Prelegenci na spotkaniu edukacyjnym

Invisible – in the air, in food, in our bodies. Report from an educational meeting

They are invisible to the naked eye, yet they may affect our health. They are present in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and even in our homes. Pesticides, bisphenols and heavy metals can enter the human body through various pathways and influence health, even when found only in trace amounts. These invisible threats – and ways to reduce everyday exposure to them – were the focus of an educational meeting held at the InLife Institute.

The programme included topics related to the presence of chemical residues in food. Substances used in agriculture to control weeds and pests, as well as compounds applied to extend the shelf life of food products, may enter the body through our daily diet.

Dr hab. Michał Wróbel pointed out that pesticide residues detected in food generally do not pose a risk to consumers, emphasizing that toxicity depends on the dose. He also discussed the dangerous pesticide DDT and shared practical ways to reduce pesticide exposure at home.

Packaging was another important topic addressed during the meeting. Dr inż. Katarzyna Bułkowska, Prof. UWM explained how chemicals can migrate from packaging into food and which labels and markings consumers should pay attention to. She also discussed bisphenols and PFAS compounds, presenting simple rules that can help reduce everyday contact with these substances.

The meeting also covered environmental pollution and its impact on human health. Dr hab. Stanisław Czachorowski, Prof. UWM explained how pollutants spread through the environment. He referred to historical examples of heavy metal poisoning, including lead exposure, and discussed modern threats. His lecture also touched on the issue of light pollution.

The final lecture focused on nutrigenomics and explored how diet can help protect the body from toxins. Dr Emilia Gospodarska from the InLife Institute spoke about anti-smog and anti-inflammatory diets and recommended foods worth including in everyday meals. She also highlighted the role of vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and nutrition that supports DNA repair and methylation processes.

An important part of the event was the discussion session, during which participants asked questions and explored how conscious choices and small lifestyle changes can reduce exposure to potentially harmful substances.

The meeting took place on Saturday, 28 March, and gathered over 60 participants. The speakers were researchers from the InLife Institute – the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, as well as from the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn.

Watch the video report from the meeting:

Photo gallery:

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Seminars

Seminar Schedule

March 26, 2026, Thu., 9:00 – scientific seminar

FBW 2025 (Part 1)

March 27, 2026, Fri., 9:00 – scientific seminar

FBW 2025 (Part 2)

January

January 16, 2026, Fri., 9:00 scientific/leaders’ seminar

Dr Taisiia Yurchuk
Presentation title: Beyond Survival: Cumulus-Oocyte Communication as the Key to Competence in Cryopreserved Immature Mammalian Oocytes

January 23, 2026, Fri., 9:00 scientific/leaders’ seminar

Dr hab. Joanna Wiśniewska
Presentation title: Effect of a Western diet modified with vegetable oils on the process of healing skin wounds in mice

January 30, 2026, Fri., 9:00 scientific/leaders’ seminar

Prof. dr hab. Agnieszka Blitek
Presentation title: The importance of fatty acids and their transporters in placental development in pigs

February

February 13, 2026, Fri., 9:00 scientific/leaders’ seminar

Mgr Beata Marmulewska / Dr Michał Janiak
Presentation title: RepOD in practice: uploading research data and access to the institutional collection

February 20, 2026, Fri., 9:00 scientific/leaders’ seminar

cancelled

February 25, 2026, Tue., 9:00 Fish’n’Repro

Constantinos (Dinos) C. Mylonas, Professor (HCMR)
Title: Fish Reproduction in Mediterranean Aquaculture and its Control

Ioannis (Yannis) Fakriadis, PhD (HCMR)
Title: Dominance in fish reproduction: can we manipulate it?

Daniel Żarski, PhD (InLife)
Title: Fishing for molecular indicators of egg quality in pikeperch

Oliver Barić, PhD Student (InLife)
Title: Winding the clock: current knowledge on circadian rhythm development in Eurasian perch

Rossella Debernardis, PhD Student (InLife)
Title: Heart oedema in Eurasian perch larvae is associated with multi-tissue gene dysregulation

February 27, 2026, Fri., 9:00 OL-PAN

Prof. dr hab. Katarzyna Starowicz-Bubak
Presentation title: New neuropharmacological perspectives in chronic pain therapy: the role of the endocannabinoid system

March

March 6, 2026, Fri., 9:00 – guest seminar

Dr Mariusz Kowalewski
Presentation title: Frontiers in Reproductive Biology: From Morphofunctional and Translational Features of the Canine Placenta to Hypoxia-Driven Adaptations in Steroidogenic Cells

March 13, 2026, Fri., 9:00 – guest seminar

Dr Jonna Tomkiewicz
Presentation title: Towards Closing the Life Cycle of the European Eel: Oceanic Mystery, Physiological Barriers and Experimental Progress

March 20, 2026, Fri., 9:00 – scientific/leaders’ seminar

Dr Kamil Myszczyński
Presentation title: Information meeting of the Computational Biology Laboratory

March 26, 2026, Thu., 9:00 – scientific seminar

FBW 2025 (Part 1)

March 27, 2026, Fri., 9:00 – scientific seminar

FBW 2025 (Part 2)

April

April 10, 2026, Fri., 9:00 – scientific/leaders’ seminar

Dr Aleksandra Szczepkowska
Presentation title: CHRONOFLOW: Integrated study of circadian rhythms of the choroid plexus (transcriptomic, miRNA and proteomic analysis) in the context of blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier function and the glymphatic system

February

February 14, 2025, Fri., 9:00

Dr hab. Iwona Grabowska, institute professor
Presentation title: Personalized vascular endothelium diagnostics in oncology therapy; towards modern vascular oncology

February 21, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – doctoral seminar

Individual Research Plans of second-year doctoral students

February 28, 2025, Fri., 9:00

Dr hab. Bartosz Fotschki
Presentation title: Enhancing the use of the health-promoting properties of raspberries in the prevention and alleviation of diet-induced metabolic disorders

March

March 07, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – doctoral seminar

Individual Research Plans of second-year doctoral students

March 11, 2025, Tue., 9:00

reporting seminars on the implementation of FBW projects financed in 2024 (part 1)

March 14, 2025, Fri., 9:00

reporting seminars on the implementation of FBW projects financed in 2024 (part 2)

March 28, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – scientific/leaders’ seminar

