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CPSBB hosted the first edition of Plovdiv Science Festival, 23-26 November 2023
Thousands of students, teachers, their families and friends visited CPSBB on 23-26 November 2023 where the first edition of Plovdiv Science Festival was organized by the “Beautiful Science” Foundation. More than 1,500 students (1st-12th grade) from 34 schools took part in the event which aims at connecting teachers and scientists so that more scientists could enter classes in schools and enrich the theoretical education with practical knowledge and experience. “We hope that by participating in Plovdiv’s first science festival, the children will find the spark that will awaken their curiosity and interest in being researchers. CPSBB is very proud of hosting and partnering such an event as it fully corresponds to our main goal and mission as a Bulgarian Center of Excellence – to bridge the gap between science, industry, government and society and create an optimal environment for career development of Bulgarian and foreign researchers”, said Assoc. Vesela Kazashka, Head of Administration at CPSBB.
Demo point “Science” of the European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) AgroHub.BG will be officially opened at CPSBB, 6 November 2023
Bulgarian and foreign researchers from academic and scientific institutions, producers of high-tech solutions for agriculture, as well as farmers from all over the country will take part in the upcoming official opening of the “Science” demo point at CPSBB within the project AgroDigiRise of the European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) AgroHub.BG. The event will take place on November 16 (Thursday) at 1:00 p.m. in the scientific complex of CPSBB in Plovdiv. The main goal of the large-scale AgroDigiRise project is to establish EDIH AgroHub.BG as a connecting link between science, business and the agricultural sector, aiming at the optimization of production and processes in agriculture and investment in high technologies.
CPSBB Presented its unique scientific complex to the Bulgarian government and society, 13 October 2023
On October 13, 2023, the official opening ceremony of the newly built scientific complex of the Center for Plant System Biology and Biotechnology (CBSBB) took place in Plovdiv. Acad. Prof. Dr. Nikolay Denkov, Prime Minister of the Republic of Bulgaria, Prof. Dr. Galin Tsokov, Minister of Education and Science, Mr. Boyko Blagoev, Head of the Representation of the European Commission in Bulgaria, Mr. Ivan Popov, Deputy Executive Director of EA “Education Program”, Mr. Stefan Stoyanov, Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Plovdiv, together with the leaders of the PlantaSYST
“European Researchers’ Night” 2023 at CPSBB, 29 September 2023
For the ninth year, the Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB) is a partner of the international campaign “European Researchers Night” 2023. The initiative is held annually in over 25 European countries. The main goal is researchers from different scientific fields to connect with the general public and young generation and increase their interest in science and research careers. The events, organized by each campaign partner, are designed to demonstrate in an interesting and interactive way various aspects of science and its impact on people’s lives.
2nd International Conference on Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 25-27 September 2023
On 25-27 September 2023 the second edition of the INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON PLANT SYSTEMS BIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY (ICPSBB 2023) was held in Plovdiv. Тhe event took place in the newly built scientific complex of CPSBB, gathering scientists from five continents and over 20 countries (Bulgaria, Italy, Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, China, New Zealand, South Africa, United States of America, Germany, Israel, India, Brazil, Chile, etc.).
Ukranian academic delegation visited CPSBB, 21 September 2023
Ukranian professors and lecturers in agriculture sciences visited CPSBB. The visit was organized in a partnership with the Agricultural university in Plovdiv. Scientists from CPSBB presented the PlantaSYST project, within which the Center was established in Bulgaria. They also showcased the laboratories, technological equipment, scientific projects, as well as the building and greenhouse facilities which are unequaled for Eastern Europe. Тhe guests were impressed by the European and international research projects currently conducted by CPSBB (CropPrime, NatGenCrop, BOOSTER, etc.), as well as the technological and laboratory equipment with which scientists carry out their research at the Center.
Delegation with industrial companies from the Netherlands visited CPSBB, 18 September 2023
Representatives from Dutch companies, specialized in the fields of biotechnology and agriculture, visited CPSBB as part of a business delegation of the Embassy of the Netherlands in Bulgaria. The visit was hosted by researchers from CPSBB who presented the Center and guided the visitors through the scientific campus of CPSBB. Dr. Nikola Staykov presented the PlantaSYST project, funded by the European Commission and the Bulgarian Operational Programme “Science and Education for Smart Growth”, within which CPSBB was established. Dr. Staykov presented also the departments, scientific activities, and current research projects, conducted in the Center. The guests were guided through the greenhouse facilities of CPSBB where several international scientific projects are conducted parallelly – the NatGenCrop project (improving stress tolerance in tomatoes and peppers), the CropPrime project (development of innovative natural products for plant protection), BOOSTER (improving crop yield in maize and teff), RESIST (improving crop resilience to drought), and others.
18th EUCARPIA International Meeting on Genetics and Breeding of Capsicum and Eggplant, 18-21 September 2023
We are very pleased to announce that the 18th EUCARPIA Meeting on Genetics and Breeding of Capsicum and Eggplant will be held in Plovdiv, Bulgaria from 18 to 21 of September, 2023. The meeting is being organized by Maritsa Vegetable Crops Research Institute (MVCRI) in collaboration with the Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB), both engaged in research on pepper and other Solanaceous crops. Postponed with one year due to the COVID pandemic, the conference will be performed as on-site event. We believe this is the most efficient way for interaction and exchange of knowledge and ideas gained after the last meeting in Avignon, France in 2019. The EUCARPIA Capsicum and Eggplant meeting, 2023 will offer you rich scientific programme, inspirational keynotes, plentiful networking opportunities and social interaction.
Delegations from the Ministry of Innovation and Growth and Plovdiv Municipality visited CPSBB as a part of the innovation policy of the Bulgarian government, 31 July 2023
Delegations from the Bulgarian Ministry of Innovation and Growth, headed by the Minister, Mrs. Milena Stoycheva, and Plovdiv Municipality, presented by the Deputy Mayor, Mr. Stefan Stoyanov, visited CPSBB and met with the Management of the Center – Prof. Dr. Tsanko Gechev (Director) and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vesela Kazashka (Head of Administration). The visit was part of the state policy for innovations which aims at bridging the gap between research, technological development and industrial policy for innovation development, based on fundamental and applied science. Prof. Dr. Tsanko Gechev presented the PlantaSYST project and its crucial significance for the Bulgarian science, as it is one of the 11 successful European projects and the only one Bulgarian project in the field of plant biology, approved for funding by the European commission within the Teaming action of the “Horizon 2020” programme.
New CPSBB’s tomato varieties were presented during the Summer Open Field Days of Opora Zaden Bulgaria, 22-24 June 2023
The Summer Open Days was organized by Opora Zaden on 22-24 June 2023 in Tsalapitsa, Plovdiv. CPSBB attended the event and presented four new tomato varieties, developed in partnership with “Maritsa” Vegetable Crops Research Institute. Field tomato presentations of the new sorts “Rozovo siyanie”, “Dara”, “Salzica’ and “Mini Miss” were showcased during the event. Many producers and companies have already expressed interest in the new varieties, as they combine traditional taste and improved nutritional qualities. The three-day Open Field Days were attended by crop producers, agricultural companies, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions and media representatives.
The first Bulgarian Center of excellence in plant science was presented during the 2nd Regional Meeting “From Science to Innovations”, 15 June 2023
The 2nd Regional Meeting “From Science to Innovation” was organized by the Executive Agency “Program for Education” on June 15, 2023 in Gabrovo. More than 80 participants attended the meeting. The event brought together business and municipalities, as well as beneficiary representatives, in order to present them the strategic objectives and infrastructures of the Centers of Excellence and Centers of Competence, financed by the Operational Program “Science and Education for Smart Growth”.
