The Student Parliament of the University of Zielona Góra, in cooperation with the University’s Student Affairs Office, has revived the Researcher’s Laurel competition, an initiative dedicated to recognising the achievements of Student Scientific Societies, their innovative projects, and the commitment of their members. The awards also honour academic mentors and individuals whose long-standing dedication to supporting young people demonstrates that academic excellence and passion can go hand in hand.
The ceremonial Researcher’s Laurel 2026 Gala brought together the University authorities, members of the Student Parliament, and, above all, representatives of Student Scientific Societies and their supervisors. These are individuals whose creativity, curiosity, and commitment extend far beyond the requirements of their academic programmes. “We currently have more than 300 registered Student Scientific Societies, around 30 of which are actively operating. I am well aware of their level of engagement because I review all the applications they submit for project funding. I am continually impressed by the breadth of their interests and by how far they go beyond the educational activities associated with their fields of study,” said Professor Barbara Literska, Vice-Rector for Student Affairs and Quality of Education.
Membership in a Student Scientific Society is about much more than expanding academic knowledge. It is also an opportunity to spend time with like-minded individuals who share similar interests and ambitions. These societies provide a space where students pursue their passions, develop friendships, work towards common goals, and create some of the most memorable experiences of their university years. “A Student Scientific Society is a group of friends and individuals who want to work together towards a common goal. They meet, exchange ideas, brainstorm new projects, and bring them to life. It is a wonderful way to spend time at the University,” Professor Literska added.
These sentiments were echoed by Jakub Zimny, President of the University Academic Motor Association (AZM UZ): “I truly believe it is worth getting involved in these activities. One day a friend asked whether I would like to join, and that was how it all began. At AZM UZ, we focus on developing innovative solutions. Currently, we are working on an orthosis designed for upper-limb rehabilitation. We meet once or twice a week, depending on the workload. We have become a very close-knit team and often spend time together outside our projects. I can honestly say that I have made lifelong friends here. Joining the organisation was one of the best decisions I have made.”
An essential element of every successful Student Scientific Society is its academic mentor—someone who provides guidance, encouragement, and support while helping students develop their ideas and ambitions. “As mentors, we should strive to be guides, trusted companions, and friends to our students. This is the foundation of building strong relationships. Our role is to act as team leaders who can inspire students, point them in the right direction, and support them in every aspect of their development,” explained Daniel Dębowski, academic supervisor of the LotUZ Student Scientific Society.
The Researcher’s Laurel awards represent the culmination of months of dedication and hard work undertaken by Student Scientific Societies. The initiative returned to the University after a several-year hiatus. “I remember the first edition of the Researcher’s Laurel, which was launched when I served as Vice-Rector for Student Affairs. It generated tremendous interest among Student Scientific Societies and students actively engaged beyond their academic obligations. The decision of the Student Parliament to revive this initiative is highly commendable. Student research activity is one of the most important elements of university education,” said Professor Wojciech Strzyżewski, Rector of the University of Zielona Góra.
The organisers were equally enthusiastic about the return of the competition. “After several years, we are returning to our roots. Once again, we can recognise and celebrate students who actively pursue research and innovative projects through Student Scientific Societies. I am incredibly proud that we have successfully organised this year’s Researcher’s Laurel and hope that it will continue as a lasting tradition,” said Julia Kolendowicz, Chair of the Student Parliament of the University of Zielona Góra.
The Researcher’s Laurel 2026 Gala was an evening filled with joy, inspiration, and emotion. The programme also featured musical and dance performances. Students from the Institute of Music performed well-known pieces from Polish popular music, while the dance formation SLAY (Mega Dance Zielona Góra), which includes University of Zielona Góra students among its members, delivered a spectacular performance.
The true stars of the evening, however, were the winners of the Researcher’s Laurel 2026 awards:
Researcher’s Laurel 2026 Award Winners
Congratulations to all nominees and award winners!
This initiative was financed by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education under Agreement No. MNiSW/2026/DAP/114.
