Opening of the Kazakh-German-Chinese International Research Laboratory of Applied Microbiology

On November 20, 2024, the Department of Biotechnology at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University hosted the opening ceremony of the Kazakh-German-Chinese International Research Laboratory of Applied Microbiology.

This significant event brought together scientists and researchers from Kazakhstan, Germany, and China, laying the foundation for strengthening international scientific collaboration and implementing advanced projects in the fields of microbiology and biotechnology.

The welcoming speeches were delivered by:

• Member of the Board and Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation, Zhamila Nurmatovna Aitzhanova;
• Professor and Director of the Institute at Aachen University of Applied Sciences, Ilya Digel;
• Dean of the Faculty of Biotechnology, Professor Meruert Sakenovna Kurmanbayeva;
• Head of the Department of Biotechnology and moderator, Aida Serikovna Kistaubayeva.

The laboratory will serve as a platform for conducting joint scientific research, exchanging expertise, and training young specialists. Its main areas of focus include the development of innovative biotechnological solutions for medicine, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.

Special attention was given to the achievements of Professor Ilya Digel, an alumnus of KazNU, who played a pivotal role in establishing the laboratory. In his speech, Professor Digel emphasized the importance of international scientific cooperation and expressed confidence in the successful implementation of joint projects.

The distinguished guests of the ceremony included:

1. Nurshat Nurazhe, Professor at Nazarbayev University (Kazakhstan);
2. Zulfikar Ali, Director of Programs at the Islamic Organization for Food Security;
3. Jian Jia, Associate Professor at the University of Science and Technology, China;
4. N.A. Nuraliyev, Professor at Bukhara State Medical Institute, Uzbekistan.

The creation of the laboratory was made possible through the support of university leadership, the efforts of young scientists, and contributions from international partners. The laboratory promises to be a new milestone in advancing science and strengthening scientific ties between nations.

This event has opened new horizons for international scientific collaboration and made a significant contribution to the development of science in Kazakhstan.