Education

Innovative hydrogen production: scientists eliminate tar in gasification

2025-04-03T16:48:55+03:00

As the global demand for sustainable energy solutions continues to grow, Lithuanian researchers have taken a step forward by developing a technology that not only transforms waste into valuable hydrogen but also eliminates a long-standing issue in gasification – the presence of tar. This new method offers an efficient and eco-friendly way to produce high-purity hydrogen from various waste materials, representing a significant advancement in clean energy production.

Hydrogen is a key element in the transition to cleaner energy. However, conventional gasification methods are often unable to ensure its high purity – synthesis gases contain very low concentrations of hydrogen.

This inefficiency limits the industrial application of hydrogen as a clean gas fuel, highlighting the need for more advanced production methods.

To address this, Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) and Lithuanian Energy Institute (LEI) scientists have developed a two-step conversion system: an updraft gasifier followed by a catalytic reforming reactor.

Increased hydrogen production
The process begins with gasification, where waste is heated in a controlled steam-oxygen environment to produce syngas, also known as synthetic gas.

“Gasification treatment is an emerging, promising, and eco-friendly technology that can convert waste into syngas as a major product besides soot as a by-product,” says KTU Chief researcher Dr Samy Yousef.

However, the produced syngas contains tar, which not only reduces efficiency and can damage equipment due to corrosion effect but also interferes with hydrogen production by affecting key chemical reactions. To solve this, the syngas is passed through a catalytic reforming reactor to break down the tar into smaller molecules. These catalysts also enhance chemical reactions that increase the hydrogen content of the syngas, reaching up to 60 vol%, making it a cleaner and more efficient fuel source.

According to the KTU expert, a crucial factor in this technology is the choice of catalysts used in the reforming reactor. That is why researchers tested most commercially available catalysts and laboratory-developed options.

“Experimental results demonstrated the technology’s efficiency under various conditions. Among the tested catalysts, KATALCO™ 57-4GQ proved to be the most effective, as its high surface area, stability, and durability played a key role in breaking down tar and enhancing hydrogen production,” says Dr Yousef.

Can be applied to all types of waste
Unlike conventional gasification techniques, which require high-energy plasma systems or complex pressure-based processes, this new method operates at atmospheric pressure. This reduces the need for high-cost infrastructure and enhances operational safety.

Compared to the dominant hydrogen production method, steam methane reforming (SMR), this new approach offers a more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable alternative. SMR relies on natural gas, a non-renewable resource, and emits large amounts of carbon dioxide, making it less viable for long-term sustainability goals.

“Unlike SMR, which operates under extreme conditions and requires high-pressure reactors, our method works at atmospheric pressure and utilises waste as a cost-effective and renewable raw material, making it a cleaner solution,” says Dr Yousef.

While the initial research focused on medical waste, the technology has the potential for broader applications. “This technology is versatile and can be applied to various types of organic and industrial waste, including plastics, textiles, and biomass. Before processing, the waste must be collected, sorted, and pre-treated to ensure a consistent composition and size, allowing for more efficient conversion,” KTU expert explains.

When discussing industrial implementation, the researcher highlights that this innovation has reached Technology Readiness Level 5 (TRL5). This level is part of a globally recognised scale that measures a technology’s maturity.

“Being at TRL5 means the technology has been tested in an environment that simulates real industrial conditions using reactors that closely resemble industrial-scale systems and is progressing toward full-scale deployment,” says Dr Yousef.

As research continues, further scaling and optimisation could pave the way for commercial implementation, making sustainable hydrogen production a reality in the near future.

www.ktu.lt

The Method Developed by VU Biophysicists Can Help Accelerate the Diagnosis of Oncological Diseases

2025-04-02T18:51:42+03:00

Researchers from the Faculty of Physics and the Life Sciences Center of Vilnius University (VU), with co-authors from Harvard University, the University of Toronto, National Cancer Institute and "Light Conversion" developed a method which can improve the diagnostics of cancer and other diseases. A novel multidisciplinary study published in "Scientific Reports", a "Nature Publishing Group" journal, describes how to quickly and accurately analyze the structure of collagen in tissue.

Collagen is a structural protein with various functions related to cell activity. Researchers say that the method, Double Stokes polarimetry, is based on the dependence of the response of collagen to variously polarized laser light.

"Polarization measurements allow to determine the ultrastructural parameters of collagen, which describe its molecular structure. This lets to evaluate the changes in collagen structure appearing during various diseases. Similar methods have been used to investigate breast and lung cancer tissues, among other cancer types, as well as other diseases, such as keratoconus. The changes in collagen structure are related to disease progression and symptoms. The main advantage of this method is its speed, which is several hundred times greater than that of other similar methods. That’s important for its wider application in clinical settings", tells VU Life Science Center's PhD student Viktoras Mažeika.

VU Faculty of Physics' PhD student Mykolas Mačiulis claims that this research will be relevant in the future. "The work done here is fundamental, and we continue doing related research. Next, we'll apply this method to analyze cancerous samples, as well as those of other diseases. Science has to answer society's needs, and disease diagnostics are important for humanity", he adds.