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CPSBB attended the ISF World Seed Congress in Cape Town, 5-7 June 2023
Dr. Veselin Petrov and Mr. Petar Kazakov participated in the ISF World Seed Congress, organized by the International Seed Federation in Cape Town, Republic of South Africa, from 5 to 7 June 2023. The International Seed Federation is the largest organization that unites biotechnology, vegetable breeding, and seed-producing companies all over the world. It is widely regarded as the voice of the global seed industry. The ISF Congress in Cape Town was attended by more than 1000 delegates from over 60 countries worldwide, mainly CEOs of leading organizations and companies in the global agricultural industry. CPSBB’s repredentatives made contact with Enza Zaden, Suba seeds, Symborg, Starke Ayres, Seed-Co, Anseme, Intertec, Saaten Union, Agrosel, Hectar, Amphasys, Semo, Valley Seeds, Durga Seeds, Cnus, Verim Ziraat and others.
CPSBB presented the PlantaSYST and NatGenCrop projects to students from Professional School of Food Technology in Plovdiv, 4-5 June 2023
Tenth graders from the Professional School of Food Technology in Plovdiv visited CPSBB as part of their practical education in Biotechnology. The researchers from CPSBB, Dr. Emil Vatov, Dr. Maria Benina, Dr. Alicja Wieteska, and Valentina Ivanova, guided the students through the laboratories, greenhouses, and plant growth chambers in the scientific campus, presenting some of the research projects of CPSBB and the state-of-the-art technical equipment of CPSBB. The research complex of CPSBB is funded by the Operational Programme “Science and Education for Smart Growth”. Main topic of the visit was the NatGenCrop project which will be conducted and coordinated by CPSBB for the next five years with funding from the HORIZON-WIDERA-2022-TALENTS-01 program of the European Union. The project aims at enhancing the yield and stress tolerance in tomato and pepper crops. A new department at CPSBB was established for the project, headed by the prominent scientist and ERA Chairs Holder Dr. Saleh Alseekh.
Young scientist from the PlantaSYST project was awarded for best poster presentation by the Association for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of Southeast European Countries, 02 June 2023
Monika Todorova, a PhD student and young researcher who works in one of the partnering organizations from the PlantaSYST project – The Stephan Angeloff Institute of Microbiology (IMicB), Laboratory of Metabolomics, was awarded for the best poster presentation by the Association for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of Southeast European Countries (AMAPSEEC). The award was presented by the president of AMAPSEEC, Prof. Zora Dajić Stevanović, with an official ceremony during the International Conference on Natural Product Utilization 2023 – ICNPU 2023. The poster presentation was entitled “Effect of icariin on Longevity, Stress Resistance and Fitness of Caenorhabditis elegans”. It is a result of the scientific teamwork and collaboration between CPSBB’s Plant Cell Biotechnology department and the Laboratory of Metabolomics (IMiCB), for promoting healthspan and longevity in C. elegans.
More than 100 students held their practical training on Plant Physiology at CPSBB, 30 May 2023
More than 100 students from University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski” (Faculty of Biology) visited CPSBB and held their practical training in Plant Physiology. The undergraduates are in their third and fourth year of education for Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biology and Chemistry, Biology and English, Ecology and Molecular Biology. Prof. Dr. Tsanko Gechev welcomed the students and presented the scientific departments and research activities of CPSBB. He pointed out the main advantages of the state of the art equipment of the Center and highlighted one of the main research topics of the Center – the resurrection plant Haberlea rhodopensis. He also presented some of the current scientific projects on which CPSBB works with international partners (e.g. CropPrime, NatGenCrop, Booster, RESIST) and conducted a live demonstration with a conductometer for detecting electrolyte conductivity and stress levels in plants. “CPSBB welcomes motivated and ambitious students to complete doctoral degree in biotechnologies and develop their scientific career here, as part of our research team”, outlined Prof. Gechev.
Workshop: Entrepreneurship and transferable skills – RESIST project, 29 May 2023
The development of highly disruptive technologies to solve major societal problems often requires an applied science approach, merging the expertise of Industry and Academia. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a key role in developing technologies that are commercially viable and fulfil regulatory and sustainability requirements. Furthermore, SMEs have the requisite knowledge, IP and industrial scale facilities to manufacture disruptive technologies at large-scale to meet global market demands. Whilst primarily focused on basic research, Academia also has an important role to play in applied research, by collaborating with industrial partners and providing highly technical expertise, knowledge and facilities to independently validate technologies. It is increasingly common at national and international levels to require close collaboration between industry and academia in attempts to solve major societal problems, for example climate change mitigation and delivery of effective and sustainable agriculture.
Scientist from CPSBB won a poster award from the International Vaccine Institute, 29 May 2023
The researcher from the Technology Transfer Department of CPSBB – Dr. Gergana Zahmanova – won the second place during an official awarding ceremony organized by the International Vaccine Institute during the 2nd International Hepatitis E Symposium (HEV Symposium). The event was held on 28th-29th April in London. The award was a recognition of a poster presentation, entitled “Rapid production of highly immunogenic Hepatitis E virus-like particles in plants using viral vectors”. Dr. Zahmanova is working together with leading scientis from JIC, Norwich and RAS, Moscow on the development of HEV vaccine in plants. The 2nd International Hepatitis E Symposium brought together leading experts in hepatitis E virus (HEV) research, presenting new data and updates on HEV which is a serious though often neglected disease. Over the course of the 2-day meeting, participants were engaged in presentations, panels, and discussion around the latest findings in HEV epidemiology, diagnostics, control and vaccination
Teachers from vocational schools in Spain visited CPSBB, 23 May 2023
16 teachers from vocational schools in Andalucia, Spain visited the scientific complex of CPSBB. They were guided through the whole campus of CPSBB, including the laboratories, green houses, and the conference halls of the newly built Center. The visit is the second one in a row, the previous one was held on 17 May. CPSBB welcomes Erasmus+ students since 2021. Recently one intern from Bilbao completed her quarterly educational program and currently two more Spanish students are gaining practical and theoretical knowledge from the experts of CPSBB, all as part of the Erasmus+ program.
Official delegates from EIT Food visited CPSBB, 22 May 2023
On 22 May, 2023, a delegation led by the executive director of EIT Food, Dr. Andy Zinga, met with student and teaching community, business and political representatives, scientists and innovators. Head of the Funding Department, Assistant Prof. Dr. Veselin Petrov, took part in the meeting as the Center will partner the Bulgarian hub of EIT Food. The goals of the institute are to support the development of solutions to global challenges related to food, to accelerate the implementation of innovations, to educate and train future experts, to create new food patterns and habits. The event started with a presentation entitled “Innovations in the agro-food sector – building synergy for better opportunities”, which took place in the hall of the Agricultural University, Plovdiv. Dr. Zinga and EIT Food Director for North-East Europe Maria-Liisa Mouris presented the European strategies for innovations in the agri-food sector and the bioeconomy, training support and funding programs of EIT Food.
Scientist from CPSBB was nominated for Pythagoras Prize for young researchers, 19 May 2023
Dr. Liliya Mihaylova, researcher from the Plant Cell Biotechnology Department of CPSBB, was among the first three awarded young scientists for the Pythagoras Prize of the Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science in the category “Life Sciences and Medicine”. The official awarding ceremony was held in Sofia on 19 May, 2023. “It is an honor to be among the first 3 nominees for the Pythagoras Prize for Young Scientist in the category “Life Sciences and Medicine”. I am grateful to the management of the Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology and the Scientific Council at the Institute of Microbiology “Stefan Angelov” for raising my nomination. Overweight is a huge epidemic of our time and a major risk factor for developing chronic diseases and shortening life expectancy.
Two public lectures for composting technology and prevention of viral infections in crops will be held on 11 May 2023
The events are part of “School of Advanced Horticulture” – initiative of “Maritsa” Vegetable Crops Research Institute and CPSBB within the PlantaSYST project. Two lectures will be held concerning the following themes: „Composting – technology and quality of compost. Application in seeding production.” and „Pests – Vectors of virus diseases in vegetable crops.” Lecturers: Dr. Tsvetanka Dincheva, Dr. Vinelina Yankova and Dr. Gancho Pasev. One of the lecture will present basic technological elements for the production of quality compost: materials, their preparation for composting, controlling the process and analyzes of the final product. The aim is to provide guidance to farmers on how to utilize plant waste from agriculture and to produce compost.
