According to Artūras Vailionis, a core lead of the X-ray and Surface Analysis group at Stanford University and a visiting professor at the Lithuanian Kaunas University of Technology (KTU), it has been (and still is) commonly believed that the self-discharge of a fully charged battery is due to the diffusion of lithium atoms from the electrolyte to the battery’s cathode.

“However, our study has shown that it is the diffusion of protons (hydrogen ions) that is causing a battery’s self-discharge. Based on the results of this study, it is possible to propose ways to extend the life of the battery by reducing self-discharge,” says Vailionis.

These ways may include supplementing additives to the electrolyte that do not contain hydrogen molecules, such as CH2, or using a special coating to reduce the cathode surface’s reaction with the electrolyte.

Longer battery life for greener and more cost-effective technologies
Prof. Vailionis explains that self-discharge shortens both the calendar and cyclic life of the battery, and over time it causes a decrease in its voltage and capacity. The limited lifespan of a lithium battery has environmental and economic impacts; therefore, it is important to understand and prevent this issue.

The discovery of an entirely new phenomenon behind the self-discharge of the batteries might pave the way to greener, more cost-effective and more reliable technology.

“The longer lifetime of lithium-ion batteries means that consumers need to change their batteries or electronic devices less often. Also, longer battery life helps to reduce the amount of electronic waste and prevents resource depletion – lithium, cobalt, and nickel are finite resources – thus contributing to more sustainable practices,” says Vailionis, a visiting professor at KTU, Lithuania.

Devices with long-lasting batteries, such as smartphones, laptops and others, can be used for longer without the need to recharge them, and in industrial applications with large battery systems (e.g. electric vehicles or grid energy storage), longer battery life means a higher return on investment, making these technologies more economical. Besides, in renewable energy systems, such as solar and wind power, longer battery life increases the efficiency and reliability of energy storage, helps stabilise the energy supply and reduces dependence on fossil fuels.

As lithium-ion batteries are also used in medical devices, aerospace and defence systems, longer battery life reduces the risk of failure in critical situations.

“Overall, longer battery life improves sustainability, economy and productivity in a wide range of industrial applications,” adds Vailionis.

The outcome of the large international group of scientists
Prof. Vailionis emphasises that the study results are the outcome of the work of a large international group of scientists from different fields. Vailionis’s team at Stanford University used X-ray diffraction to identify two different structures in the cathode: one at the surface (the one affected by hydrogen ions) and one deeper inside the cathode. X-ray reflectometry also confirmed the existence of a surface layer with hydrogen atoms.

Vailionis, a Stanford University scientist, has been a visiting professor at KTU, Lithuania for 13 years. Every year, he gives a course on X-ray diffraction to the students of the physics study programmes and takes part in common projects with KTU scientists.

“Since I left, Lithuania has changed beyond recognition: universities are getting much better funding for education, they have access to European funds. Scientists and PhD students have great opportunities to go to other universities and research institutions to study, to go to conferences and to share their research results,” says a visiting professor of KTU Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences.

According to him, Lithuanian students have also changed: “They are much more active in the class than they were in my time, and there are no problems with the English language.”

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The research team, including doctoral student Rimvydė Čepaitė, Dr. Aistė Skorupskaitė, undergraduate Gintarė Žvejyte and Prof. P. Pausch at Vilnius University, working alongside an international team, uncovered how cells use a specific system to locate and silence unwanted DNA. This system, which could eventually enable safer gene modifications, shows promise for repairing faulty genes that cause diseases.

“Unlike the well-known CRISPR gene-editing system, often described as molecular 'scissors,' the newly studied type IV-A CRISPR system does not cut genes. Instead, it uses an RNA-guided ‘effector’ complex to recruit an enzyme called DinG, which moves along DNA and silences targeted genes in a more subtle manner.” explains Prof. P. Pausch.

According to the researcher, it is fascinating how the system recognizes the precise location on the DNA to begin working: “The system uses two proteins (Cas8 and Cas5) to find a very short sequence motif adjacent to the RNA guide's complementary target DNA. Once both proteins recognize this short sequence, they melt the double-stranded DNA for target sequence interrogation.”

A critical component in this process is the formation of R-loops—open DNA structures where RNA binds, signalling the system to initiate gene silencing.

