UWM Researchers Secure Prestigious National Science Centre Grants
Researchers from the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn have been awarded funding in Poland’s highly competitive National Science Centre (NCN) grant programmes OPUS 30 and SONATA 21. Six UWM scientists secured support for ambitious research projects spanning plant biology, medicine, environmental science, biotechnology and veterinary research, reinforcing the University’s strong position in interdisciplinary scientific excellence. Four projects received funding through the OPUS 30 programme. Prof. Jakub Sawicki will investigate the evolution of chemical communication in liverworts, exploring how these ancient plants use signalling mechanisms during reproduction. Dr Beata Plitta-Michalak will study DNA repair processes in short-lived seeds, aiming to develop innovative methods for preserving plant genetic resources and protecting biodiversity. Dr Kamil Dobrzyń will examine the role of metabolic hormones in the earliest stages of pregnancy, while Prof. Monika Harnisz will lead research on removing emerging contaminants and antibiotic-resistant bacteria from wastewater, supporting public health and the implementation of new European environmental regulations. Two additional UWM researchers were successful in the SONATA 21 competition. Dr Karol Mierzejewski will investigate how nano- and microplastics affect the cardiovascular system, addressing one of today’s most pressing environmental and health challenges. Dr Dominika Gołubczyk will focus on the inflammatory mechanisms involved in ischaemic stroke, using advanced translational research models to identify new therapeutic targets that could improve treatment outcomes for patients. The funded projects demonstrate the breadth of research conducted at UWM and its commitment to addressing global challenges through innovative science. From biodiversity conservation and sustainable environmental management to reproductive biology, cardiovascular health and neuroscience, these grants will strengthen international collaboration and contribute to scientific advances with real-world impact.
Kortowiada 2026: Four Days of Music, Tradition and Student Spirit
The 65th edition of Kortowiada, the University of Warmia and Mazury’s iconic student festival, once again transformed the Kortowo campus into one of Poland’s most vibrant festival destinations. For four days, thousands of students, alumni and visitors celebrated university life through music, sports, culture and community events, continuing a tradition that has defined student life in Olsztyn for more than six decades. The festivities officially began with the colourful Faculty Parade, as students marched through the streets of Olsztyn in imaginative costumes before symbolically taking over the city and the university. Following the ceremonial handover of the keys to the Student Government, the campus came alive with concerts, competitions, outdoor activities and countless opportunities to connect with the academic community. Music remained the heart of the festival. More than 20 concerts took place across two stages on the picturesque Kortowo lakeside, featuring artists representing multiple generations and musical genres. The programme included legendary performers such as Maryla Rodowicz alongside popular contemporary acts including Enej, Wilki, Afromental, PRO8L3M, Żabson, Kuban, and many others. Emerging artists selected through the KortoFest competition also had the opportunity to perform in front of thousands of festival-goers, highlighting Kortowiada’s commitment to supporting young musical talent. Beyond the concerts, Kortowiada offered an extensive programme of student traditions and new experiences. Visitors could enjoy sporting competitions, the famous Faculty Challenge, volleyball matches between students and university staff, strength contests, outdoor cinema, board game festivals, silent discos, karaoke, interactive university activities and dedicated relaxation zones. Several events introduced fresh formats while preserving the unique atmosphere that has made Kortowiada one of Poland’s best-known student festivals. This year’s edition also expanded beyond the university campus, bringing selected attractions to Olsztyn’s historic city centre and strengthening the connection between the university and the local community. Combining academic traditions, live entertainment and student creativity, Kortowiada 2026 once again demonstrated why it remains one of the largest and most recognisable university festivals in Poland.
Olsztyn LOVE Science: A Celebration of Curiosity
The first edition of Olsztyn LOVE Science brought together families, researchers, students, and science enthusiasts for a day of discovery, creativity, and fun at the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn. Organised by Kortosfera – the Centre for Science and Innovation, the open-air science festival featured hands-on experiments, interactive workshops, educational activities, live demonstrations, and concerts, proving that science can be engaging, accessible, and inspiring for everyone. Designed to connect academia with the wider community, the event encouraged visitors of all ages to explore the world of science through play, curiosity, and direct interaction with researchers. Following the success of its inaugural edition, Olsztyn LOVE Science is set to become a recurring celebration of science and innovation in the region.
