Mateusz Holda became the first Polish researcher to earn the title of professor before 30. The 29-year-old cardiologist from the Jagiellonian University Medical College in Kraków became a Professor of Medical Sciences and Health Sciences thanks to his excellent academic achievements and nine years of intensive research.
However, this isn’t the first time Holda has received accolades for his achievements. In 2017, he received his PhD when he was in his sixth year of college. According to the Polish Press Agency, this was the first time someone had earned their doctorate before passing their Master's. Holds was also the youngest researcher to qualify for habilitation (an advanced degree after the doctorate) and received the advanced degree in 2020.
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In an interview with TVN24, Holda said that his “biggest achievement” was the HEART (Heart Embryology and Anatomy Research Team), a research team that focused entirely on cardiac morphology. The research team also takes credit for researching the interatrial septum in the heart. According to their findings, such a pouch in the septum can cause an ischemic stroke.
Holda has also published approximately 100 papers in several reputable scientific journals, like the:
In 2019, Forbes included him in the list of "30 under 30" individuals on their way to becoming industry experts. Emerging Europe also named him Young Influencer of the Year in 2019.
After completing his habilitation, Holda received the title of associate professor. Then, with the approval of the academic excellence board and the president of Poland, he received his title of professor, making him the only person in their twenties to become a professor in Poland.