Zuzana Dzureková is a Researcher at the University of Warsaw, specializing in protist diversity, eukaryotic origins, and endosymbiont analysis. Her work bridges microbial ecology and evolutionary biology, with a focus on trypanosomatid biochemistry and freshwater protist communities. Research Interests: She investigates the functional diversity of protists in freshwaters, particularly their symbiotic relationships and metabolic pathways. Her studies on the tricarboxylic acid cycle in Diplonema papillatum highlight her expertise in eukaryotic cellular biology. Project Participation: She contributed to the SK-CZ-RD-21-0038 project on trypanosomatid biochemistry. Recently, she conducted an Erasmus+ internship at the University of Kent (2023), analyzing metabolic pathways in unicellular eukaryotes under Dr. Anastasios Tsaousis. Publications: Her 2024 work in International Journal for Parasitology explores catalase’s role in Leptomonas seymouri infectivity, demonstrating interdisciplinary insights into parasitic mechanisms. Labs/Teams: Affiliated with the Eukaryotic Microorganisms Evolution and Genomics of Microbial Eukaryotes groups, advancing understanding of protist evolution and pathogenicity.
Agnieszka Zdybicka-Barabas is a Professor at Maria Curie-Skłodowska University's Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, where she leads research in the Department of Immunobiology. Her work focuses on insect innate immunity mechanisms, particularly antimicrobial peptides and their interactions with bacterial and fungal pathogens using Galleria mellonella as a model organism. Research Focus Her primary investigations examine: Host-pathogen interactions in insect immune systems Structure-function relationships of antimicrobial peptides Mechanisms of action against gram-negative/positive bacteria and fungi Biophysical characterization of immune proteins like apolipophorin III Therapeutic applications of insect-derived compounds Scientific Recognition Significant honors include: Team Award from Poland's Minister of Science (2019) Silver Medal at iENA Nuremberg International Trade Fair (2018) Multiple Rector's Awards for research excellence and industry collaboration Research Output Her recent publications demonstrate consistent focus on: Characterization of insect defense proteins and their mechanisms Interactions between antimicrobial peptides and bacterial/fungal pathogens Potential therapeutic applications for human infections Novel approaches to combat antibiotic resistance She has contributed to patented inventions for treating bee diseases and maintains active research collaborations across European institutions.
Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in WarsawPoland
Piotr Matyjasiak is a Professor at the Faculty of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University in Warsaw. His research focuses on avian ecology, migration adaptations, sexual selection mechanisms, and conservation biology. He specializes in ornithological studies of species like barn swallows and blackcaps, examining aspects such as flight performance, interspecific communication, and the impact of environmental factors on behavior and morphology. Key research interests include animal signaling reliability, predator-prey interactions in anthropogenic environments, and legal frameworks for nature protection. He actively publishes in ecological journals and uses advanced methodologies like radar imaging and geolocator tracking. His work bridges basic science with applied conservation, addressing ecological fragmentation and the effectiveness of protected areas. Matyjasiak's recent studies emphasize behavioral adaptations to human-induced changes, revealing how noise pollution and habitat degradation affect avian survival strategies. He collaborates internationally on meta-analyses of tracking device impacts and maintains a strong focus on Polish biodiversity challenges.
Katarzyna Mierzejewska is a researcher at the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, affiliated with the Department of Ichthyology and Aquaculture and Animal Bioengineering. Her scientific discipline spans Zootechnics and fishing, with a focus on fish parasitology, telemetry, and population dynamics. Parasitological studies of fish (Gobiiformes and others) Fish telemetry using hydroacoustics and radio telemetry Fish population analysis and invasive species monitoring Cross-disciplinary work in digital transformation and CSR in energy SMEs Her recent publications highlight interdisciplinary research trends, including parasite-host interactions, telemetry-based fish behavior studies, and organizational agility in the energy sector. She has co-supervised one PhD student and serves as a promoter for doctoral research. The department’s infrastructure supports telemetry studies, parasite research, and energy sector analyses.
