ROBOPROX Women Forum is proud to announce its latest grant recipients, Klára Čepová and Dorota Frátriková. Both selected for their promising research in STEM fields, they are beginning projects that combine strong theoretical foundations with real-world impact. Klára focuses on control theory and hydropower systems, while Dorota brings her passion for programming and problem-solving into her first research experience. Follow their journeys as they develop solutions that connect mathematical and computational thinking with practical applications.
Klára Čepová
FME CTU
Student
04/2026 – 07/2026
Distributed-Parameter Modelling and Control of Hydropower Systems
What project will you be working on?
I will focus on mathematical modelling and control of hydropower systems, especially those with long penstocks where spatially distributed hydraulic effects play a significant role. The project develops physics-based models using partial differential equations and numerical methods to capture transient flow behavior. The goal is to use these models for designing advanced control strategies that improve stability and efficiency of turbine operation under varying conditions.
What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM?
I have always been interested in mathematics and physics. During my studies, I became especially interested in control theory and mathematical modelling. What fascinates me most is that control theory appears everywhere — from large-scale systems like space rockets and power plants to everyday devices. Seeing how theoretical concepts translate into real-world system behaviour is what continues to motivate me to pursue a career in STEM.
What are you most looking forward to in your work and what are the biggest challenges you have faced in your research?
What I am most looking forward to is seeing my work applied in real systems, for example contributing to the improved control of an actual hydropower plant. The possibility that my research could have a tangible impact is very motivating. One of the biggest challenges I have faced is the difficulty of truly letting go of a problem. When I get stuck, I tend to keep thinking about it constantly, even outside of work. While this persistence often helps me eventually find a solution, it can also be challenging to step back and gain a fresh perspective.
Dorota Frátriková
FEE CTU
Student
05/2026 – 08/2026
Optimization of Mobile Sensors for Long-term Surveillance
What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM?
Since I was little, I remember wondering how things around me work. I enjoyed mathematics, especially its practical, real-life applications. I loved solving problems – both literally, through puzzles like Sudoku, and figuratively, such as when I was sewing and had to visualize how to transform raw fabric into a finished product. Because my mom also works in STEM, she was a big role model for me growing up; she showed me that this field isn’t ‘just for the boys’. Later in high school, my teacher sparked a love in me for programming and since that point, I knew exactly what I wanted to do.
What project will you be working on?
I will be working on the optimization of mobile sensors for long-term surveillance. The project focuses on developing a robust algorithm for efficient sensor movement, particularly rotational control, that balances optimal performance with fast, real-time decision-making. The goal is to reduce computational and hardware requirements while improving the effectiveness of surveillance in complex, dynamic environments.
What are you most looking forward to in your work and what are the biggest challenges you have faced in your research?
I am always driven by the ‘aha!’ moment – the point where you are so deep into a topic that the dots suddenly connect and you can finally see the full picture. That is what keeps me motivated and fills me with joy every time it comes. Beyond that, I would love to see my work applied in a real-world scenario. Since this is my first time working on a research project, the biggest challenge I have faced so far is just generally navigating my way through the process, understanding the problem and being able to produce good and meaningful results. However, I am embracing the learning curve and am looking forward to seeing where it takes me.