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Olsztyn Doctoral Students’ Agreement – together we can achieve more!

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.

GALLERY

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.

Recruitment to the Interdisciplinary Doctoral School of Agricultural Sciences

Doctoral Presentations and a Lecture on Artificial Intelligence

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

Children’s Day with Science!

Dry ice experiments, bacteria under the microscope, and milk under scrutiny – these educational shows were presented by our scientists on June 3rd at the Children’s Hospital in Olsztyn during a picnic organized for Children’s Day.

As part of the event, educators from the Institute promoting the goals of the EIT Food program – FoodEducators– introduced the youngest participants to the secrets of food science in a way tailored to children’s imagination.

Micro zoo

Children had the chance to explore the fascinating microscopic world of bacteria, especially those found in food and the human digestive system. Participants learned what microorganisms are, their role in our bodies, and why not all bacteria are harmful.

The world under the microscope

During this workshop, children learned about the structure of plant and animal cells and the functions of their organelles. In the practical part, they created artistic models of cells using modeling clay.

Healthy milk

This workshop focused on food quality and safety. Children analyzed milk samples, assessed their appearance and consistency, and learned to distinguish milk from healthy and sick cows. The session highlighted the importance of hygiene and quality control at every stage of food production.

Dry ice shows

Spectacular experiments using dry ice introduced children to the world of physics and chemistry. The demonstrations illustrated phenomena related to temperature changes, cooling, and food preservation – mechanisms also used in food technology.

The workshops were a perfect opportunity to learn through play. Participants gained knowledge about microorganisms, biological processes, and food safety principles, all while having a great time.

Call for Applications: assistant professor in the Molecular Biology of Reproduction Group

The Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn announces a competition for the position of:

Assistant professor (post- doc position)

in the Molecular Biology of Reproduction Team, in the research project: „Three-dimensional in vitro endometrial model for studying hypoxia-induced changes and maternal-embryonic interactions” financed by the National Science Centre (OPUS 28)

Description of tasks:

developing a realistic three-dimensional model of the uterine mucosa, which will enable analysis of the influence of signals from the embryo on the molecular processes occurring during embryo implantation,
investigating whether the embryo, as well as hypoxic conditions, can induce changes in the transcriptome of various endometrial cells and in the composition of proteins secreted by endometrial and trophoblast cells (secretome),
planning and carrying out experiments, laboratory and statistical analyses, interpretation of obtained results, preparation of presentations and scientific communications, writing scientific publications on the conducted research.

Conditions of employment :

employment type: fixed-term full-time employment contract,
planned employment period: 36 months,
a salary of approximately PLN 9,700 gross per month,
place of work: ul. Trylińskiego 18, Olsztyn, Poland,
start date: August 2025 (negotiable).

Information about working conditions and career development prospects:

The implementation of the above tasks will significantly enhance the candidate’s scientific expertise in researching mechanisms and factors underlying successful pregnancy development in mammals. The position offers substantial opportunities to develop skills in 3D in vitro culture methods and molecular biology techniques, with a particular focus on transcriptomics, proteomics, and epigenetics.

We offer:

stable employment in a renowned scientific institute of the Polish Academy of Sciences,
research-focused position with no teaching obligations,
opportunities for professional development, including international collaboration and training in molecular biology techniques,
friendly work atmosphere and support of an experienced team,
access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure,
employee benefits, including co-financing of Multisport card activities via the Company Social Benefits Fund.

Qualification requirements:

a PhD in biological or related sciences (awarded no earlier than 12 years before the year of employment in the project, with possible extensions for long-term medical leave or parental/caregiving absences),
good knowledge of the biology of animal reproduction, documented by own research (in the form of a doctoral thesis, publications from the JRC list and presentations at scientific conferences),
scientific achievements expressed as co-authorship in scientific publications indexed in the Journal Citation Reports ; including first author in at least 2 publications in journals indexed in JRC,
experience, confirmed by scientific achievements, in the use of molecular biology methods (including the study of the global gene expression profile, RNA and DNA isolation, Real Time PCR, Western Blot ), proteomic analyses , microscopic techniques (immunohistochemistry , immunofluorescence, confocal microscopy), and hormone determination using ELISA,
ability to independently plan and conduct in vitro experiments, especially involving primary reproductive tissue and cell cultures,
preferred: Experience in isolation and culture of porcine endometrial primary cells (luminal epithelial, stromal), trophoblast cells and/or in vitro 3D cell cultures and/or spatial transcriptomics analysis,
proficiency in software tools used for transcriptomic and proteomic data analysis,
research internship abroad in a scientific institution,
participation in at least one externally funded research project,
very good command of English, sufficient for effective communication, preparation of scientific publications, and presentations at international conferences.

