Speakers
Yuliya Krasylenko
Yuliya Krasylenko, PhD, is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Biotechnology, Palacký University of Olomouc, Czech Republic, specializing in plant biology and ecology. Her research centers on parasitic plants, with a particular emphasis on mistletoes (Viscum, Loranthus, Arceuthobium) and other root and shoot parasites such as Cuscuta, Orobanche, Phelipanche, Striga, and Lathraea. She investigates the cellular mechanisms of host colonization, the role of the cytoskeleton, strigolactone signaling, and the molecular responses of plants to abiotic stress, employing advanced microscopy, image analysis, and molecular biology techniques. Over her career, she has contributed to the understanding of plant biology through 34 publications, several monograph chapters, and the development of novel tools including UAV-based mistletoe sampling technology called Druid Drone. Dr. Krasylenko has extensive international research experience, including visiting scientist positions across Europe, and is actively involved in science popularization, mentoring, and collaborative projects on parasitic plant management and biotechnology. She also coordinates the Ukrainian “Fascination of Plants Day” initiative and moderates the Ukrainian Biodiversity Information Network, reflecting her commitment to both research and community engagement in plant science.
Francisco E. Fontúrbel
Francisco E. Fontúrbel, PhD, is an Adjunct Professor at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso (Chile), specializing in ecology and evolutionary biology. His research centers on plant-animal interactions, with a particular emphasis on mistletoes (Tristerix, Desmaria) and their mutualistic relationships with pollinators and seed dispersers, especially the monito del monte (Dromiciops gliroides). He investigates the effects of habitat transformation on ecological networks, pollination services, and genetic diversity, employing field experiments, camera trapping, molecular techniques, and spatially explicit analyses. Over his career, he has contributed to the understanding of temperate rainforest ecology with over 120 publications, and is one of the leading researchers of the Patagonian Limit-of-life research initiative. Dr. Fontúrbel has extensive international research experience, including collaborations across South America, Europe, and Asia, and is actively involved in science communication, citizen science pollinator monitoring programs, and mentoring graduate students. He also serves as Associate Editor at Oecologia and Revista Chilena de Historia Natural, reflecting his commitment to both research excellence and the broader scientific community.