"This work can significantly contribute to the development of oncological and histopathological diagnostics. We hope that this method will allow physicians to more effectively detect subtle tissue changes. Collagen is the most common protein in the human body, so investigation of its structure would allow for more accurate disease diagnostics", states Prof. Dr. Virginijus Barzda.

Biophysicists from the VU Advanced Biomedical Photonics Group are developing nonlinear microscopy methods and devices which can be applied in life sciences, medical, pharmaceutical or materials engineering research. Modern technologies of physics, chemistry and biology are successfully used in oncology.

www.vu.lt

Teaching AI-supported Academic Writing

2025-04-01T09:49:34+03:00

On 16 May 2025, the online workshop Teaching AI-supported Academic Writing will explore how educators can respond to the growing presence of tools like ChatGPT in student writing. Designed for instructors in higher education, the workshop focuses on practical strategies for integrating AI into teaching while promoting ethical and reflective student use.

This hands-on workshop invites educators to bring their syllabus and ideas for incorporating AI in their courses. Together, we will explore teaching scenarios and approaches for clearly communicating expectations and ethical standards around AI use in academic contexts.

Trainers

Frano Petar Rismondo is a writing scholar and higher education expert and part of the Center for Teaching and Learning’s (CTL) "Student Research and Peer Learning" team. He coordinates the Student Research Hub at the University of Vienna and is one of the AI and writing experts at the CTL.

Erika Unterpertinger is a member of the team "Student Research and Peer Learning" at the Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) at the University of Vienna, where she leads the team of writing assistants. She is one of the AI and writing experts at the CTL and does research into students’ processes of “discovery” that are connected to novice academic writing in her dissertation.

Workshop Overview

Large Language Models like ChatGPT offer both support and challenges in academic writing. They can assist with drafting, revising, and developing arguments, but also pose risks like uncritical copying or misinformation. Teaching must adapt to help students navigate these tools ethically and productively.

This workshop is specifically designed to address the practical aspects of integrating AI-related tools and methodologies into the classroom. Participants should bring their syllabus as well as some ideas on how they want to incorporate AI in their classes. Possible teaching scenarios, as well as transparent communication of what is expected of students, will be discussed.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the workshop, participants will:

• Have reflected on the impact of AI on students’ academic writing and development
• Understand different scenarios for teaching ethical and responsible AI usage to students
• Begin rethinking their syllabus to align with these emerging challenges

The workshop is limited to 20 participants. A meeting link will be sent to registered attendees only.

www.vu.lt

VILNIUS TECH Researchers Strengthen Future Engineering Skills at TalTech University

2025-03-26T18:02:49+02:00

From March 19-21, a delegation from VILNIUS TECH visited TalTech University in Tallinn, Estonia, to participate in a partner meeting for the project "Building Capacity of Future Engineers for Secure, Energy-efficient Autonomous System".

The project involves not only VILNIUS TECH, but also KTU, RTU, and TalTech universities (“A Competency Network Oriented Towards the Future, Aimed at Developing Engineering Education Focused on Green Industry,” ENERGYCOM 2024, NPHE-2024/10402). Its mission is to introduce sustainability insights into study programs and share experiences, knowledge, and best practices in technology-oriented educational development, as well as advancements in electrical and electronic engineering, informatics, automation, and cybersecurity.

The participants of the meetings included: Associate Prof. Dr. Vytautas Abromavičius, Prof. Dr. Algirdas Baškys, Prof. Dr. Andrius Katkevičius, Dr. Šarūnas Mikučionis, Prof. Dr. Dalius Matuzevičius, Prof. Dr. Darius Plonis, Dr. Diana Belova-Plonienė, Associate Prof. Dr. Raimondas Pomarnacki, lecturers Valentinas Breivė, Henrikas Giedra, and Gabriela Vdoviak, as well as the Director of Public Communication, Dovilė Juršytė, who also showed interest in mechatronics, adaptronics, and information and communication technologies that align with the needs of the green industry.

VILNIUS TECH researchers met with Associate Prof. Anton Rassõlkin from the Department of Electrical Engineering and Mechatronics, School of Engineering, at TalTech University to discuss the project's progress and challenges.

The meetings in Tallinn also covered further collaboration opportunities in academic and research areas, student exchange possibilities for Bachelor's and Master's students, and visits to high-voltage, electromagnetic compatibility, lighting technology, industrial robotics, and machine vision laboratories. The researchers were introduced to the study programs and scientific research carried out by the Department of Electrical Engineering and Mechatronics, and during the university tour, they explored the campus infrastructure.

At the seminar, VILNIUS TECH representatives presented a lecture titled “Fostering the Education of Future Engineers Who Seek the Development of Secure, Energy-Efficient Autonomous Systems.”

www.vgtu.lt

Hydrogen Use in Spark Ignition Internal Combustion Engines – Scientific Seminar at the Faculty of Transport Engineering

2025-03-25T16:53:30+02:00

On the 17th of March, a scientific seminar was held at the Faculty of Transport Engineering at VILNIUS TECH, where the topic "Hydrogen Use in Spark Ignition Internal Combustion Engines" was presented. The seminar speakers, Associate Professor Dr. Saugirdas Pukalskas, Head of the Department of Automotive Engineering, and Professor Dr. Alfredas Rimkus, shared the latest scientific research to better understand the potential of hydrogen as an alternative fuel.