“The ‘R’ in R-loop stands for RNA. All DNA-binding CRISPR-Cas systems use this structure to probe the DNA sequence and identify the correct target site. Stable R-loops only form in the presence of a DNA sequence that sufficiently matches the guide RNA. The R-loop essentially tells the system when it's appropriate to start silencing a gene,” states the research professor.

In his words, the DinG enzyme further enhances gene suppression by unwinding the DNA strands, allowing the system to exert its effect over a longer DNA sequence.

This discovery opens doors to future applications in genome editing without the risk of DNA cuts, which could lead to more precise tools for research and biotechnology. “Our system’s unique ability to traverse DNA without cutting genes is intriguing for advanced gene-editing applications,” adds Prof. P. Pausch, who believes this new approach could benefit society by enabling safer genetic modifications.

This illustration shows the final model of the type IV-A mechanism. From left to right: Step 1 shows the formation of the "effector" complex, consisting of guide RNA and type IV-A proteins (rendered from a cryo-EM structure). The RNA-protein complex binds to a short motif next to the DNA target site (PAM). In Step 2, an R-loop forms, signalling the target site is found. Step 3 shows the binding of DinG (pink bubblegum-like structure). In Step 4, DinG likely moves along the DNA to silence the gene, potentially repeating the process for further silencing (Step 5).

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A meeting with Professor Anouar Belahcen of the Department of Electrical Engineering and Automation led to discussions on the ongoing study programmes and research. The integration of green technologies was highlighted; possible further collaborations and synergies with existing research areas were discussed; the university infrastructure was visited, and the specificities of research and studies in different departments were presented.

Student exchanges and internship opportunities for doctoral students were also discussed in order to create international teaching experience and promote academic exchange. Cooperation steps, activities and opportunities to share knowledge and technologies are foreseen.

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“Robots will save the world” was the idea based on which the student teams from 22 European technical universities from 16 countries were developing solutions during the 14th international course organised by BEST Kaunas student organisation. On their initiative, the Kaunas University of Technology Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Design hosted the course at KTU this autumn.

“After this course, I will have a fresh outlook toward my studies and a new motivation. Humanity will not survive without robots in the future, so I am glad to have the opportunity to get to know this field in my first study year,” says Mantas, one of the participants of the course, a first-year mechanical engineering student at KTU.

In addition to designing machines to tackle important human problems, the student teams spent a week building working prototypes.

Thus, the robots to fight fires and clean up the ocean floor or air pollution were developed. One team took a creative approach to the challenge and created a robot that makes smoothies for better emotional health.

There is a shortage of professionals who want to change the world for the better
The need for robotics and engineering professionals is increasing in all industries. According to the main training partner Ignitis Grupė’s #EnergySmartSTART Educational Programme Manager Vaiva Rutkauskaitė, there is a need for professionals who understand and implement technologies that can change the world for the better.

“There is a shortage of specialists in the energy sector – it is predicted that by 2030 Lithuania will need at least 2,500 additional energy specialists. Robotics courses improve knowledge, skills, structured thinking and an engineering approach to problem-solving, teamwork, partnership and responsibility,” says Rutkauskaitė.

During the course, participants gained the knowledge needed to build prototypes of robots that can “save the world” by listening to lectures given by lecturers from the KTU Department of Manufacturing Engineering, the Department of Transport Engineering and the Institute of Mechatronics.

Each day, working in teams, students put their knowledge of robot design and principles into practice using a challenge-based learning approach.

This approach is particularly effective in solving real-world problems, and it not only helps to deepen professional knowledge, but also to develop general skills such as teamwork, time management, and communication, which are essential in any field. According to Saulius Bitinas, Managing Director of Hollister Lietuva, the partner of the BEST engineering course, skills in related fields provide a broader range of competencies, broaden thinking and enable more creative problem-solving.

“Interdisciplinary knowledge enhances career prospects and allows you to adapt to the ever-changing needs of the job market. This creates a solid foundation for future professional success, as the ability to work with complex, multi-disciplinary systems is becoming increasingly important in the world of technology,” says Bitinas.

Rasa Kandrotaitė-Janutienė, associate professor at KTU, who coordinated the academic part of the course, agrees with him: “A successful career in engineering requires theoretical knowledge, the ability to apply several disciplines to solve complex problems, and practical skills – and during the course, the students were introduced to all of these areas.”

Not merely robotics, but also experiencing new cultures
BEST (Board of European Students of Technology) brings together technology universities across Europe to organise international courses based on interdisciplinary learning throughout the year in different countries.

