The brain is the most complex organ in the human body – responsible for essential life processes and mental functions. When it malfunctions, it can significantly reduce quality of life and contribute to the development of many diseases.
Join us online on May 22–23 for a conference where experts and researchers will present the latest findings on how lifestyle and environmental factors affect brain health and performance. Topics will include the impact of physical activity, sleep, stress, diet, stimulants, genetic predispositions, pollution, and even the gut microbiota on brain function. Neurological conditions and disorders will be discussed, including depression, memory disorders, brain aging processes, brain injuries, autoimmune brain diseases, and eating disorders with psychological causes.
From scientific research and innovative start-ups, through the boards of international companies and signature restaurants, to influencing policy and social activism — women in Poland continue to shape the future of a sustainable food system. WE Lead Food is a space created with them in mind — leaders, innovators, and change-makers. Here, they share knowledge, build relationships, and inspire one another, forming a remarkable network of collaboration. The next WE Lead Food meeting will take place on May 28 at the French Embassy in Warsaw.
WE Lead Food is a flagship and one of the most prestigious initiatives for women within the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) Food program. These meetings are held across several European countries. In Poland, the event will take place for the fourth time and is organized by the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, a strategic partner of the EIT Food network.
-The workshops organized by our Institute aim to create a nationwide community of female leaders who support one another and work together for a healthy, safe, and sustainable food sector. We give the floor to experts who are open to collaboration, eager to share their knowledge, experience, and the challenges they face – says Iwona Kieda from the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research PAS in Olsztyn, coordinator of the WE Lead Food project in Poland.
The next WE Lead Food workshop will take place on May 28 at the French Embassy, located at ul. Piękna 1 in Warsaw.
-This year, we are once again partnering with institutions and organizations that prioritize the role of women in transforming food system by supporting their leadership, entrepreneurship, and collaboration. Among them are the French Embassy in Poland, the Institute of Rural and Agricultural Development of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IRWiR PAN), and the AgroWomen Network, – adds Marta Kopcewicz, co-organizer of the event.
The program will feature sessions focused on inspiration, skill development, and building cooperation. We will explore the motivations behind women’s entrepreneurship and the challenges it entails. Participants will hear inspiring stories of women who are changing the game, building strong teams, and leading with a sense of responsibility and a commitment to growth. These are leaders driven by a passion for creating a better, healthier, and more sustainable food system.
Among the featured speakers are: Dr. Katarzyna Pala, (CEO of Food4Future Technologies), Renata Krysiak, founder of the start-up VegeLIO and Tatiana Fremond, (restaurateur and owner of La Môme).
With the support of mentors, attendees will set personal goals and explore new opportunities that come with being part of a unique collaborative network. A dedicated networking session will offer time for building valuable connections, engaging in inspiring conversations, and discovering promising Polish women-led start-ups, including Shroom4You and Baddi Kombucha.
The workshops are free of charge. The number of spots is limited, so registration is required: *** REGISTRATION FORM ***
Program
Date: May 28 Location: French Embassy, Piękna St 1, Warsaw
10:30 – 11:00 – Registration, Welcome 11:00 – 11:30 – Let’s get to know each other – icebreaker 11:30 – 11:45 – WE Lead Food, Shima Barakat, Programme Leader 11:45 – 13:00 – Get inspired! – panel session with experts 13:00 – 13:30 – Lunch 13:30 – 15:20 – Plan and achieve your goals! – training session 15:20 – 15:30 – Coffee break 15:30 – 15:45 – WE Lead Food, Shima Barakat 15:45 – 16:45 – Broaden your horizons! – networking session 16:45 – 17:00 – Closing
The workshop will be held in Polish.
See how it was at the last workshop:
Event partners:
French Embassy 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 the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT Food).
Join the network of experts and take part in the 8-week main programme starting this autumn: SIGN UP.
The guest of WELCOME2 seminar will be Professor Dieter Steinhilber, Director of the Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry at the Johann Wolfgang Goethe University in Frankfurt. Prof. Steinhilber will deliver a lecture titled: „Inflammation and lipid mediators: Old and new therapeutic strategies”.
Professor’s research focuses on lipid signaling and regulatory mechanisms in inflammation and cancer. He also investigates new therapeutic strategies with a special focus on the arachidonic acid cascade and the innate immune system.
The lecture will take place on May 9 (Friday) at 10:00 AM in the conference room of the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, at Trylińskiego 18 (SKANDA room).
