Dr Jonas Cicėnas is one of the most prominent figures in the Lithuanian and international scientific world. His work in the fields of biochemistry, bioinformatics and data science significantly contributes to the development of medical and biological research. He currently works as an associate professor and researcher at the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Technologies of Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution (HEI), where he develops new technologies that can change the world of medicine.
Scientific path and education
Dr J. Cicėnas’ journey towards science began at Vilnius Pedagogical University, where he received his bachelor’s degree. He continued his master’s studies at Vilnius Pedagogical University and later defended his doctoral dissertation in biochemistry at the University of Basel, Switzerland. This stage marked his emergence as an expert in applying data analysis methods in the field of bioinformatics.
Dr J. Cicėnas’ scientific activities include not only academic research but also active cooperation with international institutions, focusing on the development of innovative solutions for cancer diagnostics and treatment.
Research areas and achievements
Dr J. Cicėnas’ scientific interests include bioinformatics technologies, especially those related to cancer diagnostics and treatment. One of his most significant achievements is the development of algorithms based on artificial intelligence and data analysis. These algorithms help to more accurately diagnose cancer diseases and monitor the course of the disease.
In addition, Dr J. Cicėnas pays much attention to biological processes and testing technologies, which contribute to the development of more effective treatment methods. One of his most important contributions is technologies that allow for more accurate separation of cancer cells from healthy tissues, which improves diagnostic accuracy and patient survival rates.
Innovative discoveries and international significance
During his doctoral studies in Switzerland, Dr J. Cicėnas participated in a project that identified 64 genes that determine the aggressiveness of cancer. This discovery became a significant breakthrough in medicine and new hope for people with cancer.
Another significant achievement is the development of a breast examination method that determines the aggressiveness of breast cancer and the risk of recurrence. The study is based on the biomarkers uPA, PAI-1 and VEGF, which allow for a more effective assessment of the course of the disease and the treatment plan.
Dr J. Cicėnas is also the first Lithuanian to create a scientific journal outside Lithuania. His publication “mapkinase.org”, dedicated to the research of MAP kinases (a certain group of enzymes), is unique on a global scale. More than three dozen famous scientists from all over the world publish their works in the journal. The roots of the publication date back to 1998, when Dr J. Cicėnas, together with a colleague, created the website “mapkinases.eu” – a platform for sharing scientific articles and data about kinases.
His work at the Swiss Bioinformatics Institute included collecting scientific articles, analysing clinical trials and systematising information. The accumulated databases and connections help strengthen the international scientific community.
Future prospects
Dr J. Cicėnas is constantly looking for new solutions to improve the accuracy of cancer diagnostics and the effectiveness of treatment. The work of the associate professor proves that science and technology can significantly contribute to improving the quality of people’s lives.
At Kauno kolegija HEI, Dr J. Cicėnas will seek to share his knowledge, contribute to the development of innovative technologies, and encourage the younger generation to be interested in science and technology. He will pay particular attention to data analytics, artificial intelligence, and programming applications in biological research, etc. His experience in developing algorithms for cancer diagnostics and health data analysis will help students understand how modern technologies can be applied to solve real-world problems. Dr J. Cicėnas’s joining the faculty opens up new opportunities for both the academic community and the entire field of computer science engineering.
