Science bridges Diaspora and Armenia: Lebanese-Armenian young researcher at YSU

Kalin, a Lebanese-Armenian, is currently in Armenia thanks to the Birthright Armenia program, which engages young Armenians from around the world in volunteer work, living with host families and working in their respective fields of expertise.

"When I heard about the research work being conducted at the Laboratory of Microbiology, Bioenergetics, and Biotechnology at YSU Institute of Biology, I decided to come to Armenia and familiarize myself with the ongoing projects. I wanted not only to learn new methods but also to integrate them with the experience I already had. My work here is different from the work I did in Switzerland, and that’s exactly what interests me," Kalin shares.

She is currently conducting microbiological experiments and various studies. Although scientific terms in Armenian can sometimes be challenging to understand, Kalin assures that both at the university and outside it, everyone is willing to help her with this and many other matters.

"I really enjoy the friendly atmosphere here. In the laboratory, everyone collaborates closely, which provides great strength during our work," she adds.

Liana Vanyan, a researcher at the Laboratory of Microbiology, Bioenergetics, and Biotechnology at YSU Institute of Biology, who works alongside Kalin, highlights that the volunteer is particularly interested in bioenergetic research.

"She is curious, quick to learn, and always the first to engage in new experiments. Kalin is very active and capable," emphasizes L. Vanyan.

Kalin will stay in Armenia until mid-September. As she says, she wishes to fully dedicate these months to acquiring new knowledge and strengthening her connection with her homeland.