The universities of the Arqus Alliance, together with the “Scholars at Risk” network, invite you to the screening and discussion of the documentary (2023), which will take place on 23 September at 16:30 at the Small Hall of the ”Pasaka” Cinema Theatre (Šv. Ignoto g. 4/3).

The “Refugee Girls” documentary talks about the lives of young refugee girls in Europe. One story follows Afghan student Robina, who is studying at Rome’s La Sapienza University, where she and other refugees are trying to adapt to university life and the new reality of Italy. Another story tells of Sofiia and Bozhena, two Ukrainian girls who integrate at the University of Barcelona while continuing their distance studies in Ukraine. Despite the difficult challenges of forced migration, these young women look to the future with hope.

The film screening will be attended remotely by director Leonardo Cinieri Lombroso and human rights researcher Dr Elisa Gamba, who analyses the inclusion of refugees in university communities. After a brief introduction to the topic, a screening of the film will take place, followed by a discussion that will also present a range of initiatives to support refugee students.

This initiative is being implemented by the University of Padova together with Arqus partners – ����vlog����, the University of Leipzig, the University of Graz, Maynooth University, the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, and members of the “Scholars at Risk” network.

Please register .

As autumn draws near, ����vlog���� (VU) cordially invites international students to join the Orientation Events of the new academic year. VU has prepared a diverse programme, from a solemn ceremony to mark the start of the new academic year to educational tours and insightful training, that will facilitate students’ involvement in the University’s community.

International students will start getting to know VU on the Orientation Day that will take place on 27 August at 9:00 at the ‘Compensa’ Concert Hall (Kernavės g. 84, Vilnius). During the event, students will meet representatives of VU Students’ Representation, ESN ����vlog����, VU Culture Centre, VU Health and Sport Center, and other guests. International students will get useful information about life in Lithuania, opportunities at the University, and will get to know other students. More information on the event is available here.

On 29 August at 10:00, international students are invited to a training on the most relevant VU e-services to make the beginning of their studies easier. During the training, the information on logging in to all required information systems of VU will be provided, and any questions will be answered. The training will be held in the form of a .

A remote lecture for Master’s students on the relevant services will be held at 11:30. The link is available .

The RENOVATIO STUDORIUM ceremony on 1 September at 9:30 will traditionally start with VU’s flag-hoisting in the Library Courtyard (Universiteto g. 3), and, after visiting their faculties, VU staff, students, and alumni will gather at 14:45 for an impressive procession from the Seimas Palace to VU’s Grand Courtyard where the participants will be greeted by heads of VU and guests, freshers will make their oath, and the launch of the new academic year will be officially announced.

The annual procession organised since 1994 is the only event of such scale drawing together VU students, staff, and alumni, and available for viewing to Vilnius residents and guests. During the procession, students wear representational items of their faculties, chant slogans, and showcase their unique style of clothes.

On 2–4 September, freshers will be able to attend the events for getting to know their fellow students, programme mentors, faculty’s (unit’s) administration, and opportunities and services provided by VU.

On 5 September, the Orientation Week will end with the ‘’ event organised by VU Students’ Representation. This year, new students will be able to participate in discussions on relevant topics, learn about student initiatives, and participate in a concert closing the events.

VU freshers will also have an opportunity to learn about the history of VU buildings: two dedicated tours will be held on 8–10 September. Students will get to know the Saulėtekis campus complex on the ‘’ tour, while the tour of the will let them discover the impressive historical part of the University.

More information on the Orientation Events’ programme is available on the . The link to the event on the social network Facebook is available .

Margarita Biveinytė, a graduate of ����vlog����’s (VU) Bachelor’s programme in High-Tech Physics and Business, has just returned from a summer internship in Geneva at the European Organisation for Nuclear Research – CERN. This was her fourth visit and second internship at the world’s largest nuclear and particle physics laboratory.

This time, the visit was special – for the first time, she directly contributed to one of the four main experiments at CERN’s LHC (Large Hadron Collider). Dr Mindaugas Šarpis, a researcher at the Institute of Photonics and Nanotechnology of the VU Faculty of Physics and head of the CERN “LHCb Vilnius” group, is pleased that this internship is one of the examples how, with VU accepted as a new institute for this experiment, talented students now have the opportunity to be directly involved in CERN activities and to acquire top-level competences.

The young researcher worked in the VELO (Vertex Locator) detector group of the CERN LHCb (Large Hadron Collider beauty) experiment for several months. According to Margarita, the VELO detector in the LHCb experiment precisely records particle trajectories – its sensors are located just a few millimetres from the point where protons collide.

An invaluable experience for professional and personal growth

“The summer internship in the CERN LHCb VELO R&D (Research and Development) group, specifically focused on the scientific research and experimental development of silicon-based particle detectors, was truly an interesting and meaningful experience for me,” she says with satisfaction, adding that each time at CERN, she discovers something new.

According to the physicist, this experience gave her a special sense of responsibility and pride, and deepened her understanding of how fundamental research aligns with technological advancement. “Working in this group means not only delving into the most advanced detector technologies, but also being in constant dialogue between theory, engineering, and experiment. Most impressive was that, even as an intern, I felt like an equal team member – my observations, analysis results, and proposed hypotheses were heard and valued. Such an environment encouraged me to learn, grow, and set high standards for myself,” says the student.

Although Margarita’s work this summer involves silicon-based particle detectors, it differs from her previous experience at CERN, where she mainly investigated the effect of high-energy radiation on the electrical characteristics of these detectors.

“This work was more focused on electronics and experimental equipment aspects, which made it a new and interesting challenge for me. I had the opportunity to work on improving the detector element characterisation setup. Specifically, I carried out focusing and surface-scanning measurements for different silicon detector structures – from planar detector elements to new detector architectures such as LGAD and SiEM sensors – which are essential for ensuring the precise alignment of the laser beam with the sensor surface,” the physicist explains.

The young researcher emphasises that this method enables high-quality measurements of time resolution and charge collection efficiency, creating pixel maps, and contributes to a better understanding of sensor structures. “All of this data is essential for accurately assessing the properties of the sensors and their suitability for use in the upcoming LHCb VELO upgrade. This major upgrade will ensure even greater spatial and temporal resolution, improved radiation hardness, and higher data transfer rates. These improvements are necessary for the detector to operate effectively under the conditions of increased particle collision intensity,” notes Margarita.

This internship allowed the future Master’s student to better understand silicon sensors’ operating principles, contribute practically to an important project, and learn how to work with complex experimental equipment. “It was both a challenge and an invaluable experience for my professional and personal growth,” she reflects.

CERN has accompanied her since the second year of her Bachelor’s studies

“CERN has become an important part of my academic journey – both during my Bachelor’s studies and now, as I prepare for my Master’s degree. In my second year, I joined the Photoelectric Phenomena Research Group at the Institute of Photonics and Nanotechnology (IPN) of the VU Faculty of Physics. There, I began to delve into silicon detectors and research related to the CERN DRD3 Solid State Detectors programme, which is based on semiconductors – particularly silicon detectors – used in almost all particle physics experiments,” the physicist recounts.

One of the programme’s objectives is to determine the effects of high-energy radiation on the functional characteristics of particle detectors. According to the student, this experience was the starting point that opened the door for her to engage in international collaboration. Last year, she participated in the CERN Summer Student Programme, in which she was the only participant from Lithuania.

The young researcher emphasises that CERN is a place where the everyday becomes extraordinary. “Here mornings begin among powerful particle accelerators, where just a few meters away, phenomena unfold that recreate the very first moments of the Universe. We watch screens filled with data that could one day transform our understanding of the world. Between team meetings, experiments, and in-depth discussions with scientists from around the globe, discoveries are born – and it feels less like work and more like being part of a scientific revolution,” she says.

“This has been not only a professional but also a personal turning point – in the best sense of the word: I had the chance to live and work alongside world-class scientists and to become familiar with various CERN activities. This summer’s internship gave me the invaluable opportunity to present my research to the CERN community at two conferences and become a co-author of a scientific publication,” notes M. Biveinytė.

Although her experience at CERN opened up the possibility of continuing with a long-term internship this autumn, she has decided for now to focus on her Master’s studies at the VU Faculty of Physics and to continue working at the Institute of Photonics and Nanotechnology. “It is important for me to make the most of this period by deepening my knowledge and continuing research related to the characterisation of particle detectors. CERN is a place that shapes you not only as a scientist but also as a person. I believe this topic will continue to accompany me throughout my Master’s studies – both in conducting research and, perhaps, in developing scientific collaborations or even returning to CERN soon,” the physicist concludes.

For almost three decades, Professor Hans Kjeldsen from Aarhus University (Denmark) has been working closely with scientists from the Faculty of Physics at ����vlog���� (VU), studying the composition of stars. In 2024, he was awarded an honorary doctorate from VU for his outstanding scientific achievements and long-standing partnership with Lithuanian astronomers. The asteroseismology methods he has developed allow us to look into the depths of stars through their vibrations and have been implemented even in NASA’s Kepler space mission, opening up new opportunities to understand the evolution of stars and detect exoplanets (planets orbiting other stars outside the solar system).