Dr Maria Guzewska
Presentation title: A Decade of Tiny Messengers: Deciphering the Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Early Pregnancy

April

April 11, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – scientific/leaders’ seminar

Prof. Dr Carsten Carlberg
Presentation title: From Vitamin D to Healthy Aging

April 25, 2025, Fri., 9:00

Prof. dr hab. Monika Kaczmarek – Institute Director
Presentation title: Applying for NCN grants – the perspective of a former NCN Council member

April 29, 2025, Tue., 10:30

Dr Masaya Morita – Associate Professor at the Tropical Biosphere Research Center of the University of the Ryukyus
Presentation title: Reproduction and evolutionary history of the corals

May

May 6, 2025, Tue., 10:00 – guest seminar

Dr. Burim N. Ametaj, Full Professor – Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Canada
Presentation title: The Calci-Inflammatory Axis: A Paradigm Shift in Understanding Milk Fever

May 09, 2025, Fri., 10:00 – open seminar

Prof. Dr Dieter Steinhilber
Presentation title: Inflammation and Lipid Mediators: Old and New Therapeutic Strategies

May 23, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – guest seminar

Dr. Chihiro Ebihara – Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke, Japan
Presentation title: My Translational Research in Lipodystrophy and Obesity

May 30, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – scientific/leaders’ seminar

Dr hab. Daniel Żarski
Presentation title: Science with care, reward by surprise

June

June 3, 2025, Tue., 9:00

seminar – research plans under projects financed from FBW in 2025, part 1

June 5, 2025, Thu., 9:00

seminar – research plans under projects financed from FBW in 2025, part 2

June 6, 2025 – cancelled

June 13, 2025 – cancelled

June 27, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – scientific/leaders’ seminar

Dr Sylwia Judycka
Presentation title: CRYO-LARVA: a multi-species exploration of molecular, developmental and transgenerational consequences of sperm cryo-selection in fish larvae

September

September 5, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

Prof. Marta Wrzosek
Presentation title: Fungal communication

September 19, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – scientific/leaders’ seminar

Dr hab. Eng. Radosław Kowalski
Presentation title: National Ethics Committee: regulations, procedures and practical significance in science

September 30, 2025, Tue., 10:00 – guest seminar

Prof. Alexei Santiani Acosta
Presentation title: Experiences in alpaca (Vicugna pacos) sperm cryopreservation in Peru

Dr. Shirley Sujey Evangelista Vargas
Presentation title: Methods for semen collection in alpacas: Experiences and practices on the Peruvian coast

October

October 10, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – scientific/leaders’ seminar

Dr Lidia Markiewicz
Presentation title: The Nagoya Protocol and the obligations of Institute employees regarding access to genetic resources

October 22, 2025, Wed., 12:30 – guest seminar

Dr Francesco Gai
Presentation title: Alternative proteins for Food and Feed: the CIPROMED project

Dr Andrea Vornoli
Presentation title: The Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, laboratory activities and PFAS project

October 24, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – CANCELLED

October 31, 2025, Fri., 10:00 – open seminar

Prof. Bożena Kamińska
Presentation title: Dissecting brain tumor microenvironment at a single-cell resolution reveals new targets and immune biomarkers

November

November 7, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – scientific/leaders’ seminar

Dr Karolina Wołodko
Presentation title: Delayed embryonic development in obese mothers: the relationship between leptin and mTOR signaling pathways

November 14, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – doctoral students’ seminar

Doctoral students – 2nd year of the Doctoral School
Presentation title: Presentation of individual research plans

November 21, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – scientific/leaders’ seminar

Dr hab. Eng. Urszula Krupa-Kozak, Institute Professor
Presentation title: Effect of gut microbiota modulation induced by chicory inulin-type β-fructans on metabolic parameters and biomarkers of the gut-skin axis in chronic skin inflammation

November 28, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – doctoral students’ seminar

Doctoral students – 1st year of the Doctoral School
Presentation title: Presentation of individual research plans

December

December 5, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – scientific/leaders’ seminar

Cancelled

December 12, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

Dr Mikołaj Ogrodnik
Presentation title: Skin damage responses: links to healing & aging
more

December 19, 2025, Fri., 9:00 – scientific/leaders’ seminar

Cancelled

January

January 12, 2024, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ seminar

Dr hab. Beenu MOZA JALALI
Presentation title: Endometrial Remodelling During Peri-implantation Period: Molecular Players

January 26, 2024, Fri., 9:00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

Dr Sylwia Judycka
Presentation title: Standardization of cryopreservation procedures of fish semen

February

February 2, 2024, Fri., 9:00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

Tainá Rocha de Almeida, PhD
Presentation title: Strain specific offspring performance and egg transcriptome in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

February 14, 2024, Wed., 13:30 – Director’s seminar

Prof. dr hab. Mariusz Piskuła

February 16, 2024, Fri., 9:00

Dr hab. Andrzej Eljaszewicz, Medical University of Białystok
Presentation title: Futuri Center of the Medical University of Białystok
Medical University of Białystok. About the Center. (umb.edu.pl)

March

March 1, 2024, Fri., 9:00

FBW REPORTING SESSION PART 1 – ONOŻ

March 8, 2024, Fri., 9:00

FBW REPORTING SESSION PART 2 – OBR

March 15, 2024, Fri., 9:00

Dr Eng. Ilona Kowalczyk-Zięba
Presentation title: Breeding progress in cattle based on biotechnological methods

March 22, 2024, Fri., 10:00 – OL-PAN seminar

Professor Kieran Tuohy
Presentation title: Diet – microbe interactions in the gut – reducing the risk of metabolic disease

January

January 27, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – Mini-Symposium

Joined mini–symposium of Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn and University of Debrecen, Hungary

February

February 3, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

Dr Piotr Kaczyński
Presentation title: Embryo-maternal interactions during pregnancy establishment in pigs

February 10, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – Director’s seminar

Prof. dr hab. Mariusz Piskuła

February 17, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

Prof. dr. med. Piotr LewczukLab for Clinical Neurochemistry and Neurochemical Dementia Diagnostics, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Germany
Presentation title: Neurochemical Dementia Diagnostics: Perspectives and Limitations

