MISSION OF THE FACULTY OF BIOLOGY, UNIVERSITY OF WARSAW

DEVELOPMENT PLAN OF THE FACULTY OF BIOLOGY UW
2025–2035

The development plan of the Faculty of Biology UW for the period 2025–2035 aligns with the goals and values set out in the University of Warsaw Strategy 2023–2032. Both documents share a common vision of the University as a leading academic institution that combines research excellence with high-quality education while remaining open to dialogue, collaboration, and responsible engagement with global challenges. The Faculty’s strategy builds upon the University’s overarching priorities and adapts them to the specific context of the biological sciences and the key areas of activity of the Faculty of Biology. The development plan consists of two complementary components: a conceptual framework and an implementation plan, which will specify operational actions.

Our strategy translates the University’s priorities into concrete actions. It emphasises modern teaching approaches, stronger integration of research and education, expansion of English-language programmes, and enhanced cooperation within the 4EU+ Alliance. As a research-intensive academic community, we seek to foster an environment that supports diverse and interdisciplinary research across the full spectrum of contemporary biology—from molecular and cellular biology through organismal biology to environmental and ecological research. This thematic diversity, combined with the ability to connect fundamental and applied research, constitutes one of the core strengths of the Faculty.

Equally important is our commitment to the social responsibility of science, understood as advancing sustainable development, protecting natural environment, and promoting biological knowledge within society. Through its research and teaching activities, the Faculty of Biology actively contributes to the University’s mission of shaping knowledge-based attitudes characterised by openness, responsibility, and respect for diversity.

The development plan of the Faculty of Biology is therefore an integral component of the long-term vision of the University of Warsaw as a modern, responsible, and well-governed academic institution that expands knowledge and develops competencies for the future.

PILLAR I. COMPREHENSIVE EDUCATION

The first pillar of the Faculty’s strategy focuses on further strengthening a coherent, modern, and attractive educational offer that responds to the challenges of contemporary science and society. A key priority is to deepen the integration between research and teaching so that students and doctoral candidates can benefit directly from the scientific expertise and experience of academic staff. The Faculty aims to systematically develop competencies essential for biologists and biotechnologists, including critical thinking, the ability to analyse and interpret complex datasets, and project-based collaboration. These competencies will be cultivated through innovative teaching methods and the use of modern educational tools. Internationalisation of education and stronger engagement with the socio-economic environment are also essential priorities. These efforts will enable students to acquire competencies that prepare them both for academic careers and for participation in the global labour market.

PILLAR II. RESEARCH EXCELLENCE

In developing the research activities of the Faculty of Biology, we aim to strengthen research directions that reflect the interdisciplinary character and thematic diversity of contemporary biology. Our goal is to create an environment that supports the free development of scientific inquiry, enables the emergence of new research areas at the intersection of disciplines, and promotes both internal and inter-institutional collaboration. Key priorities include promoting research excellence, improving the efficiency of administrative and technical support, and strengthening researchers’ competencies in securing external funding. Equally important is enhancing the visibility and recognition of individual researchers and research groups at both the national and international levels.

PILLAR III. RESPONSIBLE GOVERNANCE AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

Pillar III focuses on strengthening the financial stability and professional management of the Faculty of Biology, expanding administrative support for grant holders, and ensuring rational planning of investments. Key priorities include the modernisation and shared use of research infrastructure, the development of the Faculty’s Training Centre, and stronger collaboration with the socio-economic environment. An important element of this pillar is also a forward-looking space management policy aimed at creating modern and welcoming environments that support teaching, research, and the integration of the Faculty community.

PILLAR IV. A SUPPORTIVE AND ENGAGING WORK ENVIRONMENT

Pillar IV of the strategy focuses on developing the Faculty of Biology as a workplace that fosters a strong sense of community while providing favourable conditions for professional development and effective work. A key element of this effort is a well-designed staffing policy that supports the recruitment of highly qualified new employees while also enabling the continuous professional development of current staff through training, seminars, and scientific lectures. Particular emphasis is placed on flexible career development pathways for academic staff, tailored to their individual strengths and competencies, as well as on transparent promotion policies for administrative and technical support staff. Strengthening the sense of community within the Faculty is also an important objective. This will be achieved through regular meetings, community-building initiatives, and greater involvement of staff members in organisational activities. Such an approach creates an environment in which scientific and educational development goes hand in hand with job satisfaction and professional stability, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual support.

Link to the conceptual framework of the development plan for the Faculty of Biology UW (pdf file)