From 8 to 9 October, the 5th Baltic Biophysics Conference brought together more than 140 scientists from 16 countries in Vilnius to present the latest research in biophysics and discuss advances in the field. The conference focused on molecular and plant biophysics, nanotechnology, biomedical physics, cancer research, advanced microscopy and imaging technologies, and electroporation. The conference was organised by the Vilnius University Life Sciences Center (VU LSC), in partnership with the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC).
The conference, held at National Center for Physical Sciences and Technology, featured presentations by internationally recognised members of the biophysics community. One of the programme’s highlights was an online lecture by Nobel Laureate in Chemistry Prof. Stefan Hell, who presented the capabilities of super-resolution microscopy. Other distinguished speakers included Prof. Mauro Dalla Serra, President of the European Biophysical Societies’ Association; Prof. Massimo Trotta, former President of the European Society for Photobiology; Prof. Velia Minicozzi, President of the Italian Society for Pure and Applied Biophysics; and other researchers.
The international scientific programme was complemented by a satellite event, the 2nd Conference on “FAIR Principles for Molecular Biophysics Data”, held at the Lithuanian Academy of Sciences on 7 October. Researchers from nine countries explored how to ensure that scientific data are findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable in future research. The keynote lecture was delivered by Prof. Michael K. Gilson from the University of California, San Diego.
The conference’s Scientific Committee was chaired by VU LSC Prof. Daumantas Matulis, while the Organising Committee was chaired by Dr Vilmantas Pupkis. PhD candidate Aušrinė Navickaitė, Emilė Zaborė, Dr Greta Butkienė, Assoc. Prof. Dr Indrė Lapeikaitė and Dr Joana Smirnovienė also contributed to the organisation of the event.
The conference also hosted the General Assembly of the Lithuanian Biophysical Society, during which Prof. Daumantas Matulis was elected President of the Society. Three other VU LSC researchers – Dr Greta Butkienė, Assoc. Prof. Dr Rima Budvytytė and Dr Vilmantas Pupkis – were elected to its Board.
The conference concluded with a discussion titled “Biophysics in Italy and Lithuania: Connections, Partnerships and Opportunities”, held at the Italian Cultural Institute in Vilnius. Lithuanian and Italian scientists discussed existing collaborations and opportunities to develop joint research projects and strengthen scientific partnerships. The discussion was also attended by the Italian Ambassador to Lithuania, Emanuele de Maigret.