On May 23rd, the scientific community in Armenia kicked off another exciting year with the launch of the FAR’s Yervant Terzian Armenian National Science and Education Fund (ANSEF).
The awards ceremony, held at the National Academy of Science, welcomed 55 brilliant minds from 17 diverse research groups. These scientists, fueled by the promise of ANSEF grants, are set to conduct research during 2024 in the fields of biology, biotechnology, physics, archaeology, engineering, and more.
“Every year, there's a special joy in the Fund for Armenian Relief office. We run various programs, but we know that our country's progress hinges on science. For 24 years, FAR has invested in science development. Though our grants may seem modest, they've helped stem the brain drain. ANSEF is a vital stepping stone for scientists, especially newcomers, fostering their research and discoveries,” said FAR Armenia Country Director Bagrat Sargsyan during the awards.
This year, the ANSEF Research Council recognized 17 outstanding projects out of a pool of 145 scientific applications. Notably, 7 of the project leaders are young scholars under 35, and an impressive 13 are women, marking a significant stride towards gender diversity in science.
The grant, valued at $7,500, provides essential support for these chosen innovators to realize their scientific visions.
Eduard Karapetyan, FAR Education and Science Programs Director, highlighted ANSEF's core values, stressing the critical role of scientific advancement in driving economic growth, improving education, and advancing society. He also introduced special awards named after luminaries such as Dr. Aram Chobanian, Anahid Kazanjian Longobardo, Dr. Nerses Krikorian, as well as the Yeramyan Family ANSEF Award.
Anna Karapetyan, recipient of the Dr. Aram Chobanyan special award, shared her journey with sincerity. "I've applied to ANSEF for many years, and winning twice feels incredible. ANSEF is dependable and has an international reach. Despite applying numerous times, we were thrilled to win again," said the young leader of a 4-member scientific team that within the project are focusing on the long-term effects of Covid-19 on the Armenian population's blood system.
The ANSEF program, born 24 years ago with the noble mission of retaining talent within Armenia, has since catalyzed a remarkable transformation. With over $3 million invested in 606 grants and benefiting 2,225 scientists, ANSEF has sown the seeds of a vibrant scientific community now spearheading advocacy for further scientific advancement in the nation.
You can also become a vital part of our mission to nurture scientific excellence, combat brain drain, and foster sustainable development in Armenia by donating to FAR today.
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