Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences Developing New Study Programmes
11.03.2025
The Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences at the Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra is currently innovating its existing study programmes and developing new ones in the fields of food science, biotechnology, and biology.
According to Professor Norbert Lukáč, Dean of the Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, these new study programmes will better equip graduates to meet the evolving demands of the industry and enhance their employability. "We are primarily focusing on the Food Science study programme, where significant updates are being introduced. Additionally, we are expanding our Biotechnology programme with various specialized modules," he explained.
Last year, the faculty celebrated 22 years since its establishment. Currently, it has approximately 500 students and is the only faculty in Slovakia offering the Food Safety and Control study programme. It also hosts the unique international Danube Agrifood Master (DAFM). "Through this programme, students from around the world join us to pursue second-level education and work on final thesis projects in the food industry," added Professor Lukáč.
The faculty maintains strong connections between study and practice while actively engaging in scientific research. In 2024, it undertook:
- 17 VEGA projects
- 15 KEGA projects
- 17 projects from the Agency for the Support of Science and Research
- 6 projects from the Grant Agency of the Slovak University of Applied Sciences
In addition to these 55 national projects, the faculty is also involved in 12 international projects. Among its key research areas is the development of innovative food products with enhanced nutritional value, as well as specialized foods for athletes or individuals with allergies and intolerances. The faculty also explores unconventional ingredients such as edible flowers and cricket flour.
Much of this research is conducted in collaboration with the university’s AgroBioTech Research Centre. "From the very beginning, our faculty has been actively engaged in research projects at the centre. I am pleased that the research centre remains a dynamic initiative, continuously securing new domestic and international projects, including collaborations with industry partners," Professor Lukáč emphasized.
One of the faculty’s most significant recent achievements is the Drive4SIFood project, which led to the establishment of the SUA Food Incubator—Slovakia’s first food incubator. This initiative has already begun supplying innovative and healthy food products to the university cafeteria. Another major success was the NUKLEUS project, focused on improving the genetic value, health, and productivity of cattle. Research outcomes from the Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, conducted in collaboration with AgroBioTech, have already been applied in practice.
Learn More
For more insights, listen to the university podcast "Come to the Green University!", featuring Dean Norbert Lukáč: Spotify YouTube