February 24, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – GRANT PLANS

Persons applying for grants in the MARCH NCN calls

March

March 3, 2023, Fri., 9:00

FBW REPORTING SESSION PART 1 – OBR

March 10, 2023, Fri., 9:00

FBW REPORTING SESSION PART 2 – ONOŻ

March 17, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

Prof. dr hab. Eng. Paweł KafarskiUniversity of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Department of Chemistry
Presentation title: Unusual survival strategies of organisms

March 24, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

Prof. dr hab. Anna Korzekwa
Presentation title: Cervids – potential for biodiversity, regenerative medicine and the meat industry

March 31, 2023, Fri., 14:00 – OL-PAN seminar

Prof. Maria Hepel, The State University of New York at Potsdam (NY, USA)
Presentation title: Nanomaterials for Cancer Therapy via Targeting Tumor Microenvironment

April

April 14, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

Prof. dr hab. n. wet. Izabela Wocławek-Potocka
Presentation title: to be announced at a later date

April 21, 2023, Fri., 14:00 – OL-PAN seminar

Information will be announced at a later date

April 28, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – ONoŻ leaders’ seminar

Dr Joanna Fotschki
Presentation title: to be announced at a later date

May

May 12, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – special seminar

Dr Eng. Przemysław Zduńczyk and Dr hab. Eng. Radosław Kowalski
Presentation title: Animal experiments – when we submit an application to the Local Ethics Committee and why it is so important

May 19, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

Prof. dr hab. Stefan Chłopicki, Director of the Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics (JCET), Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College
Presentation title: The Role of Endothelial Dysfunction in Cardiovascular and Non-Cardiovascular Diseases

May 24, 2023, Wed., 9:00 – GRANT PLANS

Persons applying for grants in the JUNE NCN calls

June

June 2, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

Dr hab. Eng. Radosław Kajetan Kowalski
Presentation title: Effects of Gamete Manipulation Techniques, on Offspring Traits in aquatic species

June 16, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – ONoŻ leaders’ seminar

Dr Julia Jarosławska-Miszkiewicz
Presentation title: to be announced at a later date

June 21, 2023, Wed., 9:00 – 15:00 – all-day special seminar

Vision for the Institute’s development – summary of the work of working groups concerning:

„Academic rights and doctoral school”;
„Structure and functioning of the Institute”;
„Tasks and research profile of the Institute”.

June 30, 2023, Fri., 14:00 – OL-PAN seminar

Prof. Philipp Scherer, UT Southwestern Medical Center
Presentation title: Adipose Tissue Inter- Organ Crosstalk in Health and Disease

September

September 1, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – GRANT PLANS

Persons applying for grants in the SEPTEMBER NCN calls

September 8, 2023, Fri., 12:00 – OL-PAN seminar

Prof. dr hab. Adolfo Rivero Müller, Medical University of Lublin, Department and Unit of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Presentation title: How to communicate with your cells

September 15, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

Dr Agnieszka Mostek-Majewska
Presentation title: Oxidative protein modifications during bull sperm capacitation

September 22, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – ONoŻ leaders’ seminar

Dr Natalia Drabińska
Presentation title: The importance of volatile organic compounds in diagnostics and food quality assessment

September 29, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – seminar cancelled

October

October 6, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – 14.00 – DOCTORAL SEMINAR

October 13, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

Prof. dr hab. n. wet. Izabela Wocławek-Potocka
Presentation title: Biotechnological methods used in assisted cattle reproduction – studies of preimplantation embryo development in vitro and oocyte quality

October 20, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

dr Marcin Tabaka, Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences in Warsaw, International Centre for Translational Eye Research – ICTER, Computational Genomics Group
Presentation title: Single-cell sequencing approaches to resolve biological processes in health and disease

November

November 10, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – ONoŻ leaders’ seminar

dr Julia Jarosławska-Miszkiewicz
Presentation title: to be announced at a later date

November 17, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

Julien Bobe, PhD, Head of the Fish Physiology and Genomics Laboratory, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRA), France
Presentation title: Looking for a needle in a haystack: de novo phenotypic target identification reveals Hippo pathway-mediated miR-202 regulation of egg production

November 24, 2023, Fri., 9:00 GRANT PLANS

Persons applying for grants in the DECEMBER NCN calls

December

December 8, 2023, Fri., 9:00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

Dr hab. Magdalena Weidner-Glunde
Presentation title: Molecular mechanisms of gamma- and beta-herpesviral latent infections – are there similarities?

December 15, 2023, Fri., 9:00– OL-PAN seminar

prof. dr hab. Michał Żmijewski, Medical University of Gdańsk
Presentation title: Vitamin D and mitochondria

January

January 14, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – special seminar

Beata Marmulewska
Presentation title: Research data management (based on NCN guidelines)

January 21, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

prof. Jarosław Całka (University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Clinical Physiology)
Presentation title: The influence of vegan, vegetarian and omnivorous diets on the development and functioning of the human body

January 28, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

dr hab. Beata Cejko
Presentation title: Common carp sperm quality parameters – identification, variability and importance under in vitro conditions

February

February 4, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – “CORE FACILITY” seminar

Animal House
moderator: Dr Przemysław Zduńczyk

February 11, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

prof. Izabela Szczerbal (Poznań University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding Fundamentals)
Presentation title: Disorders of sex development in domestic animals – advances in genetic diagnosis

February 18, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – Director’s seminar

prof. dr hab. Mariusz Piskuła
Presentation title: New Institute headquarters / Development directions (new disciplines) / Research strategy

February 25, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – ONoŻ leaders’ seminar

prof. dr hab. Jerzy Juśkiewicz
Presentation title: Nanoparticles in the diet: friends or foes?

Additional presentation: prof. dr hab. Jerzy Juśkiewicz and dr Przemysław Zduńczyk
Presentation title: Amendment to the Act on the Protection of Animals Used for Scientific and Educational Purposes

March

March 4, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – “CORE FACILITY” seminar

Metabolomics – integrated laboratory
moderator: prof. dr hab. Wiesław Wiczkowski

Microbiology and Molecular Virology – integrated laboratory
moderator: dr Magdalena Weidner-Glunde

Supplementary grant seminar: presentation of SONATINA projects

March 11, 2022, Fri., 9:00

FBW REPORTING SESSION part 1

March 18, 2022, Fri., 9:00

FBW REPORTING SESSION part 2

March 25, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – Director’s seminar

prof. dr hab. Mariusz Piskuła
Presentation title: Employment prospects, promotions, support for career development of young employees and doctoral students / Employee competencies, hierarchy, structure / Motivation system

April

April 1, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – Director’s seminar

prof. dr hab. Mariusz Piskuła
Presentation title: Current financial status of the Institute, including the Institute’s financial plan for 2022 / Streamlining the conduct of research / Information flow / Regulations

April 8, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

dr hab. Urszula Krupa-Kozak
Presentation title: Oligofructose-enriched inulin as a dietary supplement for individuals with celiac disease.

