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Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University (KTMU) hosted a significant academic event that brought together the international scientific community through the 3rd International Biology Congress. Organized by the Department of Biology within the Faculty of Science at KTMU, in collaboration with Ilbirs Foundation, Ariz Group, and Iğdır University, the congress gathered researchers from nine different countries, including Norway, Japan, the United States, and Indonesia, providing an international platform to discuss current issues in biological sciences. Over the course of three days, a total of 186 papers were presented in eight sessions, covering a wide range of topics from basic sciences to applied research, environmental challenges, and AI-supported biological analyses.

Opening Session Emphasized Scientific Cooperation and a Shared Future

In the opening session, Rector of Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University, Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan highlighted that biology - one of the most strategic scientific fields of the 22nd century plays a critical role in shaping the future of humanity. He stated: “Biology is the key to understanding life, protecting nature, fostering innovation in healthcare, and building a sustainable future.” Emphasizing that global challenges such as climate change, food security, pandemics, biodiversity loss, and environmental sustainability can only be addressed through scientific collaboration, he added: “Today, biology stands as a strategic field for understanding global crises and developing innovative solutions. Each study presented at this congress is of great importance in transforming knowledge into societal benefit.”

Deputy Rector Prof. Dr. Almaz Ibraev noted that the impacts of climate change and rising global temperatures are now directly felt, stressing that explaining these changes on a scientific basis is a fundamental responsibility. He expressed satisfaction in hosting the 3rd International Biology Congress, which serves as an important platform for contributing to solutions to global challenges.

Dean of the Faculty of Science and Congress Chair, Prof. Dr. Gülbübü Kurmanbekova underlined that unplanned and irresponsible approaches toward nature have increased environmental problems at both global and regional levels. Highlighting the interdisciplinary role of biology in critical areas such as environmental protection, human health, and food security, she stated: “Current issues such as climate change, pandemic risks, and food security further increase the importance of biological research. Every scientific study shared at this congress is a valuable contribution to our common future.”

Invited Scientists Addressed Future Research Directions

On the first day of the congress, distinguished academicians from Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye, and the United States shared recent research trends, emerging technologies, and future scientific perspectives in biology.

Director of the Institute of Biology at the National Academy of Sciences of Kyrgyzstan Prof. Dr. Camila Karabekova evaluated studies on regional biodiversity, conservation of natural resources, and the development of research infrastructure. Prof. Dr. Fikrettin Şahin from Yeditepe University discussed new opportunities offered by biotechnology in health, agriculture, and industry, providing insights into innovative production models.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Daniel Lobo from the University of Maryland delivered a presentation on recent developments in bioinformatics and computational biology, focusing on big data analysis, AI-based modeling, and digital approaches to understanding complex biological systems.

Among the invited speakers, Prof. Dr. Sevgi Maraklı from Yıldız Technical University shared insights into new research directions in molecular biology and genetics, while Prof. Dr. Yonca Yüzügüllü Karakuş from Kocaeli University discussed applications of biological research in health technologies.

186 Scientific Studies Presented in Eight Thematic Sessions

On the second day, parallel sessions were held in the Engineering and Faculty of Science buildings. Presentations reflected the multidisciplinary nature of biology, covering areas such as animal histology and anatomy, zoology, wildlife biology, veterinary medicine, plant breeding, ecology, genetics, biotechnology, molecular biology, microbiology, chemistry, food technology, and environmental engineering.

Highlighted topics included the effects of high-altitude conditions on living tissues, pathological aspects of animal diseases, development of high-yield crop varieties, conservation of natural resources, microbial diversity, biotechnological production techniques, and sustainable food systems.

Artificial Intelligence and Digital Methods in Biology

The congress also featured studies on the integration of digital technologies into biology. Research included AI-based analysis of satellite images to calculate water surface areas, comparison of classification algorithms in bioinformatics, and pneumonia detection from lung X-rays. These studies demonstrated the intersection of data science and life sciences. Discussions emphasized the growing role of big data, machine learning, and computational models in biological research.

Environment, Biodiversity, and Sustainability in Focus

Environmental sustainability and the conservation of natural ecosystems were key themes throughout the congress. Topics such as ecosystem studies around Issyk-Kul Lake, the current state of forest resources, the impact of urbanization on animal habitats, invasive species, phytoremediation in polluted waters, and biodiversity conservation were extensively discussed. Presentations highlighted the critical role of biological research in addressing global challenges such as climate change, environmental degradation, and natural resource management.

An International Academic Experience for Young Researchers

With strong participation from graduate students and early-career scientists, the congress provided an opportunity to present research on an international platform, connect with experts from different countries, and develop new collaborative projects.