The seminar featured the R&D project "Use of Green Hydrogen in the Transport Sector," implemented under the project "Implementation of Mission-Oriented Science and Innovation Programs" No. 02-002-P-0001, under the theme "Smart and Climate-Neutral Lithuania." The goal of the project is to create a hydrogen supply system for conventional vehicles with internal combustion engines to reduce CO2 emissions in the transport sector and contribute to mitigating climate change.

The project, carried out in collaboration with JSC „SG Dujos Auto“, started in September, 2023 and will continue until April, 2026. During this time, a hydrogen supply system will be developed and tested, allowing part of the conventional fuels (gasoline or diesel) to be replaced by green hydrogen produced from renewable energy sources.

Project Goals and Results

One of the main goals of the project is to reduce CO2 emissions in the transport sector, where emissions make up a significant portion of all greenhouse gas emissions. The results of the project include:
• Six scientific articles on the possibilities of hydrogen use in the transport sector;
• A hydrogen supply system prototype and model, developed in collaboration with SG Dujos Auto;
• A research report summarizing the research and results obtained.

In addition, the project activities include the simulation of combustion processes for mixtures of hydrogen and conventional fuels, as well as driving modes of vehicles, the development of the hydrogen supply system, experimental engine tests, engine durability studies, and system improvements and adaptation for use in vehicles.

Climate Change Challenges and Hydrogen Potential

Project implementers emphasize that one of the most pressing global issues today is climate change, particularly due to CO2 emissions, the main source of which is the transport sector. To contribute to the reduction of these emissions, the project will test a hydrogen supply system that will allow the replacement of part of traditional fuels (gasoline or diesel) with green hydrogen. This technology could not only reduce emissions but also help achieve a more sustainable and low-pollution future for the transport sector.

The project plans to acquire unique hydrogen production and engine testing equipment that will allow the study of hydrogen usage possibilities in spark ignition internal combustion engines. Additionally, various tests will be conducted with different hydrogen and conventional fuel or biofuel ratios to find the most efficient ways to integrate these fuels into vehicles.

Insights of the Scientists

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Saugirdas Pukalskas, speaking about hydrogen use in the transport sector, emphasized the technological challenges associated with integrating hydrogen into existing internal combustion engines. He presented his research on various methods for using hydrogen and other alternative fuels, as well as discussed possible engineering solutions that could ensure the smooth application of these technologies in vehicles.

Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. Alfredas Rimkus presented research and its results, analyzing the effects of hydrogen on the performance of spark ignition internal combustion engines. Initial experimental tests were conducted at VILNIUS TECH laboratories, and based on them, an article on hydrogen's impact on vehicle energy and environmental characteristics was published in the journal Applied Sciences. In the study, dual fuels (gasoline and hydrogen) were used. In the first part of the research, tests were conducted by injecting 5% hydrogen into the engine's intake manifold, and energy and environmental performance "maps" were created for different operating modes. In the second part, a numerical simulation of the vehicle’s "WLTC" driving cycle was conducted, which showed an increase in energy efficiency and a reduction in emissions of pollutants such as CO and CH. However, it was noted that nitrogen oxide emissions increased due to more intense hydrogen combustion. As experimental tests continued, significantly increasing the hydrogen concentration in the internal combustion engine fuels highlighted more of hydrogen’s positive properties and challenges. Based on already known technologies and new solutions, hydrogen usage research is ongoing, and in the near future, plans are to test a vehicle on the road that would have a significant portion of its fuel made up of hydrogen.

Scientific Research and Innovation

The research results presented by the seminar speakers, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Saugirdas Pukalskas and Prof. Dr. Alfredas Rimkus, confirm the potential of hydrogen as a clean energy source capable of contributing to CO2 emission reduction. Professor Dr. A. Rimkus presented research on the efficiency of hydrogen use in internal combustion engines, while Assoc. Prof. Dr. S. Pukalskas discussed various technological solutions that would help integrate hydrogen into modern vehicles.

The seminar participants actively engaged in discussions about hydrogen’s potential as an alternative fuel and its role in achieving a climate-neutral transport sector.

www.vgtu.lt

We invite the community to register for the lecture course "Biomechanics of Trauma"

2025-03-24T17:51:32+02:00

Active person can sustain injuries during sport activities or in work placement. Trauma biomechanics is important scientific field, which explores biomechanics of various injuries, i.e. what are trauma mechanisms and causes. This knowledge is important for design of safe transportation means, developing and designing safe training equipment and rehabilitation devices, assistive technologies for disabled. Research in trauma biomechanics requires broad knowledge and understanding in biomechanics, mechanics and application of different technologies (computer simulation and experiments).

