On 15 November 2025, the University of Szeged lit up its József Attila Study and Information Center with a ceremony that marked a new milestone in the institution’s history. The inaugural JATE Award was presented to three distinguished members of the university community—Márton Simon Czikkely, Ágota Tóth, and Mihály Ilia—celebrating academic achievement, teaching excellence, and lifelong commitment to the Szeged community. The award, founded by Nobel laureate Professor Katalin Karikó, blends tradition with a forward‑looking vision that aligns with the university’s mission to nurture research, education, and societal impact.
Overview of the Inaugural JATE Award
The JATE Award stands for “József Attila Történelmi és Egyetemi (historical and university award) and honors not only academic brilliance but also the spirit of service that defines the Szeged community. Unlike conventional accolades, the award is decided by a committee that includes former students, faculty, and alumni, ensuring that each recipient exemplifies a blend of scholarship and engagement.
Each laureate received a cash prize of USD 5,000, a piece of artwork, and a certificate of honor. The ceremony was anchored by the University of Szeged Choir, celebrating its centenary, and featured performances from local ensembles that highlighted the city’s cultural tapestry.
Key Awardees and Their Contributions
Márton Simon Czikkely – Student Excellence Category
Czikkely is a doctoral candidate in the Albert Szent‑Györgyi Medical School and has devoted 14 years to bacterial genome engineering. His research on antibiotic resistance has already produced ten publications in journals such as Nature Microbiology and Nature Communications. Beyond the lab, he serves as a science communicator, hosting public lectures and co‑founding the MEMO Science and Innovation events.
His commitment to sharing knowledge aligns with the award’s objective of bridging research and society—an essential attribute for future leaders in Hungarian academia.
Ágota Tóth – Teaching and Research Excellence Category
Tóth leads the Department of Physical Chemistry and Materials Science. Her background—BSc in chemistry from JATE and PhD in nonlinear chemical dynamics from West Virginia University—has positioned her as a pivotal figure in the university’s research ecosystem. Under her guidance, the department secured three ERC grants and seven Lendület (Momentum) grants, cementing its reputation on the European stage.
With over 117 published papers and multiple accolades—including the SZTE Faculty of Science and Informatics Golden Chalk Award—Tóth demonstrates how rigorous research combined with passionate teaching can inspire the next generation of chemists.
Mihály Ilia – Alumni Category
Professor Ilia’s career as a literary historian and editor has left a lasting imprint on Hungarian literature. His tenure as editor-in-chief of the Tiszatáj journal transformed it into a national literary voice originating from Szeged. He has also received both the József Attila Prize and the Széchenyi Prize, and was named an honorary citizen of Szeged.
Ilia’s dedication to education—whether through lecture halls or scholarly correspondence—exemplifies the impact that long‑term engagement can have on a community’s intellectual life.
Impact on the University of Szeged Community
The first JATE Award ceremony reinforced the university’s narrative as a hub of interdisciplinary collaboration and civic responsibility. By publicly acknowledging achievements that span research, teaching, and alumni influence, the institution encourages a culture where excellence is recognized across all campus levels.
During her speech, Professor Karikó highlighted the importance of JATE’s legacy, reminding attendees that the university’s foundations—rooted in the Transylvanian academic tradition—remain relevant in today’s global research environment. This emphasis on heritage coupled with innovation serves as a powerful message to prospective students about the value of a comprehensive educational experience.
How Prospective Students and Researchers Can Get Involved
For those aiming to join the University of Szeged, the JATE Award demonstrates the breadth of support available to bright scholars. The university offers a range of graduate programmes, international collaborations, and funding opportunities that align with the award’s spirit of innovation.
- Graduate Studies – The Albert Szent‑Györgyi Medical School and the Faculty of Science and Informatics provide PhD tracks that support interdisciplinary research with access to EU research grants.
- Research Grants – The university’s Lendület and ERC projects create pathways for students to engage in cutting‑edge projects and publish internationally.
- Community Engagement – Students are encouraged to participate in outreach programmes, such as public science talks, which broaden the impact of their research beyond the campus.
If you are curious about how your academic interests align with the programmes here, you can explore more by visiting the university’s admissions page or contacting the Student Service Office for personalized guidance.
Actionable Advice for Future Applicants
1. Research the award categories. Understanding the criteria for the JATE Award can help you identify whether your intended field of study offers similar recognition pathways.
2. Engage early with faculty. Reach out to potential supervisors before submitting your application; a strong mentorship partnership often leads to successful research outcomes.
3. Develop a clear research proposal. Given the emphasis on interdisciplinary work evident in the awardees’ projects, a proposal that integrates multiple perspectives will strengthen your candidacy.
4. Participate in outreach. Volunteer for community science events or teaching assistant roles; these experiences demonstrate commitment to the university’s mission, a trait valued by the award committee.
5. Apply early and gather robust references. The competitive landscape, highlighted by the JATE Award’s selection of 115 nominees, underscores the importance of a well‑timed, well‑supported application.
Conclusion – The Legacy of the JATE Award
The inaugural JATE Award not only celebrated individual excellence but also reinforced the University of Szeged as a dynamic, forward‑looking institution rooted in a rich academic heritage. For prospective students, scholars, and community members, this event signals a clear invitation to join a community that values research, teaching, and societal contribution in equal measure.
To take the next step and explore how you can become part of this evolving story, submit your application to the University of Szeged today. If you prefer a more personal experience, schedule a campus visit and meet faculty and students who embody the spirit of the JATE Award.
For additional resources on research funding opportunities, visit the university’s Research Portal. If you would like to share your own experiences or ask questions, feel free to contact the international office.
