Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Central Mindanao University (CMU) reinforced its commitment to internationalization and global research engagement through a series of collaborative activities with the Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of the Russian Academy of Sciences (SIEE RAS) from November to December 2025. Now in its 12th year, the partnership continues to advance scientific excellence, cultural exchange, and capacity building in biodiversity research.
During this period, CMU hosted three scientific groups from SIEE-RAS, fostering knowledge exchange, research dissemination, and institutional partnership across multiple fields of biodiversity science.
The first visiting group was the Microsporidia Research Team led by Dr. Yuri Tukarev. Dr. Tukarev served as a plenary speaker during the International Conference on Biodiversity and the Center for Biodiversity Research in Mindanao (CEBREM) Anniversary, where he shared his ongoing research on microsporidia of major agricultural and forest insect pests. In addition, Ms. Ekaterina Frulova presented a scientific paper on hyperparasitic microsporidia during the International One Health Forum. Their contributions provided valuable insights into parasite diversity, host-pathogen interactions, and ecosystem health.
The second group, headed by Dr. Boris Effeykin, specialized in marine biology and genomics. A highlight of their visit was the turnover of SIEE RAS–donated scientific equipment to the CMU University Museum, significantly enhancing the University’s research, instructional, and public science education capabilities.
The third group comprised experts in mammalogy, particularly bats and rodents, and their associated endoparasites. Through public lectures, hands-on training, and a field school at Mt. Kitanglad, the team shared expertise on biodiversity conservation, taxonomy, and One Health research. The field school successfully trained graduate students in practical wildlife research methods.
These internationalization activities reflect the strong and enduring partnership between CMU and SIEE RAS. Through shared expertise, research collaboration, and academic exchange, the partnership continues to strengthen CMU’s global presence and contribute to sustainable biodiversity science.
The activities were made possible through the joint support of SIEE RAS and CMU, in coordination with the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension, the Office of International Relations, and partner colleges and research units. [Johnica Chantal G. Montero with information from Dr. Alma Mohagan]
