As reported, on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, a group of scientists who have rendered exceptional services to the country’s scientific sphere were awarded high state honors by the order of the President. Among them is academician Irada Huseynova, Director-General of the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnologies of the Ministry of Science and Education. She was awarded the “Shohrat” Order for her significant contributions to the development of science in Azerbaijan.

In her statement to “Azərbaycan müəllimi”, she said that she received the news with great excitement and pride:
“This award is not only a recognition of my personal work, but also a state-level appreciation of the efforts of Azerbaijani science and our researchers. The high recognition of achievements in science by the state is a strong motivation and moral stimulus for scientists. For me, the ‘Shohrat’ Order is both a symbol of responsibility and an indicator of work directed toward new scientific goals. This award reaffirms that science is regarded as a strategic priority in the country’s development and that scientific thinking holds a leading position in the model of innovative progress.”

The academician also considers this honor as a collective achievement of the institute she leads and of the Division of Biological and Medical Sciences of ANAS:
“I regard this order not as a personal success, but as an acknowledgement of the dedicated work of the entire scientific community. My scientific activity covers the fields of biochemistry, molecular biology, and biotechnology. Under my leadership, the molecular-genetic bases of plant stress resistance are being investigated, and using RNA-seq and digital phenotyping technologies, research is conducted toward developing new, high-yield and resilient wheat varieties.”

“Science is one of the strategic pillars ensuring national security, as well as economic and environmental stability”

The scientist believes that the high state appreciation of scientific achievements also creates responsibility for researchers:
“Science is not only the production of knowledge, but also one of the strategic foundations for ensuring national security, economic and environmental stability. Improving management and funding mechanisms for scientific development, supporting young researchers, and expanding international cooperation are essential.”

She emphasizes the importance of attracting youth to science, aligning PhD and postdoctoral programs with international standards, and encouraging scientists educated abroad to return and contribute to national science:
“The commercialization of scientific results, integration of innovation and start-up ecosystems with science, and support for women scientists and young researchers are of strategic importance. We, as scientists, are ready to mobilize all our knowledge and energy to promote Azerbaijan’s scientific potential globally and to turn our country into a regional center of science and innovation.”