Further eligibility criteria are outlined on the NCN website – OPUS 28 regulations, Annex to Resolution No. 84/2024 of the NCN Council of 5 September 2024.

Required documents:

copy of the PhD diploma,
academic CV including: (1) education, (2) research achievements including publications and conference communications, (3) accomplishments from scientific research, fellowships, awards, scientific experience, workshops and/or training, participation in research projects, and (4) a list of laboratory techniques used,
motivation letter,
reference letter from the PhD supervisor and/or current employer confirming relevant skills,
document confirming a research internship abroad,
summary of the PhD thesis,
other documents relevant for application assessment.

Application deadline and submission:

Please send your application via email to: a.waclawik@pan.olsztyn.pl (Subject line: “Application for Assistant Professor position in OPUS-28 project”).

The application deadline is July 16, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. (noon, CET).

Selected candidates will be invited for an interview.

The results will be published on the Institute’s website.

In the submitted documents, please include a clause of consent to the processing of personal data by us in the recruitment process:

„I consent to the processing of my personal data contained in the application documents by the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn with its registered office 10-683 Olsztyn, ul. Trylińskiego 18, in order to carry out the recruitment process and publish the full competition results on the Institute’s website.

Information clause:

The administrator of personal data processed as part of the recruitment process is the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn with its registered office at 10-683 Olsztyn, ul. Trylińskiego 18, tel. 89 500 32 00, e-mail: institute@pan.olsztyn.pl .
Contact with the personal data protection officer is possible at: iodo@pan.olsztyn.pl.
The provided personal data will be processed for the purpose of implementing the current recruitment process and stored until its completion based on the consent given (in accordance with Article 6(1)(a) of the GDPR).
The data subject has the right to withdraw consent at any time without affecting the lawfulness of processing based on consent before its withdrawal.
The data subject has the right to access his or her personal data, request its rectification or deletion. Submitting a request to delete data is tantamount to resigning from participation in the recruitment process. In addition, she has the right to request restriction of processing in the cases specified in Art. 18 GDPR.
The data subject has the right to lodge a complaint with the President of the Personal Data Protection Office regarding unlawful processing of his or her personal data. This body will be competent to consider the complaint, however, the right to lodge a complaint only concerns the lawfulness of the processing of personal data and does not concern the recruitment process.
The data provided will not be subject to profiling or made available to entities or third countries. The recipients of the data may be institutions authorized by law.
Providing the data contained in the recruitment documents is not obligatory, but it is a necessary condition for participating in the recruitment process.

Job Advertisement – Specialist or Senior Specialist

The Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn, is seeking a Specialist or Senior Specialist to join the Molecular Biology od 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 (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: August 2025.

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 28 July 2025 at the latest address e-mail: m.cieslik@pan.olsztyn.pl (in the title: specialist/senior specialist at MBR team). Additional information: a.waclawik@pan.olsztyn.pl.

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

The Institute reserves the right to end the recruitment process prior to the deadline if a suitable candidate is selected.

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 Institute Reproduction Animals and Research Food PAN in Olsztyn 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 Institute Reproduction Animals and Research Food PAN in Olsztyn, 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.

Dr. Taisiia Yurchuk Awarded Prestigious Fellowship

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.

Międzydyscyplinarne seminarium z udziałem prof. Bertholda Koletzko

Interdisciplinary Seminar with Professor Berthold Koletzko

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.

Participation is free of charge.

Please confirm your attendance by completing the registration form.

You can learn more about Professor Berthold Koletzko by clicking here.

Plakat międzydyscyplinarnego seminarium z udziałem prof. Bertholda Koletzko

WE Lead Food Workshops – Women Driving Change in the Food Sector

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