Advances in neuroscience at LSMU and the potential of Artificial Intelligence

The symposium participants were welcomed by Prof. Daiva Rastenytė, Chancellor of the LSMU Medical Academy and Head of the Department of Neurology.

“For our university, participation in EBRAINS offers an important opportunity to connect our clinical expertise, patient data and research capabilities with advanced neuroscience technologies and science-driven platforms. Our shared ambition is to bring neuroscience, artificial intelligence and clinical medicine together to advance brain research and improve patient care,” said Prof. D. Rastenytė.

The Professor also presented the research activities and international projects of the LSMU Department of Neurology. Research conducted at the University covers stroke, neurorehabilitation and other neurological disorders, combining expertise in clinical medicine with the capabilities of biomedical engineering.

The participants were also welcomed by Prof. Arimantas Tamašauskas, Director of the LSMU Neuroscience Institute and Head of the Department of Neurosurgery. He recalled that neuroscience research at the University dates back to 1957, when the Laboratory of Neurophysiology began its activities, while a new stage of development started in 2010 with the establishment of the Neuroscience Institute. The Professor also shared one of the main challenges faced by the Institute in its early years.

“Our first challenge was to develop translational neuroscience – to bring fundamental research closer to clinical practice and to use insights from clinical medicine to guide fundamental research. At the same time, we wanted to educate a new generation of scientists and researchers,” the Professor explained.

The Professor paid particular attention to the potential of artificial intelligence. Modern medicine generates ever-increasing volumes of clinical and research data, and AI technologies can help analyse these data more quickly and use them in clinical research. Discussing future plans, he also emphasised the development of personalised rehabilitation.

“My dream is to develop personalized rehabilitation using the outstanding achievements in artificial intelligence at our institution. Together with international collaboration, I hope we will be able to develop AI-supported rehabilitation approaches tailored to the individual needs of patients,” said Prof. A. Tamašauskas.

The LSMU Neuroscience Institute works closely with the LSMU Department of Neurosurgery. Their collaboration includes maintaining a brain tumour biobank, collecting blood samples and clinical data, conducting joint research in neuro-oncology, and using virtual brain models to develop treatment algorithms for Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy. They also train doctoral students, participate in international projects and organise joint scientific events.

The Director of the Neuroscience Institute also welcomed the fact that LSMU became a full member of EBRAINS in 2025. According to him, membership provides opportunities to learn from other European research institutions, exchange experience and develop joint research projects.

Digital Brain Twins – a new era in medicine

Prof. Viktor Jirsa, EBRAINS Chief Science Officer, Director of the Institute of Systems Neuroscience at Aix-Marseille University, France, and Chair of the event’s Organising Committee, highlighted advances in digital brain twins and the importance of their responsible application in medicine in a welcome letter sent to the symposium.

“Digital brain twins are no longer a theoretical promise and are entering in clinical workflows in neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry; the question before us is no longer whether this will happen, but how we ensure it happens responsibly, with scientific rigour, clinical validation and ethical clarity,” said Prof. V. Jirsa.

The Professor also emphasised the importance of training young researchers and international collaboration. According to him, EBRAINS Lithuania, led by Prof. Aušra Saudargienė (LSMU Neuroscience Institute and Department of Health Psychology, Faculty of Public Health), has become an important link between the Baltic and Nordic research community and the European neuroscience research infrastructure.

International collaboration brings new research opportunities

One of the event organisers, Prof. Aušra Saudargienė, opened the symposium by welcoming the collaboration between researchers from Lithuania, France and Switzerland within EBRAINS and the opportunities to advance neuroscience and artificial intelligence research together.

Dr Damien Depannemaecker, representing EBRAINS France (Institute of Systems Neuroscience, Aix-Marseille University, France), explored the application of digital brain twins in clinical neuroscience. He presented models developed using the EBRAINS The Virtual Brain methodology and their potential to contribute to personalised treatment of epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and other brain disorders.

Dr Depannemaecker emphasised that collaboration between specialists from different disciplines helps improve our understanding of neurological diseases and identify new treatment opportunities using advanced technologies and artificial intelligence.

“Through my participation in the international EBRAINS network, I have had the opportunity to establish contacts with Lithuanian researchers and discuss potential future joint research with other European research groups,” he said.

