Cooperation with world scientists: Kozybayev University strengthens research capacity

Today was the final day of work for the team of Professor Rod Wing at Kozybayev University. He is the Director of the Institute of Genomics at the University of Arizona, as well as a Professor of Crop Science at KAUST (Saudi Arabia). Rod Wing’s 33-year career in plant science spans the U.S. and the world. His work on the genomes of rice and other crops has helped the scientific and agricultural communities around the globe address fundamental and applied challenges related to providing the population with nutritious food by 2050 — all while doing no harm to the planet. Professor Wing actively collaborates with Kozybayev University, supporting its transformation into a research institution.

He is involved in the «Genomics of National Treasures» initiative, authored and led by Dr. Saule Musurova. The project is aimed at sequencing and assembling the genomes of unique Kazakhstani species, including the Caspian seal and Greig's tulip. Professor Wing is also providing strategic support to the genomic projects of the M. Kozybayev Center for Agro-Competencies at NKU, aimed at improving wheat breeding and accelerating the development of new varieties adapted to the climate of Northern Kazakhstan. During his stay at our university, Rod Wing held a number of seminars for students and took part in various scientific events.

Seminars for our students on the topics «Methods of Drug Design (Drug Development)» and «Analytical Methods in Biological Research» were organized by Dr. Vladlena Kharchenko, a research fellow at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine (New York, USA). Also, as part of the delegation, we welcomed Dr. Jennifer M. Wing, Ph.D. in Agricultural and Environmental Chemistry from the University of California (USA).

We are actively developing the field of inclusion in pedagogy. Toni Sparks, Associate Professor at the University of Arizona, shared her extensive experience in this area. She conducted seminars for students and special educators of North Kazakhstan Region on modern approaches and technologies in inclusive education.

In addition, she delivered a course for university faculty entitled «Professional Development of Teachers in the Context of Inclusive Education.»

We thank our guests for supporting the collaboration project with the University of Arizona and for the knowledge they have shared with the staff and students of Kozybayev University!