YSU scientist as co-editor of the book published by Elsevier Publishing Company

The book "MICROBIAL ESSENTIALISM: An Industrial Prospective" brings together the experimental and theoretical analyzes of 78 researchers from different corners of the world. 6 of the 24 chapters of the book summarize the studies of Armenian scientists, while university students author 3 chapters.  

Hovik Panosyan is sharing insights from the book. 

Q: Mr. Panosyan, could you please tell us the purpose and mission behind creating this book? 

A: One of the primary goals behind creating this book was to summarize modern challenges in applied microbiology and biotechnology while outlining potential solutions. It serves not only as a guiding manual for those interested in science but also provides an opportunity for readers to understand how they can further develop their professional activities. With contributions from 78 researchers, the book can be likened to a significant conference, where it is possible to find like-minded people and colleagues. 

Q: What are the main topics covered in the book?

A: The book comprises 24 chapters focused on applied microbiology and prospects for the development of microbial-based biotechnologies. Various researchers have addressed and tried to visualize the possibilities of using the microbial world, invisible to the naked eye, for the public good. Each chapter presents in more detail how a specific group of microbes can benefit humanity. 

Q: You are not only a co-editor of the book, but also a co-author of a chapter. Could you please present the topics covered in that chapter and introduce the other authors involved?

A: Master of the faculty Raffi Shahmuradyan, PhD student Diana Ghevondyan and researcher Armine Margaryan were involved in the works on the topic of the chapter we authored. They are very passionate researchers, always interested in science and innovation. I consider the publication of this book by the prestigious publishing company "Elsevier" an important achievement for them as well. I must say that they participated in the practical part with great enthusiasm and waited for the publication of the book with equal enthusiasm.

For young researchers, such initiatives are valuable opportunities to take the first steps in the field of science and to prove with certainty that they have received their "professional baptism".  

In our authored chapter, we referred to the problem of replacing plastic of chemical origin. In general, plastic degrades very slowly, sometimes over hundreds of years. Therefore, humanity is facing a serious challenge to create substitutes for plastic - bioplastics. They should perform the function of plastic without causing environmental problems.

This chapter summarizes the approach of how Armenian microbes can be used as an alternative to plastic for the production of bioplastics. Moreover, scientific experiments are still being carried out in our laboratory, and their results are also summarized in this chapter of the book. 

Q: You have already co-edited 6 books. Could you tell us about your experience?

A: Scientific books are almost as important as articles. First of all, books are crucial and necessary for providing students with the most accessible interpretation and comprehensive knowledge. Apart from that, it is necessary to take into account that publishing books with reputable scientific publishing houses is a rather complicated process, which ensures the scientific accuracy of the books.  

Our 5 editors worked for almost 2 years to complete our latest book. Each chapter underwent a special editing procedure, incorporating feedback from experts in the respective fields before final submission for publication. Therefore, book publishing is a complex and time-intensive, but very important process. 

Q: Mr. Panosyan, what are your thoughts on the development and trends of the scientific world?

A: In the scientific world, every step—from the smallest, seemingly insignificant discovery to major breakthroughs—is incredibly important and valuable. Even more important is the involvement of young researchers in the research of phenomena that have been observed for many years or are completely new.

Therefore, the publication of scientific articles and books, alongside constant and tireless work is essential for shaping a promising future. I am sure that thanks to dedicated work, significant and valuable discoveries can be made.  

It’s important to note that Panosyan collaborated with other editors—Raghvendra Pratap Singh, Geetanjali Manchanda, Sreedevi Sarsan, and Ajay Kumar—on the publication of "MICROBIAL ESSENTIALISM: An Industrial Prospective", alongside two other books published jointly with them in the reputable Springer and Elsevier publishing houses.