In this course, students will understand importance of various technologies and approaches, will obtain better understanding of general biomechanics principles and their application.

Prof. Dr. Kai-Uwe Schmitt is head of the Academic-Practice-Partnership between University Hospital Bern and the Department of Health at Bern University of Applied Sciences. Interprofessional research in health sciences and the translating science into clinical practice are the key elements of this partnership. Kai-Uwe Schmitt is also affiliated with the Department of Health Science and Technology at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich) and member of the executive board at AGU Zurich (Working Group on Accident Mechanics). Trauma biomechanics in traffic and sports are the focus of his research and teaching activities. Additional functions include being a council member of the International Research Council on Biomechanics of Injury (IRCOBI) and member of the advisory board on traffic safety at the Swiss Federal Road Office.

The course will start on April 7th and end on 18th. Everyone can register for this course!

You can fill the registration form here.

You can find the course program here.

www.vgtu.lt

446th Birthday of VU: Inauguration, Special Performances, Exhibition of Skarga’s Academic Attire, and Other Events

2025-03-20T14:06:54+02:00

On 1 April, Vilnius University (VU) will mark the 446th anniversary of its establishment. On this occasion, VU invites its community and the public to participate in various festive events, both traditional and specially dedicated to this anniversary.

One of the highlights of the festivities is the solemn inauguration of Prof. Rimvydas Petrauskas as the Rector of Vilnius University. In addition, a special lecture, “The Legendary Toga of Petras Skarga and the Oriental Pattern Cloak”, will be delivered by Assoc. Prof. Miglė Lebednykaitė. In this lecture, you will learn about one of the exceptional values of Lithuanian cultural heritage – the academic attire of the first Rector of Vilnius University, Petras Skarga, symbolising the beginning of the history of Vilnius University.

An Exceptional Exhibition

On 1–2 April, Vilnius University community and the public will have a unique opportunity to see some elements – the pelerine and the biretta – of the academic attire of the first Rector of Vilnius University, Petras Skarga. These historical relics, preserved for over 400 years, were last exhibited together in 1936. Having been rediscovered almost a century later, they will now be presented to the public on a special occasion – the inauguration of Prof. Rimvydas Petrauskas as the Rector of Vilnius University.

On 1 April at 11:00, the discoverer of these historical relics, Assoc. Prof. Miglė Lebednykaitė, Head of the Ethnography and Anthropology Division of the National Museum of Lithuania, will deliver the lecture “The Legendary Toga of Petras Skarga and the Oriental Pattern Cloak” in Vilnius University Theatre Hall. The audience will hear about the search process of Petras Skarga’s academic attire, the research conducted, and the unexpected discoveries made.

Another unique event is an art and science project, installation-performance “U”, which will take place on 3–5 April, starting from 20:00, in the Grand Courtyard of Vilnius University. Artist Akvilė Anglickaitė and her team will create an installation of light, sound, and street art, inspired by the Foucault pendulum. The performance will feature a choreographed skateboarding sequence immersed in light, with live music provided by the VU Wind Orchestra “Oktava”. There will be three performances every evening between 20:00 and 21:30.

“Scientific Sprint” – a Race of Ideas

This year, the tradition of holding the science communication competition “Scientific Sprint” in celebration of VU’s birthday continues. On 27 March at 18:00, the “Artistai” pub will host 14 teams consisting of lecturer and student pairs. In just three minutes, each team will have to present their research or idea in an appealing and engaging way.

Participants will be judged by a commission composed of scientists and communication experts. Three teams with the highest scores will share the EUR 1,000 prize established by “Thermo Fisher Scientific”.

This year, teams from the Faculties of Medicine, Physics, Philology, Philosophy, Chemistry and Geosciences, Kaunas Faculty, and the Life Sciences Center will be participating. The participants of the competition will analyse the challenges of radiation protection of children, the importance of quantum diamonds in medicine, technology, and informatics, the role of the hippocampus in neuronal change, artificial intelligence, climate change, and many other topics that are of great importance and relevance today.

The Exhibition of Martynas Mažvydas’ “Catechism”

On 1 April from 10:00 to 19:00, Martynas Mažvydas’ “Catechism” will be on display in the P. Smuglevičius Hall of VU Library. This tradition allows the public to become acquainted with the first printed book in the Lithuanian language; only two copies are known to exist, one of which is stored in the Library of VU.

In addition, the VU Foundation is inviting you to join a unique initiative and give a symbolic gift of EUR 4.46 to the VU Endowment Fund as a birthday gift to Vilnius University. The donations will be professionally invested and earn a return so that talented scientists can be supported; the funds are constantly reinvested, thus providing benefits to VU in perpetuity.

On 2 April at 19:00, the event beloved by many storytellers and listeners, Storytelling Salon “Per Aspera ad Astra”, will take place. Hosted by professional narrator Milda Varnauskaitė, this event, held in the VU Aula Parva café “Morgas”, will feature stories about the challenges and successes in science and studies.