Asteroseismology: what the vibrations of stars reveal

Prof. H. Kjeldsen is not only one of the world’s most renowned asteroseismologists. He is well known in the scientific community as an expert with a warm and open communication style, an ability to clarify complex issues, and a sincere dedication to both research and teaching.

Asteroseismology is similar to seismology on Earth, except that instead of earthquakes, oscillations and vibrations in stars are observed. According to the astrophysicist, a telescope may show what happens in a star, and then one gets a very long extended series of data, but the whole excitement is – what does one learns and how the information is extracted.

“I have, over the years, together with a group in Aarhus and here in Lithuania, built techniques to extract that information to learn really deep things about stars. I still remember the first time I even saw these vibrations in my data. This is such an inspiring thing – you see things that no one else has seen before. The universe showing things that we need to measure and then extract the information is an enormous inspiration – you can sit there and try to make the next puzzle in the whole landscape of science,” the professor described the information hidden in the depths of stars, which cannot be seen from the outside. This includes, for example, their internal structure, physical processes and evolution.

From Molėtai telescopes to NASA missions

The scientist has fond memories of his first visit to the VU Molėtai Astronomical Observatory, surrounded by nature. At that time, he participated in one of the first international summer schools for students.

“It was actually a Norwegian professor, Jan-Erik Solheim, who invited me. Professor Gražina Tautvaišienė also have known him for many years. When I came there, I really liked the whole environment, having all the students using all the facilities and also having an extremely high level of ambition. Not necessarily academically, but we wanted to push the students to the limit of what we could also do. Then I met the staff here. Young and older. They were all really dedicated. As teachers, we were so close to the students and their projects that we supervised them in small groups. Because we were here in Molėtai, there was no way of escaping. In those days, you were away, you were sitting, concentrating or focusing on the whole thing. I was super inspired by this. I didn’t know how to do it in Denmark, but here it worked,” jokes the professor, recalling a time when there were no smart devices and a constant flow of information.

Prof. H. Kjeldsen recalls that soon not only the telescopes of the VU Molėtai Astronomical Observatory were put into use, but also remote observations with the Nordic Optical Telescope and telescopes from other observatories. A group of scientists in Lithuania analysed stars, their atmospheres, and properties, using a lot of spectroscopy.

“In those days, I actually didn’t work a lot on exoplanets, but that came along with our collaboration with the USA and the Kepler NASA space telescope group. We also brought all of that data from the space mission into the summer schools. We developed research activities that are very aligned with other summer school activities. Research grew out of the schools, and then we figured out that if we developed a project together, the way we organise a space mission was also an open thing. We decided to have a completely open environment in the space mission so that every student and researcher could join the teams. You didn’t have to contribute financially to anything; you had to use your brain and work on the data because there was so much data. No one could cope with all that,” says the professor.

According to the researcher, measurements of individual stars, such as determining their chemical composition, age, and evolution, are carried out at the VU Molėtai Astronomical Observatory and are very useful when linked to other data.

“The things were aligned, but it was not that we, with VU astrophysicists, tried to do it in parallel; we had to work together. And this is what astrophysics is so strong about,” emphasises the researcher. He greatly appreciates the expertise of the scientists working at the VU Molėtai Astronomical Observatory and the equipment available there.

“This telescope is really great, and the science that comes out of Molėtai is really producing the data that you don’t get anywhere else. Specifically because the group here also analysed the data and knew what to do. So, one thing is to get data in the beginning, but how do you understand that, and how are you sure that you understand that correctly? They have developed that for 20 years here in Vilnius, so this is also what I find fascinating – we can come here and collaborate on the data to make sure that the future space missions understand data in the correct way,” says the professor.

Collaboration in science strengthens our understanding of the universe

Prof. H. Kjeldsen mentions several reasons why international cooperation in astronomy is essential.

“One is that objects in the universe are like anything emitting electromagnetic radiation in the full spectrum, from x-rays, visible light, infrared, ultraviolet, to radio waves. To understand any object fully, you need the whole spectrum. No one has access to all instrumentation, so if you don’t collaborate, you’ll be studying only a part of the system.

It is not like in different types of physics experiments, where you have one main instrument and you work on that. We use space missions, ground-based, and the Molėtai is a great example of this. You actually can’t do what you do in Molėtai in a space mission. There is no way of doing that with any space mission. You would ask why not? Because those kinds of instruments are huge and heavy, you can’t fly them and get them to work,” the scientist highlights the importance of local resources in the context of global research.

Another important reason is that the research area is quite small. According to the honorary doctor of VU, even with all the data available, its analysis requires joint knowledge and efforts. “There are too few people; we are not the department that could do it internally. This is, of course, no problem if you establish these collaborations. It is not only Lithuania that I collaborate with; there are many other groups, although this is one of the closest connections I have because we built it up this way – the collaboration, which is essential for me to answer the questions.“

The researcher also identifies collaboration as a valuable stimulus for student improvement. The international environment encourages young people to develop their own ideas and broaden their horizons, while getting to know their colleagues and their methods becomes an integral part of their professional growth. “Of course, you can do that by knocking on the doors of my colleagues, but it is much more natural to send students here to the summer schools,” tells Prof. H. Kjeldsen.

Science – part of culture and a value-based activity

The professor sees science as a cultural thing. “Science is one thing where we could have really good discussions across cultures and languages. I think that a super important thing is to try to understand other societies, cultures, and ways of working. Through this, of course, you end up thinking, “Okay, not everything is like at my home. Science is a common interest,” and the astrophysicist emphasises the importance of openly sharing knowledge around the world.

According to him, this kind of culture of openness is particularly strong in astrophysics, which requires international infrastructure and cooperation between many countries: “It is not only about the small countries. If you go to even NASA, it’s a huge, inspiring organisation. They have worked for complete openness. Thanks to some of these big missions and big organisations – that is actually why we get all these things [data] for free. The idea that all the data should, in principle, be open for all of us.”

He also emphasises that science should not be viewed solely through an economic lens – it is, above all, a value-based activity founded on a culture of cooperation. According to him, this culture is essential in both Lithuania and Denmark if we want to maintain an open and sustainable science system.

Explanations are understandable for both a primary school student and a PhD student

Prof. H. Kjeldsen is actively involved in popularising science among the general public and strives to speak simply when teaching, applying various teaching methods. According to him, one of the most important aspects is to link what you want to teach to your own culture and language.

According to the professor, although access to information is no longer difficult today, other challenges arise that require more responsibility and critical thinking in the process of evaluating it.

“We educate teachers and researchers, and this idea is important for both. For example, like in Lithuania, we don’t speak English in daily life, and when you go to the internet, you get all these words in English. I see this in my students and the students I supervise. When they’re writing reports, they get these words, and I don’t actually know their meaning. Although it’s a simple word in a way, they try to make a Danish version of it, and sometimes I’m reading that text and say, “I’m not sure you mean what you say because this word actually has a different meaning,” the professor says.

An astrophysicist aims to communicate science as clearly as possible and “translate” specific scientific language for different audiences: “Astrophysics is an actual way to attract the next generation into science questions. I often try to simplify things, and I realise that many of the things that I use at 1st year of university I can bring into the classroom of a primary school. Of course, they’re not exactly the same, and I’m not talking about technical mathematical things. And this is why astrophysics is so good about – you can describe things. For example, the surface of another planet is easily understood; you can talk about mountains, stones, and galaxies. Often, when you have worked a lot on your own research, you tend to forget what can be understood and what cannot.” – he is convinced that this is an area where it is particularly easy to arouse curiosity and help people understand the world. His experience is no different – just before 1st grade, he found out about the first rockets being launched and people landing on the moon, and became fascinated by the sky, the stars, and the planets.

“Although I could be teaching less, I really continue with that for both because I really like it and, when I present things, I know better what I understand and what I don’t understand, and I have to explain it. And if the students in the classroom or children in primary school don’t understand what I am talking about, then it is of course me doing things incorrectly,” concludes astrophysicist, emphasising that education is an integral part of research.

This initiative is foreseen as a first step to develop further interactions between Arqus staff and students and to build a strong basis for developing future programmes, activities and mobilities. The selected projects will be carried out through the academic year 2025-2026, enabling about 60 students and 12 lecturers to benefit from the mobility programme.

The response to the call was positive, with 24 proposals submitted from across the Alliance. This enthusiastic participation highlights the strong interest in building cross-institutional collaborations. While many proposals demonstrated excellent quality and high potential, only a small number could be funded.

This is the list of the six projects selected for funding thanks to the Innovation Fund and partners’ resources:

• “Sustainable leadership and innovation: empowering future changemakers”. ����vlog���� and the University of Minho.
• “Urban green transition pathways”. ����vlog���� and the University of Granada.
• “Smart Finance for a greener future: ESG investing and digital-era risk management”. ����vlog���� and Durham University.
• “Greening transitions with AI: Climate, employment and sustainability in action”. The University of Minho and The University of Graz.
• “Energy Network for Advanced Conversion Technologies (ENACT)”. The University of Wrocław and The University of Padua.
• “The controversy over the orthodox concept of God in the late 18th century. Philosophical debates: investigations for a critical genealogy of contemporary secular and post-secular thought”. The University of Padua and Leipzig University.

