Initiation of Research Collaboration Between the Soil and Water Research Institute (SWRI) of Iran and Saint Petersburg State University of Russia
With the coordination of the International Relations Affairs of the Soil and Water Research Institute (SWRI) of Iran, the groundwork for scientific and research collaboration with the Higher School of Economics (HSE) University in Saint Petersburg, Russia, was explored during the Iran Expo 2025, and preliminary agreements were reached.
According to the International Relations Affairs of the Soil and Water Research Institute, following the visit of Dr. Ahmad Asgharzadeh, Head of the Soil Biology and Biotechnology Research Department of SWRI, to the Russian Pavilion at the 7th Exhibition of Export Capabilities of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Iran Expo 2025), a joint meeting was held between representatives of the Institute and HSE University, Saint Petersburg on Saturday, May 11, 2025
This meeting was attended by Dr. Ebrahim Dargahi Mello, Chairman Soyuzlegprom Business Council Russia-Iran and Head of the Educational Program for Trade Development with the East and Iran; Dr. Hamed Rezaei, Deputy of Research and Technology of SWRI; Dr. Ahmad Asgharzadeh, Head of the Soil Biology and Biotechnology Department; and Dr. Karim Shahbazi, Head of the Central Laboratories. The session focused on identifying areas for bilateral scientific and research cooperation.
Mr. Dargahi Mello provided an overview of HSE University’s international activities and its agreements with Iranian universities, government institutions and private sector, expressing Russia’s interest in expanding scientific relations with Iranian research centers. He further highlighted the annual “Ross Biotech” event as a suitable platform for showcasing mutual capabilities and initiating collaborative scientific and investment ventures.
Dr. Hamed Rezaei, citing the 70-year history of the Institute and its experience in international collaborations, expressed the Institute’s readiness to expand scientific cooperation with Russian academic centers.
Dr. Ahmad Asgharzadeh presented the capabilities of the Soil Biology and Biotechnology Department in areas such as the production and registration of bio-fertilizers, development of growth stimulants, production of bio-coated seeds, and the gradual replacement of chemical fertilizers.
Dr. Karim Shahbazi elaborated on the effective role of the Laboratory Division in updating analytical methods for soil, plant, and fertilizer samples in collaboration with FAO, as well as in managing the network of accredited laboratories across Iran.
At the end of the meeting, both parties agreed on collaboration in areas such as faculty and researcher exchange, implementation of joint research projects, organization of specialized training courses for academic staff and experts, cooperation with BRICS countries, standardization of laboratory analysis methods, issuance of joint certifications, and registration of fertilizer materials.