The Faculty of the Environment at UJEP had the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Beth Richardson

an expert in cell biology, genetics, and microbial ecology from Mount Royal University in Calgary, Canada.

Dr. Richardson’s research focuses on eukaryotic microorganisms and the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) to evaluate reclamation processes, particularly in Canada’s Athabasca Oil Sands Region.
As part of the UJEP Visiting Scholar programme, Dr. Richardson participated in a series of meetings, lectures, and discussions with students and academic staff of the Faculty of the Environment. She presented current research on the use of eDNA in monitoring bioremediation and highlighted the important role of protists in reclamation microbial communities.
Her stay also included consultations with PhD students during field sampling, a visit to research plantations of energy crops in Chomutov, and a tour of several UJEP laboratories. In addition, she engaged in intensive discussions about potential joint teaching and research projects between MRU and the Faculty of the Environment, including preparation for international grant proposals.
Her visit was an inspiration for our students and opened new opportunities for international collaboration in phytoremediation, microbial ecology, and environmental health. We are grateful for her time, energy, and expertise!