The Summer School of Applied Biology offers an intensive programme combining theoretical lectures with hands-on laboratory and field activities. Participants explore a wide range of biological disciplines, including dendrology, ecology, microbiology, lichenology, palynology, and human biomonitoring. Through practical work, students learn how to collect biological samples in the field, analyse them in the laboratory, and interpret results using basic statistical methods. The programme also introduces selected aspects of Czech language, culture, and historical heritage to complement the academic experience.
Programme Structure
4 teaching days per week (Monday to Thursday)
Opening Ceremony and introductory city tour at the beginning of the programme
Each week, you'll learn the essentials of the Czech language, culture, and historical heritage
Guided excursions to local attractions every Wednesday
Closing Ceremony and Farewell Party at the end of the programme
Attendance
Active participation in all scheduled activities is required
Prior notice must be given in case of absence
Unexcused absence may result in denial of the Certificate of Participation
Program Overview
Arrival date: July 12, 2026
Lectures
The life in grasslands
Fire Ecology in Central Europe
Laboratory sessions
Observation of bacterial cultures – staining with malachite green, safranin and Congo red
Cell counting using a counting chamber
Activities
Registration
Opening ceremony
City tour
Guided trip
Lectures
Natural history museums in the 21st century
Mycotoxins and human health
Laboratory sessions
Animal heart and eye anatomical autopsy
Molecular biology methods
Insect Morphology – Dissection of Locusta migratoria
Activities
Czech culture and language class
Guided trip
Lectures
Anthropogenic habitats and its importance for insects
Current problems of biodiversity protection in Central Europe
Laboratory sessions
Phytoplankton of ponds in summer – microscopy session
Human physiology
Types of cell division
Activities
Czech culture and language class
Guided trip
Lectures
Habit forming drugs
Threats, biodiversity drivers and restoration in floodplain forests
Tree-ring-based research of natural processes
Laboratory sessions
The hidden secrets of Arthropods
Natural monument Na Plachtě – high biodiversity maintained by targeted management
The Faculty of Science is situated in the heart of Hradec Králové, on the University Campus Na Soutoku. Address: Hradecká 1285, Hradec Králové 500 03, Czech Republic
Accommodation is provided free of charge in student dormitories. Rooms for 2–3 people include a shared bathroom and access to a fully equipped shared kitchen. Laundry rooms with washing machines are also available. Upon arrival, students are required to pay a deposit of 2,000 CZK!
Trips in Hradec Králové
During the summer school, we will organize various trips for you. You can also plan your own weekend trips from Friday to Sunday. For suggestions on interesting places to visit in Hradec Králové, please refer to the following website.
