Team news
Introducing BRT’s new Postdoctoral Researcher - Sandipan Banerjee
Recently, the BRT welcomed new postdoctoral researcher Sandipan Banerjee. Read his firsthand account detailing his background and aspirations below!
Hello and Namaskar, everyone! My name is Sandipan Banerjee. I come from Bardhaman, West Bengal, India, a district known for its incredible agriculture and dairy.
I have been part of the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague (CZU) since 2024. I completed my PhD at Visva-Bharati, India and successfully defended my thesis in December 2022. My Ph.D. thesis mainly focused on the plant-gut microbe interaction. Specifically, deciphering the insect (Chrysomya megacephala) and reptile (Hemidactylus flaviviridis) gut bacterial enzymatic potentiality in biotic stress i.e., biocontrol of phytopathogens (chitinase, protease and ß-glucanase), plant growth promotion (N2 fixation, IAA and siderophore production, biofilm formation, and phosphate solubilization), and abiotic stress management like bioremediation [heavy metalloid(s)] using multiomics downstream bioinformatics analyses along with phenotypic evidences for application in sustainable agriculture.
The Circular Bioeconomy Is Transforming the Way We Think About Waste
BRT postdoctoral researcher Lydia Mawar Ningsih recently wrote a think piece about the importance of a circular bioeconomy. Enjoy reading!
Waste is not just something that cannot be used, it is something highly valuable if we can utilize it properly. Utilization of waste such as organic fertilizer (compost and liquid organic fertilizer) and renewable energy can help reduce greenhouse gases (GHG), save the ecology of water bodies, both surface water and deep water and have a positive impact on the socio-economic side. However, in its utilization we need to pay attention to the method used, because if not, it will have fatal consequences and could be more dangerous than the waste itself.
MCYR 2025 Book of Abstracts Now Available Online
The 6th International Multidisciplinary Conference for Young Researchers (MCYR 2025), held on October 9–10, 2025, at the the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague (CZU), brought together a vibrant community of early-career researchers under the theme “Science and Innovation: Advancing the Path to a Sustainable Future.”
This year’s Book of Abstracts showcases the remarkable breadth and quality of research presented during the conference, spanning five interdisciplinary sessions: Climate & Sustainability, Technology & Innovation, Plants & Agriculture, Animals & Ecology, and Society & Culture. Together, these sessions reflect the diverse approaches young scientists are taking to address the pressing challenges of our time through creativity, collaboration, and scientific rigor.
Introducing BRT’s new PhD student - Chhorth Chhiengputheavy
Recently, the BRT welcomed new PhD student Chhorth Chhiengputheavy. Read her firsthand account detailing her background and aspirations below!
Hello, My name is Chhorth Chhiengputheavy, but everyone calls me Theavy. I am from Cambodia. I graduated my Master's degree in Natural Resources and Environment and recently began my PhD journey in Sustainable Rural Development at Czech University of Life Science Prague (CZU), Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences (FTZ).
I have the opportunity to continue my studies at FTZ, a faculty that focuses on creating practical environmental solutions for tropical countries and other parts of the world. This also introduced me to learn about BioResources & Technology Division (BRT). Being part of BRT allows me to learn from an inspiring team, amazing scientists, gain hands on experience in applied research, and contribute to projects that make a real difference in communities. BRT has been a strong foundation of knowledge, helping me become the best version of myself while working toward sustainable development solutions for my home country.
Out Now: MCYR 2025 Photo Album
Relive the best moments from the 6th International Multidisciplinary Conference for Young Researchers (MCYR), held on October 9–10, 2025, at the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague (CZU). The photo collection captures two inspiring days of collaboration, innovation, and scientific exchange, bringing together early-career researchers from around the world under the theme “Science and Innovation: Advancing the Path to a Sustainable Future.”
From keynote speeches and dynamic oral sessions to the vibrant poster presentations, the album highlights the energy and diversity that make MCYR a truly unique conference experience. You’ll also find snapshots from the evening networking barbecue and bonfire, moments of discussion and discovery, and of course, the awards ceremony, celebrating this year’s Best Presenter, Best Poster, and Storytelling competition winners.
deSalSea Project Kicks Off: Novel Sustainable Forward-Osmosis Seawater Desalination Process
On 24 June 2025, the international consortium behind the deSalSea project gathered for its first official meeting, marking the launch of an ambitious research initiative aimed at transforming seawater desalination through forward osmosis (FO) technology.
Titled “Novel Sustainable Forward-Osmosis Seawater Desalination Process”, the deSalSea project seeks to develop an integrated, energy-efficient FO system built on biomimetic membranes and stimuli-responsive draw solutions derived from sustainable resources. The ultimate goal is to deliver clean water solutions with significantly reduced energy consumption, lower environmental impact, and minimal reliance on fossil-based materials.