On 15 August, the Botanical Garden of ����vlog���� (VU) in Kairėnai invites everyone to celebrate Žolinė (the Assumption of Mary), one of the oldest summer festivities in Lithuania. The programme of the ‘Žolinėk ’25’ event includes educational meetings with herbalists, lectures by scientists, live music concerts, and nature therapy sessions.

The festival also features meetings with artisans and sauna masters, specialists’ lectures, educational activities, workshops, various exhibitions, artists’ plein-air, and entertainment for the youngest visitors at the Children’s Meadow. Participants are invited to attend live music performances by Monos, Baltasis Kiras, and Antikvariniai Kašpirovskio Dantys. Nature therapy and breathwork practice sessions are open to those seeking peace or a deeper connection with nature.

This year’s Children’s Meadow presents an outstanding family programme packed with surprises. Educators at the Botanical Garden’s pavilion invite everyone to solve botanical puzzles, learn about plants, and create portraits of herbaceous plants together, with prizes available for the smartest and most curious participants. The Children’s Meadow is the place to meet beloved children’s characters, play table games, stop by the glitter booth of the Fairy Valley, play with soap bubbles, and try your hand at the herb-themed colouring station. Entertainment and surprises await the whole family.

The programme of lectures at the museum is designed to deepen the knowledge of the importance that plants hold in our lives. Ethnologist, Professor Libertas Klimka will deliver a presentation about the role of medicinal herbs in ancient Lithuanian traditions. He maintains that a close bond with the nature of one’s homeland is a traditional trait of Lithuanian ethnic culture. In his lecture, the Professor invites participants to rediscover this connection with nature.

Academic Jonas R. Naujalis will present his new book ‘Nuodingieji augalai šalia mūsų’ (‘Poisonous Plants Near Us’), offering valuable knowledge about poisonous plants in Lithuania. The lecture will be complemented by the exhibition ‘Purposeful or Poisonous? Posters from the Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries’, highlighting 11 original and authentic posters holding educational and artistic value.

Mycologist Dr Jonas Kasparavičius will introduce the medicinal properties of mushrooms, which are still shrouded in a number of myths. In a detailed presentation, the researcher will spotlight the invisible, yet vital world, which will also be featured in another Museum’s exhibition ‘The Magic of Microorganisms’. Birutė Masiliauskienė, a sauna master, will deliver a lecture on the links between Lithuanian saunas and plants. The Sauna Laboratory will also wait for those willing to learn more secrets about sauna rituals. The crown jewel of the programme is the lecture by herbalist Vilma Petreikienė about Calendula officinalis, the star of this year’s festivities.

Visitors are also invited to immerse themselves in artistic experiences, providing another point of view on nature. Artists’ plein-air ‘Ant žolės’ (‘On the Grass’) and an art fair are envisioned to connect nature, creativity, and people, allowing everyone to experience how ties between art and the environment emerge.

At the meadow of ‘Žolinėk ’25’, a plant-themed creative space invites visitors to participate in various activities. ‘Švenčionių vaistažolės’ factory, celebrating authentic traditions, is going to present the plant world from up close. The fair of herbaceous plants and delicacies is going to entice visitors with summer aromas, from dried herbs to therapeutic propolis. Workshops are planned for making wreaths, grass bouquets, flower postcards, herbaceous souvenirs, and culinary herb mixes.

The festivities intertwine knowledge, creativity, and leisure, from practical skills to deeper knowledge of nature. When in need of a short break, take a stroll to the leisure oases offering food trucks, gourmet ice cream, and summer drinks.
The ‘Žolinėk ’25’ event is organised in collaboration with the Lithuanian Phytotherapy Association and ‘Švenčionių vaistažolės’.

Following extensive restoration, the historic courtyard named after Konstantinas Sirvydas, a pioneer of Lithuanian written tradition, has reopened to the ����vlog���� (VU) community, city residents, and visitors. Located next to St Johns’ Church, it is one of 13 historic courtyards within VU’s central architectural ensemble, now all open to the public.

Research unveils historical beauty

The VU courtyards are an integral part of the University and Vilnius Old Town, making their regular upkeep and renovation essential. Maintenance projects are therefore carried out on a consistent basis. The Sirvydas Courtyard is a particularly cherished gathering space for the St Johns’ Church (the Church of St John the Baptist and St John the Apostle and Evangelist) community and a popular spot for newlyweds after their wedding ceremonies. Thus, preserving both its authenticity and aesthetic value was one of the key priorities during the restoration process.

The works in the Sirvydas Courtyard included heritage conservation, construction, detailed archaeological research, and the restoration of masonry and plaster on all courtyard facades.

‘Our research revealed that the walls of Building No. 12 (formerly the Carriage House, now home to the Department of Lithuanian Studies in the Faculty of Philology) remained unplastered until the mid-20th century. We decided to showcase the original masonry, thereby preserving the building’s appearance from the time it was constructed. The building’s evolution is clearly reflected in surviving details: fragments of wall paintings reveal that these walls once formed the interior, while the staircase retains marble-imitating decorative elements. Meticulously preserved, all these details are now ready to be admired. The roof tiles were also replaced, a new granite-paved surface was laid in the courtyard, and lighting, along with small architectural features, such as benches and tables, was added. At night, the courtyard is imbued with an especially romantic atmosphere,’ said VU project administrator Rasa Rožanskienė.

Innovative solutions helped preserve historical and natural value

Given the courtyard’s historical significance, the valuable features uncovered during the restoration, unexpected engineering finds, and the presence of historic gates, the choice of construction equipment was very limited. This called for innovative technological solutions to protect the site’s heritage: for instance, replacing traditional concrete with self-compacting concrete – a much more sustainable option.

Special attention was also given to the oak trees growing in the courtyard, under the care of Dr Audrius Skridaila, Head of the VU Botanical Garden. To protect the exposed roots during the restoration works, they were covered with regularly moistened felt, while the trunks were shielded from physical damage with special wooden supports.

The restoration of the Sirvydas Courtyard was carried out by a dedicated and extensive group of experts: archaeologist Kęstutis Peseckas and his team, researchers Robertas Žilinskas, Indrė Valkiūnienė, and Jakovas Mendelevičius, architect and project manager Rūta Irena Klimavičienė, as well as the restorers and heritage specialists from ‘Virmalda’, MB. In time for VU’s 450th anniversary celebrations, the University also plans to renovate other courtyards within the complex. Preparations are already underway for works in the Library, Motiejus Kazimieras Sarbievijus, and Mikalojus Daukša courtyards. Archaeological, architectural, and polychromatic studies of these courtyards have already been completed, and a tree protection plan is currently being prepared. Additionally, consultations are planned with the University community to discuss the courtyards’ functions, as well as with the Vilnius Chief Architect’s Office and the Department of Cultural Heritage to address their aesthetic aspects.

The Sirvydas Courtyard stands on the site of the former churchyard of St John’s Church, once a cemetery. According to Dr Inga Leonavičiūtė, a historian at the VU Faculty of History, the courtyard had no official name until 1976, when the University formalised the names of its courtyards in preparation for its 400th anniversary.

‘We can say that, among all the new personal names assigned during that reform, this courtyard’s name is the most closely tied to the figure it honours. Konstantinas Sirvydas – an alumnus and Professor of the Jesuit Academy of Vilnius – was one of the first prominent Lithuanians at this institution. He authored ‘Punktai sakymų’ – the first original collection of sermons in Lithuanian – compiled the first Lithuanian–Polish–Latin dictionary, and wrote the grammar of the Lithuanian language. Sirvydas not only taught at the University as one of its principal theology professors but also preached at St Johns’ Church for ten years, delivering sermons in both Lithuanian and Polish,’ listed the historian.

The results of the general admission to first cycle studies at ����vlog���� (VU) have been announced. Invitations to study at VU were extended to almost 4,500 entrants, more than 3,600 of whom received invitations for State-funded student places. This year, social sciences, health sciences, and business and public administration retain their top positions, with education and physical sciences also attracting increased interest.

In this year’s general admission stage, more future students chose first cycle studies at VU than last year. This year, the most popular study programmes among entrants at VU were Psychology, Medicine, Law, Creative Communication, Economics and Finance, Criminology, Political Sciences, Management, Physical Therapy, and Global Marketing.

Compared to last year, an increased interest is observed in Medicine, Law, Physical Therapy, Dentistry, Political Sciences, Special Education and Speech Therapy, Criminology, Psychology, Pharmacy, and Molecular Biology studies.
According to the data of the Association of Lithuanian Higher Education Institutions for Joint Admissions (LAMA BPO), this year, 19.1 thousand entrants are eligible for State-funded student places and study scholarships at first cycle and integrated study programmes, compared to 17.2 thousand eligible entrants in 2024. 11.4 thousand of them are this year’s school graduates.

The general admission results are now available to entrants via the information system and by email. The conclusion of study agreements will take place from 15:00 on 11 August to 12:00 on 14 August.

From 15:00 on 15 August to 15:00 on 19 August, entrants are invited to submit their applications and participate in additional admission. During the additional admission, applications for State-funded student places are also accepted.

