The groundbreaking nature of the research and its significant contribution to advancing knowledge about the extra-gonadal role of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a hormone that plays a significant role in regulating reproductive functions – the Scientific Award of the Society for Reproductive Biology for the best scientific paper published in 2024 was awarded to Ewelina Palak, MSc, from the Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction Team at our Institute.
As we read further in the justification of the TBR Executive Board: The results obtained challenge the existing beliefs about the involvement of FSH-FSHR signaling in the regulation of uterine muscle contractility during pregnancy, as well as in the functioning of adipose tissue. These findings may be of significant importance in the future design of effective hormonal therapies using FSH.
– Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone that plays a key role in sexual development and the regulation of reproductive functions in both women and men. In women, FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of Graafian follicles in the ovaries, and its concentration is an important indicator in the diagnosis of infertility, menstrual disorders, assessment of ovarian reserve and in the diagnosis of menopause. Both too low and too high FSH concentrations may indicate gonadal dysfunction. The action of FSH is possible thanks to the presence of its receptor (FSHR), whose proper functioning is crucial for the action of FSH in reproductive biology – explains Ewelina Palak, MSc.
Laureate is a biotechnologist, a graduate of the Warsaw University of Technology. She works in the Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction Team at our Institute. Her research interests focus on the functional role of the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor and the effect of FSH on uterine muscle and adipose tissue. She conducts research on the molecular mechanisms occurring in the female reproductive system, with particular emphasis on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
SOCIETY FOR REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY (TOWARZYSTWO BIOLOGII ROZRODU – TBR)
TBR was established in 1998. Currently, it has eight branches (Białystok, Lublin, Poznań, Szczecin, Kraków, Olsztyn, Wrocław, and Warsaw). The aim of the Society is to initiate activities leading to the development of sciences related to human and animal reproductive biology.
More information on the TBR website (available in Polish): tbr.pan.olsztyn.pl.
Joint activities for the benefit and in the interest of doctoral students in Olsztyn – this is the idea behind the Olsztyn Doctoral Students’ Agreement, which was formally signed during the 2nd Open Meeting of the Board of the National Representation of Doctoral Students (KRD). In addition to legal and organizational issues related to doctoral studies, the meeting also addressed an equally important topic – the mental health of doctoral students and the scientific community.
At the end of June, the Second Open Meeting of the Management Board (OPZ) of the National Representation of Doctoral Students (KRD) ) – the Polish representative body for doctoral students – was held in Olsztyn. (KRD took place. The event was organized by the Doctoral Student Council of the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, and co-organized by the Doctoral Student Council of the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn. Important point of the meeting was the ceremonial signing of the Olsztyn Doctoral Students’ Agreement, which expressed the will to undertake joint actions for the benefit of PhD students in the region.
Open Management Board meetings are held regularly and summarize the activities of the KRD authorities to date. The key issues addressed by the current term of the Management Board include: the status of doctoral students from the moment they submit their dissertation up to its defense, the conditions for suspension of studies at a doctoral school, the legal basis for the institution of the Doctoral Student Ombudsman, and the representation of doctoral students in the Science Evaluation Committee. The event is a good opportunity to broaden horizons, including organizational ones, exchange experiences, and share good academic practices. Young scientists also have the opportunity to develop soft skills during training sessions.
During the meeting, doctoral students could participate in one of three training paths:
1. How to cope with stress?
2. Strong scientist – leadership skills.
3. Intercultural academic etiquette – how to build relationships in an international environment? (conducted in English, also available to international doctoral students from organizational units).
OLSZTYN DOCTORAL STUDENTS’ AGREEMENT
As part of the KRD meeting, the Olsztyn Doctoral Students’ Agreement (OPD) was formally signed. The OPD letter of intention was signed by Magda Słyszewska, MSc, Chair of the Doctoral Student Council of the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, and Aleksandra Cichowska-Likszo, MSc, Chair of the Doctoral Student Council of the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn.
