Two distinguished faculty members from the MSU at Naawan, Dr. Nonillon M. Aspe and Mr. Kean Roe F. Mazo, proudly represented the university at the international workshop seminar titled “Development of Advanced Mountain Science Research and Education to Establish a Vast Genetic Diversity Database” at the Mountain Science Center of the University of Tsukuba in Sugadairakogen, Nagano, Japan.

The workshop gathered experts from diverse disciplines, including population genetics, phylogeny, systematics, environmental DNA, and ecosystem conservation and management. It provided an international and interdisciplinary platform to discuss innovative approaches and collaborative efforts in advancing mountain science research and education.

Dr. Aspe shared his expertise in the Terrestrial Ecosystems and Biodiversity session. His presentation, titled “The Quest to Trace the Evolutionary Relationship and the Biogeographic Distribution of the Earthworms in Eastern Asia,” offered transformative insights into the evolutionary patterns and ecological significance of earthworm species in the region.

In the same session, Mr. Mazo presented on “The Congruence of Molecular and Leaf Morphological Data in the Genus 𝘚𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘶𝘪𝘢 Willd (Actinidiaceae) in Southwestern Philippines.” His talk emphasized the importance of integrating molecular and morphological data to deepen the understanding of the genetic diversity and systematics of this plant genus.

By attending this workshop, Dr. Aspe and Mr. Mazo gained valuable exposure to cutting-edge research and fostered connections with experts from around the world. This experience enhances their capacity to contribute to MSUN’s research initiatives and strengthens the university’s reputation in the global scientific community. Their involvement opens doors for collaborative projects and knowledge exchange, paving the way for innovative solutions to ecological and biodiversity challenges.