Starting from 13 August, direct admission to two study programmes will be carried out: Law (for persons with a university or college higher education) and Public Health (for persons holding a higher education degree acquired at a college (in health science field), a university (only in biology and educology fields) or a medicine school).

Is learner autonomy just about studying alone, or is it something much deeper, more collaborative and more critical? How do we help students become truly autonomous learners in today’s digital world? These questions are at the heart of the latest episode of the Arqus Knowledge Pills podcast featuring Professor Marco Cappellini, specialist in Language Sciences at the University of Lyon 1 and co-editor of Learner Autonomy and Web 2.0.

Drawing on years of research in language education, virtual exchanges and teacher training, Professor Cappellini explores how our understanding of autonomy has evolved from individual self-regulation to a more social and reflective process supported by peer interaction and digital tools. He introduces the idea of social autonomy, where learning is shaped not in isolation, but through meaningful collaboration and dialogue, especially in online environments.

The conversation also touches on the role of teachers in fostering learner autonomy: not as distant facilitators, but as active mediators who scaffold learning, guide reflection, and help students navigate complex digital learning spaces. 

How can we support all learners, including those with less access to resources or digital confidence, in becoming autonomous? What kinds of environments and policies are needed to make autonomy an honest and equitable goal?

Don’t miss Episode #42 of Arqus Knowledge Pills, a rich and timely conversation on the future of language education, learner agency and the evolving role of teachers in the digital age. You can listen to the episode .

����vlog���� (VU) has acquired two large remote solar power plants and installed photovoltaic power stations on the rooftops of 19 University-owned buildings in Vilnius and Šiauliai. Together, these solar power facilities will generate up to 5,600 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity annually, covering around one-third of VU’s total yearly electricity consumption. This initiative, along with the University’s five-year practice of purchasing green electricity from an independent supplier, advances the implementation of VU’s strategic climate neutrality plan.

The electricity generated by the solar plants will reduce VU’s dependence on external energy suppliers and will also contribute to lowering greenhouse gas emissions both in Lithuania and globally. This marks an important step towards the University’s ambition of becoming a leading higher education institution in the field of sustainability. VU’s investment in renewable energy reflects the values of the University community and its commitment to fostering a responsible environmental mindset among students and staff.

‘Having prepared our projects on time, we were able to take advantage of favourable conditions to install solar panels on VU rooftops and acquire several remote power plants. This will allow us to cover a significant share of our electricity needs with self-generated power and move forward with the implementation of our sustainability policy,’ said VU Rector Prof. Rimvydas Petrauskas.

VU consumes an average of around 18,000 MWh of electricity each year. Since 2021, the University has phased out polluting energy sources, becoming one of the first major institutions in Lithuania to meet all of its electricity needs with purchased green energy. As a result, VU now prevents the release of roughly 7,500 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into the atmosphere each year.

In 2024, VU purchased a 2-megawatt (MW) solar power plant in the Kaunas District and a 2.2 MW plant in the Biržai District. These two remote solar facilities generate approximately 4,400 MWh of electricity for VU each year.

In 2025, the University installed solar panels on the rooftops of 19 dormitories and research buildings in Vilnius and Šiauliai, with most located on the Saulėtekis campus in Vilnius. The total capacity of the rooftop systems is 1.37 MW, producing around 1,200 MWh of electricity annually. Combined, the solar power plants owned by VU generate enough electricity each year to supply about 1,100 large households, based on the average annual electricity consumption of 5.1 MWh per household in Lithuania.

VU remains committed to investing in environmentally friendly solutions that reduce pollution and cut energy consumption. These long-term goals are embedded in the University’s strategy, which includes achieving climate neutrality, advancing research and education that have a positive environmental impact, and fostering a greener mindset across society. A key priority is to become a more sustainable and environmentally responsible institution that consistently reduces its greenhouse gas emissions.

The Arqus Community of Practice, Libraries of the Future, invites Arqus staff members to their hybrid seminar "Strengthening Open Scholarship and Open Science Collaboration and Capacity in Arqus Member Libraries", which will take place on 11 September 2025 from 10:15 to 17:10 CEST.

As part of its ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration and capacity building within the Arqus Alliance, the Libraries of the Future Community of Practice is organising this one-day seminar facilitated by Cathal McCauley (Maynooth University).

The seminar will bring together professionals from Arqus member libraries, research offices and academic departments to discuss the challenges of strengthening open scholarship and open science across the Arqus Alliance libraries.

With contributions from speakers representing four Arqus member institutions, the seminar will address key topics including institutional-led publishing, research data management, research support and emerging challenges in the field. 

For more information, click .

The new Arqus Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) “Cybersecurity for Citizens and Professionals” is now available to the public on the .

Developed within the framework of the Arqus European University Alliance as part of the Cyberactioning Project, co-funded by the Digital Europe Programme, this course aims to promote digital security skills for a broad audience: from citizens to professionals.

The MOOC was designed and delivered as part of the training activities foreseen in Cyberactioning, a project coordinated by the University of Granada. It was developed by academics and professionals from the project’s diverse consortium of academic and industry partners, including:

• University of Padua, ����vlog���� and University of Minho
• And industry and research partners: IMDEA, AMPED, QASCOM, DIGITALSIGN, EUROTUX, and 4iQ Constella Intelligence

About the course

The course is open and free for all learners. Once enrolled, participants have six weeks of access to the material and can follow it weekly or at their own pace.

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Apply fundamental cybersecurity principles to safeguard personal and professional data
• Explore various online threats and identify strategies to mitigate them
• Investigate common vulnerabilities in digital systems and how to address them
• Evaluate real-world cybersecurity incidents and extract actionable lessons
• Practice creating secure environments, both at home and in the workplace

Certificate of achievement

Learners who wish to receive a certificate can upgrade the course via Future Learn. To qualify, they must:

• Mark over 90% of the course steps as complete
• Attempt all test questions
• Score above 70%

This course and other exciting learning opportunities will soon be accessible directly through the Arqus Learning Platform, bringing flexible, high-quality training even closer to our university community.

For more information, click .

On August 7, a delegation from Bogomolets National Medical University in Kyiv (Ukraine) paid a visit to the Faculty of Medicine, ����vlog���� (VU MF). The aim of the visit was to strengthen international cooperation in the fields of medicine and health sciences, to share good practices and discuss possible partnerships in scientific research and innovations.

Bogomolets National Medical University in Kyiv was represented by the Rector Prof. Iurii Kuchyn, Sergii Krasiuk, Director of the University Clinic, Valentyn Sadovyi, Head of the Clinical Diagnostic Laboratory, Ivanna Sakhanda-Piddiakha, Director of the International Mobility and Projects Centre, and Dr Nataliia Greben, Acting Director of the Institute of Postgraduate Studies. They were accompanied by the Director of Šiauliai Hospital, Mindaugas Pauliukas, and his deputy.

The guests were welcomed at the Medical Science Centre by the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Prof. Dalius Jatužis, Vice-Dean of Science and Innovation, Assoc. Prof. Karolis Ažukaitis, Head of Innovation Development, Dr Andrius Kaselis, and Innovation Specialist Dr Dominyka Dapkutė-Sadauskienė.

During the visit, the activities of the VU Faculty of Medicine, as well as the vision of the future activities of the Medical Science Centre, the main challenges in the fields of science and studies, and directions of development were presented to the guests. The delegation members were interested in the prospects of medical and health sciences of Lithuania and VU study development issues, cooperation with external partners, management decisions of the new Medical Science Centre building and strategies for organising and evaluating scientific activities.

Such meetings help strengthen academic dialogue between institutions, create a basis for joint projects, and open new opportunities for exchanges between students, teachers, and researchers in the future.

On July 28–August 1, the Vilnius International Oncology Summer School (VIOSS), organised by the ����vlog���� Faculty of Medicine (VU MF) together with the ����vlog���� Hospital (VUH) Santaros Clinics National Cancer Centre (NCC), took place in Vilnius. Over thirty doctoral students, interested students and scientists specialising in cancer research from Lithuania, Georgia, Norway, Italy, Latvia, Slovenia, and Finland gathered at the VU MF Medical Science Centre.

The VIOSS Summer School brought together future specialists for intensive learning, collaboration and unforgettable cultural experiences. During the event, participants shared their experiences and the latest research data on oncology topics, built professional networks and performed team tasks, solving real “case” problems. Every day, participants had theoretical knowledge sharing sessions and group work, during which they discussed ideas for doctoral research; they paid visits to the VUH Santaros Clinics, the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the Hematology, Oncology and Transfusion Medicine Centre at the VUH Santaros Clinics, and the National Center of Pathology, and had a cultural program, discovering Vilnius together with like-minded people.

According to one of the initiators of VIOSS, VU MF Vice-Dean of Science and Innovation Assoc. Prof. Karolis Ažukaitis, this international summer school is not only a platform for scientific exchange, but also the beginning of long-term collaborations. “We are glad that the Faculty of Medicine is becoming a space where young researchers from different career stages, institutions, disciplines, and countries meet, share knowledge, establish professional contacts and seek solutions to one of the greatest challenges of modern medicine together”, said the professor.