The producing company of the unique Mass Spectrometry System of CPSBB inspected its laboratory exploitation, 03 May 2023
Mr. Matthias Rietdorf, Business Development Manager of Waters Corporation and Mrs. Elena Kadijska, the Manager of FOT Ltd. company- the exclusive representatives of Waters for Bulgaria- visited the scientific complex of the Center and inspected the installation and exploitation of the unique for Bulgaria and Eastern Europe, high throughput analytical mass spectrometry system. They met the scientific team engaged in the training process and both were very satisfied with the current results. Thanks to the exceptional proficiency of Mr. Sascha Robbert, EU HRMS Support Specialist, Waters EHQ / Waters Corporation, the scientific team of CPSBB gained excellent practical knowledge and know-how on mastering the complex system properly for in-depth scientific research, analytical data and results.
CPSBB is a partner in European project aiming at the development of innovative and sustainable strategies for the creation of climate-resilient and drought-tolerant cereals, 1 May 2023
BOOSTER will improve drought tolerance in both maize and teff, while simultaneously exploring the potential for transferring species-specific drought responsive features. By exploiting natural genetic variation to achieve drought tolerant genotypes and by developing biostimulants derived from living organisms, BOOSTER will take advantage of the already available natural resources to steer our agriculture towards novel drought tolerant varieties. wo synergistic strategies will be implemented to achieve this goal. Firstly, a new approach will identify genomic variants in regulatory regions functionally associated with drought tolerance. Novel regulatory elements underlying resilience will inform efficient breeding efforts to create new drought tolerant cereal varieties.
CPSBB took part in the Career Day, organized by the Agricultural University, Plovdiv, 26 April 2023
Academia representatives, business companies, and students participated in the Career Day of the Agricultural University, Plovdiv. The event gave businesses the opportunity to present job vacancies and corporate internship programs to the students. Hristina Vancheva, PR Expert of CPSBB, gave a brief introduction to a corporate video presentation of CPSBB and welcomed students and lecturers to the Center’s exhibition stand, where they could learn more about the research activity and educational initiatives they could benefit from. Mr. Peter Kazakov (Marketing expert), Dr. Veselin Petrov (Head of Department Funding), and Dr. Valentina Ivanova (researcher at CPSBB) met with students and business representatives in the exhibition area of the event.
CPSBB presented the PlantaSYST project to Bulgarian and British academic institutions for potential partnership in transnational education, 22 March 2023
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vesela Kazashka (Head of Administration, CPSBB, Mr. Vasil Kolev (Project Manager, CPSBB), and Mrs. Christina Vancheva (PR expert, CPSBB) participated in an online webinar organized by the British Council in Bulgaria. The event gathered academic leaders, lecturers and project managers from Bulgarian and British academic institutions with the main goal to discuss potential partnership in transnational education between Bulgaria and the United Kingdom. CPSBB presented the project PlantaSYST, as well as the research activities, educational programmes, and training projects held by the scientific and academic staff of the Center.
The third edition of CPSBB’s Green Initiative was held in Plovdiv, 16 March 2023
For a third consecutive year the “Green Initiative” of CPSBB was held in Trakia district of Plovdiv on 16 March, 2023. The main goal of the campaign is to improve the area around the newly built campus of CPSBB, as well as the living conditions of residents in the neighborhood. Scientists from CPSBB, led by the campaign coordinator Dr. Nikola Staykov, and the Deputy Mayor of Trakia district, Mr. Pencho Malinov, took part in the campaign. They planted Paulownia tomentosa and Ginkgo biloba trees, so that people will be able to relish their beauty in the near future. Paulownia tomentosa is called the “Tree of the future” because of its extremely fast growth and great potential for CO2 fixation. With its huge leaves it quickly and effectively cleans the air.
CPSBB was presented at the biggest agricultural fair in Bulgaria, 27 February 2023
CPSBB was presented at the biggest agricultural fair in Bulgaria – AGRA on 22-25 February 2023. The Center and its partner – “Maritsa” Vegetable Crops Research Institute (MVCRI) participated with a mutual stand where six tomato and pepper varieties, developed in a collaboration between the two institutes, were presented to visitors. As a partner of AgroHub.BG, CPSBB provided information to visitors about the free services for Bulgarian farmers under the project AgroDigiRise. A scientific demo point will be positioned in the research complex of CPSBB. The demo point will offer farmers scientific expertise and access to the most modern technologies for sustainable and precise agriculture.
Launch of project – Investigation of the personnel motivation for career development in a regional cluster for crop production, 19 January 2023
On 19.01.2023, a Kick off meeting to launch the activities of the project “Investigation of the personnel motivation for career development in a regional cluster for crop production” (КП-06-ПН65/15) with project manager of Assoc. Prof. Vesela Kazashka was held in CPSBB Plovdiv. The project financed by the The Bulgarian National Science Fund (BNSF), started on 01.01.2023 and has a duration of 36 months.The single beneficiary (Applying organization for the implementation of the project) is the Center of Plant System Biology and Biotechnology. The research team is composed of 10 young and established scientists in the fields of biology, agricultural sciences, economics and information technologies.
CPSBB joins an international network aiming to develop novel natural products for plant protection, 01 January 2023
Two of the leading European plant research centers – VIB-Plant Systems Biology from Ghent, Belgium (VIB-PSB) and The James Hutton Institute (JHI) from UK – will join academic institutions from Central Europe (Mendel University in Brno (MENDELU) and Biology Center of the Czech Academy of Sciences (BC CAS) and Eastern Europe (Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB) to create a pan European network. Together with an Irish industrial partner – the biotechnological company BioAtlantis, the network will develop novel natural products for plant protection allowing effective flow of information and expertise through EU member states and sectors.
A new research department, “Crop Quantitative Genetics,” was established in CPSBB, 01 January 2023
CPSBB established a new department, “Crop Quantitative Genetics”, headed by Dr. Saleh Alseekh. Dr. Alseekh has a notable publication track record and scientific achievements (more than 120 publications in international peer-reviewed journals, including Nature Biotechnology, Nature Communications, Nature Genetics, Molecular Plant, Plant Cell, Trends in Plant Science; and more than 3500 citations). The new department developed an ambitious research programme as part of the ERA-Chair project NatGenCrop. One of its major goals is exploring the wide genetic and phenotypic variations of fleshy (tomato, pepper) and leafy (lettuce) vegetables to improve their agronomic traits under abiotic stresses (e.g. drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures).
CPSBB was awarded “Building of the Year 2022”, 15 December 2022
The newly built scientific campus of CPSBB in Plovdiv was awarded for “Building of the Year 2022” in the category “Social Infrastructure – Science, Culture and Education”. The award was handed to Assoc. Dr. Vasil Kolev, Project Manager at CPSBB, during an official ceremony in Sofia. The scientific campus is built under the project PlantaSYST. The project is financed by the European Commission under the “Horizon 2020” program with the amount of BGN 30 million, and the newly constructed building in Plovdiv is built with co-financing in the same amount from the OP “Science and Education for Smart Growth”. The scientific campus is located in the “Trakia” district of Plovdiv on land with an area of 23,477 sq. m., provided by the Municipality of Plovdiv. The total built-up area of the building is 10,032.93 sq.m.
CPSBB participated in a regional meeting “From Science to Innovations” in Stara Zagora, 29 November 2022
CPSBB took part in a regional meeting “From Science to Innovations”, organized by the Executive Agency “Programme Education”. The event was held in Stara Zagora on 29 November 2022. All participants were welcomed by the Executive Director of the Executive Agency – Prof. Georgi Vaysilov. The regional meeting was attended by managers and coordinators of all Centers of Competence and Centers of Excellence in Bulgaria funded by the EU and Operational Programme “Science and Education for Smart Growth”, as well as companies and NGO’s from the Southeast Central region of Bulgaria. During the meeting the new funding opportunities in the field of scientific research were presented by representatives of the Ministry of Innovation and Growth.
CPSBB became a member of EU-SAGE, 23 November 2022
CPSBB became a member ofEU-SAGE – a network representing scientists from 155 European plant science institutes and societies that have joined forces to provide information about genome editing. The consortium aims at promoting the development of European and EU member state policies to enable the use of genome editing for sustainable agriculture and food production. “This initiative is important for changing the public opinion and current European policies regarding the use of plant genome editing technologies. It is crucial to inform the society and politicians about the advantages of these technologies. Genome editing will naturally enhance crops’ protection against adverse conditions and pests, and improve their qualities.