On 5 April at 12:00, the VU Life Sciences Center will host an orienteering game where VU community members, city residents, and guests are invited to discover important Vilnius University locations in Saulėtekis. The participants, in teams of up to four people, will have two hours to search for historical sites and collect points. The teams that discover the most places and score the most points will be awarded prizes.

Birthday to Reach Culmination in a Concert

On 28 March at 17:00 and 29 March at 13:00, visitors will be able to explore “The Old Campus of Vilnius University Through the Eyes of an Archaeologist”, whereas on 28 March at 12:00 and on 2 April at 17:00, visitors are invited to get to know the Baroque and Jesuit heritage on the excursion “Saint Johns, Baroque, and the Jesuits”. In addition, on 26 March at 17:00, VU is offering an excursion “19th Century Student Life. Adam Mickiewicz”, and on 27 March at 12:00, visitors are invited to travel “In the Footsteps of Vilnius Romantics”.

On 29 March and 5 April at 11:00, the Asteroid Workshop awaits families with children, inviting the participants to reveal their creativity.

On 29 March at 19:00, the Kinetic Theatre’s production of “Hommo in Maxima” will be held in VU Theatre Hall. This experimental performance explores the transformation of four fundamental value categories following Lithuania’s accession to the European Union, and it analyses how the notions of love, human connection, security, and meaning have changed in modern society. The performance reveals how traditional values are transformed into a model of life dictated by efficiency and productivity.

On 5 April at 18:00, the VU Chamber Orchestra invites you to the concert “Returning Generations”, which will feature works by Antonio Salieri, Franz Berwald, and Joseph Haydn. The concert, dedicated to promoting the unity of the community, will feature both current members of the orchestra and its alumni. The event will take place at St Johns’ Church.

The birthday celebration will reach its culmination on 6 April, with the VU Drama Theatre performance of ‘The Promised’ – a fresh interpretation of William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”. The play explores the themes of love, responsibility, and guilt, and its creative team offers an exceptional aesthetic vision, combining modern technologies and classical dramaturgy.

For more information and the programme of the celebratory events, please click here.

www.vu.lt

Back to the Future: How Is Ancient DNA Research Changing Medicine?

2025-03-19T18:01:15+02:00

Just eight months ago, the laboratory of the Department of Human Medical Genetics at the Faculty of Medicine of Vilnius University was delighted to receive new equipment and reagents. We followed on social media as researchers were eager to test them for genetic research. But this was only a tiny part of the new things to come—even more exciting was the moving to the brand new premises at the Medical Science Centre of Vilnius University. In the autumn of 2024, the team of scientists, their research materials and projects moved into a state-of-the-art space. Today, I found them already settled and working here; I was lucky to interview one of the senior researchers at the Centre, Associate Professor Dr. Ingrida Domarkienė.

Ingrida, considering the changes in laboratories in recent years, can we say that 2024 became a breaking year in terms of technological opportunities for geneticists at Vilnius University Faculty of Medicine? Can you name any significant changes since moving to the new Science Centre?

Looking back at where we started––from the first time I put on a lab coat to this chair in this office— it’s been a long path, and things were very different initially. But that’s what drives me! Sometimes, I sit back and think: How much has been done, how many contacts have been made that are already bearing fruit, how many students have graduated? There were other science centres in the past, too. But what Vilnius University and its Faculty of Medicine have created is a state-of-the-art science building. Overall, the Baltic countries are developing biotechnology rapidly. Now we must not only build centres but cooperate—that’s how we will become stronger. We have enough talent and curiosity in Lithuania. Until now, the only things lacking have been equipment, resources and the ability to travel and invite colleagues from foreign laboratories. We are now generating new data, so I see the prospect of sharing it, contributing to global databases, and creating our databases. It took 20 years to make this centre, three deans and several generations of students have changed! We have finally completed procurement, built and opened the centre, and now we can sit back and enjoy it. But I feel that the real breakthrough in human resources and potential for science is yet to come... With the opening of this building, there are already some shifts within research groups, new ideas and new goals. The future is bright, and we are on the brink of exciting discoveries.

One of the most critical expectations of the next generation of researchers is the availability of cutting-edge technology and equipment during their studies. Prospective students also take the relevance of research carried out by research centres and researchers’ teams seriously. In human medical genetics, Vilnius University proposes to study human weight changes, ageing processes, birth complications, and even the genome structure of the Chornobyl disaster survivors. This research touches today’s society in a very diverse way. In retrospect, how would you see the opportunities that have now opened up for young genetics researchers?

I think we provide students with the best facilities for learning. Some instruments are extremely sensitive and can only be used after training. Still, from the start, students can see what an accredited laboratory and instruments look like and are encouraged to pick up all the instruments they can. If they are doing their final thesis in the field, they work in the labs with us and see the entire „kitchen“. We are always thinking about how to renew our equipment.