– The agreement is a result of joint work, discussions, and trust between two doctoral student councils. I believe that this step opens up new opportunities for us – not only in terms of organization, but also socially and scientifically. We hope that it will allow us to represent our interests more effectively, support initiatives, and create a space where every doctoral student in Olsztyn will feel part of a larger community – sums up Magda Słyszewska.
FOCUS ON THE WELL-BEING OF PhD STUDENTS
The grand opening of the OPZ was capped off with a panel discussion devoted to the mental health of doctoral students and the entire academic and scientific community. The discussion was attended by: Prof. Aneta Andronowska, Director of the Interdisciplinary Doctoral School of Agricultural Sciences, Prof. Paweł Brzuzan, Director of the Doctoral School at the University of Warmia and Mazury, Prof. Jan Szmidt, Warsaw University of Technology, Prof. Andrzej Szeptycki, Undersecretary of State at the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, Monika Wilanowska, MA, second deputy Ombudsman for Doctoral Students.
The topic of mental health and the challenges faced by the scientific community in this area is increasingly being discussed in public debate. In March, a report prepared by SWPS on behalf of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education was published. The report shows, among other things, that people in the early stages of their academic careers are particularly vulnerable to mental health deterioration, hence the need for targeted measures to identify difficulties, build mental resilience among doctoral students, and create systemic preventive solutions and psychological support.
– Supporting initiatives focused on mental health is an important step and should include both doctoral students and academic teaching staff – emphasizes Prof. Andronowska.
The event was held under the honorary patronage of Prof. Monika M. Kaczmarek, Director of the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Prof. Jerzy A. Przyborowski, Rector of the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Robert Szewczyk, Mayor of Olsztyn, and Andrzej Abako, Starost of Olsztyn.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF DOCTORAL STUDENTS
The KRD was established out of the need to create an official voice for doctoral students that would be included in academic discourse. As stated on the website of the doctoral community representatives, the KRD has the right to express opinions and submit proposals on matters concerning all doctoral students, including issuing opinions on normative acts concerning doctoral students. For more information visit: krd.edu.pl.
It is a rich source of nutrients, its production contributes to sustainable development and environmental protection, and it is not new at all. Edible insect oil – because that is what we are talking about – is an excellent alternative to traditional oils – emphasizes Dr. Bartosz Fotschki from the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn.
– Insect oil is rich in essential fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, and bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties. As a result, this oil can be considered a potentially valuable addition to the human diet, which is not only a sustainable alternative to traditional vegetable and fish oils, but also offers unique health benefits due to its composition, according to a scientist from the Food Biological Functions Team.
This oil attracts attention not only because of its nutritional benefits, but also because it supports sustainable development. Insect farming requires significantly less land, water, and feed compared to traditional livestock farming. In addition to environmental benefits, this type of farming also results in significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, making it a more sustainable alternative in the pursuit of food security.
Interestingly, insects have been consumed by humans since prehistoric times. – Currently, interest in this product in Western cultures is relatively new and is part of a broader interest in entomophagy (i.e., eating insects), which is gaining popularity as a solution to global food security challenges – says Dr. Bartosz Fotschki.
The global distribution of edible insects is extensive, with Asia, North America, and Africa being the leading regions in terms of species diversity and consumption. Insect oil is obtained from edible insects such as the house cricket (Acheta domesticus), mealworm larvae (Tenebrio molitor), and black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens).
These species are known for their high protein and lipid content, making them ideal for oil extraction. The amount of oil obtained from insects largely depends on the species and the extraction method. For example, it takes about 4 to 5 kg of dried black soldier fly larvae to produce 1 kg of oil.
– Despite their nutritional benefits, consumer acceptance remains a challenge. This is mainly due to cultural perceptions, which is why insect oils are often incorporated into food products in unrecognizable forms, such as blends with vegetable oils or as ingredients in processed foods such as cookies and snacks – the scientist emphasizes.
Currently, EU regulations allow food to be produced from three species of insects: beetles, locusts, and mealworms. In January 2023, the European Union expanded the list of approved products, allowing the marketing of house cricket powder on the EU market. This new ingredient can be added to various food products, such as bread, pizza, other baked goods and ready meals.