Participants said the International Robotics Course encouraged them to discover a new approach to problem-solving. “The opportunity to talk to experts and students from different countries gave me the chance not only to exchange ideas and get invaluable advice from professionals in the field but also to look at challenges from a different angle,” said Olha from Ukraine.

The benefits of attending such courses went beyond the new robotics knowledge and skills acquired. Throughout the week, after completing the daily tasks, there were social and cultural activities to introduce the participants to the peculiarities of living in Kaunas, Lithuania and to the culture of other European countries.

The students from abroad visited museums and explored the city’s landmarks and places of interest during orienteering competitions; they got acquainted with Lithuanian cuisine – were tasting šaltibarščiai. There was even a simulation of a traditional Lithuanian wedding, where various traditions and customs were tried out. Everyone had the opportunity to showcase their country’s culture: during the international evening, a large group of international students introduced their cuisine and traditions of different countries.

The organisers of the event BEST Kaunas would like to thank their partners Ignitis Grupė, Hollister Lietuva, Continental, Lemona Electronics, Dematic, Mantinga, Liūtukas ir Ko, KTU Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Design for the opportunity to implement this project. They extend their gratitude to the participants who contributed to the success of the event.

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“Cultural diversity enhances the ability to deal with complex situations, as a diverse team tends to approach a problem from multiple perspectives. Of course, differences can be challenging, but their advantages, such as a propensity to innovate or better problem solving, outweigh the disadvantages,” he notes.

Oswald Kolb, Managing Director of Continental Automotive Lithuania and Continental Autonomous Mobility Lithuania, echoes his sentiments, saying that when working with people from different cultures, one has to deal with a variety of different attitudes, but this also means learning from each other continuously.

“This diversity brings with it a variety of working styles, which can sometimes be quite challenging. It often requires more time, but it’s worth it, and it helps you grow professionally and personally,” emphasises Mr Kolb.

An international team means more possibilities
At the Chemistry of Materials Research Group of the KTU Faculty of Chemical Technology, headed by Prof. J. V. Gražulevičius researchers from Ukraine, Belarus, Armenia, Sakartvelo, Iran, India, Pakistan and Nigeria are working alongside locals. Every year, the team also accepts Erasmus+ bilateral exchange students from France and Spain.

“Despite their cultural and religious differences, they all communicate well in their native languages and English and are completing their PhDs. One student has experience in the synthesis and research of organic compounds with non-linear optical properties. Another is working on quantum chemical calculations. Their experience enriches our research group,” says Prof. J.V. Gražulevičius.

When starting its operations in Lithuania, Continental initially faced a challenge, as the plant was rapidly becoming operational and needed to ensure smooth production. The company not only had to recruit people but also develop their competencies and prepare them for the fast pace of production.

“We have built a strong team of over 800 people from nearly 30 different countries, who are now in Lithuania manufacturing complex, high-value-added products focused on comfort, safety, and the future of mobility. This blend of expertise and cultural perspectives has contributed immensely to our success,” notes Mr Kolb.

Businesses stress that, whether national or global, cross-cultural cooperation is crucial, as all teams are very diverse, and employees often interact with colleagues from different regions.

“Different people, different characters, different strengths and talents make up cultural diversity. We work in 56 countries and have 516 locations, so cultural diversity is what our corporate culture thrives on,” says Mr Kolb.

Focus on family when integrating international staff
In most cases, the university’s ability to find researchers from other countries is facilitated by the long-standing contacts it has established with researchers abroad. Meanwhile, company business representatives say that attracting talent requires developing strategies, building internal skills and using people with experience from different countries to fill gaps.

“We try to select our candidates carefully, sparing no time for detailed remote interviews. In the selection process, we involve trusted researchers from abroad, which helps attract excellent staff a great deal. Informal communication and joint trips to scientific conferences facilitate integration,” says Prof. J.V. Gražulevičius.

When attracting professionals from abroad to Lithuania, employers first identify the main countries where these professionals are prevalent and then adapt their recruitment strategies accordingly. Mr Kolb, representing the company, which is a main partner of KTU WANTed Career Days 2024, says that Continental has developed a relocation package that includes moving expenses, migration support and language courses.

