International conference at YSU marks 90th anniversary of Biology Faculty and 10th anniversary of Biology Research Institute

The Faculty of Biology was established in 1935, yet its history dates back to the very foundation of YSU. As one of Armenia’s leading academic and scientific institutions, the faculty has trained highly qualified professionals across various fields of biology. Today, many of its graduates work at top educational and research institutions around the world. Biological and environmental sciences play a crucial role in addressing urgent issues, including climate change, biodiversity loss, food security, water scarcity, and public health crises — all of which are central to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The primary aim of the conference is to bring together leading scientists, educators, policymakers, and experts from diverse disciplines to explore the intersection of biological processes, environmental management, and technological innovation. It particularly focuses on interdisciplinary approaches to sustainable development, promoting collaborative research, as well as bridging science and practice. 

YSU Rector Hovhannes Hovhannisyan, congratulating the faculty and institute on their respective anniversaries, emphasized the significance of the event: "This conference has united scientists from various countries, demonstrating the importance of creating a collaborative platform for addressing environmental challenges. It is noteworthy that the conference is being held in celebration of the 90th anniversary of the Faculty of Biology and the 10th anniversary of the Research Institute of Biology. The faculty is among Armenia’s premier centers for scientific and educational excellence, preparing highly qualified professionals in various fields of biology. Many of our graduates currently work at top universities and research centers worldwide. 

The institute, in recent years, has made remarkable progress in both the quantity and quality of publications in internationally recognized scientific journals.

As Armenia prepares to host COP17, this conference also serves as an important step in our preparatory efforts."

Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Armenia Zhanna Andreasyan, in her congratulatory message, highlighted the significance of the event: "This conference has united us on a single platform to discuss the key challenges of our time and the steps needed to address them. It reflects the achievements of the Faculty of Biology throughout its history. 

It would hardly be an exaggeration to say that the educational and research programs in the biological sciences are among our most dynamic fields. Their impact is evident not only in scientific publications and laboratory work, but also in educational performance indicators, which reflect the growing interest in these sectors year by year.

All of this is further reinforced by international collaboration. Today, the faculty hosts numerous international students and researchers who are actively involved in both the educational and scientific processes. This is the face of modern higher education and research. When we speak about this activity, we primarily refer to international competitiveness, which makes our work visible not only within Armenia but also beyond its borders. In this regard, I believe the example of the Faculty of Biology is a guiding one. I am glad that this conversation is happening in the context of the new Law on Higher Education and Science. I extend my congratulations to all of us, as this law opens up new opportunities for internationalization, the establishment of new quality standards, and other key directions. I am convinced that universities will be able to fully take advantage of these opportunities."

Minister Andreasyan also highlighted the importance of the infrastructure developed within the Faculty of Biology, stating: "Today, the faculty offers an environment that is internationally competitive, both in terms of its available equipment and research potential. I am confident that this will also contribute to the development of our country. A significant portion of our key decisions depends on the discussions of researchers, scientists, and educators. I hope that the outcomes of this conference will result in a series of recommendations that our relevant bodies will consider in the development of future policies."

During the conference, in recognition of their effective scientific work, the large-scale contributions made at YSU Faculty of Biology and the Research Institute of Biology, as well as in honor of the faculty’s 90th anniversary and the institute’s 10th anniversary, the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of the Republic of Armenia awarded gold medals to Professor Karen Trchounian, Doctor of Biological Sciences, Director of YSU Research Institute of Biology, and Karen Ghazaryan, Doctor of Biological Sciences, Dean of YSU Faculty of Biology. 

A representative from the Ministry of Environment, delivering a message from Minister Hambardzum Mathevosyan, highlighted: "This conference is a unique opportunity to unite the scientific community, public institutions, and private sector representatives to develop solutions that will contribute to environmental protection and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals."

Dean Karen Ghazaryan, reflecting on his more than 20 years of activity, stated: "The faculty has passed through various stages of development. Initially, biology was a descriptive science, but over time, significant advancements have been made. We plan to launch new master’s programs and address existing gaps in science and education by involving invited partners.

Ninety years is a long journey. The faculty has rich traditions that will surely be preserved. The collaboration and unity established between students, lecturers, and researchers will continue to grow in the future, leading to new achievements. Our faculty is a prime example of science-based education, which is why our graduates remain highly competitive and in demand."

Karen Trchounian, Director of YSU Research Institute of Biology, addressing the 10th anniversary of the institute and the significance of the conference in his congratulatory remarks, stated: "Although this is the first conference of its kind at YSU, it will certainly not be the last. With this event, we are opening new doors of opportunity — both for Armenia and, as I always like to say, for the best university, YSU, the best faculty, and the best institute. Year by year, we continue to make progress in various fields, welcoming top specialists from the world’s leading universities, and we always remain open to hosting them and furthering our collaboration."

In honor of the 90th anniversary of the Faculty of Biology and in recognition of their significant contributions and active engagement in the fields of science and education, YSU rector awarded representatives from various departments of the faculty with certificates of appreciation, letters of gratitude, and gold, silver, and bronze medals.