News ISAL Exceptional Service Award for Jitka
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ISAL Exceptional Service Award for Jitka

19. 8. 2026 Jitka Čejková

Each year, the International Society for Artificial Life (ISAL) presents awards in several categories during the ALIFE conference. This year, Jitka Čejková received the Exceptional Service Award, recognizing exceptional service and contributions to the Artificial Life community.

The official award statement reads:

Winner: Jitka Čejková

Dr. Čejková has served the Artificial Life community for many years across a multitude of vital roles. From her repeated leadership as General Chair, Program Chair, and various workshop organizer for many ALife conferences, to her dedicated service as an ISAL Board Member, she has consistently stepped in wherever the community needed her most. Furthermore, she is the editor of the widely impactful “RUR” books (published in both Czech and English) which significantly broadened the outreach of ALife to the general scientific community and the public alike. Together with her highly original work in chemical robotics, Dr. Čejková’s passion, enthusiasm, insight, and creativity have made a tremendous impact on the ALife community.

When accepting the award at the ALIFE 2026 Gala Dinner, Jitka admitted that her first reaction had been to decline it because she felt she did not deserve it. However, those around her convinced her that this was probably just imposter syndrome — so she accepted. 

For Jitka, the award is not only an honor but also a commitment and motivation to continue serving the ALife community. The next major challenge is already ahead: preparing an unforgettable ALIFE 2027 conference in Prague!