Prof. Philippe Bijlenga, a neurosurgeon specialising in highly complex procedures (Department of Neurosurgery, Geneva University Hospital; Clinical Neuroscience Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva; EBRAINS Switzerland), presented the concept of a federated digital twin for stroke, incorporating models of brain–heart interactions. The Professor emphasised the importance of validating the reliability of AI models and ensuring the responsible use of patient data.

“The most important conclusion I take away from this event is that progress in artificial intelligence in neuroscience depends heavily on close collaboration between clinical practice, data science and reliable health data infrastructure,” said Prof. P. Bijlenga.

Prof. Oliver Y. Chén (Lausanne University Hospital; Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne; EBRAINS Switzerland) discussed the potential of smartphones for predicting brain diseases. The Professor emphasised the longstanding and mutually beneficial relationship between neuroscience and artificial intelligence.

“Research into brain function inspired the development of artificial intelligence, while artificial intelligence has, in turn, opened up new opportunities to study the brain. Nevertheless, despite the progress made, we must acknowledge that neither the workings of the brain nor artificial intelligence are yet fully understood. It is therefore particularly encouraging to see an initiative being undertaken in Lithuania at this very moment to bring these two fields of research closer together,” said Prof. O. Y. Chén.

Dr Birgit Schaffhauser (Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital; Coordinator of the EBRAINS Switzerland National Node) discussed opportunities for secure medical data processing and AI development in trusted research environments. She welcomed the involvement of Lithuanian researchers in the international EBRAINS network and the opportunities for collaboration that this creates.

“As a representative of the EBRAINS Switzerland National Node, I was particularly impressed by the high calibre of Lithuanian research institutions and researchers. Lithuania’s membership of EBRAINS has already enriched our community, and this symposium provided an excellent opportunity to showcase the strengths of Lithuanian researchers to colleagues from across Europe,” said Dr B. Schaffhauser.

Research and innovation

The symposium programme continued with presentations by Lithuanian researchers. Assoc. Prof. Dr Andrius Radžiūnas (LSMU Department of Neurosurgery, EBRAINS Lithuania) presented the application of functional neuromodulation in neurosurgery and neurology, discussing the potential of modulating nervous system activity in the treatment of neurological and psychiatric disorders. Prof. Kęstutis Petrikonis (LSMU Department of Neurology, EBRAINS Lithuania) spoke about pain management, sleep disorders and neurorehabilitation, as well as care based on new neurotechnology methods.

Prof. Eugenijus Kaniušas (TU Wien, Austria) presented the potential of personalised auricular vagus nerve stimulation and principles for predicting its effects. Prof. Vaidotas Marozas (Kaunas University of Technology, EBRAINS Lithuania) discussed the potential of wearable devices for monitoring brain and heart activity and their use in health assessment and long-term monitoring.

Assoc. Prof. Dr Ramunė Dirvanskienė (Vilnius University) discussed the unifying effects of participation in the Lithuanian Song Celebration and its associations with physiological indicators and emotional well-being. Dr Edgaras Misiulis (Kaunas University of Technology) presented a methodology for assessing the risk of aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage based on personalised brain models.

Dr Šarūnas Tamašauskas (LSMU Department of Neurosurgery; LSMU Neuroscience Institute; EBRAINS Lithuania) explored the potential of artificial intelligence for predicting the response of meningiomas to Gamma Knife radiosurgery. Dr Greta Kasputytė (LSMU Department of Anaesthesiology, Heart Centre at Kauno Klinikos, EBRAINS Lithuania) discussed impaired cerebral blood flow autoregulation during coronary artery bypass grafting, while Dr Jewel Sengupta (Kaunas University of Technology, EBRAINS Lithuania) presented automated methods for detecting subarachnoid haemorrhage, assessing its severity and predicting early risks.

AI ethics and practical training

The symposium also addressed the responsible use of artificial intelligence and ethical issues surrounding neurotechnology. Prof. Inga Ulnicane (University of Cambridge, United Kingdom) presented the principles of responsible research and innovation in neurotechnology. Prof. Claus Beisbart (University of Bern, EBRAINS Switzerland) discussed ethical principles governing artificial intelligence in neurological research and clinical practice.

During the practical training sessions, Prof. Oliver Y. Chén introduced the operating principles of AI foundation models. Dr Marianna Angiolelli and Gabriele Casagrande (Institute of Systems Neuroscience, Aix-Marseille University, EBRAINS France) introduced the concept of a virtual brain twin based on the EBRAINS The Virtual Brain methodology and its potential applications.