CPSBB participated in a round table organized by AERAP, 16 November 2022
CPSBB participated in an online round table “Africa-EU Research Infrastructures”, organized by the Africa-Europe Science and Innovation Cooperation Platform (AERAP) . The attendance of CPSBB was at the invitation of Mr. Declan Kirrane, Chairman and Managing Director of the Science Summit at the United Nations General Assembly. The adoption of a program as a result of a dialogue between industry, research institutes and public sector from all EU member states and African nations was a major topic of discussion. The program should align priorities across a range of scientific topics with the priorities of scientists and industrial representatives. AERAP is a stakeholder forum convened to set priorities for science and innovation cooperation between Africa and Europe.
CPSBB became a partner in a project for building a circular bio-based economy in the South-Central region of Bulgaria, 14 November 2022
Prof. Dr. Tsanko Gechev and Dr. Veselin Petrov represented CPSBB during a meeting dedicated to the new project MainstreamBIO. The event took place on 14 November 2022 and was organized by the Agricultural University – Plovdiv, which is the Bulgarian coordinator of the action. The project MainstreamBIO is funded by the EU programme Horizon Europe and aims at supporting the adoption of circular bioeconomy practices and solutions across rural regions in Europe. The main objective is to regenerate rural communities by creating sustainable new value chains and business models through the deployment of local small-scale bio-based technologies. This will stimulate the development of circular bioeconomy across various areas in Europe at local and regional scale. Ten beneficiaries from nine countries constitute the consortium of ManistreamBIO. CPSBB was invited to become a partner in the project as the Center is a major research institution in the region and has the potential to contribute to its realization by providing scientific knowledge and expertise.
CPSBB signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Professional High School of Food Technologies and Technics in Plovdiv, 11 November 2022
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between CPSBB and the High School of Food Technologies and Technics in Plovdiv. The agreement sets a framework for partnership between the Center and the school, ensuring internship programs, practical training for students and teachers, joint projects, and R&D activities. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vesela Kazashka (Head of CPSBB’s Administration) signed the official document on behalf of CPSBB together with representatives of the High School of Food Technologies and Technics – Eng. Dafina Braykova and Mrs. Maria Pancheva. In accordance with the memorandum, vocational school students had their introductory biotechnology practicals at CPSBB. Dr. Nikola Staykov welcomed the students and guided them through the Center’s plant-growing facilities and laboratories. He presented the labs’ equipment and the research projects implemented by CPSBB’s scientists.
The newly built scientific campus of CPSBB was nominated for Building of the Year, 10 November 2022
The new building of the CPSBB in Plovdiv was nominated for “Building of the Year 2022” in the national contest for architecture organized by The City Media Group. The scientific campus of CPSBB was nominated in the category “Social infrastructure – science, culture, education” and will compete with nine other projects for the prestigious award. The building of CPSBB consists of laboratories, specialized premises, administrative offices, greenhouses, a conference hall with 300 seats, four classrooms with 80 seats for training and events, a restaurant, cafeteria and reception. The scientific campus of CPSBB is a modern research center for fundamental and applied plant science, built according to the world standards of the leading institutions in this field. The winners in the contest “Building of the Year 2022” will be announced on 15 December 2022 with an official ceremony in Sofia.
A Senior Economist from the World Bank Group met representatives of the CPSBB, 27 October 2022
Mr. Francisco Campos, Senior Economist for the World Bank Group, visited CPSBB and met with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vessela Kazashka and Mrs. Marina Mircheva. Mr. Francisco Campos is an advisor of the Bulgarian Ministry of Innovations and Growth and is looking for potential opportunities to stimulate cooperation between small and medium-sized (SME) Bulgarian enterprises and scientific organizations in the country. Considering CPSBB is a unique center of excellence in plant science, Mr. Campos expressed interest in the Center’s structure, expertise, and research activities, which could potentially be helpful to companies demanding scientific services and analyses.
Workshop: Recent developments in the molecular mechanisms of plant biostimulants and their role in mitigating the effects of climate change – RESIST project, 24 October 2022
Climate change is predicted to increase the risk of stress induced oxidative damage in crops, resulting in extensive yield losses globally. This workshop will provide new insights into seaweed-based biostimulants and microbial-based technologies and their role in mitigating against the effects of climate change. A series of lectures will be delivered by experts from the biostimulant industry and by university researchers with expertise and practical experience in the areas covering abiotic/oxidative stress in crops and physiological and molecular level changes elicited by biostimulants to mitigate abiotic stress and crop losses. Furthermore, the workshop will demonstrate the benefits of these novel technologies under field conditions across a range of different crops, translating to an increased return on sustainable investment (ROSI) for the crop grower.
Scientists, pupils, students and teachers from Plovdiv partnered within the framework of the international initiative “European Researchers’ Night” 2022, 30 September 2022
For the first time, CPSBB opened the doors of the newly built research complex in Plovdiv to welcome pupils and students who participated in the initiatives and events prepared by our team in the framework of the European Researchers’ Night campaign! For a fourth consecutive year, the CPSBB has been a partner and a co-organizer of the international campaign in Plovdiv. The initiative takes place annually in more than 25 countries throughout Europe with the primary objective of connecting scientists from various fields with the general public, presenting significant innovative projects, and increasing the interest of young people in research careers.
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CPSBB took part in the conference AGRO 4.0, 29 September 2022
The Director of CPSBB, Prof. Dr Tsanko Gechev and Petar Kazakov, Marketing Expert, participated in the first edition of the conference for digitalization of the Bulgarian agriculture – AGRO 4.0. The event was attended by the Minister of Agriculture Yavor Gechev, the Minister of Innovation and Growth Alexander Pulev and the Chairman of the European Digital Innovation Hub for Agriculture AgroHub.BG Svetlana Boyanova. The conference took place on 29 September 2022 in Plovdiv and gathered Bulgarian government representatives, scientific researchers, farmers, agricultural producers and technology companies in order to discuss potential possibilities for the successful development of a modern Bulgarian agriculture based on digital technologies.
Researchers from the CPSBB received a prestigious e-poster award at the international PSE conference, 19-22 September 2022
The researchers from the Plant Cell Biotechnology Department of CPSBB – Iva Stoykova, Ivanka Koycheva, Biser Binev, and Prof. Dr. Milen I. Georgiev – were awarded for best e-poster presentation during the International Conference PSE 2022 – Natural Products in Drug Discovery and Development – Advances and Perspectives. The award was handed by Prof. Dr. Jianbo Xiao, President of the International Association of Dietetic Nutrition and Safety as a recognition for the best presentation held by a PhD student during the conference. The e-poster of our team was entitled “Myconoside, isolated from Haberlea rhodopensis, ameliorate UVA/UVB – induced changes in human keratinocytes” and it was selected among 101 applications for the prestigious award. It presented a study of the photoprotective effects of Haberlea rhodopensis Friv. (Gesneriaceae) extract (HRE) and its biologically active molecules calceolarioside E (CAL) and myconoside (MYC), against the UVA/UVB radiation-induced photoaging.
Young researcher from CPSBB participated in the 3rd PlantED conference in Germany, 5-7 September 2022
Ms. Manuela Stoyanova was invited to participate in the 3rd PlantED Conference COST Action (18111) in Germany on 5-7 September 2022. This year due to COVID restrictions, the number of physically present delegates was limited, and Ms. Stoyanova was among the 100 selected participants for the conference in Dusseldorf. The event was held over three days, with open scientific sessions on genome editing technology in plants, followed by PlantEd Working Group (WG) sessions and a Management Committee (MC) meeting. The event is part of the plant genome editing research network across Europe and beyond, an excellent platform for dissemination, discussions, networking, and updating the latest research and innovation.