Due to its composition and ease of insect breeding, oil from Hermetia illucens (black soldier fly) larvae has attracted considerable attention from scientists around the world in recent years. Such research is also being conducted at our Institute.
These are the first nutritional studies at the Institute to use insect oil. Their main objective is to determine the effect of the oil on the functioning of the digestive tract and liver. The results of the studies will provide new information on the effect of insect oil on the activity of the digestive tract microbiota and the mechanisms regulating lipid metabolism in the liver.
On Monday, June 23, 2025, at 9:00 AM in the Skanda seminar room, second-year PhD students of the Interdisciplinary Doctoral School of Agricultural Sciences will present their research achievements as part of the mid-term evaluation.
Following the seminar, at 1:00 PM, Dr. hab. Marek Salamonowicz (University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn) will deliver a lecture entitled „Artificial Intelligence in Academic Research: Legal and Ethical Challenges”.
You are warmly invited to attend the presentations and the lecture.
Prof. dr hab. Aneta Andronowska Director of the Interdisciplinary Doctoral School of Agricultural Sciences
Dr. Taisiia Yurchuk has been awarded a postdoctoral fellowship under the MSCA4Ukraine program for her project on reconstructing cumulus-oocyte complexes after cryopreservation of ovarian tissue. The research aims to protect the biodiversity of species from the Bovidae family (which includes cattle) and to develop methods for preserving human fertility.
The project was selected through an exceptionally competitive call led by the MSCA4Ukraine Consortium – an initiative by the European Commission created in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The program is part of the “Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions” carried out within the Horizon Europe framework.
In the second call for MSCA4Ukraine, over 500 applications were submitted, of which only 47 postdoctoral researchers and 2 doctoral candidates received funding. Dr. Yurchuk’s research stood out for its scientific excellence and its potential impact on biodiversity conservation and human reproductive health.
The 24-month project began on June 1, 2025, and is being carried out at our Institute in Olsztyn. Its goal is to develop techniques for reconstructing cumulus-oocyte complexes after cryopreservation of ovarian tissue. This innovative approach is highly significant both for protecting endangered species of the Bovidae family and for improving fertility preservation methods in human medicine.
This award is part of the broader MSCA4Ukraine initiative supporting researchers displaced by the war in Ukraine, enabling them to continue their scientific work in EU member states and countries associated with Horizon Europe. The program also emphasizes maintaining strong academic ties with their home institutions in Ukraine, thereby strengthening the resilience of the Ukrainian scientific community.
We warmly welcome Dr. Yurchuk to our team and look forward to the results of her work.
The Department of Paediatrics, Gastroenterology, and Child Nutrition at the Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum of the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, together with the Warmian-Masurian Medical Chamber and the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, have the honour to invite you to an Interdisciplinary Open Seminar.
The special guest of the event will be Professor Berthold Koletzko, Senior Professor of Paediatrics at the Department of Paediatrics, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich. Professor Koletzko will deliver two lectures:
Human brain development – nature and nurture
Nutrition in pregnancy – does it matter?
Professor Koletzko’s main research interests focus on the impact of metabolic and nutritional factors on child health and the prevention of diseases in the paediatric population.
The seminar will take place on Thursday, June 12th at 12:00 PM in the Jan Rymian Conference Hall (ground floor) of the Warmian-Masurian Medical Chamber, ul. Żołnierska 16c, Olsztyn.
Participants of the fourth edition of the EIT Food WE Lead Food Poland workshops came together to discuss transformations in the food sector and the growing impact of women in shaping these changes. The event gathered female leaders who are driving scientific research, launching startups, running businesses, implementing educational projects, and shaping new policy strategies in the agri-food industry.
The workshops took place on May 28 in the welcoming spaces of the French Embassy in Warsaw. The goal is to build a nationwide community of female experts who support each other and work together towards a healthy, safe, and sustainable food sector.
It was a day full of inspiring meetings, keynote speeches, and insightful conversations about the key challenges facing the food system — not only in Poland but globally. This year’s edition brought together over 40 women leaders.