EBRAINS researchers visit the LSMU Heart Centre

Symposium guests Prof. Philippe Bijlenga, Prof. Oliver Chén and Dr Birgit Schaffhauser (EBRAINS Switzerland), together with Dr Damien Depannemaecker, Dr Marianna Angiolelli and Gabriele Casagrande (EBRAINS France), also visited the Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care at the Heart Centre of LSMU Kauno Klinikos.

The Head of the Department, Assoc. Prof. Tadas Lenkutis, and anaesthesiologist Assoc. Prof. Milda Švagždienė introduced the guests to research conducted at the Department into cerebral blood flow autoregulation during cardiopulmonary bypass and its importance for patient safety during cardiac surgery. The visit also provided an opportunity to discuss further research collaboration, particularly in the areas of brain–heart interactions and the development of digital twin models.

The international EBRAINS symposium provided an opportunity to strengthen LSMU’s ties with the European neuroscience community and the EBRAINS national nodes in Switzerland and France, exchange scientific knowledge and discuss prospects for further collaboration, with the aim of bringing advanced research increasingly into patient care.

The event was organised by the EBRAINS Lithuania National Node, bringing together LSMU, the Hospital of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kauno Klinikos, Vytautas Magnus University and Kaunas University of Technology, together with the EBRAINS Switzerland and EBRAINS France national nodes, the Lithuanian Neurological Association and the Research Council of Lithuania.

The event was supported by the Research Council of Lithuania under the programme “Dissemination of Research Results through the Organisation of Events” (Agreement No. S-MOR-26-35) and the Lithuanian–French programme “Gilibert” (Agreement No. 2024-PRO-00148), as well as Teltonika Telemedic.

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From Vilnius to Harvard  

Born and raised in Vilnius, Prof. Ūla Jurkūnas moved to the United States at the age of fifteen. She studied medicine at the University of Louisville, completed her residency in ophthalmology at Boston University and continued her career at Mass Eye and Ear, one of the leading US institutions for eye care and research. 

She has worked at Harvard Medical School since 2006 and was appointed Professor of Ophthalmology in 2024, becoming the first Lithuanian woman to achieve this academic distinction. She is also currently a co-director of the Cornea Centre of Excellence under the Department of Ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School. 

Despite spending decades across the Atlantic, she has maintained close ties with Lithuania, regularly visiting her home country and keeping in touch with its medical professionals. 

Research that preserves eyesight   

One of the main areas of Prof. Jurkūnas’ research is the development of new treatments for corneal diseases. She studies Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy, a disease that causes progressive deterioration of vision, and contributes to the search for new treatment options. 

Her contribution to the development of stem cell therapy is particularly significant. Prof. Jurkūnas is one of the pioneers of cultivated stem cell transplantation in the United States. Her research team conducted the first clinical trials of this kind in the country, in which stem cells taken from a patient’s healthy eye are grown in the laboratory and transplanted into the damaged eye.  

The results of a clinical trial involving 14 patients, published in 2025, showed that the method holds promise for restoring the corneal surface, with some patients also experiencing improved vision. This experimental method, known as CALEC, is considered an important step in regenerative ophthalmology. 

Sharing international experience with the LSMU community 

During the meeting at LSMU on 23 October, Prof. Jurkūnas and University representatives discussed prospects for further collaboration, joint research projects and academic exchanges. The meeting was attended by LSMU Vice-Rector for Research Prof. Juozas Kupčinskas, Vice-Rector for Studies Prof. Indrė Čeponienė, and Prof. Reda Žemaitienė, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology at the Faculty of Medicine. 

“It is a great pleasure to have Professor Jurkūnas as part of our University community. During the meeting, we discussed various projects and opportunities for further collaboration that could benefit our University’s researchers in the future,” said Prof. Kupčinskas. 

Prof. Jurkūnas also sees collaboration with the Lithuanian academic community as an opportunity to contribute to scientific progress in her home country. 

“There are many avenues for collaboration. This is one of the most meaningful things I can give to Lithuania. One possibility is student exchange programmes that would allow students to gain experience in laboratories and clinical practice. We can also carry out joint research projects, study the epidemiology of various diseases and different treatment approaches, and share experience between countries,” said Prof. Jurkūnas. 

