At the forefront of groundbreaking research in water purification and nanomaterials, Dr. Zsejke-Réka Tóth is shaping the future of both environmental and medical sciences. Currently a post-doctoral fellow at the Institute for Interdisciplinary Research in Bio-Nano-Science at Babes-Bolyai University in Cluj, Dr. Tóth’s journey into the world of chemistry and scientific discovery has been driven by a passion for creating solutions that can directly benefit society.

Dr. Tóth’s research spans a broad range of topics, but her primary focus has always been on improving water purification methods. From her BSc to her MSc and PhD studies, water treatment has remained a central theme in her work. Over time, her research evolved to explore the biological valorization of the materials used in water purification processes, seeking to find ways to enhance the materials themselves for better efficiency.

Currently, Dr. Tóth is diving into the promising world of nanomaterials, focusing on developing new materials that show great potential in treating lesions. “In today’s fast-paced world, quick and effective regeneration is crucial,” she explains. “Our goal is not just to improve the healing process but to develop materials that can support patients through every stage of wound healing.” This innovative approach could hold the key to faster, more effective recovery for those with chronic or acute wounds.

As with many researchers, Dr. Tóth’s journey wasn’t motivated by the expectation of world-changing breakthroughs, but by a deep-seated belief that every piece of research, no matter how small it may seem, contributes to a larger puzzle. “Every PhD student dreams of making a groundbreaking impact,” she reflects, “but what truly matters is that our work serves as the foundation for future discoveries.”

For Dr. Tóth, the key is resilience. “Research doesn’t always go according to plan,” she says. “There are setbacks and failures along the way. But it’s how you handle those moments that truly defines you as a researcher.” Her commitment to the scientific process, coupled with her belief in the importance of perseverance, drives her forward in her work. She is confident that the findings she is contributing will help shape the future of both water purification and medical treatments for wound healing.

Dr. Tóth credits much of her success to an inspiring teacher she encountered early in her educational journey: Ms. Erzsébet Átyim. “Ms. Átyim was the one who opened my eyes to the exciting world of chemistry,” Dr. Tóth recalls. “She taught me both in high school and at the university level, and her guidance was pivotal in my development as a chemist.”

Ms. Átyim’s passion for the subject was infectious. Dr. Tóth fondly remembers one piece of advice that still resonates with her today: “Talk to the reaction.” This simple yet profound idea, taught by Ms. Átyim, reminds Dr. Tóth that chemical reactions reveal much about our mistakes and help us learn from them. “Her encouragement, even during my failures, gave me the strength to persevere,” Dr. Tóth shares. “She was always there, not only teaching me the subject but also showing me how to approach challenges with confidence and curiosity.”

For those considering a career in the sciences, Dr. Tóth offers valuable advice. “If a simple cooking experiment sparks your curiosity, you might have what it takes to understand the world around us through chemistry,” she says. “Chemistry isn’t just a subject; it’s a way of thinking and solving problems.”

Dr. Tóth points out that people often fall into one of two camps: those who love chemistry and those who don’t. “If you find yourself in the former group, you’re in for an exciting ride,” she says. “Chemistry is like an ever-growing puzzle, and as a researcher, you get to be a part of the process that pushes us forward. The sense of discovery and the possibility of making a difference is what makes it all worthwhile.”

For anyone just starting their career, Dr. Tóth emphasizes the importance of pride in being a researcher. “When you introduce yourself as a researcher, it’s a reminder that your work has the potential to contribute to solving global challenges. That sense of importance and confidence can really drive you to keep going,” she says.

Dr. Tóth has a special message for young girls considering a career in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics):

“Dive into research, girls! Show the world that women can become renowned scientists! As I always tell my students, research is incredibly cool!”

Her passion and encouragement are clear—she believes there is no limit to what young women can achieve in the world of science, and she urges them to step into the field with confidence, curiosity, and an open mind.

Dr. Zsejke-Réka Tóth’s work serves as an inspiration for anyone passionate about making a difference through research. Whether it’s enhancing water purification or pioneering medical breakthroughs with nanomaterials, her dedication to science and her belief in the power of collaboration and resilience continue to shape the future. As she continues her research, Dr. Tóth remains driven by the knowledge that her contributions will be part of a larger movement—one that seeks to improve lives, protect the environment, and advance human health.