Abstract of the presentation:
Changes in oxylipin levels such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes have been associated with inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, asthma or multiple sclerosis (MS). The identification of 5-lipoxygenase, which is the key enzyme in leukotriene formation, as a vitamin D-regulated gene provides a link to vitamin D signaling which stimulates the innate immune system and alleviates the responses of the adaptive immune system. In the search of factors which regulate prostaglandin E formation, we identified the miR-574-5p as regulator which modulates expression of the microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1, the key enzyme in prostaglandin E2 formation. Thus, miR-574-5p is an interesting target for drug development and the involved mechanisms in gene regulation as well as pharmacological strategies to inhibit miR-574-5p activity will be presented.
On Saturday, March 29, an educational event dedicated to the topic of superfoods took place at the Institute. The subject sparked great interest and became a starting point for inspiring lectures and insightful discussions.
This time, we took a closer look at popular products commonly referred to as superfoods – both local and exotic. Our speakers – scientists and experts from various fields – helped participants verify common beliefs about products such as shiitake mushrooms, chia seeds, and chlorella.
We also discussed whether a diet rich in superfoods is suitable for children and how it affects health in the context of aging processes.
The speakers emphasized that superfoods are not limited to exotic ingredients – our local treasures are just as valuable. These include apples, berries, parsley leaves, flaxseed, and honey.
The program featured lectures by:
dr Małgorzata Starowicz – Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn,
dr Joanna Ciborska – Department of Human Nutrition, Faculty of Food Science, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn,
dr Anna Hinburg – clinical dietitian at the Provincial Specialist Children’s Hospital in Olsztyn,
dr hab. n. med. Michał S. Majewski, prof. UWM – Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn,
dr Marianna Raczyk – Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn.
The event concluded with a discussion panel, during which participants had the opportunity to ask questions and share their thoughts.
The meeting was held as part of the ERA Chair WELCOME2 project: „Establishing a Centre of Excellence in Nutrigenomics to Improve Health and Quality of Life”. The scientific supervision of the event was provided by Dr Małgorzata Starowicz – leader of the Food Chemistry and Biodynamics Team at the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research PAS in Olsztyn.
We invite you to watch the event summary video and browse the photo gallery that captures the atmosphere and energy of the day.
Thank you all for your presence and active participation – we look forward to seeing you at future educational events!
Endometriosis affects up to one in ten women of reproductive age. What is known today is that it is a chronic inflammatory estrogen-dependent disease caused by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, including in the ovaries, uterine muscle, and rectovaginal space. However, its causes remain a mystery, diagnosis is challenging, and treatment remains symptomatic.
March is endometriosis awareness month, culminating in World Endometriosis Day on March 30. Researchers at the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn are also studying the biology of endometriosis and adenomyosis, a disease similar to endometriosis.
Unanswered Questions About Endometriosis
– Although endometriosis is being diagnosed more frequently, we still know too little about the disease itself. For reasons still unknown to us, endometrial tissue—the lining of the uterus—migrates outside the uterine cavity. Most commonly, it affects the ovaries, peritoneum (the membrane lining the abdominal cavity and covering many organs), and the rectovaginal space, but it can also be found in the intestines, lungs, eyes, brain, and bladder. It has even been observed in scars from cesarean sections – explains Professor Sławomir Wołczyński, head of the Human Reproduction Biology and Pathology Team.
The most widely accepted theories suggest that endometriosis is caused by retrograde menstruation, in which menstrual blood flows backward through the fallopian tubes, allowing endometrial fragments to enter the abdominal cavity, implant themselves, and even spread through the lymphatic system.
With each menstrual cycle, the tissues forming endometriosis lesions also shed and bleed—though outside the uterus. This not only causes irritation and inflammation but also severe pain. Pain is the primary clinical symptom of endometriosis, along with heavy menstrual bleeding, painful urination with blood, painful bowel movements, and digestive issues.
A significant impact on women’s lives
– Although endometriosis is not usually a malignant disease, it significantly reduces women’s quality of life. Many patients experience unbearable menstrual pain without pharmacological suport – emphasizes Profesor Sławomir Wołczyński.
The disease is also a major cause of infertility. – Epidemiological analyses and our clinical observations indicate that today, endometriosis is one of the leading causes of infertility – notes Profesor Sławomir Wołczyński.
Since the root cause of endometriosis is unknown, treatment is only symptomatic. The standard approach includes pharmacological treatment—pain relief and suppression of endometriosis lesion activity. – Surgical treatment can also be effective, but decisions about surgery must be made with particular caution in patients who have not yet completed their plans for motherhood – explains Professor Wołczyński.
