultural exchange. Under the guidance of Dr. Saeid Okhravi at IH SAS in Bratislava and in cooperation with Patrik Sleziak at the mountain hydrology research base, I engaged in stimulating and productive research. Most of my work was carried out in Bratislava under Dr. Okhravi’s expert supervision, which significantly shaped the quality and direction of my studies.

From the outset, I was warmly welcomed by the IH SAS team. Compared to my home institution, I found Slovakia’s research environment to be more interdisciplinary, with better access to infrastructure, both of which greatly boosted my motivation and productivity.

The NSP scholarship provided generous support for my living expenses, allowing me to focus fully on research. A highlight of my stay was presenting our research at the 12th International Scientific Conference "Hydrological Processes in the Natural Environment," which connected me with scholars from Slovakia and across Central Europe, paving the way for future collaborations.

Beyond the lab, adapting to Slovak life was both enjoyable and enlightening. I explored the cities of Bratislava and Košice, each rich in history and charm, and developed a fondness for traditional Slovak dishes like bryndzové halušky and kapustnica. Participating in cultural events hosted by SAIA such as "Craft workshops" deepened my appreciation for Slovak traditions and values.

This experience has had a lasting impact on my academic and personal growth. It strengthened my research skills, expanded my international network, and inspired me to pursue further global collaborations. I wholeheartedly recommend the NSP to fellow researchers seeking a dynamic, supportive, and culturally immersive research opportunity.

My time in Slovakia have only not been academically fruitful but also personally transformative. I am deeply grateful to the NSP, the Slovak Academy of Sciences, and my mentors and colleagues for their guidance and hospitality. I look forward to returning and continuing this rewarding journey of scientific exchange.

Would you like to come to Slovakia through the National Scholarship Programme? Read the terms and conditions for international applicants and apply here: https://www.scholarships.sk/en/main/programme-terms-and-conditions/foreign-applicants