Science knows no borders: young researchers from different countries at YSU

The Faculty of Biology at Yerevan State University has welcomed undergraduate and graduate students from several countries, including Germany, Italy, Russia, and Kazakhstan. These students are conducting research, participating in internships, and gaining valuable academic and practical experience. Among those working in the faculty's laboratories are Angela Primavera (Italy), George Sarzhevsky (Russia), and Fritz Kamm (Germany), as well as doctoral students from Kazakhstan—Nurgeldi Aimanbetov, Kuanish Moldakashev, and Kaysar Yegizbayn. They are engaged in various research projects and collaborate closely with YSU scientists.

Scientific research: from bio-waste to cellular mechanisms

Kaisar, a doctoral student from Kazakhstan, studies at the Agro-Technical University in Astana and has come to Yerevan State University for a one-month scientific internship. His research focuses on the processing of lignocellulosic waste and the production of bio-products derived from it.

"We work with various types of waste generated by the agro-food industry—peels, flax residues, molasses, beet pulp, and coffee waste. From such materials, we obtain biohydrogen, bioethanol, and biomass," he explains.

Second-year doctoral student Nurgeldi is also conducting research in the same field. Although their research objectives largely coincide, the scientists use different types of waste materials, mixtures, and bacteria.

They stress that YSU's modern and technologically well-equipped laboratories enable researchers to conduct a wide range of experiments and quickly obtain results. Speaking about their impressions, they also highlight several distinctive aspects of Armenia.

"When we arrived here, the temperature in Astana was around −30°C, while here it was approximately +10°C. Yet more than the weather, we were impressed by the laboratory environment at YSU. We would very much like to return here and work for a longer period," they say.

From Italy to Armenia for scientific collaboration

Angela, who arrived from Italy, studies in the "Biology" program at the University of Bari. Her research focuses on the activity of three different pumps in yeast cells, a study that may yield novel findings and provide the basis for international academic publications.

"Here I have met highly qualified specialists and found a very stimulating research environment. The laboratories are equipped with all the necessary instruments for scientific work, and the people are extremely warm and hospitable," Angela says.

She highlights that her time in Armenia has also been full of warm memories. For instance, she recently celebrated her birthday together with her colleagues.

Scientific volunteering and new research directions

George, born in Russia but raised in Germany, works at YSU as a research volunteer. His scientific interests include bacterial responses to antibiotics. In the next stage of his research, he plans to investigate the connection between this response and processes occurring in human mitochondria, particularly in the context of neuroinflammatory diseases.

"Here I am learning various laboratory methods and have already begun participating in research projects. Being part of the team is a very interesting experience," he says.

George also emphasizes that he particularly appreciates the open and friendly attitude of people in Armenia, as well as the modern technical infrastructure available at the university.

German student's first research experience

Fritz, who arrived from Germany, studies at the Dresden University of Technology and is currently in the fifth year of his undergraduate program. He came to YSU for three weeks to complete the internship required by his academic curriculum.

Fritz explains that he chose Armenia not only for its scientific opportunities but also for his interest in the country's history.

"I wrote an email to Professor Anna Poladyan, and she replied that it would be possible to complete my internship here. That is how I decided to come to Armenia," he says.

In the laboratory, Fritz mainly works on a project related to processing organic waste. According to him, the experiments conducted there are very interesting, and he has had the opportunity to observe methods and experimental approaches he had not encountered before.

He also highlights the laboratory's active working environment, where numerous students are engaged in their own individual research projects.

International cooperation driving scientific development

Karen Trchounian, Doctor of Biological Sciences, Professor, and Director of the YSU Research Institute of Biology, emphasizes that such partnerships are crucial for enhancing the scientific environment both at the university and throughout Armenia.

"It is highly significant that students and early career scientists from different countries choose YSU for their research activities. This not only facilitates the exchange of scientific experience but also enhances the university's international visibility," he notes.

According to Trchounian, such programs also create opportunities to involve young and promising specialists in the field in the future—not only from Armenia but also from abroad. Moreover, when they return to their home countries, they share their experiences at YSU and in Armenia, contributing to the internationalization of Armenia's scientific environment and advancing the goal of establishing the country as one of the world's leading scientific centers.

"We are always pleased to welcome young scientists to our laboratories. They bring new ideas and fresh energy to the scientific environment," he emphasizes.