Lecture by Professor Ruslan Biyashev on Plant Genetics and Genomics

On October 2, 2025, the Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology hosted a meeting with a distinguished American scientist from the state of Virginia, Professor Ruslan Maratovich Biyashev, who has devoted his career to research in the field of plant genetics and genomics.

The professor delivered a lecture on the topic:
“Genetic Approaches to Mapping Resistance to Phytophthora sojae and Phythium in Soybean (Glycine max).”

Professor Biyashev graduated in 1980 with a degree in biology, completing his diploma thesis under the supervision of Academician R.I. Bersimbaev on the genetic aspects of the hormone gastrin. In 1985, he defended his PhD dissertation at the Institute of General Genetics of the USSR Academy of Sciences, focusing on the genetic control of barley isozymes.

Afterward, he led projects on the genetics of wheat and barley. Since 1991, he has participated in international research in the United States, contributing to the mapping of the barley, rice, and maize genomes. At present, the professor is actively engaged in plant genomics and improving the quality traits of soybean.

His current research interests focus on the genetic mechanisms determining the levels of sugars and phytic acid in soybean seeds. These studies aim to identify economically significant genes that can be applied in breeding programs to enhance the nutritional value, yield, and resistance of soybean varieties.

The lecture generated strong interest among students and faculty. Participants asked questions about modern methods of genome mapping, molecular markers of resistance, and the practical application of genetic approaches in agriculture.

The meeting served as an example of vibrant scientific dialogue and inspired students to pursue their own research projects in biotechnology and molecular biology.