A researcher from the CPSBB participated in the International conference COST action PLANTMETALS in Turkey, 31 August 2022
Assist. Prof. Dr. Veselin Petrov from the CPSBB took part in the COST Action CA19116 PLANTMETALS Conference “Trace Metal metabolism in Plants”. The event took place in Ankara, Turkey on 31 August – 02 September 2022. Dr. Petrov took part in the conference with a poster presentation on the effects of a biostimulant, based on a highly concentrated Ascophyllum nodosum (brown seaweed) extract, on the growth and development of eggplants and peppers.The CPSBB team revealed that the biostimulant significantly enhances the yield of both crops in field conditions and induces redistribution of macro and micronutrients including metal elements like Mg, Zn, Cu, Mn.
CPSBB and The PlantaSYST project were showcased with a photo exhibition in Sofia, 01 September 2022
The PlantaSYST project and the Center of Plant System Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB) are a main focus of the photo exhibition “Education and Science”, organized in the center of Sofia by the OP “Science and Education for Smart Growth” with the assistance of the Municipality of Sofia. The photos of the newly built scientific campus of CPSBB show scientists who present to students from Plovdiv the scientific activities and interesting ongoing projects of the CPSBB. The students conducted their own experiment guided by the researchers. The exhibition is available until 14 September, 2022 in the park in front of the National Palace of Culture, next to Kino Cabana.
CPSBB was presented at Opora Zaden’s open field days in Tsalapitsa, 21-22 July 2022
On 21 and 22 July 2022, CPSBB took part in the Open Field Days, organized by the seeds producer Opora Zaden in Tsalapitsa, Plovdiv. This is one of the major events in the agricultural industry, which gathers producers and researchers from all parts of Bulgaria, offering them the opportunity for a know-how exchange and b2b meetings. CPSBB was presented with a stand where the visitors gained information about the PlantaSYST project, the research activities of the CPSBB, and the advantages of the biostimulant SuperFifty, produced by the Irish company BioAtlantis. The SuperFifty product is further improved and developed in a partnership between the company and the researchers from the Molecular Stress Physiology Department of CPSBB.
Second training under the project “Science and Journalism: Together against infodemic” was held in Plovdiv, 08 June 2022
More than 30 journalists and representatives of the academic community took part in the second training on the project “Science and Journalism – Together Against Infodemic”, which took place in Plovdiv on June 8, 2022. Speakers at the event were Maria Cheresheva, Vice-President of the Association of European Journalists (AEJ-Bulgaria), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vessela Kazashka (Administrative Director at the Center for Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, CPSBB), Georgi Marchev, journalist from Factckeck.bg and Milena Ilieva from “Paisii Hilendarski” University of Plovdiv.
Students from Plovdiv University visited CPSBB as part of their BSc education in plant physiology, 01 June 2022
100 students from Plovdiv University visited CPSBB as part of their education in plant physiology. The students are enrolled in different BSc programmes (Biology, Biology and Chemistry, Biology and English, Ecology, and Molecular Biology at the Faculty of Biology. Prof. Dr. Tsanko Gechev presented CPSBB to the students: its history, strategic objectives, organizational structure, research departments, and main activities. In particular, he emphasized on the research performed by the eepartments bioinformatics, molecular stress physiology, plant development, plant cell biotechnology, and vegetable breeding.
The Bulgarian Academy of Sciences awarded a researcher from CPSBB, 23 May 2022
Martina Savova, a researcher from the Plant Cell Biotechnology department of CPSBB, was awarded from the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS) with the prestigious “Ivan E. Geshov” award for young scientist in the field of biomedicine and quality of life. Martina has demonstrated an innovative approach in her PhD thesis work to study molecular mechanisms of obesity in cellular (human adipocytes) and organism (C. elegans) models.
CPSBB and the Agricultural University signed a Memorandum of Cooperation, 18 May 2022
Оn 18 May 2022 – the International fascination of plants day – the Rector of the Agricultural university in Plovdiv, Prof. Dr. Hristina Yancheva, and the Director of the center of plant Systems biology and biotechnology (CPSBB), Prof. Dr. Tsanko Gechev, signed a memorandum of cooperation for joint research and educational activities.
ISF World Seed Congress, 16-18 May 2022
The CPSBB, represented by its marketing expert Mr. Petar KAZAKOV, participated in the ISF World Seed Congress, organized by the International Seed Federation (ISF) in Barcelona, Spain, from 16 to 18 May 2022. The International Seed Federation (ISF) is the largest organization that unites biotechnology, vegetable breeding, and seed-producing companies all over the world. It is widely regarded as the voice of the global seed industry.
Teachers from Spain visited the CPSBB as part of the Erasmus + Youth Exchange Programm, 11, 18 and 25 May 2022
The visit was hosted by Dr. Nikola Staykov who demonstrated the equipment and some of the ongoing research projects of the CPSBB. The guests visited the laboratories and plant growth chambers of the CPSBB and discussed opportunities for the exchange of students from Spain who could potentially upgrade their knowledge in the fields of plant biology and biotechnology at the research campus of the CPSBB.
RESIST courses: Project writing and management and plant stress physiology (CPSBB), 19-21 April 2022
The course introduced the EU research landscape and focused on the basic principles of project writing and management. Attendees learned about the research funding in Bulgaria, Germany, The Netherlands, UK, and other EU countries. They were presented with various funding opportunities for PhD and postdoctoral researchers, as well as for group leaders (individual short-term and long-term projects, large collaborative projects). The lecturers of the course delivered presentations about project design and conceptualization, project writing, and project management. The course was suitable for MSc and PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, senior scientists, and group leaders.
Plant stress physiology Project writing and management
The Indian ambassador to Bulgaria Visited the CPSBB, 05 April 2022
The Ambassador of India to Bulgaria, his Excellency Mr. Sanjay Rana, visited CPSBB on April 5, 2022, at the invitation of the researcher from CPSBB – Dr. Amol Nankar.
Director of CPSBB Prof. Dr. Tsanko Gechev, Prof. Dr. Milen Georgiev, Head of Plant Cell Biotechnology department (CPSBB), Assoc. Prof. Dimitrina Kostova, Head of Vegetable Breeding Department (CPSBB), Prof. Dr. Daniela Ganeva, Director of Maritsa Vegetable Crops Research Institute (MVCRI) hosted the meeting.
The “Green Initiative” of CPSBB was held for the second consecutive year, 01 April 2022
The second edition of the campaign “Green Initiative” of CPSBB was held in Trakia district of Plovdiv on April 1, 2022. The main goal of the campaign is to improve the area around the newly built campus of CPSBB and improve living conditions of residents in the neighborhood. Scientists from CPSBB and experts from Trakia Municipality took part in the campaign. They planted Paulownia tomentosa trees near the new building of CPSBB. It is called the “Tree of the future” because of its extremely fast growth and huge potential for CO2 binding. With its huge leaves it quickly and effectively purifies the air. It is honey-bearing – it blooms with large and beautiful inflorescences. The building of the research campus of CPSBB will soon be completed and will host top-notch science in the field of plant systems biology and biotechnology.
Researcher from CPSBB recieved award from the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 14 March 2022
Kristiana Amirova received the annual award of the Foundation “Acad. Prof. Dr. Stephan Angeloff” (Bulgarian Academy of Sciences) for young microbiologists. Kristiana Amirova is a researcher at the Department of Plant Cell Biotechnology at CPSBB, headed by Prof. Dr. Milen Georgiev. Her work is related to the research for treating degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis. In her research, Amirova studies the Orpheus flower from the group of the resurrection plants. Kristiana was awarded as a member of the research team who has authored the scientific article “Biotechnologically-Produced Myconoside and Calceolarioside E Induce Nrf2 Expression in Neutrophils”, published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
CPSBB was presented at the biggest fair for agricultue in Bulgaria – AGRA, 6-9 March 2022
The biggest agricultural fair in Bulgaria – AGRA 2022- was held in Plovdiv on 6-9 March, 2022. CPSBB, together with its partner MVCRI “Maritsa”, were presented with a mutual stand in palace 7 of Plovdiv International Fair where attendees could learn more about the partnership between the two research institutes for the creation of new vegetable varieties and core collections. Dr. Aakansha Kanojia, a postdoctoral researcher in Molecular Stress Physiology at CPSBB, and Dr. Sujeeth Neerakkal, Chief Plant Molecular Biologist at BioAtlantis, presented the unique seaweed extract biostimulant – SuperFifty Prime. SuperFifty Prime is highly efficient in mitigating abiotic stresses in plants. This product improves plant growth and enhances fruit set percentage various crops. The unique priming technology is developed in a partnership between CPSBB and the Irish company BioAtlantis Ltd.