April 22, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

dr hab. Agnieszka Rak (Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Faculty of Biology, Team of Reproductive Physiology and Toxicology)
Presentation title: Towards a better understanding of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome– expression and role of spexin

April 29, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

dr hab. Anna Szóstek-Mioduchowska
Presentation title: Horse as a model to study tissue fibrosis

May

May 6, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – ONoŻ leaders’ seminar

dr hab. Dagmara Złotkowska
Presentation title: Title of the presentation will be announced at a later date

May 13, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

dr n. wet. Dipl. ECAR Pawel Kordowitzki
Presentation title: Title of the presentation will be announced at a later date

May 20, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

dr hab. Aleksandra Ziembińska-Buczyńska (Silesian University of Technology, Faculty of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Department of Environmental Biotechnology)
Presentation title: Easy science stories – how to make science simpler for wider audience?

May 27, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – seminar moved to 02.06.20

June

June 2, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – seminar “GRANT PLANS part I”

Presentations by persons applying for grants in the JUNE NCN calls

June 3, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – ONoŻ leaders’ seminar and seminar “GRANT PLANS part II”

dr hab. inż. Wiesław Wiczkowski, Institute Professor
Presentation title: Phytochemicals – matrix profile, absorption, metabolism and bioavailability. The road to …

June 10, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – seminar cancelled
June 24, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

dr Yiğit Altay (Mosa Meat B.V., the Netherlands)
Presentation title: The Analysis of the Future of Food: What, Why and How?

July

July 1, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – SPECIAL seminar

Krzysztof Wilczek (grant specialist)
Presentation title: Presentation of the tool (website: https://grant.pan.olsztyn.pl/) Research Management Guidance supporting the preparation of research projects and grants for Institute employees

Beata Marmulewska – specialist in good laboratory practice and research data management
Presentation title: Presentation of the open access policy and research data management policy

July 8, 2022, Fri., 9:00 – SPECIAL seminar

dr Damian Muzzio (Klinik und Poliklinik für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe Universitätsmedizin Greifswald)
Presentation title: Commensal F. nucleatum Bacterium Regulates the Expression of Pro- angiogenic Factors in vitro via PAR-1 Pathway

The lecture will be held at the invitation of the Society for Reproductive Biology, Białystok Branch

September

September 2, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – seminar “GRANT PLANS”

Presentations by persons applying for grants in the SEPTEMBER NCN calls

September 9, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – ONoŻ leaders’ seminar

dr Małgorzata Starowicz
Presentation title: Title of the presentation will be announced at a later date

September 16, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – OL-PAN seminar

Marcin Więckowski
Presentation title: Adoption of laboratory animals in Poland – theory and practice, implementation of the program of finding a new home through the Lab Rescue Foundation, good practices in ensuring the welfare of laboratory animals

September 23, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

dr hab. inż. Iwona Grabowska
Presentation title: Electrochemical biosensors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) biomarkers detection

September 30, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

dr hab. Adam Jurgoński, Institute Professor
Presentation title: Health effects of consuming seeds as a source of fatty acids, dietary fiber and bioactive compounds.

October

October 7, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – doctoral seminar *

Names of presenters and presentation titles will be announced at a later date

* depending on the number of presenters, the seminar will be held in one- or two-day format

October 14, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

prof. dr hab. n. wet. Izabela Wocławek-Potocka
Presentation title: Title of the presentation will be announced at a later date

October 21, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – OL-PAN seminar

Prof. Carsten Carlberg
Presentation title: The impact of epigenetics in nutrigenomics research

October 28, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – ONoŻ leaders’ seminar

dr Michał Janiak
Presentation title: The influence of raw material and technological process on bioactive compounds in food of plant origin

November

November 4, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – ONoŻ leaders’ seminar

dr Małgorzata Starowicz
Presentation title: Profile and content of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) determination for sensory quality of varied food products

November 18, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – special seminar

Vision for the Institute’s development – summary of the assistant professors’ group meeting in Wipsowo – part I

November 25, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – seminar “GRANT PLANS”

Presentations by persons applying for grants in the DECEMBER NCN calls

December

December 2, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – OBR leaders’ seminar

dr hab. Mariola Słowińska
Presentation title: Exploring turkey seminal plasma proteome: from single protein to biological function

December 9, 2022, Fri., 9.00 – special seminar

seminar postponed, will take place in 2023

December 16, 2022, Fri., 14.00 – OL-PAN seminar

Prof. Kristine Glunde Director, Applied Imaging Mass Spectrometry (AIMS) The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Presentation title: AIMS – Applied Imaging Mass Spectrometry

January

January 15, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

prof. Barbara Gawrońska-Kozak
Presentation title: Foxn1 in mouse epidermis regulates dermal adipogenesis and modifies post-injured skin response to hypoxia

January 22, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

dr Antonio Galvao
Presentation title: Maternal Obesity: a Burden Beyond Infertility

January 29, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar – Rescheduled* / Postponed**

Prof. Mariana Henriques (Centro de Engenharia Biológica, Universidade do Minho, Portugal)
Presentation title: Alternative treatments to fight Candida infections

* new date: 26.03.2021
** new date: 26.03.2021

February

February 05, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – Special seminar

Presentations of research plans for 2021 under the “Own Research Fund”

February 12, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – overdue reporting seminar from the KNOW trip

dr Kamila Malecka
Presentation title: Electrochemical biosensors for the tumor biomarkers analysis

February 19, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

dr Joanna Wiśniewska (Bukowska)
Presentation title: Adipose derived stem cells (ASCs) as a potent tool in tissue repair therapies

February 26, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

dr hab. Andrzej Eljaszewicz
(Medical University of Białystok, Faculty of Medicine with the Division of Dentistry and the Division of Medical Education in English, Team of Regenerative Medicine and Immunoregulation)
Presentation title: Activation and regulation of innate immune responses within the lungs – novel mechanisms

March

March 05, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

Monika Kaczmarek & Maria M. Guzewska
Presentation title: miRNA fingerprints: towards understanding cell-to-cell communication during early pregnancy

March 12, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

dr Joanna Jaworska
Presentation title: Immune mechanisms facilitating placentation in mares.

