Scientists on a theatre stage, accessible scientific knowledge, and a shared theatre experience – this was the format of the “Science on Stage” event organized by the InLife Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research Polish Academy of Sciences at the Theatre in Olsztyn. The event attracted several hundred participants interested in healthy lifestyles and also marked the conclusion of the six-year Welcome project.
During the event, InLife scientists delivered four short lectures aimed at a broad audience. Radosław Kowalski, PhD, DSc, Joanna Fotschki, PhD, Michał Wróbel, PhD, DSc, and Carsten Carlberg, Professor discussed how diet and environmental factors influence human health, addressing topics such as probiotics, fish consumption, pesticides, and the relationship between food and the functioning of the human body.
The Welcome2 project led to the establishment of the Nutrigenomics Team at the Institute – a research group headed by Professor Carsten Carlberg that investigates the interactions between diet, gene activity, and human health. Educational initiatives implemented as part of the project were also presented during the event.
– We are delighted to bring science closer to the public and show that it is not something detached from everyday life. Science helps us better understand the world, make informed decisions about health and nutrition, and respond to contemporary challenges. It is also an excellent opportunity to build dialogue between scientists and the residents of our region, and to demonstrate that research conducted in Olsztyn has a real impact on people’s lives – said Professor Monika M. Kaczmarek, Director of the InLife Institute.
The event also included acknowledgements for individuals and institutions that supported the implementation of the project, including representatives of the regional government, the University of Warmia and Mazury, and collaborators involved in the development of the research team and educational activities.
– These six years have been a period of intensive work, research, and international collaboration. Thanks to the Welcome2 project, our Institute has established a strong research team specializing in nutrigenomics, while Olsztyn has strengthened its position as an important scientific centre in this field – emphasized Professor Mariusz Piskuła, the project coordinator and the Institute’s former long-serving Director.
Following the scientific programme, participants attended a performance of Art from the repertoire of the Stefan Jaracz Theatre.
– This was our way of thanking the residents of the region, who have participated in our events for many years and benefited from reliable scientific knowledge. We wanted to celebrate the completion of the project together and show that science can bring people together and serve society in every day life – said Iwona Kieda, Head of the Communications and International Affairs Office at InLife.
