Justyna Nowakowska

Justyna Nowakowska is a Professor at the Faculty of Biology and Environmental Sciences at the Pontifical University of John Paul II in Kraków (UKSW). She holds a doctoral degree from the University of Louis Pasteur in Strasbourg, France, specializing in gene expression analysis in genetically modified plants. Her professional career includes managing the DNA Analysis and Molecular Biology Laboratories at Poland's Forest Research Institute from 2000 to 2017.

Her research focuses on molecular biology of plants, population genetics, genetic engineering, and molecular diagnostics of plant pathogens, with notable contributions to understanding Phytophthora infections, ash dieback, and fungal pathogen interactions. She has authored/co-authored 105 scientific papers, 5 monographs, and 52 popular science publications, alongside producing educational films promoting scientific activities. She has held board roles in 9 EU COST Actions since 2008, fostering international collaboration in forest health and biotechnology.

Her work emphasizes applied research, including the use of silicon supplements for tree seedlings and electronic nose technology for pathogen detection. She has explored genetic diversity in forest tree populations, linking ecological resilience to climate change impacts. Her outreach includes public education on biotechnology and GMO awareness, addressing societal perceptions through sociological studies.

Dr. Nowakowska's research has been recognized through Scopus and Web of Science h-indexes of 15, with over 3,490 total ministerial scores. She actively engages in forest conservation initiatives, including protective forestry practices and sustainable management protocols.