Three-day workshop "Journey with Microbes" commences at YSU

During the workshop, participants have the opportunity not only to attend thematic lectures but also to engage in laboratory experiments, acquire hands-on skills, and interact directly with leading experts in the field. 

Anna Poladyan, Doctor of Biological Sciences, Associate Professor, Head of the Chair of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Biotechnology at YSU, and the ASM Ambassador in Armenia — who is also one of the organizers of the workshop — stated: "We have maintained a long-standing cooperation with the American Society for Microbiology, which has over 32,000 representatives worldwide. The society consistently supports initiatives of this nature. This time, the number of applicants was significant; candidates from both Yerevan and various provinces of Armenia applied to participate. Due to limited capacity, we selected 30 participants. The symbolic date of September 17 was chosen to mark the beginning of the workshop, as it coincides with the International Day of Microbes. Over the three days of the workshop, participants will have the chance to listen not only to lectures by our faculty members but also to a panel discussion featuring Peter Van Dam, a distinguished scientist invited from a Belgian university."

Karen Trchounian, Director of YSU Research Institute of Biology and a keynote speaker at the workshop, emphasized the crucial role of microbes in our lives during his address. 

"Many people perceive microbes solely from a negative perspective; however, their role in our lives is immense. It is essential to start shaping accurate perceptions about microbes in school. Events like this provide young people with access to contemporary scientific knowledge and contribute to raising the overall educational level of society. Without understanding the role of microbes, we lose the opportunity to harness their practical applications," he remarked.

In addition to lectures, the three-day program includes practical sessions. Students will conduct various laboratory exercises in the laboratories of microbiology, bioenergetics, and biotechnology at the Research Institute of Biology, thereby gaining hands-on experience. As part of the workshop, participants will also visit YSU History Museum named after Professor Ludwig Gharibjanyan.  

At the conclusion of the workshop, all participants will receive certificates, taking with them both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.