Prof. Jurkūnas’ appointment at LSMU opens up new opportunities to strengthen international research ties and share the latest knowledge in ophthalmology. Her clinical and research experience will be of great value to the University’s students and researchers. 

The post Harvard Professor Ū. Jurkūnas, Visiting Professor at LSMU: “This is one of the most meaningful things I can give to Lithuania”   appeared first on LSMU.

This year’s theme Dare Every Day encouraged the participants of the Day of Science to ask questions, explore new solutions and promote scientific progress. It also offered the opportunity to gain valuable insights from experts across various fields, attend scientific presentations, participate in workshops and discover the latest laboratory technologies at a dedicated exhibition. 

Why collaboration matters

In his opening address, LSMU Vice-Rector for Research Prof. Juozas Kupčinskas welcomed the fact that this year, the Day of Science was being hosted at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. He emphasised that the life sciences are integral to the LSMU’s activities, including education, research and the translation of research findings into clinical practice.

“For many years now, Thermo Fisher Scientific has been a beacon for the life sciences in Lithuania. Its contribution to the education of students and its support for young researchers are invaluable to the entire life sciences community. Our collaboration with Thermo Fisher Scientific provides an outstanding opportunity for our undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral students and researchers to learn more about innovations in biotechnology and the latest research methodologies. Both early-career and more experienced researchers at our University will be able to apply them in their future research work,” said Prof. J. Kupčinskas.

Dr Lukas Taujenis, Senior Manager at the Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry Division at Thermo Fisher Scientific, noted that the Day of Science has been an established tradition for many years, with the primary aim of bringing together the research community, exchanging knowledge about the latest scientific developments and gaining a better understanding of the researchers’ needs.

“Our mission is to provide researchers with opportunities to conduct research in their respective fields and thereby contribute to a healthier, cleaner and safer world. Such face-to-face meetings offer excellent opportunities not only to present our products, but also to learn about the work of research groups,” said Dr L. Taujenis.

According to him, collaboration with universities goes beyond simply presenting technology. The company offers students research topics and provides the necessary infrastructure, whilst the universities ensure academic supervision. One such example is V. Pedišius, a doctoral student at LSMU, whose research is jointly supervised by Dr L. Taujenis and Prof. Valdas Jakštas, Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy.

Research presented by scientists

This year, the Day of Science, held in Kaunas, covered various fields of the life sciences. The presentations explored topics in genetics, immunology, gut microbiota and cell biology, as well as modern research methods.

Topics such as AI-driven protein design, environmental pollutant analysis and plant metabolomics were also discussed. Scientists from Lithuania and abroad presented their research, discussed current scientific issues and explored the opportunities offered by modern technologies.

The speaker line-up also included LSMU researchers Dr Rūta Inčiūraitė and Dr Aistė Jekabsonė. Dr R. Inčiūraitė presented the potential applications of intestinal organoids in scientific research, whilst Dr A. Jekabsonė spoke about extracellular vesicles and particles and their role in signal transduction within living organisms.

Dr Hesham El Abd, a researcher at Kiel University and a visiting researcher at the LSMU Institute for Digestive Research, discussed the role of genetics in the study of inflammatory diseases associated with immune system dysfunction. Vilmantas Pedišius, a doctoral student at the Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, LSMU, who also works at Thermo Fisher Scientific, presented research into the chemical composition of plants and the application of mass spectrometry methods.

According to Dr R. Inčiūraitė, such events provide an opportunity not only to present one’s research but also to strengthen ties with other researchers and representatives of the biotechnology sector.

“This is an excellent opportunity to bring the Lithuanian scientific community together in one place to discuss opportunities for collaboration and new ideas. Collaboration with Thermo Fisher is also very valuable, as it allows us to work with biotechnology companies that are developing new products and seeking to meet the needs of scientists. It’s a wonderful synergy,” said Dr R. Inčiūraitė.

In addition to scientific presentations, the event featured workshops and the exhibition showcasing technologies and solutions designed for laboratory work. Participants had an opportunity to interact with specialists from Thermo Fisher Scientific and discuss potential applications of the technologies. The Talent Connect Zone provided a dedicated space for participants to meet and build professional networks.

Visitors to the exhibition could learn more about Thermo Fisher Scientific products developed in Vilnius, whilst activities aimed at young people showcased the Mobile BioClass and iGEM initiatives, designed to foster interest in the life sciences among young talent.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Day of Science provided researchers with an opportunity not only to learn about the latest research and technologies, but also to exchange experiences, discuss current issues and forge professional connections. Such initiatives strengthen collaboration between the academic community and the biotechnology sector, foster new ideas and create opportunities for joint projects that contribute to progress in the life sciences.

