YSU delegation participates in annual ASM meeting

The representatives of YSU Research Institute of Biology gave both oral and poster presentations at the international conference, establishing new collaborations and connections within the international scientific community. 

In the interview with us, Professor Karen Trchounian, Doctor of Biological Sciences and Director of the Research Institute of Biology, shared his impressions of the event, as well as insights into the collaborations and professional contacts made during the meeting. 

– Mr. Trchounian, you participated in the prominent annual ASM meeting from June 19 to 23 along with a group of representatives from YSU Research Institute of Biology. Could you tell us about the visit?

– This conference was of great importance to us, as it marked the first time such a large delegation from Armenia participated. We delivered three oral presentations and several poster presentations. The delegation from YSU included Associate Professor Anna Poladyan, Head of the Chair of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Biotechnology at the Faculty of Biology, and Head of the Research Group on Biochemical Conversion of Organic Waste and Microbiological Production; researchers Heghine Gevorgyan and Liana Vanyan from the Laboratory of Microbiology, Bioenergetics, and Biotechnology; as well as junior researchers Meri Iskandaryan and Rima Avetisyan—and myself. 

– What was the topic of your presentation?

– As an invited speaker, my presentation focused on how bacteria function and adapt under extreme energy-limited conditions. We explored microbial adaptation mechanisms, ion transport across membranes, and their evolutionary significance in relation to the origin of life. We aim to understand the relevance of these biological mechanisms. Heghine Gevorgyan also gave an oral presentation and was awarded the Morrison Rogosa Travel Award. Liana Vanyan, who received the Student and Postdoctoral Travel Award, also presented her research.

– You mentioned poster presentations as well. How were they received?

– Our young researchers presented their scientific work in poster format, which drew significant interest and received a positive response. In this regard, the conference provided an exceptional opportunity to establish new connections and develop collaborations. 

– What were your overall impressions of the event? What stood out this year?

– The event featured an exhibition of state-of-the-art equipment, ranging from small to large analytical devices. We had the opportunity to explore the latest technological innovations firsthand. These devices could be acquired in the future to advance the quality of our research work.

– Were there any professional meetings aside from the conference itself?

– Yes, prior to the conference, I visited the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), where we discussed possible avenues for collaboration, along with potential challenges and opportunities. These connections are pivotal not only for my personal research interests but also for the advancement of YSU.

– What new opportunities do such visits create?

– Events of this nature provide a platform not only to establish new professional connections but also to present Armenia’s scientific potential to the international community. The meeting brought together participants from the UK, France, various U.S. research institutions, and other countries. We have already engaged in concrete discussions around new ideas and collaborative projects. 

Ultimately, what matters most is that we continue to move forward with the times. Armenian science can and must be represented on the international stage.