Nobel Laureate Sir Peter Ratcliffe Addresses Students in Szeged
On November 28, 2025, the National Academy of Scientist Education organised its 25th Meeting of Nobel Laureates and Talented Students in Szeged. The event drew almost 4,000 participants to the Pick Arena after the program expanded beyond the usual capacity of the József Attila Study and Information Centre. Anchoring the day was Sir Peter Ratcliffe, the 2019 Nobel Prize–winning cell biologist who explained how his team uncovered the cellular machinery that senses oxygen.
Sir Ratcliffe opened with a reminder that the path to discovery is “random and fortunate.” He emphasized the importance of learning scientific history and of paying close attention to teachers, who he described as the most valuable yet under‑compensated members of society. The lecture served as a timely reminder that meaningful breakthroughs often arise from unexpected twists.
The Road to Discovering Cellular Oxygen Sensing
Identifying the Oxygen‑Sensitive Element
The first pivotal finding came when Ratcliffe’s team discovered an oxygen‑sensitive regulatory element in the gene for erythropoietin (EPO). EPO drives red blood cell production, and the team realised that the oxygen‑dependent switch existed not only in kidney cells but in essentially all cells. The discovery was initially rejected by a mail‑gate of Nature, but the lack of competition at the time allowed the work to be published eventually.
VHL, HIF, and the Hypoxic Switch
Subsequent work with William Kaelin revealed the role of the VHL tumour‑suppressor gene. VHL deficiency made cells behave as if they were chronically oxygen‑deprived. This observation led to the insight that HIF (hypoxia‑inducible factor) is the core switch that turns on genes required for survival under low oxygen. The chief breakthrough was recognising that HIF is only degraded in the presence of oxygen. Thus, the cell literally “measures” oxygen via a degradative pathway that depends on oxygen itself.
The Hydroxylation Mechanism
Continuing investigations demonstrated that a specific site on HIF undergoes hydroxylation – a chemical modification that can only occur with oxygen. When hydroxylated, HIF is recognized by VHL and targeted for degradation; without oxygen, hydroxylation does not happen and HIF is allowed to accumulate, flipping the hypoxic response. The elegance of this solution, as praised by Ratcliffe, lies in its simplicity and straightforward chemistry.
Applying Science to Real‑World Challenges
The HIF pathway regulates over a hundred genes, influencing blood cell production, angiogenesis, metabolism, and responses to oxygen shortage. Understanding this system has clinical impact, especially for cancers that thrive in low oxygen environments. The Nobel Prize‑winning research shows how unraveling basic cellular processes can lead to targeted therapies for diseases.
Professor Péter Hegyi, Program Director of the National Academy of Scientist Education, highlighted that more than 90 % of scientists alive today owe their work to the rapid expansion of knowledge since the Enlightenment. He urged students to consider how scientific insight can reduce preventable deaths in Europe, pointing out that applying existing knowledge could save 1.2 million lives annually.
University of Szeged’s National Academy of Scientist Education Program
The Academy has successfully involved over 400 secondary schools and 32 biology teachers in science projects. This year, chemistry has joined the program with 24 teachers across 24 regional centres. Future plans include a focus on mathematics and computer science.
The University’s initiative offers two tracks: the “Szent‑Györgyi Students” for high‑school talent and the “Szent‑Györgyi University Students” for university and doctoral candidates. The 2025 schedule expands the workshop count to eight sessions, ensuring more students collaborate with experienced researchers.
Pathways for High‑School and University Students
High‑school students who excel in biology or chemistry through national and international competitions are invited to participate in the Szent‑Györgyi Student cohort. For university students, the program includes a four‑semester internship at Szeged, Budapest, Debrecen, or Pécs. Participants can join research teams, publish papers, and attend workshops hosted by Nobel Laureates.
Prospective applicants should:
- Submit a short research proposal outlining a topic of interest.
- Provide evidence of academic excellence and competition results.
- Show a commitment to pursuing a research career.
Early‑career researchers can also apply for the National Research Excellence Program’s sub‑program, designed to support innovative projects in Hungary.
Why Study Science at the University of Szeged?
The University has a legacy that dates back to the time of Albert Szent‑Györgyi, whose school produced scientists such as Ilona Banga and Brunó F. Straub, and later contributed to Nobel wins like Katalin Karikó’s vaccine research. Today, the university houses twelve faculties, from Medicine and Engineering to Humanities and Economics, offering interdisciplinary training.
Visiting students are encouraged to explore the campus, which includes modern research facilities, a dedicated sports centre, and the Klisip Library. Cultural events are hosted by the Bartók Béla Faculty of Arts, and the university’s network extends to 13 Dugonics Square’s alumni association.
Concluding remarks from Vice‑Rector Márta Széll stressed that the future of science depends on young people engaging with pioneering research. She encouraged high‑school attendees to consider a degree at the University of Szeged and to embrace the opportunity to make a tangible impact.
Take the Next Step in Your Scientific Career
Are you ready to join a vibrant research community that values discovery and innovation? Apply to the University of Szeged now and start your journey toward contributing to cutting‑edge science.
Want to learn more about the National Academy of Scientist Education’s programmes? Explore our related articles for deeper insight.
Have questions about the application process or the university’s research facilities? Contact us today and we’ll guide you through the next steps.
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