Medical University–Varna was honoured with two prestigious Varna 2026 awards in the field of Science and Higher Education, in the category of Natural Sciences. The recognition is presented for outstanding achievements in the field of medical science, innovation, and the development of scientific potential in Varna.
An individual award was conferred on Prof. Eng. Kristina Bliznakova for her significant contribution to Public Health through the implementation of cutting-edge methods for breast cancer screening and early diagnosis. Under the guidance of Prof. Bliznakova as lead researcher of Scientific Group “Early Diagnosis and Prevention of Oncological Breast Diseases by Using New Technologies" (ELPIDA), which is implemented within the framework of the project “Enhancement of Translational Excellence Achievement in Medicine (MUVE-TEAM)", the most advanced mammography centre in Bulgaria for scientific purposes was established and equipped, located at University Hospital “St. Marina"–Varna.
The specialised medical equipment has created new opportunities for scientific research, education of young doctors, residents, and PhD students, as well as for more effective early diagnosis in genetically predisposed patients. The investment exceeds € 360 000. Prof. Bliznakova's achievements go beyond the boundaries of clinical practice. Her scientific activities and active role in national innovation policy contribute to establishing Varna as a regional centre for medical research and state-of-the-art development.
The team of TRANSTEM (Translational Stem Cell Biology) project at MU–Varna was distinguished with a Team Varna Award for outstanding contribution to the education and creation of scientific personnel in the field of Translational Medicine and Regenerative Therapy. The award was received by the Director of the Research Institute at MU–Varna, Prof. Dr. Anton Tonchev, and the lead researchers Prof. Dr. Igor Resnick and Dr. Manlio Vinciguerra.
TRANSTEM project, funded under the European Commission's “Horizon 2020" programme with a budget of € 2.5 million, was implemented during the period 2019–2025 and was granted an exceptionally high evaluation from the European Commission for fulfilling all set objectives. Within the framework of the project, a modern research infrastructure was established, the Department of Stem Cell Biology was expanded, and a specialised Office of Technology Transfer and Innovation (OTTI) was created.
With the implementation of TRANSTEM, Medical University–Varna became the first and only Bulgarian institution to successfully implement a project under the ERA Chair scheme of the European Commission – a prestigious instrument for attracting high-level scientists and increasing research capacity in the countries of the European Union.
The two Varna 2026 awards are another recognition of the role of Medical University–Varna as a flagship national and international centre for scientific research, innovation, and education of highly qualified specialists.