Adenomyosis is a condition similar to endometriosis and also estrogen-dependent. In this case, endometrial tissue is located within the uterine muscle. The exact mechanism of this disease is also not yet fully understood.
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The full article was published on the portal Academia, issued by the Polish Academy of Sciences: Academia.
Do you lead an active lifestyle, care about healthy nutrition, but still occasionally reach for sugary, colorful drinks? Join our program and collaborate with scientists from our Institute to develop a hydration-enhancing beverage! Thanks to a partnership with a leading Polish beverage producer, the product will hit store shelves next year. Recruitment is open until April 18.
This initiative is part of the Consumer Engagement Labs program under EIT Food – an international project of the European Institute of Innovation & Technology.
Our partner is Maspex – one of the largest food companies in Central and Eastern Europe and a leading Polish producer of well-known and beloved juice, nectar, and beverage brands.
– By participating in this project, consumers have a unique opportunity to design a product that meets their specific needs and will be available in stores next year. Importantly, this is not just about testing pre-developed variants but about actively contributing to the creative proces – emphasizes dr Joanna Fotschki, project coordinator from the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn.
Who Are We Looking For?
We invite individuals aged 35-55 who lead an active lifestyle, limit sugar in their diet, and are not affiliated with the food or marketing industries to apply.
Recruitment is now open and will run until April 18. Sign up HERE.
Why a Hydration Beverage?
Proper hydration is essential for the overall functioning of the body.
– Research shows that adequate hydration supports kidney function, helping to eliminate excess sugar from the body and aiding in the management of type 2 diabetes. It also helps maintain blood volume and pressure, reducing the risk of hypertension. On the other hand, inadequate hydration can lead to health issues, such as an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases – explains dr Joanna Fotschki.
She adds that maintaining proper hydration levels is often neglected. „This is further exacerbated by the growing tendency of consumers to choose sugary drinks, which is becoming increasingly apparent,” she says.
This is why scientists, together with the producer, aim to create a healthier alternative to sugary hydration beverages—with the participation of consumers themselves.
What Does the Creative Process Look Like?
The creative process consists of five online meetings between April and June. During these sessions, 20 selected participants will work in small groups under the guidance of scientists to develop and refine their ideas. The consumer-created concepts will then be presented to Maspex business representatives.
Ultimately, the beverage will be launched next year.
The entire creative process is based on an innovative methodology developed by the University of Warsaw, which combines individual and team efforts, using creative techniques and design thinking.
This year, the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research Polish Academy of Sciences is a co-organiser of the 61st meeting of the Society for Low Temperature Biology (SLTB) taking place in Olsztyn from 11-13 September. We encourage you to register and submit abstracts.
SLTB was founded in 1964 in the UK and brings together cryobiologists working on plants, animals, algae, lichens, humans and the environment. The SLTB2025 meeting will focus in particular on the human fertility preservation and animal conservation but welcome abstracts covering all cryobiological topics.
Beside opportunities to network with colleagues, both during the conference and at social events the attendees will have the opportunity to visit the headquarters of the In Life Institute.
The local organising committee includes notable In Life scientists: Prof. Dariusz Skarzynski, Dr. Taisiia Yurchuk, Dr. Beenu Moza Jalali and Karolina Lukasik, among others invite participants to submit abstracts no later than 1st of July.
The full registration and meeting details could be found on the website.
We are pleased to announce that, by the decision of the President of the Republic of Poland on January 14, 2025, Mariola Dietrich has been awarded the title of Professor of agricultural sciences in the discipline of animal science and fisheries!
Professor Mariola Dietrich is a member of the Gamete Biology Team. Her research interests focus on the biology of fish gametes—sperm and oocytes—particularly those of the common carp, an economically significant species, and the siberian sturgeon, a species at risk of extinction.
She conducts research on the role of proteins in the functioning of the fish reproductive system and the development of effective reproductive biotechnologies. Her work includes proteomic analyses of changes occurring in gametes as a result of controlled reproduction techniques, such as hormonal stimulation and cryopreservation, as well as the impact of infections on gamete quality.
Professor Dietrich’s research has contributed to the understanding of the protein composition of carp and Siberian sturgeon semen, as well as the mechanisms of sperm motility activation, maturation, acclimatization, and cryodamage. The obtained results are of great significance both for the reproductive biology of cyprinid and sturgeon fish and for aquaculture practices. In the future, they may contribute to the improvement of fish semen storage techniques and the identification of gamete quality markers and and semen freezability markers.