The event was officially opened by the French Ambassador to Poland, Etienne de Poncins, who welcomed participants and emphasized the alignment of the event with French policy promoting women’s empowerment. – We strongly believe that women’s empowerment is a transformative force for more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable agriculture. That is what we aim to support here – by bringing together female leaders, entrepreneurs, and researchers from the agri-food sector.”
The WE Lead Food workshops are held in several European countries. In Poland, the event is organized by the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn.
– As an Institute, we are proud to once again host this outstanding initiative, designed to empower women on their path to success – to serve as a springboard for achieving their goals in science and business – said Prof. Monika M. Kaczmarek, Director of the Institute. „I myself participated in the very first edition of these workshops and I’m convinced they will bring tremendous value to all the women gathered here.
A key part of the program was the Inspiration Session, featuring female leaders managing with a focus on responsibility and development: Tatiana Frémond (restaurateur and entrepreneur), Dr. Eng. Katarzyna Pala (CEO of startup Future4Food Technologies), and Renata Krysiak (CEO of startup VegeLIO). The panel inspired fellow participants by sharing their journeys, challenges, and paths to success.
The session was moderated by Iwona Kieda from the Institute in Olsztyn, WE Lead Food Project Coordinator in Poland, – We’ve looked at your work and see you as true leaders in your fields. You think forward, influence others, motivate them, and are focused on future generations. These are exactly the kinds of open and creative minds the modern food sector needs,” she noted.
Another key element was the Leadership Development Session, led by coaches Marzena Radzka-Wiśniewska and Lidia Willan. Participants learned how to set and achieve professional goals.
In an online appearance, Shima Barakat – founder and European coordinator of WE Lead Food emphasized – We know our food system is not as good as it could be. It can be healthier, more sustainable. And women are not the problem – women are creating the solutions. WE Lead Food backs female leaders to shake the system and build a more sustainable food model.”
The day concluded with a networking session and presentations of startups founded by women. Kamila Knap and Agnieszka Lepka, founders of Shroom, showcased their functional wellness beverages made from mushroom and plant extracts. Daria Latała, founder of Kombucha Baddi, also presented her health-focused drink brand.
What did the participants – leaders, organizers, and experts, have to say?
Agnieszka Jankowska, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development
– The Ministry supports initiatives that network women, develop female farmers, and help them acquire knowledge and introduce innovation in their farms. That’s why such workshops are incredibly valuable – they offer knowledge, skill-building, and the chance to expand your network.
Bożena Bochenek, Agricultural Attaché, French Embassy
– The Embassy strongly supports empowering women in cultural, social, and economic life. What’s fantastic about WE Lead Food is how it brings together women across the agri-food spectrum – scientists, startup founders, restaurateurs, farmers. And it includes diplomacy too. We, as female diplomats, strive to connect and support.
Aleksandra Okońska-Jaruga, Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation – State Research Institute
– An incredibly inspiring event that shows there are no limits to what women can achieve – not only in science but also in the kinds of mutually beneficial relationships they can create with business.
Kamila Knap, startup Shroom
– Such initiatives are vital to developing the food startup ecosystem in Poland, which is still growing. There are still too few women in agri-food business. Let’s connect, let’s meet -who knows what great projects may come out of it!.
Agnieszka Tokarz, Nice to Fit You
– I came here for motivation and the support we women often lack. I want to surround myself with the strength of women. I loved the expert panel – I heard about struggles we all face as women. Together, we can support each other.
Marta Kaczmarek, EIT
– For the European Institute of Innovation and Technology, gender mainstreaming is crucial – not just in food. We strive to ensure women leaders have the skills and visibility to showcase their achievements and thrive in the job market. That’s why the initiatives run by the Institute in Olsztyn are so vital.
Event Partners
Embassy of France in Poland, Institute of Rural and Agricultural Development of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Agro Women Foundation.