March 19, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – “CORE FACILITY” seminar

Molecular Biology Laboratory
Monika Kaczmarek: Introduction about Molecular Biology Laboratory
Kamil Myszczyński: Before you start next-generation sequencing / NGS study design – best practices

Sensory Laboratory
dr inż. Beata Szmatowicz

March 26, 2021, Fri., 9:30 – OL-PAN seminar

prof. Mariana Henriques
(Centro de Engenharia Biológica, Universidade do Minho, Portugal)
Presentation title: Alternative treatments to fight Candida infections

April

April 09, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

dr Daniel Żarski
Presentation title: A perfect egg – what can we learn from fish?

April 16, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

dr hab. Małgorzata Wronkowska
Presentation title: Innovative bakery application – a tool to combat food waste and energy losses

April 23, 2021, Fri., 15:00 – OL-PAN seminar

dr Gavin Levi Sacks
(Cornell University, Department of Food Science, USA)
Presentation title: Wild for Wine – A Flavor Chemist’s Perspective on Developing More Sustainable Grape Varieties for Winemakers

April 30, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

dr hab. Agnieszka Wacławik, Institute Professor & mgr Ewelina Goryszewska
Presentation title: Deciphering embryo-maternal cross-talk

May

May 07, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

prof. dr hab. Wioletta Błaszczak
Presentation title: The use of high-hydrostatic pressure in the processing of food rich in valuable bioactive constituents

May 14, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

dr hab. Magdalena Kowalik
Presentation title: Molecular mechanism of progesterone action in the cell

May 21, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – seminar “GRANT PLANS”

Presentations by persons applying for grants in the JUNE NCN calls

May 28, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

dr hab. Marta Barbara Wiśniewska, Prof. UW
(Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory)
Presentation title: One (autism associate) gene and its many functions in the development of a neural circuit architecture and function

June

June 11, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

dr Bartosz Fotschki
Presentation title: Characterization of bioactive compounds the effect from raspberries in alleviating metabolic disorders

dr Edyta Mikuła
Presentation title: Electrochemical nanocomposite platform based on the coupling of two different materials: poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) and gold nanoparticles or magnetic nanoparticles

June 18, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – “CORE FACILITY” seminar

Cell Analysis Laboratory (moderator: dr Marek Bogacki)
Microbiology Laboratory (moderator: dr inż. Anna Majkowska)

June 25, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

prof. Alireza Fazeli
(The University of Sheffield, The Medical School, Department of Oncology and Metabolism)
Presentation title: Extracellular Vesicles; A Potential Universal language of Life

July

July 02, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – seminar “GRANT PLANS” – Seminar postponed to 03.09.2021

Presentations by persons applying for grants in the SEPTEMBER NCN calls

July 09, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

dr hab. Mariola Dietrich
Presentation title: Proteomic insights into the functions of the male reproductive system in carp

September

September 16-17, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – doctoral seminar:

Doctoral Seminar
Discussion of the progress and plans related to the doctoral dissertation of IRZiBŻ doctoral students.

September 24, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – “CORE FACILITY” seminar – Cancelled [new dates will be announced later]

Metabolomics – integrated laboratory (moderator: prof. dr hab. Wiesław Wiczkowski)
Microbiology and Molecular Virology – integrated laboratory (moderator: dr Magdalena Weidner-Glunde)

October

October 01, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

dr hab. med. Michał Wszoła
(Science Research and Development Foundation, Scientific Director of the Foundation, Chairman of the Bionic Consortium Council)
Presentation title: 3D bioprinting – distant science fiction or the future of medicine?

October 08, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

prof. dr hab. Marek Strączkowski
Presentation title: The role of adipose tissue and skeletal muscle in the development of insulin resistance

October 15, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar:

dr Katarzyna Kurzątkowska-Adaszyńska
Presentation title: Methods of mitochondrial calcium uniporter protein deposition on the gold electrodes surface

October 22, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

prof. dr hab. Janina Skipor-Lahuta
dr Aleksandra Szczepkowska

Presentation title: Effect of environmental factors on choroid plexus functioning

October 29, 2021, Fri., 14:30 – OL-PAN seminar

prof. Marcia Haigis
(Harvard Medical School, Department of Cell Biology)
Presentation title: The role of mitochondria in the tumor microenvironment

November

November 05, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar

dr hab. Joanna Nynca
Presentation title: From analysis of single protein to proteomics of rainbow trout reproductive system

November 19, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – seminar “GRANT PLANS”

Presentations by persons applying for grants in the DECEMBER NCN calls

November 26, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – seminar of new doctoral students

December

December 03, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – OL-PAN seminar

dr Adriana Tomić
(University of Oxford, Department of Paediatrics, Oxford Vaccine Group, Centre for Clinical Vaccinology and Tropical Medicine [CCVTM])
Presentation title: „SIMON says: Revealing immune responses to influenza using systems immunology”

December 10, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – leaders’ / scientific seminar:

dr Lidia Markiewicz
Presentation title: Bacteriophages as biocontrol agents in Campylobacter reduction in poultry (project EIT Food: C-SNIPER)

December 17, 2021, Fri., 9:00 – “CORE FACILITY” seminar

Proteomics – integrated laboratory (moderator: prof. dr hab. Andrzej Ciereszko)
Animal House (moderator: dr Przemysław Zduńczyk)

Institute Seminar System

Persons interested in organizing a seminar are kindly requested to contact Dr Anna Ogrodowczyk (a.ogrodowczyk@pan.olsztyn.pl)