West Pomeranian University of Technology in SzczecinPoland
Lidia Felska-Błaszczyk is a Professor at the West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin , affiliated with the Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding and Department of Animal Reproductive Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene . She specializes in reproductive physiology of fur animals, photoperiod effects on breeding, and domestication processes. Doctoral research: Chinchilla reproduction under varying light conditions (2004) Long-term cooperation with fur farming industry Member: Polish Society of Animal Production (2000-present), Szczecin Scientific Society (2006-present) Research Focus: Investigates reproductive performance optimization , environmental factors in animal husbandry , photoperiod manipulation , and domestication syndrome through morphological and genetic studies. Key topics include testosterone/progesterone dynamics , litter size optimization , and nutritional supplementation for carnivorous fur animals. Scientific Contributions: Led two major research projects on light condition effects (2002-2004) and phenotypic/genetic distinctiveness (2010-2012). Presented at international conferences in Germany and Italy (2003). Active in developing didactic materials for fur animal breeding and experimental design.
West Pomeranian University of Technology in SzczecinPoland
Dr. DSc, Eng. Renata Pilarczyk is a Professor at the West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin (ZUT), working within the Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding, specifically in the Department of Ruminant Sciences. She is an active researcher with numerous publications in high-impact journals, focusing on animal breeding, nutrition, and environmental adaptation of livestock. Her work spans multiple disciplines including veterinary science, environmental toxicology, and food safety. Education: Engineer, Agricultural University of Szczecin, Faculty of Animal Science (1999) Master of Science, Agricultural University of Szczecin, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding (2000) PhD, Agricultural University of Szczecin, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding (2004) PhD, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Breeding (2015) Professor Pilarczyk's research focuses primarily on modern technologies for milk and beef production, the use of different beef cattle breeds considering current breeding trends, and assessing how imported beef and dairy cattle breeds adapt to Western Pomeranian conditions. Her work demonstrates a strong interdisciplinary approach, connecting animal science with environmental science, public health, and food safety. She has extensively studied selenium bioaccumulation in animal products and the impact of environmental factors on livestock health and productivity. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a clear research trajectory centered on livestock production systems, environmental adaptation of animals, and food safety concerns. Her work increasingly incorporates interdisciplinary approaches, connecting veterinary science with environmental toxicology, nutritional science, and even machine learning applications in animal farming. The majority of her work maintains a strong regional focus on Western Pomerania while addressing globally relevant issues in animal production and food safety. Scientific Awards: Individual Award of the 3rd degree from the Rector of the Agricultural Academy in Szczecin for scientific achievements (2004, 2005) Team Award of the 2nd degree from the Rector of the West Pomeranian University of Technology for scientific achievements (2008, 2009) Team Award of the 1st degree from the Rector of the West Pomeranian University of Technology for scientific achievements (2009, 2010) Professor Pilarczyk has been actively involved in academic leadership and organizational roles, serving on numerous committees including Faculty Council, Recruitment Committees (as Secretary, Vice-Chair, and Chair), and committees for accreditation and education quality. She has supervised students across multiple programs and has been instrumental in developing educational programs, including distance learning initiatives. Her grant activities include participation in the KBN grant focused on high-quality beef production in northwestern Poland (2002-2004). She has been actively involved in organizing scientific conferences from 2004 through 2025, including international events focusing on dairy cattle breeding, biotechnology challenges, and environmental determinants of animal and human health. Her most recent conference involvement includes the Scientific and Practical Conference on 'Current problems in cattle breeding and husbandry' scheduled for February 2025 in Barzkowice.
Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in WarsawPoland
Piotr Ceryngier is a Professor at the Faculty of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw. His research focuses on the faunistics, zoogeography, and ecology of ladybird beetles (Coccinellidae), their natural enemies, invasive species impacts, and agricultural intensification effects on plant biodiversity. Current research interests include: Faunistics, zoogeography, and ecology of ladybird beetles Natural enemies (parasites, parasitoids, pathogens) of ladybirds Invasive species and ecosystem impacts Agricultural intensification effects on vascular plants His work spans biological sciences, with a strong emphasis on entomology, biodiversity, and ecological interactions. Publications and research output reflect expertise in Coleoptera, Hymenoptera parasitoids, and invasive species dynamics. Professional identifiers: ORCID 0000-0003-1085-9751, UKSW author ID UKSW-36209 Email: p.ceryngier@uksw.edu.pl Consultation hours: Wednesdays 11:30-13:00, room 425, building 24
Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in WarsawPoland
Jerzy Romanowski is a Professor at the Faculty of Biology and Environmental Sciences , Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University. His research spans ecology , zoology , and entomology , with a focus on Euroasian otters, ladybird beetles (Coccinellidae), and ecological impacts of river valley development. Key research themes: synurbanization of animals, invasive species, microplastic pollution, and island biodiversity. Email: j.romanowski@uksw.edu.pl , consultations: Wednesdays 11:30–13:00 in room 409. His work on ladybirds in the Canary Islands (since 2017) and microplastic contamination in the Vistula River and Baltic Sea highlights his interdisciplinary approach. Recent publications emphasize predation dynamics , species distribution , and ecological modeling .
Institute of Dendrology, Polish Academy of SciencesPoland
Nico J. Smit is a distinguished researcher at North-West University, with affiliations at the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, University of Miami, and Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science. His work spans over 25 years and focuses on aquatic biodiversity, parasitology, and ecosystem health. Primary Affiliation: North-West University (South Africa) Collaborative Institutions: University of Miami, South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, University of Free State, others Research Interests: Smit specializes in fish parasites, their ecological roles, and impacts of pollution and invasive species on aquatic ecosystems. His studies integrate molecular characterization, biodiversity conservation, and environmental monitoring. Key Article Trends: Recent publications emphasize mercury bioaccumulation, new parasitic species discovery, and adaptive responses of aquatic organisms to environmental stressors. Collaborative work dominates (96.5%), with high-impact journals like International Journal for Parasitology: Parasites and Wildlife and Science of the Total Environment . Primary Sponsorships: National Research Foundation (35.7%), National Science Foundation (10.7%), Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (7.1%) Academic Influence: With 235 publications, 3,311 citations, and an H-index of 29, Smit's work is recognized globally. His research spans 10 countries, including South Africa, Botswana, and the U.S.
Institute of Dendrology, Polish Academy of SciencesPoland
Dr. Abdallah Mohammed Samy is a distinguished researcher affiliated with Ain Shams University and multiple international institutions including Brown University, Thomas Jefferson University, and the University of Kansas. His work focuses on large-scale epidemiological studies through the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) initiative, examining patterns of allergic disorders, infectious diseases, cancer epidemiology, and climate change impacts on health systems. Research Focus Primary research domains include: Global burden quantification of diseases and risk factors Vector-borne disease transmission dynamics Public health intervention modeling Climate change impacts on disease distribution Cancer epidemiology in vulnerable populations Funding and Collaboration Significant research support from: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (21.9% of funded publications) National Institutes of Health (11.9%) European Commission (6.8%) Wellcome Trust (6.6%) Egyptian Fulbright Mission Program (8.2%) Maintains active collaborations across 2,632 institutions worldwide, with research spanning multiple continents including focused work in North Africa and the Middle East.
Institute of Dendrology, Polish Academy of SciencesPoland
Dr. Tileye Feyissa is a distinguished researcher at Addis Ababa University with a focus on plant genetics and biotechnology. He has affiliations with institutions such as Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology and Sveriges Lantbruksuniversitet. Research Interests: Genetic diversity, population structure, and conservation of Ethiopian crops (tef, barley, enset, sorghum, Napier grass). Key Themes: Utilization of molecular markers (microsatellite, SNP) for genetic analysis, integration of local knowledge in crop conservation, and sustainable agriculture strategies. Publication Trends: His recent works (2023–2021) span journals like Molecular Biology Reports , Scientific Reports , and Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution , emphasizing crop resilience and genetic resource management. Sponsored Research: Funded by the National Research Foundation, NIH, Sida, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China.