The training is part of the #WELeadFood project, funded by EIT Food – the European Knowledge and Innovation Community in the field of food. Join the expert network and register now for the 8-week main program starting this autumn:SIGN UP
Four research projects led by female scientists from our Institute have received a total funding of PLN 9,492,259 as part of the OPUS 28 and SONATA 20 calls announced by the National Science Centre (NCN).
The grant recipients include:
Dr. Sylwia Judycka with the project: CRYO-LARVA: A multi-species exploration of molecular, developmental and transgenerational consequences of sperm cryoselection in fish larvae
Awarded funding: PLN 2,483,407
The aim of the project is to analyze the impact of sperm cryopreservation on larval development and identify potential transgenerational effects. The research will help understand how freezing sperm influences gene expression, phenotype, and inheritance in fish, which is important for both aquaculture and species conservation.
Prof. Agnieszka Wacławik, PhD, DSc – A three-dimensional in vitro endometrium model for studying hypoxia-induced changes and maternal-embryo interactions
Awarded funding: PLN 2,273,714
This research will replicate maternal-embryo interactions and the implantation process under laboratory conditions. The project aims to develop a realistic 3D endometrium model that enables analysis of hypoxia effects and trophoblast signaling during the earliest stages of life.
Dr. Katarzyna Piotrowska-Tomala, DVM – Can fibroblast senescence and resistance to apoptosis contribute to endometrial fibrosis in equine endometrosis?
Awarded funding: PLN 2,736,460
The project will examine whether aging fibroblasts and their resistance to apoptosis affect the development of endometrial fibrosis. The results may contribute to new anti-fibrotic therapies, relevant not only in veterinary medicine.
Dr. Karolina Wołodko, EngD – Delayed embryonic development in obese mothers: the link between leptin and mTOR signaling pathways
Awarded funding: PLN 1,998,678
This research focuses on the relationship between leptin levels, mTOR pathway activity, and the pace of embryo development. The aim is to understand how obesity affects fertility and embryo quality and to explore potential ways to support embryo development through IGF1.
Starting in September, students of the biology-chemistry class at the Adam Mickiewicz 1st High School in Olsztyn will be expanding their knowledge under the guidance of scientists from the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, as part of a newly established patronage class. On Tuesday, May 20, the directors of both institutions – Prof. Monika M. Kaczmarek and Mr. Wojciech Boryszewski – officially signed the cooperation agreement.
This is the first high school class under the patronage of our Institute. Through this collaboration, students will participate in additional educational activities, workshops, lectures, and meetings with scientists. The Institute will open its laboratories to the students, provide access to educational platforms, and organize study visits.
As emphasized by Prof. Monika M. Kaczmarek, Director of the Institute, our goal is to promote science and inspire young people to explore and pursue their own passions. We aim to spark scientific curiosity in them – the beginning of every journey toward understanding the world. By showing the behind-the-scenes of our research, we want to encourage students to ask questions and seek answers – even the most difficult ones. Among them may be future scientists – or perhaps simply conscious, responsible citizens who understand how to collaborate with the scientific community.
School Principal Wojciech Boryszewski highlighted the many benefits this cooperation will bring to the school. Students in the biology-chemistry class will be able to expand their school-acquired knowledge through practical activities under the supervision of experts, in modern, well-equipped laboratories. The planned initiatives will be an exciting complement to traditional school education and will support students in better mastering the curriculum. Moreover, students will gain insight into the realities of scientific work, which may help them in choosing their future career paths.
Importantly, the Institute’s researchers will also support teachers in enriching the biology and chemistry curriculum with up-to-date research topics and modern teaching methods.
The aim of the patronage is to support students in developing their interests and deepening their knowledge in the natural sciences, while also helping them make informed decisions about their educational and professional futures.
The Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn is a leading scientific institution in Poland, holding the highest scientific category – A+. Our research focuses on the essence of life – food, animal and human reproduction, and health.
The Adam Mickiewicz 1st High School in Olsztyn is a renowned secondary school, known for its high academic standards, numerous student achievements in subject competitions, and rich educational tradition. This year, the school celebrates its 80th anniversary.