The first online training under the project “Science and Journalism: Together against infodemic” was held, 23-24 February 2022
On 23-24 February, 2022, the first online training under the project “Science and Journalism: Together against Infodemic” was held. The main purpose of the event was to put into practice the training module so that the last could be adapted and improved by the feedback from the participants. 36 journalists and academic representatives participated and evaluated the work of the trainers.
CPSBB was presented in the Bulgarian Science Magazine, 09 December 2021
The December ’21 issue of the Bulgarian Science magazine presents some of the postdoctoral researchers and laboratory managers of CPSBB’s team – Dr. Gerganaza Zahmanova (Technology Transfer Department), Dr. Liliya Vasileva and Martina Savova (Plant Cell Biology Department), Dr. Ramadoss Dhanushkodi (Molecular Stress Physiology Department), and Dr. Rafe Lyall (Bioinformatics and Mathematical Modelling Department) as all these experts play a significant role for the realization of the PlantaSYST project and the establishment of the CPSBB.
CPSBB is part of a new fact-checking project that helps journalists and scientists, 15 November 2021
Increasing trust in the media and in science by creating better and more in-depth content is the main goal of the project “Science and Journalism: Together Against Infodemic”, which started in October. The organizations that will work together on it are the Association of European Journalists-Bulgaria (AEJ-Bulgaria), Norsensus Mediaforum, Thracian University, Center for Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB), Association for Career Development and Training (ACRO).
CPSBB is part of the COST Action CA20121 Bench to bedside transition for pharmacological regulation of NRF2 in noncommunicable diseases
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, respiratory or immune diseases, account for 77% of all deaths in the EU and remain the most prevalent and without effective therapy. Networking among multidisciplinary teams that face disease from a perspective of causative pathomechanisms rather than clinical symptoms is the most appropriate approach to overcome this problem.
CPSBB, as a part of the K-TRIO 5 project, participates in the European Researchers’ Night, 24 September 2021
For the third consecutive year, CPSBB is part of the consortium that implements the European Researchers’ Night (ERN) in Plovdiv via the K-TRIO 5 project. Coordinating institution is Sofia University. Partners are Association forum science, Trakia University, University of Ruse, University of Burgas, Institute of mathematics and informatics at the Bulgarian academy of science, Club young scientist, Regional history museum Sofia, and other associated partners.
Read More Programme Invitation
CPSBB’s researchers participated in the Faces of Operational Programme Science and Education for Smart Growth photo exhibition, 14-28 September 2021
Executive Agency “Operational programme science and education for smart growth” together with Sofia Municipality has organized a photo exhibition “The faces of the Operational Program Science and education for smart growth”. The exposition is located in the garden of the National Palace of Culture. It aims to present the people involved in projects funded by the programme – researchers, teachers, mentors, mediators, students and pupils.
CPSBB organized open field days together with Opora Zaden and KBC agro, 22-23 July 2021
The Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB) cooperated with Opora Zaden, Bulgaria and KBC Agro Bulgaria in organizing Open Field Days. Opora Zaden’s experimental fields near Plovdiv hosted the event, which was visited by industry representatives, the science community, students and farmers. The event was dedicated to varietal characteristics, growing technology, integrated plant protection methods and fertilization schemes of the local vegetable varieties.
ISF World Seed Congress, 5-7 July 2021
The annual ISF World Seed Congress 2021 was held online, from 5th to 7th of July 2021. The Congress typically attracts approximately 1500 Delegates from all over the globe; Delegates who are the principals, architects and decision makers of the world seed industry’s leading organizations.
Read More Day-1 video Day-2 video Day-3 video Press Release
Seminar on European Union’s guidelines for talents in science was held at CPSBB, 30 June 2021
CPSBB members participated in a seminar dedicated to scientific career development, EU science policy, recruitment and management of talents in science. The event emphasized the promotion of Europe as a top scientific hub. It allowed the participants to get familiar with the EU’s latest scientific trends, policies, strategies and main challenges. The keynote speaker, Associate Professor Elisaveta Gurova, delivered a detailed presentation on European policy for researchers and the procedure for implementing the Strategy for Human Resources in Science (HRS4R).
International Conference on Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, 14-17 June 2021
The International Conference on Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (ICPSBB 2021) was held in the Golden Sands Black Sea Resort, Hotel International, from 14th to 17th of June 2021. The conference was a major educational and dissemination event, which also served to link CPSBB with academic and industrial partners. The organizers of ICPSBB 2021 were the Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB) and the Maritsa Vegetable Crops Research Institute (MVCRI). The Chair of the Organizing Committee was Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tsanko Gechev.
Students from Plovdiv University visited CPSBB, 02 June 2021
On June 2, 2021, more than a hundred and twenty undergraduates from the Faculty of Biology from the Plovdiv University “Paisii Hilendarski” visited the Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB) under a Memorandum of understanding between the Center and the Plovdiv University. As a Center of Excellence, CPSBB emphasizes on promoting science among young people and strives to educate the next generation of researchers.
Update on the construction of CPSBB’s research complex, 28 May 2021
The construction of CPSBB’s new research campus continues at a high pace. The main building and the adjacent high-tech greenhouses are near their final form, hinting at the enormous potential to be revealed when the campus is completed. In keeping with the age of innovation, the greenhouses will have a cutting-edge digital control system, enabling scientists to adjust various environmental parameters and stay updated on the plants’ development.
Cluster meeting “Sustainable Agriculture and Natural Resources”, 20 May 2021
Assoc. Prof. Tsanko Gechev, the PlantaSYST Coordinator and CPSBB Director, participated in the Cluster meeting “Sustainable Agriculture and natural resources”. The meeting was organized by Research Executive Agency (REA) and attended by representatives of REA, the European Commission, and many EU projects focused on agriculture and related fields.
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Workshop: Bioinformatics and Computational Modeling – RESIST project, 19 May 2021
CPSBB, together with the University of Potsdam, has organized a Workshop in Bioinformatics and Computational Modeling within the RESIST project. The event was dedicated to supervised machine learning approaches for gene regulatory network reconstruction.
CPSBB and Trakia Municipality started the Green Initiative, 05 March 2021
On March 05, 2021, scientists from CPSBB and representatives from Trakia Municipality launched a joint tree-planting campaign under the motto “Green Initiative”. The campaign’s goal is to plant trees and thus provide a better quality environment for the residents in the vicinity of the new scientific campus of CPSBB in the Trakia district.
Green Initiative between CPSBB and Trakia Municipality, 23 February 2021
CPSBB representatives met with the local authorities of the Trakia Municipality to discuss potential partnerships and good practices and marked the start of a joint Green Initiative.
CPSBB’s researchers welcomed the students for an online visit, 21 January 2021
Dr. Nikola Staykov (CPSBB) hosted the online video visit and introduced the students to some general facts about CPSBB its activities and scientific research projects. The visitors were virtually guided around the Center’s laboratories and got acqainted with the scientific equipment and plant growing facilities during a dedicated presentation and tour.
Horizon Europe Seminar, 04 December 2020
CPSBB, represented by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vessela Kazashka, Head of Administration, participated in an online seminar dedicated to the Horizon Europe Framework Programme on 4th of December 2020. The event was organized by the Bulgarian Ministry of Education, Prof. Asen Zlatarov University, and Burgas Free University.
The Researchers’ Night 2020 in Bulgaria, 27 November 2020
Under the motto „Science transforms lives”, in the Researchers’ Night 2020 in Bulgaria we are focusing on the European dimension. Researchers from Academia and Industry come together to raise awareness and discover new perspectives of art, science and society. The Center of plant system biology and biotechnology (CPSBB) presents one of its researchers, who talks about the unifying role of art and science in her life.