Ideas for research topics come from many different paths. As late David Lynch once said, “Ideas are like fish”. They’re always floating around, so you must sit and pay attention. Sometimes, unexpected things stir something in your mind, and you must write it down. It’s like planting a seed, and then it grows. At times, a message or a sentence heard at a conference inspires a thought. It was the same with the Chornobyl survivors. We were aware of this special group of people. Of the approximately 7,000 people sent to Chornobyl from Lithuania, there is about half of them left. We wanted to collect their stories and somehow help them. These people have faced a significant turning points, their status changed depending on political decisions. Analysis of their DNA has shown that their genomes confer some resilience but that a substantial proportion of the subjects are prone to anxiety disorders and depression. So, although this was not the primary aim, the research results showed a clear need to help this group, e.g. to open up a green corridor for them to receive psychotherapeutic treatment.

Ancient human DNA research has so far been an exciting adventure, engaging foreign researchers, and promoted on the history channels. However, you and your colleagues took up the field last year and immediately got involved in international projects. Tell us about this innovation.

We were delighted to go to the Max Planck Institute last year, where we were trained to work with ancient DNA, which is fragmented, fragile, degraded, and much more challenging than DNA from living organisms. We learnt how to avoid contaminating the sample with our cells: The work must be done in the proper premises. We have now set up a laboratory at the Medical Science Centre where we will be able to work in a cleanroom. We involve students in the projects to show them how different the task is: We have to work in special suits, just like our doctors wore during the COVID pandemic. After each sample, everything must be cleaned sterile, and only then the following sample could be processed. Not everyone can work in such conditions. Sending samples abroad for testing would seem more straightforward, but then we would have to wait a long time for the results, and now we are independent and can do everything ourselves and do it quickly, based on emerging needs.

But you, too, will soon be in high demand: The pace of archaeology in Lithuania is fast, and there will be a lot of material!

Yes, that requires projects, and that’s why we’re preparing a new generation of young professionals. So they will be ready to work with the specific materials in the future.

We know that research into the genetics of ancient people can give us fascinating insights into the past, but why is it relevant to us today, living in a very different environment?

We have a vast collection of samples. Who else but ourselves should care about who lived in this territory before us, how and where they came from, and what genetic heritage is left in us? Now we can discover what diseases those people had and how we are different from or similar to them.

A hundred years ago, the archaeological record was unfortunately used for geopolitical purposes, with enormous implications for international politics and wars. These were used to decide where the authentic territory was. Aren’t you worried that they will be manipulated if genetic test results are presented?

That is an excellent point, and David Reich makes it in his book “Who We Are and How We Got Here?”, namely that we, as scientists, have to be cautious, but at the same time, we have to be careful not to set taboos, and to still talk about things that are of public concern. I think that there will undoubtedly be propagandists and profane people who will try to comment on the results of genetic tests. Still, in such a case, it is our duty to be straightforward and explain to the public what biological differences, similarities and migrations between people mean.

Well, perhaps genetic research could be the key to reverse the process. Whereas before, a six-pointed star was put on the shoulder based solely on outward appearances and a name, now we would find that such marking is no longer meaningful because we all have a certain percentage of specific genes.

Yes, we all share a history; ancient remains can tell us even more engaging narratives. Archaeology has not yet answered many questions, and our cooperation could help us integrate each other’s information and arrive at a familiar picture. We must work together: Anthropologists, geneticists, archaeologists, historians, chemists, linguists, ethnographers...

However, ancient human DNA genetics is different from medical genetics. How close, if at all, are the two areas?

Genetics is the same; people are people, but if medical genetics is about health and disease, then by working with ancient DNA, we can reconstruct what people might have looked like and what diseases they might have suffered from in the past in a different environment. This was done with the remains of Gregor Mendel himself, who is regarded as the “father of genetics.” Upon his relatives’ consent, the samples were used to reconstruct what he looked like and what diseases he might have had.

But for now, we are only talking about a human being. And if archaeologists find an interesting ancient animal, will you take on the research? In zooarchaeology, there are difficulties in trying to determine whether a bone belongs to a pig, a domesticated animal, or a wild boar. This may be a key question for analysing ancient diets.

I wouldn’t say no because we are still in the early stages of working with ancient DNA. More generally, an idea for the future would be to set up a centre for research on the human past to study the complete picture of the past: Humans, the environment around them, living and non-living organisms, and even viruses present. Humans “carried” the microbiome with them when they migrated, and it would be great to see the whole holobiome. It’s also exciting to study how humans were once affected by climate and how they adapted.

We tend to judge our health by comparing it to that of other countries, and sometimes we look back to our parents or grandparents. Could we wish that a modern individual had the health of ancient human beings, based on DNA studies? Perhaps people’s health varied in different eras, but is it possible to say that once there lived people with better health than us?

I don’t know what those ancient people would do now. Probably, they would not survive. It isn’t easy to extrapolate from the past because now we have entirely different living conditions. These people’s lives were usually short and complex, as evidenced by their worn teeth and early age of death. They were in a constant survival mode, suffering both hunger and cold and consistently trying to save themselves. The continuous search for solutions and the discovery of herbs by shamans, which later became medicines, contributed to our experience and progress in medical science today. Now, we have plenty of knowledge and can help ourselves. Still, civilisation has brought other challenges—we have lost touch with nature and are under a lot of psychological stress. However, I believe human beings have survived because they are infinitely strong.