SEMINAR TYPE FREQUENCY MEETING FORMAT SPEAKER ORGANIZER
DIRECTORATE SEMINAR once a year as needed DIRECTORATE as needed
SCIENTIFIC / LEADERS’ 2–3 times a month
Friday, 9:00
hybrid LEADER of the topic, project, research team, core facilities, persons undergoing promotion procedures, etc.
Seminar Committee:
Dr Anna Ogrodowczyk
Dr Aleksandra Szczepkowska
Dr Agnieszka Mostek-Majewska
Dr Katarzyna Kurzątkowska-Adaszyńska
GUEST During a guest’s visit in NAWA project, Erasmus+, etc.;

date and time as needed

hybrid GUEST from outside the Institute
Seminar Committee and hosting person, as needed
OL-PAN At least once a quarter; Friday, 9:00 or as needed online GUEST from outside the Institute Dr hab. Joanna Wiśniewska
Dr Sylwia Machcińska-Zielińska
Dr Marta Kopcewicz
Dr Joanna Fotschki
Dr Marianna Raczyk
Dr Magda Słyszewska
OPEN SEMINAR During a guest’s visit under the ERA Chairs project,
date and time as needed
hybrid GUEST from outside the Institute Research Support Office,
Communication and International Cooperation Section
DOCTORAL 2–3 times a year; according to the Doctoral School schedule; date and time as needed hybrid DOCTORAL STUDENTS Dr hab. Mariola Dietrich
Dr hab. Iwona Grabowska
TRAINING as needed as needed as needed, e.g.
Research Support Office,
HR and Payroll Department,
External companies
as needed

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Dr hab. Urszula Krupa‑Kozak wyróżniona w Plebiscycie Kobiet Sukcesu Warmii i Mazur

Dr. Urszula Krupa‑Kozak honored in the Women of Success Warmia and Mazury Awards

Our scientist – Dr. Urszula Krupa‑Kozak, Professor at the InLife Institute – was recognized in the prestigious Women of Success Warmia and Mazury 2026 awards. The ceremonial gala took place on March 6 at the Ełk Cultural Center, where, for the 28th time, women who contribute to the development of the Warmia and Mazury region through their passion and dedication were honored.

Dr. Krupa‑Kozak is a renowned researcher in food technology and nutrition, specializing in gluten-free food technology. For nearly two decades, she has been conducting pioneering research aimed at improving the technological, sensory, and nutritional quality of gluten-free products, using innovative plant-based ingredients and raw materials aligned with the principles of sustainable development. Her work combines cutting-edge technological research with clinical aspects of dietary therapy for gluten-related disorders, as well as education, health promotion, and mentoring the next generation of scientists.

Gala Kobiet Sukcesu Warmii i Mazur 2026

She is the author of numerous publications highly regarded in both national and international scientific communities and a co-inventor of patents that set new directions in gluten-free food. Her research has a tangible impact on improving the quality of life for people with gluten intolerance and promoting healthy dietary standards.

Gala Kobiet Sukcesu Warmii i Mazur 2026

The Women of Success Warmia and Mazury awards have a history spanning over 20 years – the first gala was held in 1999 at the Olsztyn Castle. Every year, the event celebrates how women bring their work, passion, and courage to enrich the region. It is also worth noting that in 2017, the current director of InLife, Monika Kaczmarek, was among the awardees.

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Living Labs

InLife Hosts International Study Visit within the FutureFoodS European Partnership

InLife – the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences organised an international study visit as part of the FutureFoodS European Partnership. In this initiative, the Institute acts as a partner responsible for co-creating and developing the European network of Living Labs in food systems — covering the entire chain: from production and processing, through consumption and public health, to food waste reduction and the implementation of circular economy principles.

The event brought together partnership members and representatives of Living Labs and initiatives from Poland and other European countries. Its aim was to exchange experiences and present practical co-creation models, where academia, society, business, and public administration collaboratively design and test solutions for the transformation of food systems — following the quadruple helix (4H) model.

Visit to the Food Bank – A Model Social Living Lab

The first day of the visit took place at the Food Bank in Olsztyn, a partner of the Institute within the EIT Food network. Within FutureFoodS, the Food Bank has been designated a “lighthouse social living lab”, recognising it as one of Europe’s demonstrator laboratories for social innovation in food systems. This status is awarded to organisations that systematically combine operational activities with research and social components, test solutions in real-life settings, and engage collaboratively with food system stakeholders. Such centres act as demonstrators and reference points for other organisations developing the Living Lab model across Europe.

Participants learned about the Food Bank’s mission, operational model, societal impact, and solutions in food waste prevention, collaboration with local authorities and businesses, and building cross-sector partnerships.

Living Labs in Practice – Co-Creation through the Quadruple Helix

The expert sessions highlighted initiatives using the Living Lab methodology as a tool for designing and implementing changes in food systems.

The Warsaw Food Lab (Poland) is an urban innovation lab supporting local gastronomy and charitable organisations, developing solutions to reduce food waste and optimise its distribution to those in need, including during crisis situations.

Lab for Health IrsiCaixa (Barcelona) employs a participatory approach to transform the food and health environment. The project engages local communities, public administration, and the private sector in co-creating interventions that encourage healthier food choices.

Consumer Engagement Labs (CEL), run by InLife within EIT Food initiatives, systematically involve citizens in designing food sector innovations. Developed by the University of Warsaw, CEL combines consumer research tools and co-creation workshops to integrate consumer perspectives at early stages of product and service development.

Presentations focused on co-creation methodology as a tool to test solutions in real-life conditions and scale them across diverse social and regional contexts.

From Living Lab Creation to Market Impact

The study visit programme also included a workshop titled “Living Labs for Business Development – From Creation to Market Success”, focusing on the use of Living Lab methodology in product and service development — from concept to market implementation — with attention to market validation and stakeholder collaboration.

The day concluded with the culinary and networking session “One Table Experience – Cook, Learn, Share”. Participants prepared plant-based dishes using local products, fostering informal team collaboration and discussions on sustainable consumption models, short supply chains, and the role of local markets in food system transformation.

Science and Campus Living Labs

The second day of the visit was organised in collaboration with the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Faculty of Food Science, Department of Dairy Science. Participants attended a demonstration of the “From Milk to Market” model, showcasing the full dairy processing chain and product tasting. Experiences from Campus Living Labs at the Jagiellonian University were also presented, illustrating the role of universities as spaces for testing innovation in real educational and production environments.

For more information about the FutureFoodS European Partnership, click HERE.