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At the invitation of LSMU Vice-Rector for Research, Prof. Juozas Kupčinskas, Prof. Hidekazu Suzuki, an expert in gastrointestinal diseases at Tokai University, is visiting LSMU together with a delegation.

Working alongside representatives of the LSMU Department of Gastroenterology and the Institute for Digestive Research, the visiting researchers are conducting research into gastric cancer as part of a project funded by the Research Council of Lithuania under the Lithuanian – Japanese Research Programme. The project focuses on developing an artificial intelligence model for the early diagnosis of gastric cancer.

This collaboration between the two universities and their researchers contributes to further advancement in medical science and the development of methods for gastric cancer prevention and early diagnosis.

The Japanese delegation also visited Kaunas City Municipality, as the cities of Kaunas and Hiratsuka, represented by the researchers, have a long-lasting partnership which has stretched over almost a decade.

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Neuromuscular diseases can affect much more than muscles responsible for movement. They can impair breathing, heart function, swallowing and nutrition, affect bone health, cause pain and limit a person’s autonomy. Patient care therefore involves a wide range of professionals, including paediatric and adult neurologists, pulmonologists, cardiologists, endocrinologists, orthopaedic and trauma surgeons, rehabilitation specialists, physiotherapists, dietitians, nurses and other healthcare professionals.

According to Prof. Kęstutis Petrikonis, Professor at the Department of Neurology of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences and Chair of the Society of Neurologists, some of the most significant breakthroughs in neurology over the past decade have been made in the field of neuromuscular diseases.

“Gene therapy is already performed in practice, and it is already possible to manage severe diseases, including spinal muscular atrophy and myasthenia, which were previously considered untreatable. We are also expecting breakthroughs in the treatment of other diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. At the same time, equal access to expensive new medicines and providing appropriate patient care in the context of growing life expectancy are common challenges in all the countries,” says Prof. Petrikonis.

Medicines are only part of the picture

The scientific programme of the conference covered the entire patient pathway – from accurate diagnosis and the selection of treatment to monitoring respiratory and cardiac function, nutrition, bone health, orthopaedic care, physiotherapy, rehabilitation and pain management. A dedicated session focused on the latest developments in the treatment of myasthenia, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and polyneuropathies.

Milda Dambrauskienė, a paediatric neurologist at the Department of Neurology of Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kauno Klinikos, emphasises that even when no disease-specific treatment is yet available, consistent monitoring and timely support from different specialists can help stay a few steps ahead before the complications emerge.

“Over the past few decades, the life expectancy of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy has increased from the teenage years to 30–40 years of age. This was not achieved through any miracle drug. High-quality multidisciplinary care has made an enormous

difference: timely initiation of ventilation, medicines that protect the heart muscle, and orthopaedic care. Today, we must do everything we can to ensure that patients remain in the best possible condition until an appropriate new treatment becomes available to them,” says M. Dambrauskienė.

This year’s programme also placed considerable emphasis on the role of patients themselves. A session on patient empowerment addressed the transition from paediatric to adult healthcare and the importance of patients taking an active role in decisions about their care.

“You may not be an expert in the disease, but you are the best expert in your own care,” encouraged Prof. Ros Quinlivan from the United Kingdom, who has worked in the field of neuromuscular diseases for more than 30 years.

Sofija Belogorceva, a patient representative from Latvia, also shared her personal experience.

For patients and their families, dietitian Dovilė Urbanavičiūtė-Minelgė at Kauno Klinikos shared important nutritional considerations when patients experience difficulties associated with impaired mobility or swallowing

“The patient is an important member of the team. The doctor understands the disease, while the patient knows their own day-to-day situation best – what helps them and what does not. When people take an active interest in their condition and become involved in their own care, outcomes are better,” says M. Dambrauskienė.

From accurate diagnosis to quality of life

Key speakers at the conference included Prof. Edoardo Malfatti from France, an expert in myopathies who highlighted the importance of an accurate diagnosis for subsequent patient care; rehabilitation specialist Eva Kristina Melin from Sweden; and Prof. Anna Kostera-Pruszczyk from Poland, who presented recent developments in the treatment and prognosis of myasthenia. The pool of experts also included representatives from Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia who shared their experience with the participants.