Perhaps we can sense your and your team’s enthusiasm by discovering what new research topics you are dreaming up, or maybe you are already mapping out new projects. With the rapid pace of technology, you will soon be able to explore and answer questions you never thought possible until recently. What do you say?

Ambition is indeed growing. If one wasn’t present yesterday, one can’t catch up with today, and the future doesn’t belong to us, but I would like to see research on the past serve people living in the present. For example, Swedish geneticist Svante Pääbo and his team reconstructed the Neanderthal genome. Fragments of that genome have been identified in our DNA, functional studies have been carried out, and very specific results have been obtained: The discovery of a variant of the progesterone receptor that has a functional impact on the timing of birth. On this basis, scientists can now develop a treatment strategy that is so necessary for women today and which improves the chances of carrying a foetus to term. So, based on ancient DNA analysis, we hope to personalise future research and discover treatments for a modern individual. Perhaps they will not include drugs but rather prevention programmes. It would also make sense to develop diagnostic or prognostic tools for people who spend years searching for a diagnosis or do not know what to expect if they develop a particular disease. There is still a lot of undiscovered stuff on Earth in general, and I do not doubt that archaeology and other disciplines will provide us with interesting samples and topics for research.

We look forward to welcoming you and your team to the annual Medical Genetics Awareness Week. Could you tell us a little bit about the background? How did the idea of organising such events come about? Please share what is planned for this year’s programme.

We came up with this event five years ago. This is an educational mission and celebration of our occupation. After all, people are primarily in contact with doctors and nurses, but behind them are other professionals, researchers, and laboratory scientists who work for the same patient. We want to show them how complex this work is and tell them what geneticists do. And I am happy to say that the day has already come: When we visit primary schools, pupils have no problem remembering and pronouncing the word “deoxyribonucleic acid”! This year, during Medical Genetics Awareness Week, we invite everyone to learn what medical genetics professionals are doing, visit the Medical Genetics Centre of Vilnius University, and participate in a brainstorming session on medical genetics. The questions will be fun and easy, so don’t be afraid to participate – the whole community is welcome. There will also be real-life images from the lab showing how geneticists see themselves today and what science might look like in the future. We will also have a Medical Genetics Forum, a significant event dedicated to professionals. It aims to bring together medical geneticists to share our experiences and to communicate and help each other. However, I encourage you to follow us after Medical Genetics Awareness Week as well – we try to publicise our discoveries and news through various channels of the Faculty of Medicine.

www.vu.lt

VILNIUS TECH receives €669,000 from “Google.org” to help build Lithuania’s cybersecurity workforce

2025-03-18T18:32:24+02:00

Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (VILNIUS TECH) University will receive up to 669,000 EUR funding from Google.org, the philanthropic arm of Google. VILNIUS TECH has been selected for this support and will continue to receive educational materials and guidance from emerging technology and policy nonprofit called Virtual Routes. With this support, University researchers will be able to create a "Cybersecurity Seminars" program for 200 students across a variety of academic disciplines.

According to NKSC (National Cyber Security Centre) data, the number of medium-severity cyber incidents that cause personal data security breaches is increasing in Lithuania. This implies that attacks are becoming more subtle and effective.

To address key cybersecurity challenges and create a safer digital environment, VILNIUS TECH will train several groups of qualified cybersecurity specialists. Students will also be able to put their skills directly into practice in local organizations strengthening their digital resilience.

"Time has shown that cyber threats, along with disinformation attacks, are becoming a challenge to national security. Russia's war in Ukraine, the scale of information attacks, and the development of artificial intelligence—all of these require constant vigilance and advanced solutions. Lithuania is already one of the world's leaders in cybersecurity, however, we must continue strengthening and developing our competencies in this area," says Minister of Economy and Innovation Lukas Savickas.

According to Dr. Adas Meskenas, Vice-Rector for Strategic Partnerships at VILNIUS TECH, this achievement and partnership with Google.org and Virtual Routes in the field of cybersecurity represent a significant milestone for a forward-looking and dynamic university.

"We have a unique opportunity to become a hub for nurturing talent interested in gaining cybersecurity knowledge and advancing their careers in this field. These individuals will further share their expertise with local communities most in need of it.

With a great understanding of the security challenges and risks in our region, our academic community continually seeks ways to contribute to strengthening our country's security. Knowledge is our most valuable contribution to safety and defense. By enhancing competencies, motivating students, and fostering the circulation of talent, we aim to become a leader in connecting science, business, government, and society. The innovative VILNIUS TECH cybersecurity seminars will build a safer and more resilient community," said Vice-Rector Dr. Meskenas.

"Cybersecurity Seminars" program will give students a head start to explore critical topics that shape the future of digital security. Subjects will range from data and device protection, minor incident response, malware prevention, and enhancement of security skills aimed at addressing modern cybersecurity threats.

