Ino Čurik

Ino Čurik is a Full Professor in the Department of Animal Science at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb, where he has maintained continuous employment since 1991. His academic journey progressed from Junior Researcher to tenured Full Professor by 2016, with doctoral training focused on inbreeding theory in animal populations.

His educational credentials include:

• PhD in Biotechnology - Animal Science (1995-2000), University of Zagreb
• Master of Biology - Biomathematics (1991-1995), University of Zagreb
• Graduated Engineer of Agronomy - Animal Science (1986-1991), University of Zagreb

Dr. Čurik's research centers on genomic applications in livestock, with emphasis on inbreeding depression quantification, non-additive genetic effects, and biodiversity assessment using molecular markers. His work develops computational frameworks for eliminating detrimental genes in small populations and analyzing complex health traits in outbred species, bridging theoretical population genetics with practical breeding programs.

Analysis of his publication record (2008-2017) reveals consistent innovation in genomic methodologies, particularly runs of homozygosity analysis and inbreeding coefficient calculation. His research spans cattle genomics for dairy breeding and horse genetics for pigmentation disorders, demonstrating cross-species applicability of genomic tools in agricultural and conservation contexts.

He actively leads major research initiatives including Croatian Science Foundation grants (2023-2027) on genomic innovations in dairy cattle and Horizon 2020 projects integrating animal genetics with archaeology. His editorial roles with Frontiers in Genetics and FAO's Animal Genetic Resources reflect his disciplinary leadership.

Dr. Čurik contributes to infrastructure development through the Laboratory for Archaeogenetics at the Faculty of Agriculture and collaborates internationally with BOKU, Vienna, maintaining a robust research program that connects historical animal populations with modern genomic technologies.