The Czech Centre for Phenogenomics
Scientists in action: Vestec and Dolní Břežany competed in six disciplines
Football, volleyball, pétanque, ping-pong, 5km run and science pub quiz. On Thursday, 19 June 2025, the 3rd annual sports competition of teams from research institutions in the STAR region called Team Spirit Day took place at the Vestec Sports Area. 200 representatives from BIOCEV, the HiLASE and ELI Beamlines laser centres, DIANA Biotechnologies and the STAR science and technology cluster gathered on the fields and tracks.
No innovation ecosystem can function without a strong community. The STAR region is home to cutting-edge research facilities, a growing number of technology companies and institutions focused on fostering innovation. It is therefore essential that the different actors communicate with each other and look for synergies and opportunities for collaboration.
It turns out that even connecting seemingly unrelated fields can lead to great projects - an example is the LasApp project, which combines lasers (HiLASE / Dolní Břežany) and biology (BIOCEV / Vestec) in the development of antimicrobial surfaces.
Sport is a great way to connect people across institutions in a relaxed atmosphere. The relationships that are formed here can continue on a professional level.
There was a great atmosphere at the event, the weather was good and the teams went into the competitions with maximum commitment. The sporting afternoon ended with concerts, good food and drink and the award ceremony.
The volleyball team consisting of representatives from HiLASE, ELI Beamlines and STAR cluster was a great success - 1st place!
Many thanks to all the volunteers across the research institutes for a well organised event. And a big thank you to the Vestec municipality management for their support and the sports facilities.
Author: BIOCEV / STAR
