Valentyna Bolokhovska is a distinguished Ukrainian biotechnologist whose career has spanned more than five decades. Since beginning her professional journey in 1973, she has become a leading figures in agricultural biotechnology, known for transforming scientific research into practical, scalable solutions for farmers and industry. As co-founder of BTU Biotech Company, part of the BTU-CENTER group, and Head of its Research and Development Department, she has played an important role in advancing the BioAgTech sector in Ukraine and internationally.
A Career Built on Science and Innovation
Dr. Bolokhovska began her career as a chemist and senior biochemist, later becoming Head of a research laboratory specializing in microbial polysaccharides. In 1993, she earned a Candidate of Technical Sciences degree after defending her dissertation, Obtaining Polysaccharides from Bacillus polymyxa, at the Kyiv Technological Institute of Food Industry. Her early scientific work focused on microbial polymers for enhanced oil recovery and the restoration of soils contaminated by oil and salinity. These projects demonstrated not only the environmental potential of biotechnology but also the importance of developing solutions that are economically viable and effective under real industrial conditions. This principle later became a defining element of her professional philosophy: innovation must be reproducible, practical, and cost-effective.
Founding BTU and Entering Agricultural Biotechnology
In 1999, Valentyna, together with her husband, son, and a team of like-minded professionals, founded BTU-CENTER. The company initially focused on microbial and enzyme-based products for industries such as oil and gas, while also developing solutions for agriculture and feed production.A major turning point came in 2007, when BTU officially entered the agricultural market with the registration of three products: Azotofit®, Fitocid®, and Liposam®. These products marked the beginning of the company’s systematic involvement in agricultural biotechnology.Under Dr. Bolokhovska’s leadership, BTU developed an integrated innovation model that combined scientific research, production, field validation, and technical support. Through collaboration with agricultural universities and agronomists, the company introduced applied farming programs and practical solutions for modern agriculture.
Liposam and International Recognition
One of Valentyna’s most notable achievements is the development of Liposam®, a bioadhesive platform created through years of research into microbial biopolymers. The product has gained international recognition as an innovative agricultural technology, helping improve the efficiency of crop treatments and supporting sustainable farming practices.In 2001, Dr. Bolokhovska and a team of researchers from four organizations received the State Prize of Ukraine in Science and Technology for their work on biotechnology applications in textiles, chemicals, food industry, and agriculture. Thе award recognized the national importance of her scientific contributions.
Leadership Through Education and Sustainable Growth
Beyond product development, Valentyna has emphasized education as a vital part of agricultural progress. Under her guidance, BTU has conducted hundreds of seminars, training events, and technical consultations aimed at helping farmers understand the role of microorganisms and biological products in crop production.Her leadership style combines scientific discipline with strategic management. Rather than pursuing rapid expansion, she focused on gradual, sustainable growth based on internal expertise, quality control, and long-term planning. This approach enabled BTU to evolve from rented facilities into a modern high-capacity production enterprise and a recognized market leader.
Global Recognition for Agricultural Innovation
Dr. Bolokhovska professional focus has consistently centered on integrating biological products into crop cultivation systems and restoring soil fertility. She has promoted farming models in which biotechnology complements traditional agricultural practices, reduces environmental pressure, and contributes to healthier harvests and stronger food security.In 2024, the company rebranded as BTU, reflecting its international ambitions after 25 years of operation. In the same year, Valentyna Bolokhovska received the Best Business Reputation nomination at the Global100Awards and was featured in BAW Digest’s Women in Agriculture series. At the BioTechWorld Congress 2026 in Valencia, Valentyna received the Exceptional Women Leader Lifetime Achievement Award 2026 in recognition of her more than 50 years of dedication to biotechnology, scientific innovation, and sustainable agriculture. The award honors her outstanding contribution to the development of practical biological technologies, her leadership in transforming BTU into a recognized leader in BioAg, and her lifelong commitment to advancing soil fertility, environmental balance, and farmer-focused innovation.
Valentyna Bolokhovska’s lifelong dedication has helped build a culture of responsible biotechnology - where scientific ideas are transformed into practical tools that improve agriculture, restore ecological balance, and support sustainable food production. Her legacy is reflected not only in the products she helped create, but also in the new generation of scientists and managers she has inspired through her discipline, innovation, and long-term vision.
Do you have any questions?
Fill out the form and our manager will contact you within two working days.