On August 13-23, the Floating University “Baikal-Evolution-2025” took place on R/V Akademik Koptug
On August 13-23, the Floating University “Baikal-Evolution-2025” took place on R/V Akademik Koptug, it was dedicated to the current problems of evolutionary biology in Lake Baikal. The event brought together teachers and young scientists from different institutions of Russia: LIN SB RAS, Research Institute in Biology of ISU, Institute SIPPB SB RAS (Irkutsk), Institute of Ecology and Evolution RAS, VNIRO (Moscow), ICBFM SB RAS, ICG SB RAS (Novosibirsk), Institute of Cytology RAS, ZIN RAS (St. Petersburg), Sirius Educational Center (Sochi).
The University program combined an intensive lecture section with practical field works. Participants listened to reports of leading experts on the speciation of Baikal sculpins and smelt, DNA repair, virus diversity and up-to-date bioinformatics methods. Alongside, young scientists presented their own research projects covering a wide range of topics: from population genetics to computer-assisted learning.
A crucial aspect of the University was practical training. Participants by themselves took samples using drags and plankton nets at various depths, got acquainted with methods for collecting organisms and analyzing water parameters. They had the opportunity to observe Baikal seals in their natural habitat, explore deep-sea fauna, and perform monitoring tasks with a remotely operated underwater vehicle.
The knowledge gained and the unique field experience will enable participants to utilize modern molecular and genetic methods in their future research.
