News

At the opening ceremony of the 2025–26 academic year, Dr. Márk Sárváry, Director of the Investigative Biology Teaching Laboratory at Cornell University, received the title of Honorary University Professor. The recognition highlights his outstanding contributions to academic collaboration, student and faculty exchange programs, and his achievements in zoology, education, and science communication.

​​​​Dr. Sárváry receiving his honorary professorship from MATE Rector Dr. Gyuricza at the university opening ceremony on 8th September 2025

Dr. Sárváry began his higher education at the predecessor of the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), the University of Agricultural Sciences in Gödöllő (GATE). As a diploma student, he joined Professor Gábor Bakonyi’s laboratory of soil zoology and insect ecology, where he quickly stood out for his broad yet sharply focused interests, openness to new knowledge, and his practical, solution-oriented approach.

He later continued his studies in the United States, earning his Ph.D. at Cornell University, where he has built his academic career ever since. Initially focusing on theoretical and applied aspects of entomology and insect ecology, his research gradually shifted toward the analysis and communication of scientific results, the methods and tools of science communication, and data-driven knowledge transfer. In these fields, Dr. Sárváry has become a true pioneer. At Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, he teaches one of the university’s largest courses—a rigorous and engaging introduction to biology, attended by hundreds of students each year. His teaching combines strong theoretical and practical foundations with innovative methods of experiential learning, introducing students to modern tools of scientific communication and involving them actively in the learning process.

Beyond his research and teaching, Dr. Sárváry has dedicated himself to strengthening ties between Cornell University and Hungarian institutions. He regularly visits MATE, where he meets with faculty, participates in departmental events, and offers valuable guidance to students and colleagues alike. His support has been instrumental in fostering long-term collaboration.

Nearly a decade ago, he played a key role in initiating a bilateral student exchange program between Szent István University (SZIE, now MATE) and Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. This program, now in its sixth year, has enabled Cornell students to study at various MATE departments, including the Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, the Institute of Wildlife Management and Nature Conservation, and, most recently, the Institute of Plant Protection at the Buda Campus. In 2024, the first MATE student was also hosted at Cornell through the program, marking an important milestone. These exchanges not only enrich the academic experiences of students but also strengthen the international reputation of MATE within one of the world’s leading universities.

With his commitment to academic excellence, innovation in teaching, and fostering international collaboration, Dr. Sárváry has significantly advanced both Hungarian and American higher education. His appointment as Honorary University Professor is a well-deserved recognition of his achievements and continued dedication to connecting institutions and communities across borders.