“I believe that this week will inspire participants for further research and ideas that will contribute to the progress of oncology science and practice on an international scale. The motivation of the event participants to get involved in scientific and innovative activities, especially those that solve problems relevant to patients, left a particular impression. No less impressive were the scientific research ideas prepared and presented during the event, which demonstrated the exceptional abilities of the young generations of researchers. This week shows our huge undiscovered opportunities in the field of science: not only can we attract foreign minds, but we also have exceptional people who are motivated to gain knowledge and share it. In short, we opened the door to opportunities and observed how much young people can do and learn in one week. And you can do quite a lot!“ he added.

The Director of the National Cancer Centre, Assoc. Prof. Valdas Pečeliūnas presented to the foreign guests the infrastructure of Lithuanian cancer treatment centres and the ambition to establish an internationally recognised Comprehensive Cancer Centre in our country, dedicated to oncology, in which seamless integration of cutting-edge research with clinical patient care would be implemented. He emphasised that this school is one of the missions of oncology professionals: “We want to help young researchers organise their careers and contribute to the development of scientific research in the field of oncology. Often, people who choose medical professions remain in purely clinical activities and do not necessarily continue their scientific careers after the initial stage. Our aim is to encourage people who have chosen the medical profession to make the decision to do so, and representatives of other professions who are interested in oncology issues to get involved in joint work.”

The VIOSS participants were welcomed by Marius Čiurlionis, Senior Coordinator of the Palliative Oncology Subdivision of the National Cancer Centre, lecturer at the VU MF, who emphasised the opportunity to make useful acquaintances. “This school is not about the university, nor about the lecturers or scientists, it is all about you. The aim of this summer school is for future doctoral students to establish contacts wherever they build their project.” He wished the participants every success not only in their future activities, but also in making new friends at this summer school.

On the first day of the event, participants listened to presentations by guests from foreign institutions. Prof. Stein Kaasa, Head of the Department of Oncology at the University of Oslo, presented insights into the most important achievements in palliative care and oncology, as well as research gaps and trends in this field. He spoke about the to-be-introduced innovation – a special self-monitoring app for cancer patients, which is supposed to help doctors better understand the patient’s daily life by controlling the symptoms of the disease in the future.

The need to pay more attention to the patient’s well-being, values, needs, and to change the approach to their care was emphasised. Although it is common to see a patient’s treatment path as a staged straight line, in which steps need to be completed in a certain sequence, he metaphorically compared this process to the London train network: “This path is more like a map of many intersecting possible travel routes: looking at each patient individually, we must be flexible and adaptable to the patient’s needs, because there will be many points on their path where they will have to get off one train and change direction, and travel on another.” According to him, the patient’s constant self-monitoring and daily recording of pain and sensations in the app could improve communication between the doctor and the patient and lead to targeted treatment adaptation and response to necessary changes in the course of treatment.

Professor Maria Grazia De Marinis from the Campus Bio Medico University of Rome also dedicated her presentation to the topic of palliative care for patients. She emphasised the need to change the attitude towards a dying person, regardless of their condition, and to raise the importance of research in this area. According to her, relatives, caregivers and doctors are involved in this patient’s journey, so the involvement and understanding of all of them is very important.

“We need to look at the sick person holistically, integrate their unique experience of suffering, provide support for families and generally deepen human relationships. In palliative care, it is very important to adapt to the trajectories of illness and cooperate.” Prof. M. Grazia De Marinis presented the latest statistics, emphasising that although almost 57 million people in the world need palliative care every year, only about 14% of them actually receive quality help on time. Drawing on the ideas of Cicely Saunders, the pioneer of the hospice idea, she noted that doctors and scientists must learn from their patients and their unique stories.

During the VIOSS summer school, participants also heard lectures by paediatric nephrologist Assoc. Prof. Dr Karolis Ažukaitis (VU MF), geneticist Prof. Sonata Jarmalaitė (VU Life Sciences Center), physician Richard Cervin (Medicine General), Dr Giorgia Petrucci (Campus Bio Medico University of Rome), virologist Dr Gytis Dudas (VU Life Sciences Centre, haematologist Dr Skirmantė Černiauskienė (VU, VUH Santaros Clinics), haematologist Dr Adomas Bukauskas (VUH Santaros Clinics), haematologist Assoc. Prof. Dr Andrius Žučenko (VUH Santaros Clinics), urologist (oncologist) Dr Aušvydas Patašius (NCC), pathologist Prof. Dr Arvydas Laurinavičius (VU, National Center of Pathology), cancer biology scientist Prof. Jukka Westermarck (University of Turku) and paediatric oncohematologist Prof. Dr Jelena Rascon ( VUH Santaros Clinics, Pediatric Oncohematology Centre).

M. Čiurlionis, who moderated the event, emphasised that the VIOSS school started off really successfully by connecting doctoral students from various countries. “This year is the first time, but we want the school to grow and develop. We have seen great interest in it from both Lithuanian and foreign students, but the number of places was limited. Maybe next year we will have two groups of students, because the success of the first year is obvious – students’ hands were raised during the first lectures, the audience had many questions, so I think this event has the potential to become traditional,” he said.

According to him, during the sessions, lecturers and experts in the field of oncology from European countries and Lithuania spoke to future specialists on all possible topics. This helps them orient themselves and understand where they can focus their scientific activities and what the specifics and opportunities are of individual fields. Practical advice was shared on how to implement scientific research, what to pay attention to, and how to use innovative technologies and AI in conducting scientific research.

VIOSS participant Kasandra Musovic from the University of Maribor in Slovenia shared that she and other visiting colleagues were very impressed by the well-organised event and the brand new laboratories. According to her, this summer school became a very good starting point for everyone: “It was a great opportunity for researchers, doctors of different specialities and nurses to combine their capabilities. After listening to lecturers from various European countries, we discovered opportunities to participate in various European projects and share our existing experiences.”

Throughout the week, the scientific work and presentations by doctoral students were evaluated, taking into account their innovation, potential to apply the results in treatment practice, and the ability of the scientist to clearly construct the research idea and strategy. During the closing ceremony of the event, the team of authors of the best scientific project was awarded: Ugnė Mickevičiūtė (����vlog����), Mariam Vashakidze (David Tvildiani Medical University), Adomas Danilevičius (Lithuanian University of Health Sciences) and Mindaugas Smetaninas (����vlog����).

After more than 15 years spent studying and working across Europe and Latin America, Spanish astrophysicist Dr Carlos Viscasillas Vázquez has found an unexpected but lasting home at ����vlog���� (VU). Now based at the Institute of Theoretical Physics and Astronomy, he conducts cutting-edge research on stellar evolution and leads international science outreach initiatives. From decoding the Milky Way to organising Baltic-wide exhibitions, Dr Viscasillas is contributing to Lithuania’s growing visibility in global astronomy, and says he’s proud to call Vilnius his academic and personal home.

When did you first relocate to Lithuania, and what were the personal and professional factors that influenced your decision?

Before settling permanently in Lithuania, I had several stays here. In 2009, I took an intensive Lithuanian language course at LCC International University in Klaipėda, which that summer left a lasting impression.

I returned through EU programmes such as Comenius and Grundtvig – first in 2010 as an assistant teacher at Atgimimas School in Druskininkai and again in 2011–2012 at Žemaitijos kolegija in Rietavas, complemented by short stays at the Druskininkų švietimo centras, the Žemaitijos kolegija in Telšiai and the University of Klaipėda. Each of these experiences deepened my connection with the country.

In 2013, during an internship at Molėtai Astronomical Observatory, I was fascinated by the work and environment there. My mentor at the time, Rimvydas Janulis, inspired my career path. After working briefly in the private sector, I came back to start my PhD – marking the moment I truly made Lithuania my home.

Today, Lithuania is not only where I work and do research, but also where I’ve built a beautiful family and a life, I’m very proud of.

Could you tell us a bit about your current research focus?

My research spans a variety of topics, but is primarily focused on the chemical and dynamical evolution of our Galaxy, studied through its stars and star clusters. For instance, very recently, we utilised stellar chemical abundances to chart the spiral arms of the Milky Way’s inner disc – the first time this has been accomplished in such a manner.

In another recent work, we’ve also made significant progress in understanding the dynamical evolution of open clusters with unprecedented precision. Beyond my core research, I’m also passionate about advanced techniques and data-driven approaches in astronomy.

Being among the most data-intensive sciences, astronomy demands both innovative tools and new ways of thinking. I also enjoy observational work at our beautiful VU Observatory in Molėtai, where the wonder of the night sky and the beauty of nature meet the rigour of modern astrophysics.

The 1.65 m telescope of the Molėtai Astronomical Observatory, Institute of Theoretical Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Physics, ����vlog����. Photo by A. Zigmantas.

The Astrospectroscopy and Exoplanets Group, led by Professor Gražina Tautvaišienė, stands out as one of the most internationally diverse scientific teams – not only within the Institute of Theoretical Physics and Astronomy but across the entire Faculty of Physics. Could you share your impressions of the international atmosphere, especially through the collaborative networks you’ve been building?