The professor has participated in 31 research projects, including six as the principal investigator. She has completed research internships at prestigious institutions, including Ohio State University (USA) and LAFUGA, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich (Germany). She is the recipient of numerous awards and research scholarships, including the Scholarship for Outstanding Young Scientists from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, the „START” Scholarship from the Foundation for Polish Science, and the „Pro Scientia et Vita” Award from the Polish Academy of Sciences Foundation.
Her scientific achievements include 135 original research and review papers, 105 of which are indexed in the Journal Citation Reports (JCR).
We extend our heartfelt congratulations and wish her continued scientific success!
Professor Mariusz Piskuła has been appointed to the Science Policy Committee – an advisory body to the Minister of Science and Higher Education, responsible for shaping the country’s science policy.
The current committee’s term runs from 2022 to 2027. Among the 12 experts, six new members have joined, representing various scientific disciplines.
The committee plays a key role in analyzing scientific activities and recommending directions for the development of Polish science. Its work aims to effectively support science, the economy, and national security.
„The Science Policy Committee plays a crucial role in analyzing past actions and recommending directions for the development of Polish science. (…) That is why I have decided to appoint outstanding experts to the committee, who, thanks to their diverse research interests and achievements, will ensure a broad spectrum of perspectives and the highest level of expertise,” said Minister of Science and Higher Education Marcin Kulasek.
Congratulations to Professor Mariusz Piskuła and all the new members! We wish you fruitful work for the development of Polish science.
The Science Policy Committee is an advisory body to the Minister of Science and Higher Education on national science policy. The SPC was established in 2010, and the members of its first term began their work a year later. Since 2018, the committee has operated under the Act of July 20, 2018 – Law on Higher Education and Science.
Are you a student and have an idea for using food waste? Do you want to present your plan to experts, but also confront it with real market needs? Take the EIT Food ’Waste-to-Value’ challenge and join a course where you will contribute to the development of the circular economy, meet mentors from the world of science and business and get the chance to prototype your idea.
About
The Food Solutions ‘Waste-to-Value’ programme is an exciting opportunity for students to develop a circular economy by transforming food waste into valuable biomaterials. Through structured learning blocks and the practical dimension of the course, participants will develop an entrepreneurial mindset, learn about innovation ecosystems and sustainability practices over the course of 7 months.
Join us if you want to:
learn about the circular economy,
develop competencies including problem solving, leadership and critical thinking,
awaken a design thinking approach to the food system, from supply chain to packaging to marketing,
create a professional business plan and innovation concept,
work under the guidance of mentors.
Programme structure
The programme starts with a kick-off event (online, planned date: end of March), followed by: structured learning blocks and pitching sessions.
Learning blocks on entrepreneurship and innovation:
Market – Assessing the potential of your innovation;
Customers – Identifying your target audience and value proposition;
Business model – Delivering value effectively;
Marketing – Engaging with your audience;
Finance – Financial basics for your venture.
Participants will attend three pitching sessions to effectively present their ideas, receive valuable feedback and refine their ideas with expert guidance. Mentoring from industry leaders will help transform ideas into viable business models.
Career opportunities
Food Solutions prepares students for a variety of career paths, including:
Entrepreneurship – Starting your own business,
Start-ups – Working in innovative companies,
Consultancy – Becoming an innovation consultant,
Entrepreneurship at organisational level – Making changes in organisations,
Research and development – Working in the food sector.
Alumni of the programme have had the opportunity to work with leading companies, such as Puratos, or start their own start-ups.
Who can apply?
The programme is aimed at students who are at the idea stage of their innovation and want to develop a prototype. If you are an undergraduate, masters or doctoral student in food technology, agricultural engineering, dietetics, economics, management, or other related fields, apply! Priority will be given to those with English skills at B1-B2 level.
The international programme allows for scholarships, making participation in the €3,500 course free of charge. In addition, the first winning team will have the chance to win a prize of €1,500.
Food Solutions’ Waste-to-Value programme is organised in collaboration with Foodback, the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Yaşar University and the İzmir Agricultural Technology Center.
EIT FOOD is the biggest and most dynamic innovation community in the food industry. It creates connections across the food system and drives innovation between startups and corporations, entrepreneurs and investors, consumers and industry, research and action, the present and the future.