“We are also working with various public institutions to promote Lithuania and Kaunas as living destinations, addressing support needed about education, health services, settlement, and the most relevant questions. These questions become particularly important if the arriving employees have children, so we try to ensure comfortable conditions for the whole family,” says Mr Kolb.

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Linas Svilainis, a professor at KTU and one of the authors of the invention says that the idea to create the device came from the cooperation of KTU and Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) researchers.

Monitoring the physiological status of plants is an important step in protecting plants from harmful effects and achieving better yields. However, existing methods for assessing plant status are damaging to the plant and in many cases require a long wait for results. The new device is non-invasive and uses non-contact ultrasound on an uncut leaf for measurement.

Scientists from the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) and Agri-Food Research and Technology Centre of Aragon (CITA) have figured out how to use ultrasound to assess the impact of drought on plants.

The initial application was for vine trees but later it turned out to be applicable to other plants.

European vineyards are suffering from drought
Vine trees are particularly vulnerable to drought due to their shallow root system and limited ability to extract water from the soil. Vine trees that suffer from water shortages have lower yields. Moreover, drought changes the composition of the grapes produced – it can affect sugar and acidity levels, which determine the quality and taste of the wine. For these reasons, and to avoid the other extreme of overwatering the vine trees, it is necessary to monitor these plants and regulate watering.

European vineyards, which produce more than 50% of the world’s wine, were already suffering from hotter and drier than normal conditions in 2022, putting as many as 18% of European vineyards at risk of drought. This year, the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries is also worried, predicting that Spanish wine production will fall by more than 20% compared to last year, due to the prolonged drought plaguing growers across the country.

“The device developed by our team can extract mechanical properties from ultrasound measurements, allowing plant scientists to analyse the physiological state of plants,” says Prof. Svilainis.

The device developed by KTU scientists consists of two transducers, one of which acts as a loudspeaker sending the signal and the other receives it as a microphone. Anything that comes between them changes the signal.

“Based on the change that has taken place, we can determine the mechanical properties of an object, in this case, a plant leaf,” explains Svilainis, a professor at KTU Faculty of Electrical and Electronics Engineering.

The palm-sized electronic device generates ultrasound, receives signals, and transmits data to a smartphone. Geographic coordinates and photos are attached to the sensor data and sent to the cloud storage. Distribution maps and time graphs of plant traits are generated using cloud computing technologies.

The resonant frequency, thickness, density, and attenuation of the plant can be measured by ultrasound using the instrument. “Researchers from Spain have demonstrated that these measurements correlate with parameters that indicate the plant’s physiological state, namely water potential and relative water content, which are used to assess the drought stress,” adds the professor.

A non-invasive solution for plant analysis directly in the field
“A lot of work had to be done to implement such an idea and make field measurements possible,” says Svilainis.

He adds that although the device is unique, it is not the only one to measure similar plant characteristics. “The difference is that instead of, for example, threading a pressure sensor into a plant trunk, we use a non-invasive, non-contact technology. In addition, it is light, convenient, and results are obtained immediately. Using other devices, the leaves have to be cut and taken to the laboratory, which takes time, but here we can get the results right in the field,” says the KTU professor.

Svilainis is quick to remind that a plant is a living organism, so figuring out how to measure its characteristics in field conditions was not an easy process. The level of substances in it varies depending on air temperature, sunlight, and humidity. “For example, ignoring temperature changes can lead to measurement errors of up to 30 per cent,” explains the KTU professor.

Instead of using traditional thermometers, which are too slow to detect instant temperature changes, he says, the state of the air is measured by using the delay time of ultrasonic signals that travel between transducers. “This delay is used to estimate the speed of sound, which correlates with the air temperature and humidity, and this makes the measurements more accurate without the need for additional sensors,” concludes Svilainis.

The device is now complete, and the result has been presented at several conferences of biodiversity experts. The invention has been granted a Lithuanian patent and the application has been submitted to the European Patent Office, business interest is also expected.

The device is designed for large leaves (more than 3 cm in diameter), which are flat enough to completely cover the transducers, but in the future the invention can be developed further for other plants, disease control, or industrial materials, for example, films measurements.

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"I learnt about the possibilities offered by the Fund for Teaching and Learning Internationalisation Initiatives early this year," said Jagminas. "This is an exceptional chance to expand your knowledge and engage in global events that open doors to the international scientific community."

