Italian expertise in YSU's academic environment: Italian PhD student conducts research locally

Speaking about the research conducted at YSU Research Institute of Biology, Angela stated, "We study various mutant strains of yeast cells by assessing their responses to different pH levels and salt stress conditions. For this purpose, three different proton exchange transporters are used. Through these experiments, we aim to study important cellular processes that may play a significant role in the development of biotechnological productions," she emphasized.

Speaking about Armenia and her impressions of YSU, the student noted, "This is a wonderful country adorned with well-maintained, beautiful trees, and its people are cheerful and open. I feel very comfortable here. Armenians differ from Italians in that they show interest in others' work and are willing to offer support. My professors, both in Armenia and Italy, share a similar dedication and approach. Here at YSU, working with Professor Karen Trchounian, I am developing my professional knowledge with the same quality as I do with my scientific supervisor Nicoletta Guaragnella at the University of Bari." 

Angela mentioned that the facilities in YSU's laboratories provide opportunities to conduct diverse scientific experiments using modern equipment.

"Working here is very interesting. You can use all the instruments, try different methods, and obtain valuable scientific data. Although Italy has many instruments, they are located in various laboratories, and access is limited. The experience I have gained in Armenia will undoubtedly help me greatly in the future," she added.

Karen Trchounian, Director of YSU Research Institute of Biology, noted that Angela's visit is a logical continuation of the collaboration between the two universities. 

"We have been collaborating with Angela's scientific supervisor, Nicoletta Guaragnella, for two to three years. Earlier, a student from our institute went to the University of Bari, and now we are hosting Angela. She is working with yeast and has brought mutant strains with her to study their growth and physicochemical parameters. The methods applied in this research are quite unique and rarely used in other laboratories. This visit is also an important opportunity to showcase our research potential," said Karen Trchounian.

He added that Angela not only possesses a high level of professional expertise but is also an example to follow for YSU students.

"She shows great dedication, conducts experiments with great responsibility, and constantly pays attention to every detail. Our students see the kind of attitude a scientist should have. Furthermore, the collaboration with the University of Bari within the framework of the Erasmus+ program will be ongoing, with new exchange programs for students and professors planned in the near future," he emphasized. 

Notably, as a result of the scientific cooperation between the two universities, a joint research article has already been prepared and is planned for publication in an international peer-reviewed journal.

Additionally, recently, Anahit Shirvanyan,  a junior researcher at the Laboratory of Microbiology, Bioenergetics, and Biotechnology at YSU Institute of Biology, conducted research at the University of Bari Aldo Moro within the framework of the Armenian Higher Education and Science Committee's "Professional Training-2025" program, thereby strengthening the scientific ties between YSU and the University of Bari.