Final Appraisal Seminar for Tenure Track Assistant Professor Witold Kot
Join the Final Appraisal Seminar for Tenure Track Assistant Professor Witold Kot.
Biography
Witold Kot’s research focuses on bacteriophages, microbial ecology, and viral biotechnology. He investigates phage-host interactions, phage defence systems, and hypermodified viral DNA, combining molecular microbiology with genomics, metagenomics, and long-read sequencing. His work also advances bacteriophages as sustainable biocontrol agents for plant health and agriculture. Witold has co-authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications, secured and managed competitive research funding, and collaborates with leading international groups. He is the founding president of the Danish Society of Viruses of Microbes and is building an independent research program in viral biotechnology and innovation.
Programme
| Short welcome and introduction by the Associate Dean for Education Andreas de Neergaard | |
45-minute presentation by the candidate:
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| Short break | |
| Research questions by external opponent, Professor Martha Clokie | |
| Research questions by external opponent, Professor Vasili Hauryliuk | |
| Questions on teaching experience and future teaching visions by Deputy Head for Education, Kirsten Jørgensen | |
| Questions regarding future ideas, collaboration and international networking by Head of Department Morten Petersen and Associate Dean for Research Andreas de Neergaard | |
| Evaluation by Tenure Track Appraisal Committee (closed session - NB: The candidate and the audience stay in the main room) | |
| Concluding evaluation and conversation between candidate and Tenure Track appraisal committee in front of the whole audience. Presentation of final recommendation that will be forwarded to the dean. |
Title:
From phage biology and DNA modifications to applications in plant health and environmental biotechnology.
Abstract:
Bacteriophages, the viruses that infect bacteria, are major drivers of microbial evolution and a source of biotechnological innovation. Over the past decade, my research has explored phage diversity, phage-host interactions, antiviral defense systems, and the remarkable DNA modifications that enable phages to evade bacterial immunity and change biology of infection. By combining high-throughput phage isolation, metagenomics, and advanced sequencing technologies, I have uncovered novel phages, characterized previously unknown DNA hypermodifications, and investigated their ecological and functional significance. Some of these fundamental discoveries are now being translated into practical applications, particularly in plant health and environmental biotechnology. In this talk, I will highlight how fundamental virus research can contribute to greener agricultural systems and a safer, more sustainable environment.