This program will not only improve students' skills and solidify their knowledge but also strengthen digital security resilience within communities, which will help them safeguard their activities against cyber threats. Students will work closely with and practice in local organisations, including schools, trade unions, health and social services, and associations, which face digital security threats but lack the resources to address them effectively. During their internships within organizations, students will conduct cybersecurity awareness training, help remediate vulnerable devices, and contribute to the implementation of network security solutions, and assist with various other cybersecurity challenges.

“We are facing a shortage of cybersecurity professionals at a time when new technologies, like AI, are presenting both opportunities and threats to the field,” said Vytautas Kubilius, Google’s Country Director in the Baltics. “This model is a win-win. Students learn hands-on cybersecurity skills and vulnerable community organizations are defended from cyber attacks. We’re proud to support VILNIUS TECH university to help build a strong, diverse and AI savvy cybersecurity workforce.”

www.vgtu.lt

ECIU University’s achievements stand out in a European Commission report

2025-03-17T18:03:12+02:00

At the end of January, The European Commission published a landmark report assessing the outcomes and potential of the European Universities Initiative. The report underscores the Initiative’s achievements, highlights its challenges, and sets a course for future policy and investment to ensure its continued success.

ECIU University stands out prominently in the report; it is referenced 97 times for its best practices and achievements. The findings affirm ECIU University’s pioneering role in shaping the future of European higher education.

The EC report highlights four key ECIU University success stories, each presented as a best practice model. Digital Platform and XR Campus are labelled models for shared digital resources and virtual learning spaces, micro-credentials journey is set a s leading example of innovative education and mobility opportunities.

ECIU University’s gender equality and diversity strategy is recognised for its significant societal and economic impact. Challenges and local partnerships are identified as a driving force in regional collaboration and problem-solving in the report.

Unrivalled ECIU University’s leadership in micro-credentials
“We are immensely proud that ECIU University is leading the way in the development of micro-credentials, setting new standards in joint educational provision and student mobility. This recognition confirms our and other ECIU partners’ unwavering commitment to excellence and our key role in the development of European higher education,” says Eugenijus Valatka, the Rector at Kaunas University of Technology in Lithuania, and a member of the ECIU University Presidium.

Kaunas University of Technology (KTU), an active member of ECIU University, contributes significantly to the development of flexible learning pathways, micro-credentials, and collaborative research efforts aimed at addressing critical societal and industrial challenges. All these ECIU University achievements were positively mentioned throughout the European Commission’s Report.

ECIU University is responsible for an outstanding 82 per cent of all short courses leading to micro-credentials developed by the 39 alliances included in the study. Out of the 431 short courses launched by alliances as of October 2023, ECIU University contributed 355 courses, setting a benchmark for innovation in joint education provision and mobility.

Flexible education suits the needs of today’s learners
According to Kristina Ukvalbergienė, KTU’s Vice-Rector for Education, the ECIU University’s teaching and learning model is characterised by its flexibility and challenge-based approach. Students can create a flexible learning path, choosing the challenges and micro-modules that best suit their career goals and personal needs.

As part of ECIU University, KTU provides students with opportunities to engage in innovative, cross-border collaboration, working alongside international peers and stakeholders to tackle real-world issues.

“International interdisciplinary student teams work on challenges posed by business, public sector and non-governmental organisations, thus developing critical thinking, creativity and the ability to apply knowledge in practice. This learning model helps the students prepare for the global job market and an ever-changing professional world,” says Ukvalbergienė.

Through the issuance of e-sealed micro-credentials, ECIU university enhances learning flexibility and promotes lifelong education.

With 12 full partners, ECIU University is one of the two largest alliances in the European Universities Initiative. Additionally, it remains the only alliance that also operates as a university network, advocating for its partners beyond the initiative, including in Horizon Europe and Erasmus+ programs.

A call for continued policy and financial support
The report emphasises that 65 European University Alliances, representing over 570 higher education institutions from 35 countries, are playing a crucial role in strengthening European competitiveness. However, it also calls for sustained financial and policy support to allow alliances to achieve their ambitious goals.

According to KTU’s Vice-Rector for Education, The European University Alliances initiative is crucial for the European education system as it contributes to the creation of a unified European Higher Education Area, promotes the development and piloting of various innovative learning models, the sharing of good practices and the enhancement of quality.

It promotes academic mobility by enabling students and teachers to move more easily between different European institutions, thus increasing internationalisation and providing students with a broader intercultural and interdisciplinary education.

“Looking to the future, Europe’s education system needs to become more flexible, more inclusive and more prepared for the challenges of the future, while at the same time ensuring high quality education,” emphasises Ukvalbergienė.

In the report, key recommendations include long-term funding strategies (securing comprehensive funding through Erasmus+ and other EU programmes), and strengthening transnational cooperation. The European Commission continues to work on a Blueprint for a European Degree and quality assurance mechanisms and calls for all member states’ involvement in the process.

The European Commission’s report is a crucial step in ensuring the European Universities Initiative continues to drive educational transformation across Europe. For ECIU University, these findings reaffirm its leadership role and commitment to innovative, challenge-based education.