At the conference, Prof. Petrikonis discussed the mechanisms of pain in neuromuscular diseases. Although pain is sometimes assumed to be uncommon among these patients, research shows that, depending on the disease, it affects 50 to 80 per cent of patients. Pain may be muscular, joint-related or neuropathic, and its management therefore requires a multimodal approach.

According to Dr Evelina Grušauskienė, Head of the Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders at Kauno klinikos, the Baltic School of Neuro-Myology is becoming an important platform bringing together specialists from Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia and providing an opportunity to discuss both the latest advances and the challenges encountered in everyday practice.

“Lithuania, and Kauno klinikos in particular, has a significant advantage in providing multidisciplinary care because specialists from different fields work in one place. This also

makes it easier to transition patients to adult care once they reach adulthood, although better coordination of these services is still needed,” says Dr Grušauskienė.

The event was aimed at neurologists, paediatric neurologists, geneticists, pathologists, pulmonologists, orthopaedic and trauma surgeons, physiotherapists, medical doctors and general practice nurses.

The conference was organised by the Lithuanian Association of Paediatric Neurology, the Lithuanian Neurological Association, the Lithuanian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology and Neurosonology, the Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders of the Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kauno Klinikos, and the Department of Neurology of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, together with neuromuscular societies and specialist teams from Latvia and Estonia. During the conference, sponsors also presented some of the latest and most innovative treatments for neuromuscular diseases that are already available in Lithuania.

The post Baltic Neuro-Myology Experts Meet in Kaunas: Treatment Breakthroughs Must Be Matched by Comprehensive Patient Care appeared first on LSMU.

An international team of researchers, including an LSMU scientist, has published the results of its research in the Journal of Hepatology, one of the world’s leading journals in the field, with an impact factor of 40.1.

The researchers have developed a new artificial intelligence tool, the ELM Score, which enables the non-invasive prediction of clinically significant portal hypertension in patients with compensated chronic liver disease.

The tool:

• combines liver and spleen stiffness measurements obtained using any elastography technique with basic clinical data;
• reduces the proportion of inconclusive, or ‘grey-zone’, cases from nearly 48 per cent under the current Baveno VII criteria to just 12 per cent;
• maintains a high level of diagnostic accuracy;
• enables earlier and safer identification of patients requiring treatment; and
• helps reduce the need for invasive diagnostic procedures in patients with chronic liver disease.

The ELM Score calculator is available HERE.

The scientific publication is available HERE.

The post LSMU Associate Professor Dr Romanas Zykus Co-Authors Major Scientific Paper and New AI Tool appeared first on LSMU.

“Freemasons are increasingly re-engaging with society. They have always stood for the principles of liberty, equality and fraternity. Those who upheld these ideals were often at the forefront of change, as these values were central to their lives. Partnerships between Masonic organisations and research institutions are well established around the world, and we are pleased to see similar initiatives becoming increasingly prominent in Lithuania,” said a representative of the Adomas Mickevičius Masonic Lodge.

The scholarship recipient was selected following a meeting of the Board of the LSMU Science Fund held on 27 April 2026, during which nine outstanding doctoral students’ applications were assessed. Candidates were evaluated on the basis of their scientific achievements, publications, participation in research projects and other criteria established in the University’s Regulations on Research Activities. Following a thorough review of the applications, the Board selected Darius Stukas as this year’s scholarship recipient.

The Giedrius Andziukevičius Nominal Scholarship, established by the Adomas Mickevičius Masonic Lodge, aims to encourage promising early-career researchers and recognise their contribution to scientific advancement. The scholarship is named in honour of physician Giedrius Andziukevičius, who served for many years as Director of the Kaunas Dainava Polyclinic. Throughout his career, he was committed to improving the quality of healthcare services, promoting innovation and creating a more patient-centred healthcare system.

Darius Stukas is pursuing doctoral studies in Biology within the field of Natural Sciences under the supervision of Professor Žilvinas Dambrauskas. His research focuses on the biology of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. By advancing the understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying one of the most aggressive forms of cancer, his work has the potential to contribute to the development of new diagnostic and treatment approaches.

According to the scholarship recipient, the award represents important recognition of the work he has undertaken during his doctoral studies.

