On August 12, 2025, the National Center for Biotechnology (NCB) — a subsidiary of the National Holding “QazBioPharm” — hosted a solemn ceremony marking the 70th anniversary of the distinguished scientist, Doctor of Veterinary Sciences, and Professor Kasym Kasenovich Mukanov.

Kasym Kasenovich is one of the key figures in the development of Kazakhstan’s biotechnology, an internationally recognized expert in virology, immunology, and infectious immunology. His scientific career began in the early 1980s at the Kazakh Scientific Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine. After completing a targeted postgraduate program at the All-Russian Research Institute of Experimental Veterinary Medicine in Moscow, he defended his Candidate’s thesis on the morphology and biophysical properties of the transmissible gastroenteritis virus. In 1996, he defended his Doctoral dissertation and went on to head major structures of the country’s veterinary service, including the Republican Veterinary Laboratory and the Department of Veterinary Medicine at the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

From the establishment of the Biotechnology Center in Tselinograd (now Astana), he was among the leading researchers who laid the foundation for its scientific base. Over the years, he has held positions as Head of Laboratory and Deputy Director General, and today he serves as the Chief Researcher of the Applied Genetics Laboratory. His research spans the development of diagnostic test systems and vaccines for both human and animal health, as well as studies in molecular biology and genetic engineering.

During the pandemic, as part of a scientific team, he conducted whole-genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 strains circulating in Kazakhstan. These studies provided deeper insights into the virus’s evolution and supported the development of relevant vaccine solutions, making a significant contribution to national biological safety.

On the day of the celebration, NCB staff welcomed the professor with an honor guard of colleagues and students. The official ceremony took place in the assembly hall, where the jubilarian was congratulated by colleagues, representatives of government bodies, scientific organizations, and universities.

Deputy Director General for Science and Technology of the Holding, Aralbek Rsaliev, noted Professor Mukanov’s significant contribution to the implementation of strategic scientific and technical programs, highlighting his high professionalism, deep knowledge, and ability to bring research projects to practical results. His participation in key research projects of the Holding — including large-scale programs under the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Healthcare, and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan — was particularly emphasized as having contributed to achievements of global significance.

Director General of the NCB, Arman Abeeу, expressed gratitude for Professor Mukanov’s many years of dedicated work, his active role in the establishment and development of the organization, and his mentorship of young specialists, which helps preserve the continuity of generations in science.

The Saken Seifullin Kazakh AgroTechnical Research University highlighted Professor Mukanov’s more than 15 years of teaching and research work, during which he has trained numerous highly qualified specialists now working across the country. In recognition of his contribution to personnel training and the development of agricultural science in Kazakhstan, the university presented him with a special commemorative medal prepared for his 70th anniversary.

Congratulatory letters were also received from the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, foreign scientific centers and partners, including the State Scientific Production Association “Chemical Synthesis and Biotechnology” of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus.

The anniversary of Professor Kasym Kasenovich Mukanov is a significant event not only for the National Center for Biotechnology but for the entire scientific community of Kazakhstan. His work, knowledge, and mentorship form a solid foundation for the development of modern biotechnology in the country.