Researchers at Sevastopol State University (SevSU) and Ethiopia’s Adama University of Science and Technology have launched a project to expand their scientific research by testing SevSU’s expertise on nanoparticles extracted from African raw materials with unique composition – such as speciality coffee varieties or other endemic plants.
“Professor Abebe Gemta Belay of the Department of Applied Physics at Adama University of Science and Technology, Secretary of the Ethiopian Physical Society, has taken up a position as a visiting scientist at SevSU’s Institute for Advanced Research. This became possible because our research topics are closely aligned, and we have already defined a scientific agenda for further work in molecular biophysics and nanobiotechnology. It focuses on the practical application of various spectroscopic analysis methods for nanoparticles, including applying our analytical methodology and proprietary developments to his research objects – materials found in the natural environment only in Africa,” said Maxim Evstigneev, vice-rector of SevSU.
He also noted that SevSU scientists have been working on similar topics for many years. For example, they have proposed a new method of drug delivery for more effective cancer treatment using carbon fullerene nanoparticles. Their developments over the past decade surpass foreign approaches in a number of aspects. This means that the collaboration with the new scientific partner could yield significant results.
Another important direction will be strengthening academic ties, Evstigneev added. SevSU plans to attract young researchers from Ethiopia for postgraduate and master’s studies, he said.
In addition, specialised research schools in Sevastopol and at Adama University of Science and Technology will gain additional opportunities for development through the introduction of new technologies, expanded research capacity and exchange of expertise.