“The award of this scholarship demonstrates that research into the biology of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is both important and highly relevant. I regard it not only as a personal achievement but also as encouragement to continue my research and pursue new scientific achievements. I am sincerely grateful to my doctoral supervisor, our research group and my colleagues for their constant support, valuable discussions and encouragement. I would also like to thank the scholarship sponsors for their trust in young researchers and for promoting their scientific research,” says Darius Stukas.

Alongside his doctoral studies, Darius Stukas is actively involved in both research and academic work. He is employed as a Junior Researcher at the Surgical Gastroenterology Laboratory of the Institute for Digestive Research, Medical Academy, LSMU. He also lectures at the Department of Surgery and the Department of Biochemistry at the Faculty of Medicine, and serves as a Junior Assistant at the Institute of Biological Systems and Genetic Research, Faculty of Animal Sciences, Veterinary Academy, LSMU.

On behalf of the University, Professor Ingrida Ulozienė, Head of the LSMU Research Affairs Department, expressed her appreciation for Darius Stukas’ contribution to the future of medicine.

“This recognition is of great importance to our entire research community and represents a meaningful tribute to the memory of Giedrius Andziukevičius. Today, Darius is conducting research of considerable importance, requiring exceptional concentration, long hours in the laboratory and great perseverance. Your recognition and financial support are therefore a truly valuable gift. This is tangible support that contributes to the advancement of future medicine and may one day help save lives. Your generosity sets an outstanding and inspiring example for society as a whole,” she said.

On 17 April, prior to the award ceremony held at the Pažaislis Monastery, the benefactors met last year’s scholarship recipient, Jolita Stabrauskienė, a doctoral student at the Department of Drug Technology and Social Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, LSMU. During their visit, they were introduced to the activities of the LSMU Pharmacy and invited to visit the Faculty of Pharmacy.

The first Giedrius Andziukevičius Nominal Scholarship was awarded in 2024 to Karolina Mėlinytė-Ankudavičė, a doctoral student in Cardiology at LSMU.

The scholarship is awarded annually to doctoral researchers whose scientific achievements and academic activities demonstrate outstanding professionalism, commitment and a significant contribution to scientific progress.

During the scholarship presentation ceremony, the benefactors thanked the Rector of LSMU for the University’s commitment to supporting promising young researchers.

“This University, under the leadership of Professor Rimantas Benetis, is an excellent example of how the next generation of scientists should be nurtured,” they said.

Special thanks were also extended to Professor Ingrida Ulozienė, Head of the LSMU Research Affairs Department.

“Having witnessed Professor Ulozienė’s exceptional professionalism in supporting young researchers and her outstanding leadership of the Research Affairs Department, this year we looked for ways to provide even greater encouragement by increasing the value of the scholarship. We have now done so. We sincerely hope to strengthen this cooperation in the

years ahead. With leaders such as these, we can achieve a great deal,” said the representative of the Adomas Mickevičius Masonic Lodge.

“We congratulate Darius Stukas on receiving the Giedrius Andziukevičius Nominal Scholarship and wish him every success in his future research. This scholarship has already become a valued tradition, and next year we will once again invite doctoral students to apply,” the representative concluded during the award ceremony, attended by Professor Ingrida Ulozienė, Head of the LSMU Research Affairs Department, members of Giedrius Andziukevičius’ family and other invited guests.

The post Giedrius Andziukevičius Nominal Scholarship Awarded to LSMU Doctoral Student Darius Stukas appeared first on LSMU.

At the event, Rector Professor Rimantas Benetis and Prof. Habil. Dr Daiva Rastenytė, Chancellor of the Medical Academy, presented LSMU to the Alliance. They introduced the University’s structure, current projects, international partnerships and main areas of activity.

LSMU was also represented by Prof. Habil. Dr Arimantas Tamašauskas, Director of the Neuroscience Institute of the Medical Academy; Prof. Dr Juozas Kupčinskas, Vice-Rector for Research; Prof. Dr Indrė Čeponienė, Vice-Rector for Studies; and Prof. Dr Ingrida Janulevičienė, Dean of the International Relations and Study Centre. They explored opportunities for cooperation and strengthened international partnerships.

The NeurotechEU Summit and General Assembly in the Swedish capital focused on strategy, practical solutions and shared guidance for shaping the future of international education and research.