Organic Innovation Days 2020, November 2020
Petar Kazakov (CPSBB) participated in the online Organic Innovation Days 2020 on 24-25 November 25 2020.
The Organic Innovation Days provide a unique opportunity to meet members of the European Technology Planform TP Organics, as well as to network with EU stakeholders and decision-makers.
Workshop: NGS – Methods and Genomes Annotation
Workshop: NGS – Methods and Genomes Annotation(online), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Plovdiv, Bulgaria, 23-25 November 2020
CPSBB featured on Bulgaria on Air, 13 November 2020
Bulgaria on Air, one of the most reputed Bulgarian national TV, broadcasted an extensive reportage about CPSBB followed by live interview with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tsanko Gechev, the CPSBB Director and PlantaSYST Coordinator. The video presented the Center of Plant Systems Biology, the construction of the new CPSBB campus, as well as the work conducted by some of the CPSBB employees.
Conference Plant Biotechnology: Beyond, 25 September 2020
CPSBB, together with BioTech Atelier and Sofia Tech Park, is organizing the online conference Plant Biotechnology: Beyond. The rapidly evolving Plant Biotechnology is embracing the new developments in plant genome analysis, high throughput technologies, and computational studies in order to provide solutions to agriculture, food and health. Biotechnology approaches nowadays are used to enhance crop production and to make plants more resilient to unfavorable environmental conditions.
Dr. Aakansha Kanojia from CPSBB held her first art exhibition, 1 September 2020
On 1st of September 2020 in Art Class Center, Plovdiv was held the first art exhibition of Dr. Aakansha Kanojia. The event was part of European Researcher’s Night 2020 and was organized by the Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB) in cooperation with Art Class Center.
CPSBB participated in the workshop organized by the National Rural Network, 1 September 2020
The marketing expert of CPSBB, Mr. Petar Kazakov, participated in the WORKSHOP on topic:”Addressing the experience in implementing measures to support organic farming with the new ambitious goals of the CAP 2021-2027″ on September 1 2020, in hotel Izvor, Stara Zagora mineral baths.
Biodiversity in tomato and pepper: joint initiative of MVCRI and CPSBB, 07 August 2020
Scientists, breeders, seed producers, and farmers met in MVCRI Plovdiv on 7 August 2020 to present the PlantaSYST tomato and pepper core-collections to different stakeholders, in order to make them familiar with the existing biodiversity and to exchange information and discuss current issues and new perspectives in plant breeding.
Tsanko Gechev participates in а workshop dedicated to Horizon Europe with representatives of the Bulgarian Government, EU Commission, and all universities in Plovdiv, 30 July 2020
The CPSBB Director Dr. Tsanko Gechev, together with Mrs. Marina Mircheva (CPSBB),participated in а seminar dedicated to Horizon Europe. The workshop was organized by the Medical University of Plovdiv, with the support of the Bulgarian Government and the European Commission, and was attended by Rectors and other high-ranked officials of all universities in Plovdiv.
Groundbreaking ceremony for the new research complex of CPSBB, Plovdiv, 16 July 2020
The launch the new CPSBB research complex, funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Operational Program, “Science and Education for Smart Growth” – BG05M2OP001-1.003-0001-C01 project, will begin with a press conference on July 16, 2020, 09:00, at the House of Culture “Boris Hristov”, Plovdiv, 15 Gladstone Street.
CPSBB is part of the COST Action CA19116 PLANTMETALS: Trace metal metabolism in plants
On 03 July 2020, CPSBB became part of the COST Action PLANTMETALS: Trace metal metabolism in plants.
European Organic Congress 2020
Mr. Petar Kazakov, the marketing expert of CPSBB, participated in the European Organic Congress, held online on 1-3 July 2020.
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CPSBB participated in open demonstration field days orgnized by Enza Zaden/Opora Zaden Bulgaria and KVS Agro Bulgaria
Mr. Petar Kazakov, the marketing expert of CPSBB, participated in the open demonstration field days organized by Enza Zaden/Opora Zaden Bulgaria and YARA/KVS Agro Bulgaria from 10 to 12 June 2020.
ISF World Seed Congress 2020
The World Seed Congress is the main event of the International Seed Federation (ISF), which promotes the ISF vision and mission to support sustainable agriculture and food security, as well as to promote plant breeding and innovation in seeds.
Vasil Kolev and Veselin Petrov presented the research of CPSBB at the KETBIO webinar
Resurrection plants and regeneration of bones: Eastern European biotechnology in the spotlight.
Milen Georgiev wins the 2020 Pythagoras prize
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Milen Georgiev, PI of IMicB and head of the CPSBB’s Dept. Plant Cell Biotechnology, has won the most prestigious Bulgarian scientific award “Pythagoras” in the category “Life and technical sciences”.
Workshop: Analysing and Visualizing Data with R and Galaxy
Workshop: Analysing and Visualizing Data with R and Galaxy (online), Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Plovdiv, Bulgaria, 18-20 May 2020
CPSBB teams up with Bioatlantis Ltd. and Amititsa Ltd. to promote the molecular priming technology
Assist. Prof. Dr. Vesselin Petrov and Mr. Peter Kazakov (CPSBB) presented the molecular priming technology and SuperFifty®, an innovative natural plant-protection product developed by the Irish company BioAtlantis Ltd., in a seminar for plant growers of lavender and roses in Karlovo, Bulgaria, on 02 March 2020.
The AGRA 2020 International Agricultural Exhibition
The AGRA 2020 International Agricultural Exhibition was held in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, from 19 to 23 February 2020. AGRA 2020 has established itself as the largest economic event for agribusiness in SouthEastern Europe and is organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Forests of the Republic of Bulgaria.
Scientists from CPSBB and BioAtlantis Ltd. develop molecular priming technology to protect vegetable crops from abiotic and oxidative abiotic stresses
Scientists from CPSBB (Dr. Tsanko Gechev), in cooperation with partners from Mendel University in Brno, the Czech Republic (Dr. Pavel Kerchev), Flanders University of Biotechnology and University of Gent, Belgium (Prof. Dr. Frank Van Breusegem) and BioAtlantis Ltd., Ireland (Dr. Sujeeth Neerakkal) have reviewed the opportunities to develop molecular priming technologies that can protect plants from severe abiotic and oxidative stresses.
Workshop on Horizon Europe (2021-2027) Implementation
The Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science, the Romanian Ministry for Education and Research, and the European Commission invited CPSBB and other important organizations in the region to the Bulgarian and Romanian Regional Stakeholder Workshop on Horizon Europe implementation.
CPSBB is the second largest Horizon 2020 beneficiary in Bulgaria
Horizon 2020 is the largest EU Framework program for research and innovation up to date. With a budget of nearly 80 billion EUR for seven years period, the framework set high standards in the field of science and innovations. There are more than 200 Horizon 2020 beneficiaries (universities, research institutes, and companies) in Bulgaria, which have one or more EU projects from the framework program.
Metabolite Profiling Workshop
Metabolite Profiling Workshop, Max-Planck-Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Potsdam-Golm, Germany, 13-17 January 2020
CPSBB and MVCRI utilized high-throughput Tomato Analyzer to speed up fruit phenotyping of Balkan pepper and tomato
Fruit phenotyping is critical step in breeding fruits with desirable fruit size, shape and color for targeted local niche market. Conventionally, fruits morphology has been phenotyped manually and evidently it limits the breeder’s ability to speed up the breeding process and hinders the genetic gain.
Funding for the new CPSBB campus and equipment
On 20th December 2019 the Executive Agency “Operational Program Science and Education for Smart Growth” (OP “SESG”) and the Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB) signed the contract for research infrastructure and equipment for the PlantaSYST Project. The overall objective of the procedure BG05M2OP001-1.003-0001-C01 “Complementary support for Bulgarian scientific organizations implementing projects under the Horizon 2020 Framework Programme, WIDESPREAD-Teaming Phase 2” is to finance the costs ineligible under the Horizon 2020 Framework Programme – investment aid for research infrastructure and equipment.
