Success Stories - International Alumni
Success stories
Hajrullah Cakaj
Agricultural Engineer/ Senior Phenotyper Limagrain Field Seeds
From an FAO scholarship student in Gödöllő to a senior specialist in precision agriculture, his career bridges international education, applied research and cutting-edge agri-technology. Today, alongside doctoral studies in remote sensing, he actively supports the next generation by expanding international internship opportunities for MATE students across Europe.
Karina Hidas
Research Assistant
After completing bachelor’s and master’s studies in food engineering at MATE and its predecessor institutions, she progressed from doctoral research to becoming a lecturer and researcher at the university. Her journey reflects a strong commitment to applied science, education and lifelong learning, while actively strengthening collaboration between the university and its alumni community.
Dr. Jeny Jose
Postdoctoral Researcher
From a Stipendium Hungaricum scholar at MATE to an internationally active plant scientist, her path spans cutting-edge genome editing research and postdoctoral positions across Europe and Australia. Her journey reflects the strong scientific foundation, global outlook and confidence fostered at MATE, empowering her to pursue ambitious research in plant immunity on a worldwide stage.
Zoltán Kálmán
Ambassador
An internationally experienced agricultural diplomat who played a key role in establishing FAO’s Regional Office in Budapest, positioning Hungary as a major UN food and agriculture hub. His career spans academia, business, EU coordination and senior UN leadership, with a lasting impact on food security and sustainability.