Institute of Dendrology, Polish Academy of SciencesPoland
Dr. Taher Shaibi is a distinguished researcher affiliated with the University of Tripoli and the Libyan National Centre for Disease Control. His work focuses on toxicology, veterinary science, and vector-borne diseases with particular emphasis on endocrine disruptors' effects and parasitic infections. He has collaborated with institutions like China's National Natural Science Foundation and King Saud University's Deanship of Scientific Research. His research explores vitamin D's therapeutic potential against bisphenol A-induced organ damage in mice models and investigates the epidemiology of parasites such as Varroa mites and ticks in Libyan ecosystems. Key projects include studies on West Nile virus seroprevalence and mosquito species diversity. Funding sources include the EU Commission, Libyan Ministry of Higher Education, and Spanish Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación. His contributions bridge ecological insights with public health solutions through interdisciplinary studies.
Dr. Karina Vanadzina is a researcher affiliated with the University of Warsaw, specializing in evolutionary biology, parasitology, and paleontology. Her work integrates climate change impacts, phylogenetic comparative methods, and the macroecology of parental care in vertebrates. She has contributed to projects such as the PARADIVE initiative as a co-investigator, focusing on parasitism and environmental change, and led studies on passerine bird nesting behaviors through grants like the Systematics Research Fund. Her research spans fossil analysis, avian ecology, and developmental plasticity in foraminifera. Vanadzina collaborates internationally, evidenced by her roles in UK-based grants and co-authorships with institutions globally. Her publications explore topics ranging from Platyhelminthes evolution using fossil-molecular comparisons to global drivers shaping avian nesting strategies. She holds an ORCID profile and is contactable at k.vanadzina@uw.edu.pl. Projects: PARADIVE (co-investigator): Studies parasitism, biodiversity, and environmental change. Evolution of parental care in freshwater fish (co-investigator). Completed projects: Global cup nest size drivers (principal investigator), spawning in freshwater fishes (principal investigator), and marine fish parental care (co-investigator). Research Focus: Combines evolutionary mechanisms with ecological contexts, particularly in vertebrates and microfossils. Uses phylogenetic tools to trace evolutionary paths and assess climate impacts on species interactions and morphological adaptations.
Weronika Łaska is a Researcher at the University of Warsaw, specializing in ichnology, neoichnology of invertebrates, and the application of machine learning in Earth and Environmental Science. Her work focuses on biotic crises and environmental changes throughout Earth's history. She has served as a co-investigator in major projects including the EU-funded PARADIVE initiative (studying parasitism and environmental change) and the DAINA 1 project investigating late glacial and Holocene environmental shifts in the European Sand Belt. Her research integrates field studies with advanced imaging techniques like CT scans to analyze bioerosion patterns and paleocommunities. She has conducted internships at the Hungarian Academy of Sciences (Geochemistry Research Group) and the University of Granada's Department of Stratigraphy and Palaeontology. Key contributions include studies on bioturbation dynamics, Holocene insect colonization patterns, and the paleoenvironmental impacts of human activity recorded in dune systems. Publications span interdisciplinary topics from marine invertebrate behavior to the evolutionary history of Platyhelminthes, demonstrating her expertise in linking fossil records with modern ecological and molecular data. Her work bridges sedimentology, paleontology, and environmental science to address questions about Earth's ecological resilience and past crises.
Daria Tashyreva is a Researcher at the University of Warsaw, focusing on the taxonomy, ecology, and ultrastructure of euglenozoan protists, as well as their symbiotic relationships with bacteria and archaea. Her work bridges microbial ecology, evolutionary biology, and cellular biology, with a particular emphasis on understudied protist groups like diplonemids and hemistasiids. Current projects include the SYMBIOZOANS initiative, investigating prokaryotic endosymbionts in cultured and natural euglenozoan populations. Collaborations with institutions like the Czech Academy of Sciences enhance her research on protist symbiosis and ultrastructure. She also explores metal accumulation in protists and the role of gene transfer agents in symbiotic bacteria. Key Research Areas: Protist diversity, host-symbiont interactions, microbial symbiosis evolution, and protist physiology. Techniques: 3D microscopy, genomic analysis, phylogenetic reconstruction, and field sampling. Collaborations: Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences. Her publications span mBio , Current Biology , and Protist , highlighting contributions to understanding protist ultrastructure, symbiotic mechanisms, and evolutionary adaptations.