Futuris 2019
Research Infrastructures of the Future – synergies, sustainability, smart specialization and social impact
National Palace of Culture, Sofia, Bulgaria, 10 – 11 December 2019
CPSBB partners with Verisem /SUBA Seeds Company
CPSBB received an invitation to further discuss the collaboration between the CSPBB and Verisem/SUBA Seeds and prepare a framework partnership agreement.
Students from Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Greece, and Turkey visit CPSBB
40 young people aged 11-18 from Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Greece, and Turkey visited the Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology on 07.11.2019, under the Science Camp initiative. Science Camp‘s main objective is to encourage and develop an interest in science among young people. As a Center of Excellence in research, it is of importance for CPSBB to promote science especially among youths.
CPSBB is a member of EURAXESS
The Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB) became a member of EURAXESS on 12.07.2019. EURAXESS in Bulgaria provides information and assistance to mobile researchers and highly qualified specialists by means of the EURAXESS portal and with the support of national EURAXESS Local Contact Points (LoCPs).
ISF World Seed Congress, June 2019, France.
CPSBB, represented by Mr. Petar KAZAKOV, participated in the ISF World Seed Congress, organcized by the International Seed Federation (ISF) in Nice, France, from 3 to 5 June 2019.
The International Seed Federation (ISF) is the largest organization that unites biotechnology, vegetable breeding, and seed producing companies all over the world. It is widely regarded as the voice of the global seed industry.During the meeting of the ISF Board of Directors, CPSBB was accepted as member of the ISF.
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4th International Conference on Natural Products Utilization 29 May – 01 June 2019, Albena Black Sea Resort, Bulgaria.
The 4th International Conference on Natural Products Utilization: from Plants to Pharmacy Shelf (ICNPU-2019, http://www.icnpu.com/2019/) was organized by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Milen I. Georgiev in Hotel Maritim Paradise Blue*****, Albena Black Sea Resort, from 29 May to 1 June 2019.
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Workshop Intellectual Property Management and Technology Transfer, Plovdiv, 20 May 2019
The event is jointly organized by CPSBB and IMBB.
The Head of Administration and the Scientific Coordinator of MPG visited CPSBB
Dr. Rainer Hoefgen, Research Coordinator of MPG, and Ms. Claudia Tagge, Head of the Administration of MPG, visited the CPSBB on April 16th 2019.
RESIST Kick-off meeting, Plovdiv, 12 April 2019
RESIST Kick-off meeting, 12 April 2019 at Hotel Ramada, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Visit of French MSc students to CPSBB
On March 8, 2019, twenty-seven Master degree students in European studies from the Cergy Pontoise University, France, visited the Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB) Plovdiv. The main objective of the visit was to learn more about the implementation of European policies in the field of research and innovation.
The Plovdiv City Council voted to grant land and the right for construction on it to CPSBB
With complete unanimity, the Plovdiv City Council voted to grant land and the right for construction to CPSBB. Deputy Mayor Dimitar Katsarsky was the submitter of the proposal. Before the vote, Mayor Ivan Totev spoke out in support of the project.
European Researchers’ Night 2018, CPSBB and MVCRI, Plovdiv, 28 September 2018
The event was organized by CPSBB (Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vesela Kazashka) and MVCRI (Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dimitrina Kostova) on September 28, 2018, in the premises of the Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB) and the “Maritza” Vegetable Crops Research Institute (MVCRI). All the events on this day were supported by the European Commission as a part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions, funded under the Horizon 2020 programme (projects K-Trio3 and REFRESH), to boost the careers of researchers. CPSBB employees participated in the preparation, organization and realization of the event.The main purpose of the event was to popularize the science conducted at MVRCI and CPSBB among children, students, and young researchers.
FEBS Advanced Course – Resurrection plants: Hope for crop drought tolerance (ReHOPE), Grand Hotel Plovdiv, Bulgaria, 20-22 September 2018
The course was organized by the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnologies (IMBB), and co-organised by the University of Plovdiv and CPSBB. ReHOPE is devoted to the small but diverse unique group of resurrection plants that can survive extreme water shortages in air-dried state for years.
Workshop on Plant Systems Biology, Plovdiv, Bulgaria, 20.04.2018
Workshop on Plant Systems Biology was held on 20.04.2018 in Grand Hotel Plovdiv, Bulgaria
5th International Conference on Advanced Pharmaceutical Research “Pharmaceutical Research for Quality of Life”, Rangsit University, Thailand, 20.02.2018 – 21.02.2018
The 5th International Conference on Advanced Pharmaceutical Research (ICAPR) “Pharmaceutical Research for Quality of Life” was organized by Rangsit University with co-organizers the Blackmores Institute, Australia, and CPSBB. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Milen Georgiev delivered an invited lecture “From plants to pharmacy shelf: can we accelerate this long journey?”.Read More
Bioinformatics SynBio Workshop, Potsdam, Germany, 20.10.2017
The workshop’s focus was towards PhD students and postdoctoral researchers interested in the interface between synthetic biology, bioinformatics, and biotechnology. Prof. Dr. Zoran Nikoloski had a presentation about metabolic engineering strategies in plants and other eukaryotes.
3rd International Conference on Natural Products Utilization (ICNPU- 2017) From Plants to Pharmacy Shelf, Bansko, Bulgaria, 17.10.2017 – 21.10.2017
The conference was organized by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Milen Georgiev (Institute of Microbiology, Laboratory of Metabolomics – IMicB). The CPSBB was a supporting organization of the event. The conference was attended by more than 350 experts from 60 countries. Several colleagues from IMicB and CPSBB took part in the event. Kristiana Amirova represented a poster on the “Effect of Clinopodium vulgare extract on the production of Nitric Oxide, Reactive Oxygen Species and COX2 by Neutrophils”. Prof. Dr. Robert Verpoorte, member of the PlantaSYST International Scientific Advisory Board and Prof. Dr. Alisdair Fernie, leader of the Plant Metabolomics Department at CPSBB were among the keynote speakers of the ICNPU conference. A meeting of the present members of the PlantaSYST consortium was held during the conference to discuss and asses CPSBB research activities and review project proposals on behalf of the Center.
European Researchers’ Night 2017, Plovdiv, Bulgaria 29.09.2017
The event was organized by the PlantaSYST partners MVCRI (Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dimitrina Kostova) and CPSBB on September 29, 2017, the campus of the “Maritza” Vegetable Crops Research Institute (MVCRI). MVCRI participated for the second consecutive year in the “European Night of Scientists 2017” and funded by the project “FRESH – Find Researchers Everywhere and Share” № 722790, Call: H2020-MSCA-NIGHT-2016.
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Plant Innovation Workshop in Plovdiv 28 – 30.09.2017
The Plant Innovation Workshop is organized by the Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology (CPSBB) Plovdiv, the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB) Plovdiv, the University of Potsdam (UP), and the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology (MPG) Potsdam-Golm, within the frame of the project Plant-INNO (“Strengthening the research and innovative capacity of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology in Plovdiv, Bulgaria”), funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).
Kick-off meeting of the PlantaSYST H2020 Teaming Phase 2 Project, Plovdiv, Bulgaria, 25.04.2017 – 26.04.2017
Kick-off meeting of the PlantaSYST H2020 Teaming Phase 2 Project was held in Plovdiv on the 25th and 26th of April 2017 in Ramada Trimontium Plovdiv Hotel.
Meeting in Brussels on 23th of November 2016
Meeting of the CPSBB Director Dr. Tsanko Gechev with the EU Commissioner for Research and Innovation Carlos Moedas, the Minister of Education, Science, Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic Peter Plavčan, the Director-General of DG Research and Innovation Robert-Jan Smits, and the other Teaming Coordinators at the conference “Spreading Excellence and Crossing the Innovation Divide Conference” in Brussels on 23th of November 2016.
Signature of the PlantaSYST Grant Agreement
The PlantaSYST Grant Agreement No 739582 was signed by the Project Coordinator Dr. Tsanko Gechev and the Director General of DG Research and Innovation of the European Commission Robert-Jan Smits at a special Teaming Award Ceremony in Brussels on 16.2.2017. The signature was part of a meeting between the EU Commission, representatives of all successful Teaming Phase 2 applicants, and representatives from the national authorities providing co-funding.