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Nagroda Naukowa PAN dla prof. Marioli Dietrich

Polish Academy of Sciences Scientific Award for Professor Mariola Dietrich for Research on the Proteome of the Fish Reproductive System

Precise analysis of the proteome and phosphoproteome provides insight into the molecular mechanisms that determine fertilization efficiency, semen quality, and the resilience of the reproductive system to infections. Understanding these processes is crucial both for reproductive biology and for practical applications, including the optimization of cryopreservation methods and the monitoring of reproductive health in aquaculture and species conservation.

In recognition of her contributions to research in this field, Professor Mariola Dietrich has been awarded the Scientific Award of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn and Białystok Branch, in the category of biological, agricultural, and medical sciences.

The distinction was granted for the scientific achievement entitled “Characterization of the Proteome and Phosphoproteome of the Fish Reproductive System in the Context of Bacterial Infections and Cryopreservation”, comprising a series of publications focused on the role of fish gamete proteins and their microenvironment. The research examined the impact of cryopreservation and bacterial infections on protein composition and post-translational modifications in the semen of two key species—sturgeon and carp.

Nagroda Naukowa PAN dla prof. Marioli Dietrich (1)

Key Research Findings

The analyses conducted enabled:

  • the identification of novel markers of semen quality, cryoinjury, and reproductive system infections,
  • the elucidation of molecular mechanisms responsible for reduced reproductive capacity.

The results significantly expand current knowledge on the molecular regulation of fertilization. They also provide a foundation for improving cryopreservation procedures and developing tools for assessing the reproductive condition of aquatic organisms—an advancement of importance for modern aquaculture as well as for species conservation efforts.

We warmly congratulate Professor Dietrich on this distinction and thank her for research that strengthens the foundations of contemporary reproductive biology and advances the fields of food science and aquatic environmental studies.

Photo: Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn and Białystok Branch, based in Olsztyn

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Technologist/ Specialist in Molecular Biology of Reproduction Team

The InLife Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research Polish Academy of Sciences, is seeking a  Specialist or Technologist to join the Molecular Biology of Reproduction Team. The successful candidate will act, supporting both research activities and day-to-day lab operations.

Key Responsibilities:

  • actively participate in ongoing research projects,
  • coordinate and perform experiments in vitro,
  • conduct laboratory analyses, including DNA, RNA, and protein isolation and quantification, microscopy and immunohistochemistry analyses, hormone assays,
  • collecting samples from animals
  • oversee laboratory logistics: inventory management, ordering supplies, keeping current documentation, liaising with administration.

Role in the Research Team:

The successful candidate will provide key technical and organizational support for the team, including implementation of designated experimental stages and coordination of selected research tasks. The position requires close cooperation with other researchers and maintaining smooth laboratory operations.

Required Qualifications and Experience:

  • university degree (BSc, MSc or PhD) in life sciences (e.g., biology, biotechnology, or related field),
  • hands-on experience in at least one of the following: molecular biology, animal and human reproduction, isolation and culture of primary cells in vitro, in vivo experiments,
  • excellent English proficiency (reading scientific literature, communication, documentation),
  • ability to document and report research results clearly,
  • responsibility, independence, diligence and precision in completing assigned duties out assigned tasks,
  • team spirit and excellent interpersonal skills.

Highly appreciated:

  • previous experience in laboratory work,
  • hands on experience of trancriptomics and bioinformatics methods.

What We Offer:

  • stable employment at a leading research institute of the Polish Academy of Sciences,
  • opportunities for professional development, including participation in trainings on molecular biology methods,
  • possibility for professional development in the field of reproductive biology, endocrinology, and epigenetics,
  • a supportive, collaborative, and friendly working environment,
  • access to modern laboratory infrastructure,
  • optional involvement in scientific publications or project writing (depending on experience),
  • Benefits from the Company Social Benefits Fund (e.g. Multisport).

Terms of Employment:

  • full-time employment,
  • salary: depending on experience and qualifications,
  • expected start date: March/April 2026.

Required Application Documents:

  • cover letter,
  • curriculum vitae (CV),
  • copy of academic diploma (MSc or PhD),
  • references or opinion of MSc or PhD promoter,
  • any other documents relevant to the application.

Deadline and place for submitting documents:

Documents application you should to be submitted by 19.03.2026  (12:00 CET) at the latest address e-mail: rekrutacja@pan.olsztyn.pl (in the title: specialist/technologist at MBR team). Additional information: a.waclawik@pan.olsztyn.pl.

After making analysis of submitted applications, we will contact you with the chosen ones candidates the purpose to carry out further stages process recruitment.

Please include the following in your CV: clause consent on processing By us data personal data in the process recruitment:

„I express consent on processing my data personal contained in the documents application By InLife Institute Reproduction Animals and Research Food Polish Academy of Sciences with headquarters at 10-683 Olsztyn, ul. Trylińskiego 18, for the purpose of implementation process recruitment”.

Administrator data personal processed within the framework of process recruitment is the InLife Institute Reproduction Animals and Research Food PAS, with headquarters at 10-683 Olsztyn, ul. Trylińskiego 18, tel. 89 523 46 86, e-mail: institute@pan.olsztyn.pl.

Contact with inspector protection data personal data is available at: iodo@pan.olsztyn.pl.

Given data personal processed they will be in order implementation present process recruitment and stored until​ his endings on the basis of expressed consent (pursuant to Article 6 paragraph 1 letter a of the GDPR).

The person whose data they concern is entitled to the right to withdraw consent at any time moment without influence on legality​​ processing, which was done on the basis of consent Before her revocation.

The person you data they concern is entitled to law access to your data personal data, request their rectification or removal. Submission tasks removal data is equivalent to resigning from participating in the process this recruitment. In addition is entitled to her the right to demand limitations processing in cases specified in Article 18 of the GDPR.

The person whose data they concern, they are entitled to the right to bring complaints to the president Office Protection Data Personal on illegal​​ processing her data personal data. This body will be appropriate for consideration complaints about that​​ law Bringing Complaints refers to only legal compliance​ processing data personal, no refers to and course recruitment.

Data shared NO they will be were subject to profiling or sharing entities Whether to the countries third. Recipients data they can to be institutions authorized by virtue of laws.

Pass data contained in the documents recruitment it is not obligatory, but it is a condition necessary to participate in the process recruitment.

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Rossella Debernardis

Defence of the doctoral thesis of Rossella Debernardis, M.Sc.

