Within the framework of academic and scientific collaboration, Associate Professor, PhD in Biology, Inga Bazukyan, Senior Researcher in the Chair of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology at YSU Faculty of Biology, initiated a series of lectures delivered by Svetoslav Dimov, PhD in Biology, Head of the Department of Genetics at Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski," on the topic "Applications of Metagenomics in Dairy Products Research," and by Velitchka Gotcheva, Head of the Department of Biotechnology at the University of Food Technologies Plovdiv, on the topic "Food Quality and Safety Management."
The first part of Svetoslav Dimov’s lecture focused on the theory of metagenomic analysis. Through a detailed and structured presentation, the speaker provided students with fundamental knowledge on the subject. In the second part, he discussed the specific characteristics of traditional Bulgarian cheeses and introduced the application of metagenomic analysis in the study of cheese microbiomes.
Similar research is currently being conducted in the Chair of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology at YSU. Hence, such meetings serve as an important basis for strengthening future collaborations and participating in international programs.
The professors addressed numerous questions posed by students concerning the transformation of microbial communities during cheese production—from raw milk processing to the final matured product—as well as the base datasets and software tools required for precise analysis.
The lecture was followed by a presentation from Velitchka Gotcheva, Head of the Department of Biotechnology at the University of Food Technologies Plovdiv. She introduced the structure and academic programs in her institution and elaborated on the topic "Food Quality and Safety Management."
The visit took place within the framework of the Erasmus+ KA131 program, established between YSU and the aforementioned Bulgarian universities. During the lecture held on April 28, a proposal was made to initiate student exchange programs. This will provide students with the opportunity to master modern scientific methodologies and apply them in practice.
Velitchka Gotcheva discussed current challenges in food production and presented contemporary approaches to chemical, physical, and microbiological safety control, as well as relevant European standards. An active discussion ensued between the invited lecturers and the students, particularly concerning the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the food industry. The scientists affirmed that the use of GMOs in food production poses no real threat and, in fact, serves as a crucial tool in the fight against global hunger.
Such lectures and academic visits play a significant role in enhancing students’ professional knowledge, fostering greater interest in science, and establishing international connections and collaborations for researchers.