Rokas embarked on his first research project on non-compaction cardiomyopathy in athletes after meeting cardiologist Dr Rokas Šerpytis. "When I was working on this study, I didn’t expect it to become a stepping stone into the international arena," recalls the student, who, jointly with his lecturer, decided to present this study at the cardiology congress in Athens. "When we received confirmation that our proposal had been accepted, we were thrilled; however, securing funding for this trip became a pressing concern."

Rokas contacted the Department of the Research and Innovation of the VU Faculty of Medicine, where he received an offer that led to the international initiatives. "Receiving funding is a challenging yet achievable goal, especially if you have the right information," remarked Rokas, who encourages fellow students to take advantage of these opportunities. "Most importantly, applications for funding must be submitted by the lecturer, and it is worth bearing in mind that poster presentations are not funded – such financial support is only available for oral presentations."

The congress in Athens was an enriching academic and personal experience for the student. "It was an extraordinary opportunity not only to gain cutting-edge knowledge in cardiology but also to forge contacts with doctors and scientists from all over the world," added Rokas. "I met professionals from Germany, the USA, Canada, and Italy – these are the contacts that, I believe, will prove invaluable for my future career."

Besides cardiology, Rokas has a strong interest in otorhinolaryngology. Together with Dr Aistė Paškonienė, he was involved in the study on the videonystagmography (VNG) caloric test, which was presented at the international congress in the Netherlands. "Collaboratively, we undertook a pioneering study in Europe, looking at vital signs during a videonystagmography caloric test in young adults aged 18–30. It was a study of considerable importance, so I’m grateful for the chance to present it on an international stage," said the medical student.

Rokas hopes that more students will embrace the internationalisation opportunities available at VU. "This is an outstanding opportunity to enhance research activities, expand your international network, and elevate your professional expertise," concluded Rokas, adding that internationalisation is a key aspect of every professional’s career.

Financial support for such international projects is set to continue, seeking to engage members of the VU community in global academic initiatives. More information on funding can be found here.

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In their work Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty (2012), the future Nobel laureates studied the colonial period. They noted a difference: in some colonies, inclusive institutions were created, while in others, they were not. This divide ultimately determined the subsequent economic growth dynamics of these countries," explains Associate Professor A. Burinskas.

According to him, even during colonization, poor countries where inclusive institutions were established eventually became prosperous. This is a significant reason why former colonies that were once rich are now poor (e.g., countries that were part of the Aztec Empire) and vice versa (e.g., the present-day United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand).

"Where inclusive institutions were created, economic activity was promoted, and society was engaged in economic exchanges. Property rights were guaranteed and protected, the rule of law was implemented, and public goods and services were provided—things that the market economy alone could not ensure. Countries with such institutional structures experienced better economic development.

In contrast, countries with institutions focused on protecting the interests of a narrow elite failed to achieve stable economic growth. As a result, the labor and resources of the majority, exploited solely to serve the interests of a minority, did not create the necessary economic stimulus," says the economist.

According to Burinskas, the Nobel laureates' research also highlights the role of disease prevention in economic growth. In places where diseases were not combated and sufficient investment in healthcare was lacking, economic development was slower. The economists also emphasize the connection between innovation and economic growth.

"It was important that when inclusive institutions were established, property rights were guaranteed, educational institutions were developed, and entrepreneurship was encouraged. All of this contributed to technological progress and overall growth. Although not a panacea, democratic processes were also linked to the creation of inclusive institutions," the expert says.

In his view, this is bad news for the modern Chinese economy: "Historical data shows that a democratic system guarantees greater stability, certainty for future investments, and more balanced national development. Although non-democratic countries can experience rapid growth in the short term, it is more difficult for them to maintain stable growth in the long term. Regarding China, it may struggle to sustain its growth rate even by investing in innovation or new technologies. In the long run, it may become difficult to maintain a stable system that guarantees respect for property rights and ensures freedom for creative and entrepreneurial members of society."

As a positive example, the expert cites South Korea: "A country that was once authoritarian has recently become democratic and experienced an economic boom associated with industrialization, the creation of inclusive institutions, the introduction of innovations, and rapid economic growth."