DIRECTOR and the SCIENTIFIC COUNCIL of the InLife Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn have the honor to invite you to the public defense of the doctoral dissertation for the degree of Ph.D. in agricultural sciences, discipline of animal science and fisheries:

Rossella Debernardis, M.Tech

„The transcriptome of newly hatched larvae as a window into the exploration of parental legacy and early life performance in Eurasian perch”

The defense will take place on March 10, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. (CET) in a stationary mode (seminar room SKANDA AB InLife Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Trylińskiego 18)

Supervisor:

  • Daniel Żarski, Ph.D., D.Sc. – InLife Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences;

Reviewers:

  • Prof. dr hab. Konrad Ocalewicz – University of Gdański, Gdańsk, Poland;
  • Dr Catherine Labbe  – INRAE, Rennes, France;
  • Dr Jonna Tomkiewicz – Denmark National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Charlottenlund, Denmark.

The doctoral dissertation and the dissertation reviews can be found in the BIP Institute website.

Chair of the Scientific Council
Prof. Urszula Gawlik

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Prof. Katarzyna Starowicz-Bubak

New Neuropharmacological Perspectives in Chronic Pain Therapy – OL-PAN Seminar

Chronic pain is not merely a prolonged warning signal from the body. It is a complex neurobiological process involving persistent alterations in nervous system function, modulation of inflammatory responses, and reorganization of stimulus-processing mechanisms. Understanding these processes remains one of the major challenges of contemporary neuropharmacology.

On 27 February 2026 at 9:00 a.m. (Zoom platform), the OL-PAN seminar will host Professor Katarzyna Starowicz-Bubak, Director of the Maj Institute of Pharmacology of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Kraków. Her lecture, entitled “New Neuropharmacological Perspectives in Chronic Pain Therapy: The Role of the Endocannabinoid System,” will focus on current research directions concerning the mechanisms underlying neuropathic and inflammatory pain, as well as potential therapeutic strategies.

Particular attention will be devoted to the endocannabinoid system—a widespread signaling network present throughout the body. Its receptors are located in the brain, lungs, bones, gastrointestinal tract, skeletal muscles, reproductive system, and in structures of both the central and peripheral nervous systems. This system is considered one of the fundamental physiological systems of the body, playing a key role in maintaining homeostasis, regulating inflammatory responses, and modulating pain signaling.

The OL-PAN seminar provides a platform for scientific exchange, presentation of current research directions, and discussion of the challenges facing contemporary medicine and biomedical sciences. The event is open to all interested participants.

📅 27 February 2026
🕘 9:00 a.m.
💻 Zoom platform

Meeting ID: 936 8526 7349
Access code: 328636

Meeting language: English

About the Speaker

Professor Katarzyna Starowicz, PhD, DSc, is Professor of Medical and Health Sciences and Director of the Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków. She has been affiliated with the Institute since 2007. She obtained her MSc from the Jagiellonian University in Kraków and her PhD in Medical Sciences from Utrecht University, followed by habilitation in 2013 and the award of full professorship in 2021.

Professor Starowicz’s research focuses on the neurochemistry of chronic pain, with particular emphasis on neuropathic and osteoarthritis pain, the endogenous cannabinoid system, TRPV1 receptors, and inflammatory and regenerative mechanisms in joint disease. Following her doctorate, she completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry (CNR), Italy, in the Endocannabinoid Research Group led by Professor Vincenzo Di Marzo.

She is an internationally recognised expert in cannabinoid research and pain pharmacology. Professor Starowicz is a member of the Board of Directors of the International Cannabinoid Research Society (ICRS) and served as its President in 2024–2025. She regularly lectures at international scientific meetings and serves on editorial boards, including the British Journal of Pharmacology. Her distinctions include the National Science Centre Award in Life Sciences (2016), the ICRS Mid-Career Award, and the L’Oréal–UNESCO For Women in Science Award.

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Fish’n’Repro – An International Meeting on Mechanisms of Fish Reproduction

Fish’n’Repro – An International Meeting on Mechanisms of Fish Reproduction

Can dominance in fish reproduction be controlled? How can egg quality be improved through the identification of molecular markers? In what ways do circadian rhythms influence organismal development, and how does gene expression dysregulation affect larval condition? These are just some of the key questions that will be addressed during the open Fish’n’Repro seminar, organized on 25 February 2026 by the InLife Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences.

The aim of the event is to facilitate the exchange of expertise, present current research findings, and identify common research areas that may serve as a foundation for further international scientific collaboration. The seminar is addressed to researchers working in the field of reproductive biology as well as professionals involved in fish farming and aquaculture.

Special Guests from the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research

The event will feature lectures by researchers from the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), one of Europe’s leading institutions in aquaculture research.

Prof. Constantinos (Dinos) C. Mylonas – Director of the Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture (IMBBC) and a recognized expert in fish reproductive physiology and endocrinology. His research focuses on identifying reproductive dysfunctions in captive fish and developing environmental and pharmacological methods to control maturation and spawning.

Dr Ioannis (Yannis) Fakriadis – Research scientist specializing in fish reproductive physiology and practical approaches to controlling reproductive processes in aquaculture. His interests include selective breeding, assisted reproduction, gamete quality assessment, and reproductive behaviour analysis.

Programme:

Constantinos (Dinos) C. Mylonas, Professor (HCMR)
Fish Reproduction in Mediterranean Aquaculture and its Control

Ioannis (Yannis) Fakriadis, PhD (HCMR)
Dominance in fish reproduction: can we manipulate it?

Daniel Żarski, PhD (InLife)
Fishing for molecular indicators of egg quality in pikeperch

Oliver Barić, PhD Student (InLife)
Winding the clock: current knowledge on circadian rhythm development in Eurasian perch

Rossella Debernardis, PhD Student (InLife)
Heart oedema in Eurasian perch larvae is associated with multi-tissue gene dysregulation

Fish’n’Repro has an interdisciplinary character, combining fundamental research with its potential applications in fish farming. The meeting will provide a platform for in-depth discussion, partnership building, and the initiation of joint research projects in the field of reproductive biology and aquaculture.

📍 Venue: InLife Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Skanda Hall
📅 Date: 25 February 2026
🕘 Time: 9:00 AM

We warmly invite researchers and aquaculture professionals interested in the latest advances in fish reproductive biology to participate.

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