Today, August 18, 2025, the Technical University of Moldova (UTM) marked an important milestone for the advancement of national research. Major modernization work has taken place at the Institute of Microbiology and Biotechnology, which has reopened its doors, now ready to welcome researchers into modern spaces equipped to international standards. The renovation project, valued at 11 million lei, included full-scale repairs, the acquisition of advanced laboratory equipment, examination microscopes, and modern furniture. Investments were also directed toward IT infrastructure. A next-generation communication network was implemented and developed to meet the current demands of research and education. The renovation took two years, and the institute’s 44 scientific researchers and 9 auxiliary staff will now benefit from modern conditions for conducting experiments and studies.
Present at the inauguration ceremony, UTM Rector, Professor Viorel BOSTAN, PhD, noted:
“Investment in research is not only a strategic priority for the Technical University of Moldova, but also a long-term responsibility aimed at placing the Republic of Moldova on the global science map. We are committed to continuing our research and making new discoveries that will bring international recognition to our country.”
The event was also attended by the Minister of Education and Research of the Republic of Moldova, Dan PERCIUN, who emphasized the importance of investing in scientific infrastructure:
“The Ministry of Education and Research of the Republic of Moldova supports the development of research in the country. The modernization of the Institute of Microbiology and Biotechnology is an investment in the future of our science. Moldovan researchers must have access to the best conditions to unlock their potential and contribute to the country’s progress.”
In addition, the President of the Academy of Sciences of Moldova, academician Ion TIGHINEANU, PhD, stated that this step strengthens national capabilities in research and innovation:
“The Institute of Microbiology and Biotechnology has a valuable tradition in the research field, and its modernization creates solid foundations for new scientific discoveries. Today’s investment is proof that science is becoming a national priority, and researchers now have the tools they need to achieve results on an international level.”
The institute came under UTM’s administration three years ago, following Government Decision No. 485 of July 13, 2022, regarding the merger-based reorganization of several institutions in the fields of education, research, and innovation. Previously, it belonged to the Academy of Sciences of Moldova (AȘM). Immediately after the transfer, the UTM administration, led by Rector Viorel BOSTAN, made every effort to begin the modernization process, with the goal of creating spaces suited to the needs of contemporary research—focused on digitalization, advanced infrastructure, and equipment that enables the launch and development of major projects.
In this context, the president of the Institute of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Associate Research Professor Liliana CEPOI, expressed her gratitude for this important step:
“Today marks a moment we’ve awaited with emotion and hope. Research in the Republic of Moldova deserves to be supported by modern infrastructure, and our institute is now prepared to meet the highest standards. We will continue to develop scientific projects with real impact on society, attract young researchers, and actively contribute to strengthening Moldova’s role in the international scientific community. This is not just a success for the institute but for the entire academic community.”
Through this investment and its focus on research, the Technical University of Moldova fulfills its mission with responsibility—to generate and transfer knowledge to society through research, innovation, and technological development. Now, the new spaces, equipped to European standards, are ready to host experiments, discoveries, and international collaborations designed to put the Republic of Moldova on the global science map.
