All texts in this volume give an opportunity to reflect in-depth on the opportunities, challenges and difficulties associated with the continuous transformation of higher education and scientific activities. In this context, the concept of “scientific excellence” has been perceived as a guiding idea in the scholars’ efforts. At the same time, it can be seen as an ideal that can never be achieved but towards which one ought to strive persistently. Additionally, the pursuit of perfection is accompanied by paradoxes, which have been pointed out many times in the history of human thought. The volume embodies the belief in the existence of an invisible college understood as a research community embodied by young scientists starting their academic path inspired by recognized professors.
