Our colleagues Daniel Vrábl, Ph.D., and Jan Pleva, MSc, from the Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, together with Martina Vráblová, Ph.D., from the Centre for Energy and Environmental Technologies at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava, have received the Ostrava Universities’ Rectors’ Award for the 2025/2026 academic year. The award recognises research arising from a longstanding collaboration between the two institutions.
The study investigated how light intensity and internal leaf CO₂ concentration influence stomatal development. By experimentally separating these closely linked factors, the researchers demonstrated that, under the conditions studied, light intensity was the primary determinant of stomatal number. The study’s international recognition is also reflected in a dedicated commentary published in the scientific journal Annals of Botany.
Stomata regulate gas exchange between plants and the atmosphere, influencing both CO₂ uptake for photosynthesis and water loss through transpiration. Understanding their development could therefore support the selection and breeding of crops with more efficient water use in the longer term.
Research in plant biophysics thus contributes to our understanding of global change and offers potential applications in agriculture and food production. Fundamental insights into plant processes lay the groundwork for future applications that are becoming increasingly relevant under changing climatic conditions.
Both of our award-winning colleagues work in biophysics. Their achievement also provides an opportunity to introduce this field to prospective students. While the word “physics” in its name may make some applicants hesitate, combining physical principles and methods with biological questions enables researchers to investigate living systems in a broader context and contribute to addressing challenges facing society.We are proud of our colleagues and warmly congratulate the entire team on this achievement!
