Sylwia Judycka

The winner of the 2024 Dayong Gao Young Investigator Award, sponsored by GoldSim has been announced as Dr. Sylwia Judycka.

Dr. Sylwia Judycka’s academic journey began with the completion of her Master’s degree in Biology at the University of Warmia and Mazury, where she delved into the intricate world of biological sciences. Building upon her foundational knowledge, she pursued her passion for research in animal husbandry and fishery, culminating in the attainment of her Ph.D. from the Animal Husbandry and Fishery Faculty at the Inland Fisheries Institute in Olsztyn.

Currently, she is an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Olsztyn. Her leadership extends to the helm of the Laboratory of Reproduction Techniques and Biotechnology, where she orchestrates cutting-edge projects at the intersection of reproductive biology and technological advancements. In her career, Dr. Judycka has made significant contributions to the field of cryopreservation of fish semen, bridging the gap between theoretical understanding and practical applications. Her research endeavors encompass a wide spectrum, ranging from fundamental investigations into the quality evaluation of fish semen to the development and refinement of cryopreservation protocols tailored to different fish species. With over 62 full-text publications in scientific journals and an h-index of 16, her research has garnered considerable attention within the scientific community. Notably, Dr. Judycka has been involved in numerous scientific projects funded by the National Science Centre of Poland, demonstrating her commitment to advancing knowledge in her field.

One hallmark of Dr. Judycka’s work is the establishment of a comprehensive sperm cryobank housing genetic material from a diverse array of fish species. This includes sex-reversed female rainbow and brook trout, rainbow trout variants (both spring and autumn lines), Atlantic salmon, whitefish, sea trout, grayling, carp, and Atlantic sturgeon. These repositories serve as invaluable reservoirs of genetic diversity, safeguarding the future of endangered species and bolstering breeding programs.

Beyond academia, Dr. Judycka’s efforts resonate deeply with broader ecological imperatives. In the wake of recent environmental crises, her work assumes heightened significance in preserving the genetic integrity of both wild and captive fish populations. By mitigating irreversible losses and fostering sustainability, Dr. Judycka’s endeavors exemplify the pivotal role of scientific research in safeguarding our planet’s biodiversity.