Earlier this year, representatives of the NeurotechEU Alliance visited LSMU. The visit was an important step in strengthening international connections. Following the meetings, the parties agreed to continue active cooperation, develop networking and continue discussions on LSMU’s possible accession to the NeurotechEU Alliance.

NeurotechEU is an alliance of European universities focused on neurotechnology, a fast-developing field of research that brings together medicine, artificial intelligence and technology.

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As the scope of research and technological needs have grown, the Oncology Research Laboratory has moved from its former small premises on the lower ground floor to new 330-square-metre facilities at the Hospital of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kauno Klinikos, next to the Department of Radiation Therapy.

The new premises house laboratories for molecular research, protein research, functional cell studies and cell cultures, as well as a lecture room for students, facilities for sample preparation and storage, and a laboratory for Bachelor’s and Master’s students working on their final theses. 

Ambitious plans for a priority area

Oncology is one of LSMU’s strategic research areas. LSMU Rector Professor Rimantas Benetis highlighted the University’s ambitious plans and expectations in this field.

“Oncology research at the University should in future continue expanding into the areas of molecular research, digestive system studies, nuclear medicine and proton therapy. We are actively working in this direction and discussing sources of funding so that, in the future, we can significantly expand treatment options for oncology patients. We view the development of oncology research with hope, commitment and a sense of responsibility,” said Professor Benetis.

Professor Elona Juozaitytė, Head of the LSMU Institute of Oncology and Head of the Department of Oncology and Haematology, noted that the renewed and highly favourable conditions for developing radiobiology experiments and other research activities mark a new stage in the scientific work of the entire Institute of Oncology.

“The expansion of the Oncology Research Laboratory is not only an investment in infrastructure; it is also an investment in people. We are investing to ensure that young researchers – our future leaders – have comfortable conditions in which to work. The renovated infrastructure will serve both studies and Master’s students’ laboratory work, and will help consolidate efforts for the further development of radiology and oncology research,” said Professor Juozaitytė.

Professor Renaldas Jurkevičius, Director General of the Hospital of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kauno Klinikos, emphasised the importance of collaboration.

“Both at LSMU and at the university hospital Kauno Klinikos, oncology is a priority area. From a clinical perspective, we can be proud of strong progress: new technologies are being introduced, and individualised therapy based on genetic diagnostics is being applied. These are systemic steps; without research and without the University, such progress would not be possible,” said Professor Jurkevičius.

According to Professor Juozaitytė, research findings are directly applied in patient treatment. Recognising the value, importance and benefit of such research for patients, Avon – a well-known cosmetics company and organiser of various cancer-awareness initiatives – contributed EUR 25,000 to support the renovation of the Oncology Research Laboratory and breast cancer research carried out there.

Applying the most advanced technologies

Established 15 years ago, the LSMU Faculty of Medicine Institute of Oncology comprises the Department of Oncology and Haematology and the Oncology Research Laboratory. The laboratory conducts fundamental and applied research covering a broad spectrum of oncological and oncohaematological diseases, as well as radiobiological experiments.

The laboratory’s main research focus is the search for new prognostic and predictive cancer biomarkers. Using patients’ blood and tumour samples, as well as cell culture models, researchers analyse gene sequence variants and changes in gene expression at RNA and protein level.

Advanced technologies are used in the research, including real-time PCR, next-generation sequencing (NGS), Western blotting, flow cytometry and other methods. Around 200 human exome sequencing studies have already been carried out using NGS technologies.

Another important area of the laboratory’s research is radiobiology. Researchers analyse the response of breast cancer cells to ionising radiation and search for phytochemicals that increase radiosensitivity.

Fundamental knowledge for treatment and diagnostics

Biologists and geneticists working at the Oncology Research Laboratory collaborate closely with oncologists and haematologists and conduct translational research, the results of which are directly applied in clinical practice.

The Institute of Oncology of the LSMU Faculty of Medicine stands out for its growing research output and significant achievements internationally.

Researchers from the Institute of Oncology are involved in the activities of the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN). In 2022, the Institute joined the CERN Baltic Group and participates in the activities of the Particle Physics Consortium, which brings together Lithuanian researchers from various fields and disciplines to conduct research on topics relevant to CERN. The consortium includes a Radiobiology Research Group representing LSMU.

With research activity and the number of scientific publications having increased significantly, it is expected that targeted development will create the conditions for the continued strengthening of the Institute of Oncology and an even greater contribution to the advancement of oncology research in Lithuania.

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