The Life Sciences Center (LSC) recently welcomed Professor Chris Turney, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Research at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), for a visit that marked an exciting step towards potential international collaboration. Accompanying Professor Turney were Gintaras Stepnavičius, Director at the Cormack Consultancy Group (CEE+), and Inna Chernysh, CCG Project Management Assistant.
The delegation was warmly received by several key representatives from the LSC: Dr. Kastis Krikštopaitis, Acting Director of LSC and Director of the Institute of Biochemistry; Prof. Vytautė Starkuvienė-Erfle, Deputy Director for International Affairs; and Prof. Eglė Lastauskienė, Director of the Institute of Biosciences.
Dr. Krikštopaitis opened the meeting with an overview of the LSC, highlighting its research achievements, student successes, and infrastructure. Professor Turney then presented UTS, outlining the university’s history, strategic focus on innovation, and globally impactful research, particularly in areas such as climate change, health technologies, and sustainable development. Later discussion explored joint opportunities for EU-funded research projects, student and staff exchanges, and initiatives in shared research interests.
After the presentations, the delegation toured the LSC research and study laboratories, as well as the equipment. One of the most impressive stops during the visit was the historical herbarium – a unique repository of plant specimens, recognized under UNESCO's "Memory of the World" program. The herbarium's historical collection, dating back to the 19th century, showcases rare and culturally significant specimens. The Lithuanian collection, which is continuously updated, reflects the diversity and changes in Lithuania's flora and the distribution of various plant taxonomic groups in the region.
UTS, ranked among the world’s top universities for research and innovation, is keen to forge partnerships within the European context. This visit marks a promising start to what both institutions hope will be a long-term relationship of shared growth and discovery.
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