Associate Professor A. Burinskas emphasizes that creating successful states with effective economies requires the inclusion of a large portion of society in economic exchanges. "Compare the economic growth in the early 20th century, when only men worked in most Western countries, with later times, when women's entry into the labor market provided a significant boost to economic growth. The more people participate in a country's economic life, the greater the impetus for development. Of course, the state's role in creating an effective legal framework for economic circulation is also important. In a successful system, production volumes increase, consumption grows, opportunities arise to establish businesses and create new jobs, advanced and innovative ideas are realized, productivity increases, and so on," recites Associate Professor A. Burinskas.

According to him, this also affects the welfare economy. It is important how the state contributes to the creation and redistribution of wealth—setting market economy rules and standards, ensuring social justice. In Lithuania, EU membership contributed to this, bringing progressive regulation along with it.

"Reflecting on the significance of the Nobel Prize laureates' work today, one can find parallels with Lithuania's current situation. As government and political agendas change, it's worth considering how we will continue to create or improve inclusive institutions ourselves. This requires political leadership. It is essential to understand and decide what our strategic national goals are and how politicians can contribute to creating more inclusive institutional structures that promote innovation and attract new investments (especially as we will soon receive less support from EU funds). These are some of the questions that need to be answered to ensure that institutions contribute to Lithuania's economic growth," concludes Associate Professor A. Burinskas.

The laureates will receive a gold medal, a diploma, and will share a cash prize of 11 million Swedish kronor (approximately 0.972 million euros). The Nobel Prize in Economics is officially called the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel. This award has been given since 1969 and is considered one of the Nobel Prizes.

Last year, the Nobel Prize in Economics, which marks the end of the awards season, was awarded to Harvard University Professor Claudia Goldin for her work in understanding women's role in the labor market.

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The event aimed to strengthen connections with colleagues from partner universities abroad, discuss opportunities for further collaboration or joint project initiatives, share best practices, and promote internationalization within the university.

Representatives from 19 countries participated, including International Relations Coordinators and faculty members from Malaysia, Taiwan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Thailand, South Africa, Kenya, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Colombia, and a representative from the ATHENA Alliance partner university in Vigo.

The training sessions were led by Rokas Stankevičius, an analyst from the AI agency “Why AI,” while Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ingrida Leščauskienė from the VILNIUS TECH Strategic Partnership Center introduced the system of digital badges.

During the international week, participants gave interactive presentations about their universities, attended lectures, and participated in discussions, creative workshops, and a cultural programme. They shared their experiences in applying modern technologies and appreciated the opportunity not only to learn the theory but also to practically apply various AI tools in their daily work (e.g., ChatGPT, Canva, AI-powered text recognition applications, etc.) and personal lives.

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VU’s involvement in the LHCb collaboration
Located in Geneva, CERN is the world’s largest nuclear and particle physics laboratory. Here, scientists conduct experiments on the fundamental particles of the Universe and their interactions. One of CERN’s key projects is the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), which allows scientists to explore proton-proton collisions and discover new particles and phenomena.

This year, on the initiative of the Lithuanian Particle Physics Consortium, a new CERN LHCb experimental group – LHCb Vilnius – was established at the Institute of Photonics and Nanotechnology of Vilnius University. It is headed by Dr Mindaugas Šarpis, a long-time member of the LHCb.

After defending his thesis at the University of Bonn (Germany), Dr Šarpis returned to Lithuania at the beginning of 2024 to pursue research in his home country. During his visit to CERN in early September, the team leader presented VU’s current and prospective infrastructure to the LHCb Collaboration Board and returned to Lithuania with the Board’s positive decision to accept the Faculty of Physics of VU as an official institute for the LHCb experiment.

The significance of the LHCb experiment for VU
This acknowledgment will provide VU with a unique chance to engage directly in one of the world’s leading experiments in particle physics. Students and researchers at the University will have access to the data collected by the LHCb detector and will be able to have a hand in its development. This recognition will also provide VU researchers access to cutting-edge technology and foster international collaboration. In addition, students and researchers from the University will be able to participate in CERN’s internship programmes, high-level training, and conferences, providing them with opportunities to present their research and forge contacts through networking.

The cooperation with CERN not only strengthens VU’s international standing but also unlocks new opportunities for scientific advancement in Lithuania. Having become a member of the LHCb experiment, VU has engaged in world-class research, which will help elevate Lithuania’s profile on the global scientific stage.

Vilnius University is a member of the Lithuanian Particle Physics Consortium, which brings together the country’s particle physics researchers. The Consortium cooperates with CERN and other international organisations to expand the horizons of particle physics research in Lithuania.

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