I truly believe that astronomy is one of the most international sciences. In that sense, I find the International Astronomical Union’s centenary motto from 2019, “Under One Sky,” very meaningful – it reminds us that, from above, there are no borders separating countries. At our institute, this spirit of internationality is very much alive. In the Astrospectroscopy and Exoplanets Group, where I work, with almost half of my colleagues coming from different parts of the world – Ukraine, Austria, India, Croatia, Spain, and Lithuania – we create a truly global and collaborative environment.

This strong international atmosphere also mirrors the vision of Gražina Tautvaišienė, who currently serves as Vice-President of the International Astronomical Union, an organisation that brings together nearly 13,000 individual members from around 90 countries. International experiences are one of the most rewarding aspects of a research career.

Personally, I have built two strong and lasting collaborations with institutions in Spain and Italy, working closely with two outstanding researchers: Laura Magrini from the Arcetri Astrophysical Observatory and Ana Ulla from the University of Vigo. In recognition of this collaboration, I was honoured to be appointed as an associate researcher at INAF-Arcetri last year, something that means a great deal to me. Maintaining these strong ties with southern Europe not only keeps me connected to my roots but also helps build bridges between our university and research centres abroad.

Throughout my journey, I have had the privilege of meeting many exceptional scientists. The warmth, generosity, and openness of the astronomical community in Europe and around the world have been key to building strong cooperation networks – and have made the path all the more fulfilling.

Can you tell us more about the initiative to unite Spanish researchers working in the Baltic States, and how it fosters interdisciplinary collaboration across different scientific fields?

Last year, a group of Spanish scientists in the Baltic founded the association ACEBaltic, during a vibrant gathering at the Academy of Sciences in Tallinn, joined by inspiring colleagues, including prof. Gražina Tautvaišienė, and the Chairman of the Research Council of Lithuania, Gintaras Valinčius, Ambassadors and representatives from the Research Councils of the three Baltic countries and Spain.

ACEBaltic is now part of RAICEX, the global network of Spanish researchers abroad, which connects nearly 5,000 scientists around the world. These networks are incredibly valuable – not only for creating a sense of community, but also for encouraging interdisciplinary dialogue.

In March, we organised a scientific road trip across the Baltic States, visiting six astronomical observatories and bringing together scientists from Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Spain. It was a great opportunity to share ideas, build new collaborations, and strengthen ties between our scientific communities in a relaxed and inspiring setting.

Last year, I also had the opportunity to attend the 10th anniversary of ACES, the Association of Spanish Scientists in Sweden, in Stockholm. There I met neurologists, biologists, and experts from many other fields. These associations allow us to share knowledge, collaborate across disciplines, and support each other.

Congratulations on receiving support from the VU Research Promotion Fund this year for your project “Unveiling the Nature of Hot Subdwarfs through Spectroscopy and Machine Learning”. Could you share a bit more about this research?

Our project explores one of the big unanswered questions in stellar astrophysics: the origin and evolution of hot subdwarf stars. These stars are thought to form mainly in binary systems, because they lose their hydrogen envelope at some point in their stellar evolution, but we still don’t fully understand how this process works.

Thanks to the Gaia spacecraft, we now have access to spectra of a large sample of hot subdwarf candidates and will apply advanced AI techniques to analyse this complex dataset. We’ll also observe selected stars using the high-resolution ����vlog���� Echelle Spectrograph (VUES) at our Observatory in Molėtai.

This project will allow us to maximise the capabilities and potential of VUES with this new research line. I’m also fortunate to work with a fantastic team: one of my talented master’s students, Vladas Šatas, and Aidas Medžiūnas, an expert from the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics and enthusiastic about these sciences applied to astrophysics. My VU colleague, astrophysicist Dr Markus Ambrosch (originally from Austria), brings deep expertise in applying machine learning techniques to astronomy and spectroscopy.

Together, we form an international, multidisciplinary team. This project stems from my regular research visits to the University of Vigo, thanks to close collaboration with Professor Ana Ulla Miguel, a renowned expert in hot subdwarfs whose long-standing work has greatly influenced this initiative.

You’re clearly committed to popularising science through teaching and outreach – regularly visiting schools and organising various events. Is this a consistent part of your work, and what motivates you to remain so actively involved?

I believe scientists should devote a small part of their time to outreach for several important reasons. First, it’s a way to give back to society for its investment in science. Second, it helps nurture future generations of astronomers.

In today’s world of information overload, it’s more important than ever to educate the public about science. With this in mind, I work alongside my colleague Dr Šarūnas Mikolaitis on various outreach initiatives in Lithuania, through the International Astronomical Union (IAU), its Office for Astronomy Outreach (OAO) and the Network for Astronomy School Education (NASE), as well as the European Association for Astronomy Education (EAAE).

At the Tõravere Observatory of the University of Tartu. Photo by Viljo Allik.

We’ve partnered with institutions such as the Spanish Embassy to deliver three annual exhibitions: AstrónomAs (2023), A Universe of Light (2024), and A Billion Eyes for a Billion Stars (2025). These touring exhibitions have reached thousands across Lithuania, particularly young people. Alongside these initiatives, we’ve welcomed leading scientific figures to the country, including ESA astronaut Sara García (2023), ESO Director General Xavier Barcons (2024), and this year we plan to welcome NASA engineer Begoña Vila, who works on the James Webb Space Telescope and the upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. We’re confident that these efforts will inspire new scientific vocations in the coming years.

How many countries have you lived, studied, or worked in, and in what ways have those international experiences shaped your personal or professional journey?

I’ve been living abroad for 15 years. It helped me grow personally, discovering new parts of myself. Funny thing, I’ve never experienced a country in the way tourists would.

Before beginning my PhD at VU, I had the privilege of undertaking internships at several institutions that deeply shaped my path. These included the VU Molėtai Astronomical Observatory in 2013, the Center for Astroengineering (AIUC) in Chile in 2014, the Seismological Station in Thessaloniki, Greece, in 2015, and the European Space Astronomy Centre (ESAC) of the European Space Agency (ESA) in 2017. Each experience not only strengthened my passion for astronomy and science but also played a pivotal role in my decision to commit my life to astrophysics.

Programs like Erasmus have opened countless doors – not only promoting student exchange but also supporting teaching and collaboration across Europe. My first Erasmus experience was in 2007, at the “Angel Kanchev” University of Ruse in Bulgaria. It’s truly encouraging to see how Erasmus has expanded to support researchers and educators at different stages of their careers.

Thanks to various European and international programmes, I’ve studied or taught in Mexico, Chile, Greece, Sweden, and now Lithuania, where I’ve built both a career and a family. These experiences have shaped my identity and values, and I’m excited to continue this journey with an upcoming Erasmus+ exchange involving the National University of Equatorial Guinea and ����vlog����.

International experience is vital for scientific progress – collaborating globally enriches research and benefits society as a whole.

Do you find the Lithuanian language particularly challenging, and would you encourage other scientists to consider moving to Lithuania to live and work?

Switching languages has always come naturally to me, growing up in Galicia with both Galician and Spanish. I’ve always believed that learning the local language is key to integration, and Lithuania was no exception.

Although I attended two intensive Lithuanian courses, I learned the most through everyday life. In Rietavas, I began using the language daily, even picking up some Samogitian dialect. I now speak Lithuanian at work and at home, including with my Ukrainian colleague Dr Yuriy Chorniy. We’ve spoken only Lithuanian for years since we share no other common language. Lithuanian is a beautiful, intellectually rich language with ancient roots.

I’m proud to work at ����vlog����, particularly from an astronomical perspective. Its observatory, founded in 1753 and funded by Elzbieta Oginskytė, is one of Europe’s oldest, established the same year as Spain’s first in San Fernando. Lithuania installed the world’s second photoheliograph – after Kew and ahead of Harvard – laying early foundations for solar physics. As a Spaniard, I feel a connection to VU’s Jesuit heritage. Founded by Spanish students at the Sorbonne, the Jesuit order links our histories. My colleague, Dr Kazimieras Černis, has named asteroids after several Jesuit astronomers and VU rectors, including two Spaniards – Casanovas and Carreira – a small but meaningful bridge between our shared histories.

I would absolutely encourage other researchers to consider Lithuania if they’re looking for a dynamic and supportive place to live and work. It’s a peaceful and comfortable country that offers a remarkably strong environment for science and research.

Genome editing is one of the fastest-growing areas in modern biotechnology. It is already transforming medicine and agriculture and even enabling the resurrection of extinct animal species. However, effective and safe genome editing requires rigorous testing of the gene-editing tool known as ‘genetic scissors’ used in the process. A team of ����vlog���� (VU) researchers has developed an innovative method called CROFT-Seq, which allows for the precise assessment of the efficiency and accuracy of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing tools in vitro, thus significantly reducing the cost of scientific research.

In this article, Dr Mindaugas Zaremba, Research Professor at the Department of Protein-DNA Interactions of the Institute of Biotechnology of the VU Life Sciences Center and one of the inventors behind this patent-pending method, explains the approach in more detail.

A method for selecting the most precise genetic scissors

According to Dr Zaremba, CRISPR nuclease off-target detection by sequencing (CROFT-Seq) is designed to assess the efficiency and accuracy of the most commonly used genome editing tools, such as CRISPR/Cas9 nucleases.

