Valuing contributions and strengthening Armenian-German scientific ties

Professor Gary Sawers has been cooperating with the YSU Biology Faculty for about 15 years, significantly contributing to joint research initiatives, the publication of scientific works, and the organization of student exchange programs between the two universities.

Karen Trchunyan, Director of the Research Institute of Biology at YSU, highlighted the ongoing cooperation with Professor Gary Sawers, noting that this is his fourth visit to the university. 

"Gary Sawers delivers lectures on a range of topics both in person and online. As the scientific advisor at the YSU Innovation Center for Microbial Biotechnology and Biofuels, he has played a key role in implementing research in line with international standards. Under his guidance, we have conducted numerous research projects and are now engaged in joint scientific experiments and publishing articles in leading international journals," said K. Trchunyan.  

Recognizing the significant role Professor Sawers plays in involving Biology Faculty students in scientific educational programs, K. Trchunyan noted: "Through our collaboration with the professor, our students also receive an education at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg. In addition to fundamental knowledge, they gain practical skills, familiarize themselves with the latest technologies and methods, and bring this knowledge back to YSU. Gary Sawers provides valuable consultation on utilizing new-generation devices. This experience is crucial for students, as it allows them to compare Yerevan State University with Halle University and see that YSU is also advanced in many aspects."

Professor Gary Sawers, speaking about the research conducted by the scientists of the YSU Laboratory of Microbiology, Bioenergetics and Biotechnology, emphasized that their work is of a very high standard, comparable to the research conducted at Halle University.

"We cooperate with Yerevan State University on both fundamental and applied research, exploring the role of microbes during fermentation in biochemistry and bioenergy. Moreover, we plan to further strengthen this partnership," said the professor.  

Emphasizing the availability of new equipment at YSU Biology Faculty and Research Institute of Biology, Gary Sawers highlighted the potential for organizing future visits by Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg students to YSU. Such visits would facilitate experience exchange and the learning of new methods.

On September 19, Professor Gary Sawers will give an open lecture at the Faculty of Biology, addressing the relationship between hydrogen and formic acid and their metabolism in microbes.