Prof. Marcin Zych on plants, biodiversity and the University of Warsaw Botanic Garden in the “mUWi się” podcast

04 08 2026

Prof. Marcin Zych, Director of the University of Warsaw Botanic Garden, was a guest on the podcast “mUWi się. Podcasts of the University of Warsaw”. In conversation with Mateusz Szymkowiak, he discussed the importance of plants for ecosystem functioning, biodiversity conservation, and the scientific, educational and outreach activities of the University of Warsaw Botanic Garden.

In the first episode, Prof. Marcin Zych talks about his scientific career and fascination with the plant world. He introduces the biology of pollination and explains the role pollinators play in maintaining biodiversity and food security. The conversation also addresses threats to nature, species conservation, and the importance of botanic gardens as places for conducting research, safeguarding plant resources and educating the public.

The second part of the conversation focuses on the University of Warsaw Botanic Garden, which for more than 200 years has combined scientific, teaching and outreach activities. Prof. Marcin Zych discusses the Garden’s history, its unique collections comprising more than 5,000 plant species, and educational activities aimed at people of all ages.

Prof. Marcin Zych’s research interests include the biology of plant pollination, the evolution of plant reproductive strategies and biodiversity conservation. He is also interested in ethnobotany and horticulture.

We invite you to watch both episodes:

Episode 1:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQnY-GZce8M

Episode 2:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sM85_nbrGG8