‘This means that CRISPR/Cas9 nucleases – often referred to as genetic scissors – can be configured in many different ways to target a specific site in the genome. Since genome editing experiments in live cells (in vivo) are very expensive, it is extremely useful to first evaluate the selected genetic scissors in a test tube (in vitro) – to determine how efficiently they cut where they are supposed to and whether they can avoid unintended sites,’ said the researcher.

This method allows scientists to identify the most efficient and precise versions of the genetic scissors, so they can move forward with further experiments using only the selected ones, thus reducing overall research costs. Scientists first evaluate the cutting potential and accuracy of the gene-editing tools in vitro and only then proceed to later stages.

‘Precision is crucial here, as curing a specific genetic disease requires making precise cuts in one or several genes at exact locations within the human genome to successfully correct (edit) the mutations that cause the disease. If these genetic scissors are inaccurate, they may cause double-stranded DNA breaks in unintended sites of the genome, potentially leading to cell death or even cancer. Therefore, our method helps prevent this by allowing researchers to quickly and cost-effectively verify the efficiency and precision of the gene-editing tools in vitro,’ explained Dr Zaremba.

A cost-effective breakthrough

Dr Zaremba notes that although similar methods already exist on the market today, the original strategic approach and unique technical solutions enabled the VU researchers to significantly speed up the process and reduce its cost by up to ten times.

‘The CROFT-Seq delivers high precision while keeping research costs low, making it attractive to both commercial companies and research centres,’ he said.

Just as importantly, the simplified method is compatible with automation using high-throughput robotic liquid handling systems.

‘We have simplified the method to the point where all stages are performed in a single test tube. This opens the door for robotic liquid handling, which saves time and reduces the risk of error,’ added Dr Zaremba.

When choosing which method to use, data analysis is also crucial. Many similar methods rely on bioinformatic filters to analyse sequencing data, but they can limit the interpretation of the results.

‘Our approach minimises the use of such filters. This means that if the genetic scissors cut DNA at both on-target and off-target sites, our method can detect these inaccurate off-target events. Meanwhile, filters used in other approaches may incorrectly exclude actual off-target sites, thereby distorting the final results,’ explained Dr Zaremba, highlighting the advantages of the new method.

Striving to catch up with the US

Currently, Dr Zaremba and his colleagues are working on a project funded by the VU Research Promotion Fund titled ‘A Platform for Assessing the Precision of Various Genome Editing Tools’.

The researchers aim to extend the application of the CROFT-Seq method to other increasingly popular genome editing tools such as CRISPR/Cas12, TnpB enzymes, and base editors.

‘Our goal is to increase the flexibility and appeal of our method by enabling the evaluation of a broader range of genome editing tools. We originally developed this method as part of the project funded by the Central Project Management Agency ‒ ‘A Sequencing Center for Double-Stranded DNA Breaks’, noted the scientist.

The team has decided to patent the method developed during the project and submitted applications for its protection in the European, US, and Japanese markets.

‘These markets are the most advanced in genome editing research, with the US also leading in the practical application of research results. The US regulatory framework is more flexible than that of the EU, which puts the EU at a significant disadvantage. As a result, we are falling behind the US in this race and losing out on vast opportunities for applying CRISPR/Cas technologies in agriculture and human medicine,’ listed the researcher.

In 2023, the first CRISPR/Cas9-based drug was approved for the treatment of sickle cell anaemia, making it possible to cure this monogenic disease and marking a major breakthrough. A large number of pre-clinical trials are currently underway with a view to adapting this technology to other diseases.

‘Many genetic diseases are not monogenic. This means that they are caused by mutations in several genes rather than just one, which makes them much more challenging to cure. Still, I believe CRISPR/Cas technology will eventually make substantial progress in addressing these complex conditions as well,’ said Dr Zaremba.

Another example of the application of genome editing is the resurrection of extinct animal species ‒ an initiative already being pursued by private companies in the US.

‘This only further demonstrates the transformative potential of this technology. Naturally, it raises a range of safety and ethical concerns, but I hope we will find ways to address them,’ concluded the Research Professor.

More information about the patent-pending invention can be found here. Interested in licensing this invention? Contact us at

A new by Justinas Lingevičius, a doctoral candidate at the Institute of International Relations and Political Science of ����vlog���� (VU IIRPS), titled “Frontiers of digital sovereignty: drones and military security in the Baltic States”, has been published in the high-profile “Journal of Contemporary European Studies”.

The article examines how approaches to drone technologies are being shaped in the Baltic States – Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia – and the role assigned to these technologies within discussions on military security. According to J. Lingevičius, following the large-scale Russian military invasion of Ukraine, attention to drone technologies has intensified both among the public and within political elites in the region: “Although these technologies have long been employed in other conflicts or in counter-terrorism, in the Baltic States they only began to be seen as instruments for securing national security after the outbreak of war in Ukraine – something to be quickly understood and integrated.”

In the context of European Union (EU) debates on digital sovereignty, the Baltic States are developing a distinct interpretation: while the EU level tends to emphasise long-term technological control and competitiveness, the Baltic discourses are shaped by a logic of military security – technologies are framed as urgent responses to threats and as part of efforts to bolster national defence capabilities. Thus, Ukraine’s experience holds significantly greater importance for the Baltic States than the EU’s broader digital sovereignty agenda, as it more directly reflects the response to perceived insecurity. This shift also alters the so-called centre–periphery dynamics: regional actions and a shared understanding of threats are far more relevant for the Baltic States than the Brussels perspective, which sees drones primarily as dual-use products enhancing industrial competitiveness.

The article identifies two core trends: the first concerns the presentation of drones as tools for strengthening military capabilities; the second involves the inclusion of broader segments of society. In this context, the local defence industry is expected to develop national drone capabilities, while the public is invited not only to contribute financially to drone procurement but also to participate in their development and operational deployment. “When decision-makers frame drones in this way, they do not engage in debates about the distinctions between different systems, required quantities for ensuring security, or limitations – they present drone technology as a breakthrough, promising that small states can independently enhance their security in the face of asymmetric threats,” the author claims.

At the same time, the article draws attention to rarely discussed dilemmas surrounding this technological transformation: “Drones and their increasing accessibility are blurring the conventional boundaries between civilians and combatants. As a result, the concepts of surveillance and targeting are evolving – they are no longer clearly defined within the battlefield and may instead follow remotely issued instructions, leading to more civilian casualties,” says J. Lingevičius. Hence, while these technologies are often presented as solutions for enhancing security and defence, it is crucial to consider the new challenges they pose – particularly those related to proliferation among various actors, accountability in decision-making, and the ambiguous nature of hybrid threats.

This research is of significance to both scholars and policymakers – it introduces small state perspectives into the EU’s digital sovereignty debate and encourages more open consideration not only of the benefits of technologies but also of the dilemmas they pose in a rapidly evolving security context. The article calls for a more considerate public discussion about the implications of trends and even hypes of military-related technologies where the lines between military and civilian life are increasingly blurred.

Prof. Ieva Plikusienė from the Faculty of Chemistry and Geosciences and the Faculty of Medicine of ����vlog���� (VU) has been appointed to the Scientific Advisory Board of the UNESCO International Basic Sciences Programme (IBSP). She is the first scientist from Lithuania to be invited to join this top-level expert group.

‘This appointment comes with great responsibility, offering a remarkable opportunity to represent Lithuania on the global stage and enhance our country’s visibility in international scientific decision-making processes. It is a significant professional recognition and a unique chance to contribute to shaping global science policy grounded in fundamental research,’ said the scientist.

The Professor describes the appointment as a pleasant surprise – her nomination was submitted some time ago, and the final decision took a while to arrive. According to her, the Board brings together leading experts from around the world.

‘The appointment of the VU scientist to the UNESCO Scientific Advisory Board confirms that the research carried out at the University is both relevant and visible on an international scale. We hope this will open up more opportunities to advance interdisciplinary research, engage in global initiatives, and contribute to shaping decisions on issues of global scientific importance,’ said Prof. Gintaras Valušis, VU Pro-Rector for Research.

‘In this role, I will focus not on showcasing individual competencies but on representing Lithuanian science in the field of fundamental research. This is particularly important for building societal resilience to long-term crises, such as pandemics, climate change, and energy shocks. It is also a chance for Lithuania to participate more actively in international scientific initiatives, projects, partnerships, and programmes that contribute to the sustainable development goals,’ listed Prof. Plikusienė.

According to the scientist, her work on the Board will involve strengthening national competencies through centres of excellence and promoting international exchange of knowledge and experience. One of the programme’s goals is to support countries in building scientific potential through such centres, which can provide Lithuania with an opportunity to become more actively involved, particularly in the development of emerging centres of excellence in advanced medicine and high technology, where VU is among the key partners.

An example of this is the Centre for Advanced Disease Modelling, which will be established by VU in partnership with VU Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Utrecht University, and the University Medical Center Utrecht (the Netherlands). The centre will develop alternative disease modelling technologies based on cellular and molecular models, enabling the replacement of laboratory animals and allowing more personalised insights into diseases. The second initiative is the Centre of Competence for Terahertz and Hybrid Semiconductor Chips – a collaboration between VU, the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology, Eindhoven University of Technology, and the Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre (IMEC) (Belgium). This partnership is focused on the development of high-frequency terahertz (THz) chips and advanced semiconductor compounds.

