Science, experience, and new thinking: workshop for school students

Microbiology without borders

A three-day workshop titled "Microbiology Without Borders: ASM Workshop in Honor of Professor Armen Trchounian" has been launched at the university through a joint initiative of the Chair of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology at the YSU Faculty of Biology and the American Society for Microbiology (ASM).

The event is dedicated to the 70th anniversary of the distinguished scientist, Professor Armen Trchounian. His scientific contributions and long-standing cooperation with ASM have given the workshop a commemorative dimension, while also highlighting the continuity of his scientific legacy.  

The workshop is primarily aimed at senior school students, for whom a setting has been created to explore contemporary directions in microbiology and its practical applications. Participants are given the opportunity not only to attend lectures by field specialists but also to take part directly in laboratory work, acquiring practical skills and developing scientific thinking. 

As noted by Anna Poladyan, ASM Ambassador in Armenia and Head of the Chair of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology, the initiative has been running for several years and has become a highly anticipated and valued platform for school students. 

"While in previous years it was held within the framework of International Microorganism Day, this year the workshop stands out due to its anniversary focus," Poladyan said.

Microbiology at the core of global challenges

The workshop addresses current challenges in microbiology and potential solutions, highlighting the field's crucial role in today's world. Discussions cover the growing issue of antibiotic resistance, environmental pollution—particularly the widespread presence of plastics and nanoplastics—as well as the use of microorganisms in bioremediation and alternative energy production.  

Participants are introduced to how microorganisms can serve not only as objects of scientific study but also as tools for addressing global challenges, from waste processing to the development of biodegradable materials.

About scientific event format 

According to Poladyan, one of the distinctive features of the program is its interactive educational format, which encourages active student engagement and creative thinking.

"In addition to lectures, a panel discussion will also be held, where students will have the opportunity to ask questions and take part in professional discussions," Poladyan added. 

The workshop also incorporates innovative methods, including LEGO-based modeling for presenting ideas, which fosters both creativity and teamwork. This format makes the learning process more engaging and memorable. 

Geographic and thematic scope of workshop 

The event has attracted strong interest from school students, with registration exceeding expectations, reflecting growing enthusiasm for the program. Participants include students from schools in Yerevan as well as various provinces of Armenia, with some attending for the second time. 

According to Andranik Melikyan, a 10th-grade student at YSU STEM High School, although he was previously interested in biology, the workshop allowed him to gain a deeper understanding of the field, discover new topics, and broaden his perspective on microbiology.

Another student from the same school, Arman Bareghamyan, noted that while he already had some knowledge about bacteria and viruses, the information gained here significantly enriched his understanding. He was particularly interested in how microorganisms adapt to new conditions over time, highlighting the importance of continuous scientific development.

Gagik Hakobyan, a 7th-grade student at Yerevan's No. 111 Basic School named after Jivan Abrahamyan, attended the lectures with great enthusiasm, particularly highlighting the topic of lactic acid bacteria and emphasizing the importance of continuing such initiatives.

Another student from the same school, Edgar Harutyunyan, noted that although he was already familiar with certain topics, the workshop helped him gain a deeper understanding. He found the topics of plastic recycling and the production of new materials using microorganisms especially fascinating.

At the conclusion of the workshop, participants will be awarded certificates reflecting the knowledge and experience they have gained. The initiative represents another important step toward promoting science and discovering young scientific potential within the framework of YSU's educational mission.

The workshop will continue until April 29 of this year.