Professor Valya Vasileva re-elected Director of IFRG

Professor Valya Vasileva has begun her second term as the Director of the Institute of Plant Physiology and Genetics (IPPG) at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences for the 2026–2030 period. Vasileva has led the institute since October 2022, having previously served as deputy director and head of the Gene Expression Regulation laboratory.

Her research focuses on molecular biology and plant physiology, specifically regarding gene expression regulation, epigenetic mechanisms, and how plants adapt to adverse environmental conditions. She has extensive experience managing international scientific projects under programs such as Horizon Europe, Marie Skłodowska-Curie, and COST.

The strategic goals for the 2026–2030 term aim to establish the institute as a leading national and European scientific center in functional plant biology. Key priorities include enhancing scientific quality, increasing international competitiveness, fostering interdisciplinary research, and supporting young scientists and doctoral students. The program also emphasizes strengthening the links between science and practice, promoting innovation, and modernizing scientific infrastructure.