Prof. Plikusienė specialises in developing advanced optical biosensors that allow for highly precise real-time analysis of biomolecular interactions. Her research covers surface plasmon resonance and ellipsometry methods, as well as the application of nanostructured materials in diagnostics and biotechnology. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the scientist contributed to research on the interactions of SARS-CoV-2 antigens and antibodies, which helped raise the international profile of science in Lithuania.

Her scientific work has been recognised with numerous national and international awards. In 2021, the researcher became a laureate of the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science programme; in 2022, she was named one of the world’s most promising young scientists, receiving the International Rising Talents Award. She is also actively engaged in mentoring the next generation of scientists, supervising doctoral students, and fostering interdisciplinary research.

The Scientific Advisory Board of the UNESCO IBSP is a top-tier expert group that contributes to shaping science policy on a global scale.

Neuroscientist Prof. Urtė Neniškytė from ����vlog���� Life Sciences Center (VU LSC) has secured the full €2 million available through the European Research Council (ERC) Consolidator Grant scheme for her research project ‘Sugars Maketh the Brain: Investigating the Role of Neuronal Glycocalyx in Shaping the Architecture of Emerging Circuits (GlycoCirc)’. The project will explore how sugar structures known as glycocalyx, which are found on the surface of brain cells, contribute to the formation of neural networks, influence brain development, and may help explain what makes the human brain unique.

The overlooked sugar coating the brain

‘The GlycoCirc project looks at the sugary surface molecules, trying to understand how they guide synapse formation between neurons and how they mediate interaction between neurons and other brain cells, such as microglia or astrocytes. These molecules, known as glycocalyx, form a sugar-rich layer on the cell surface. They were largely neglected in neuroscience for decades,’ says Prof. Neniškytė.

According to her, these molecules resemble tiny ‘sugar trees’ covering the surface of brain cells. On neurons, the glycocalyx can span up to a micrometre in thickness, forming a barrier and acting as the first point of contact between a neuron and its surroundings, whether that’s another neuron or a nearby glial cell.

The Professor believes this layer plays a vital role in early brain development: ‘I strongly believe that the glycocalyx-mediated interactions are critical when new synapses are being established or when unnecessary synapses are being pruned in the developing brain, and I would like to look at this in more detail.’

A human signature written in sugar

She points out that the glycocalyx might hold clues to what makes human brains special: ‘If we look at the composition of our glycocalyx, it is important to note that it is unique to humans. We can detect differences even when compared with the closest of our relatives, bonobo chimps. Interestingly, the emergence of these human-specific genetic modifications coincides with the time when we see the accelerated development of the human brain, which indicates that these processes can be related to each other.’

Now, with the ERC funding, Prof. Neniškytė’s team will be able to pursue further research on these ideas using a wide array of advanced methods.

‘I’m really excited now to take an in-depth look into these glycocalyx effects on neuronal networks, combining the techniques that span from neurophysiology-focused methods, such as recording and imaging neuronal activity, and combining it with biochemical approaches – understanding the composition of the glycocalyx and how it changes during the development, as well as how it differs between species. I believe that these insights can reveal the distinct features of the human brain and, overall, help us understand the uniqueness of humans as a species,’ states the neuroscientist.

Stem cells and the brain

To understand what makes the human brain unique, Prof. Neniškytė’s team uses a comparative approach based on induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from humans and non-human primates.

The researcher explains that while conducting this type of research on living humans or non-human primates would be ethically unacceptable, iPSCs offer a powerful and sustainable alternative. These cells can be derived from minimally invasive sources such as skin biopsies or blood samples and then developed into various types of brain cells, including neurons, microglia, and astrocytes. This approach enables researchers to model complex cellular interactions in the lab, essentially creating miniature, brain-like systems from cells that regain the capacity to become any cell type in the body.

Furthermore, iPSC technology could be used in the future to explore how the deficits in glycocalyx pathways contribute to neurological disorders. Prof. Neniškytė emphasises that most conditions related to disturbed glycocalyx turnover present with a pronounced neurological phenotype.

‘Sometimes patients have only mild peripheral symptoms, but they show severe neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation. My lab has already observed specific changes in the glycocalyx and its modulating enzymes in human epilepsy tissue. It seems that the composition of the glycocalyx defines neuronal excitability in both ways. For example, with some changes, you get epileptic bursts, while others don’t allow neurons to transmit signals effectively,’ says the neuroscientist.

Advancing neurobiology through global collaboration and local excellence

In addition to enabling new technologies, the ERC funding allows Prof. Neniškytė’s team to expand their expertise and attract top researchers from around the world. While it was not the case that these technologies were entirely out of reach in Lithuania, the primary limitations concerned access to advanced equipment and the availability of specialised knowledge.

‘The major qualitative impact on the research my group performs comes from the added value of the ERC grant. I hope it will help us to attract competent researchers who are the hands and the brains of the projects implemented in the lab,’ observes the ERC grantee.

She is now working on attracting two strong postdoctoral fellows – one with experience in induced pluripotent stem cells biology and another with a strong background in multi-electrode arrays; this will enable her team to investigate the activity of neurons by conducting highly detailed analysis.

The Professor sees long-term benefits in bringing such expertise to Vilnius: ‘Attracting early career researchers who were trained in the best centres in Europe or beyond, and harnessing their expertise effectively, will definitely be very important for the implementation of the project. In addition, it introduces new competences into the lab that can support other ongoing projects and further strengthen ����vlog���� Life Sciences Center as a whole.’

An experience familiar to all students and researchers: You want to find out more about a topic or a person. That’s why you enter a library, take a book off the shelf and read a chapter or two to expand your knowledge. But what if there was a library where people instead of books were waiting for inquisitive people? People who are willing to behave like open books and answer open questions by recounting chapters from their lives?

This is exactly what PhD student Saumya Sadhu from the University of Graz wants to make possible together with colleagues from the universities of Granada, Lyon 1, Minho and Padua. As part of the Arqus “Human Chapters” project, online events on the topic of “Diversity at universities” are to be created in which all interested people can participate. People who study and work at universities and have experienced diversity will then be waiting for visitors in various rooms.

Tangible stories

Saumya Sadhu explains: “The aim is to enable people to learn more about the reality of life for a wide variety of people. But not through specialised lectures and theory, but directly from people who talk about their lives.” The aim is to make opportunities, problems and solutions tangible.

A platform that is here to stay

According to Sadhu, the funding of the Arqus Innovation Fund is central to the realisation of “Human Chapters”: “One thing was clear to us from the outset: we don’t want to expect our ‘chapters’ to do this without payment. That would be unfair and against our principles.”

Even though the project is only just getting off the ground, Saumya Sadhu and her team already know exactly what they want: “Our events should offer a platform where people can simply speak freely. Experiences should be shared as they were experienced. This can create a space where people can learn first-hand about the experiences of women, people of colour and queer people during their time at university.”

Human Chapters: Join in now!

The first edition of “Human Chapters” is set to take place at the end of 2025. And it won’t just be one event: “Our hope is that we can do this regularly with lots of different people.” That way, as many people as possible can learn from each other and ultimately understand each other better.

Anyone who would like to become a “Human Chapter” themselves and report on their own experiences at one or other event can contact Saumya Sadhu () and become an open book themselves.

Language centre directors from eight Arqus universities and one associate partner met in Granada from 25 to 27 June to focus on the topics of culture and management during their network meeting titled “Bridging cultures and leading change in university language centres: Intercultural and language workshop series for the plurilingualism module”.

The meeting began with a welcome session and an atmospheric evening tour of the Alhambra, Granada’s world-renowned historic palace and fortress. The next day was dedicated to intercultural awareness, with an insightful session led by Maria José Pérez from the University of Granada’s Language Centre. Participants explored key cultural concepts such as the three levels of culture and the distinction between low-context and high-context cultures. These themes will be developed further in future Arqus Plurilingual Hub workshops.

On the second day, Professor Andrés Navarro delivered a session on business models and strategic planning for university language centres. His presentation focused on building institutional vision, generating added value, and strengthening leadership practices.

Professor Roma Kriaučiūnienė from ����vlog����, who took part in the meeting, described the event as both meaningful and necessary. “The interactive lectures and practical workshops were immensely valuable, as were the discussions on intercultural cooperation led by Maria José Pérez from the University of Granada’s Language Centre,” she said.

She emphasised how important it is to foster students’ cultural sensitivity: “We were reminded of the need to continuously nurture students’ awareness of cultural differences – to help them recognise and respect these differences. This is the foundation of smooth and respectful communication in any multilingual and multicultural environment.”
The professor also noted that many of the ideas presented during the event will be reflected in upcoming seminars organised by the Arqus Multilingual and Multicultural Centre.

Reflecting on Professor Navarro’s contribution, she added: “His insights into language centre management models, strategies, and vision were both inspiring and practically useful. Many of his ideas can be creatively applied across the varied management contexts of our Arqus universities.”

This was the seventh meeting of the Arqus Language Centre Directors, and the group plans to meet again next year.