Find Academic Supervisors

• Bioelectronics
• Optoelectronic Cell Control
• Nanostructured Materials
• +5 more

Vedran Đerek serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Experimental Physics at the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. His research spans bioelectronics, optoelectronic cell control, and nanostructured materials development. His laboratory ( dereklab.phy.hr ) focuses on creating advanced interfaces between biological systems and electronic devices. Dr. Đerek's research interests center on developing bioelectronic interfaces that enable precise communication with biological systems. His work in optoelectronic cell control utilizes light to modulate electrophysiological properties of cells with millisecond precision, enabling new approaches in biomedical research. His expertise in nanostructured and hybrid materials drives innovation in photodetectors and optoelectronic devices, while his spectroscopy work applies high-resolution optical techniques to study material properties and interactions. Numerical modeling using tools like COMSOL Multiphysics forms a critical component of his research methodology for simulating complex bioelectronic systems. His recent publication trend (2018-2024) reveals a strong focus on organic photocapacitors and photovoltaic devices for neural and cardiac stimulation. Key themes include wireless optoelectronic nerve stimulation, chronic neural interfaces, and the fundamental mechanisms of photocapacitive versus photofaradaic stimulation. His work bridges materials science, neuroscience, and biomedical engineering to develop next-generation bioelectronic interfaces with applications in medical devices and fundamental biological research. Dr. Đerek teaches courses in atomic and molecular physics at both undergraduate and doctoral levels, including "Atomska i molekulska fizika" (Atomic and Molecular Physics), "Osnove atomske i molekulske fizike" (Fundamentals of Atomic and Molecular Physics), and doctoral-level "Spektroskopske metode u proučavanju molekulskih vibracija" (Spectroscopic Methods in Molecular Vibration Studies).

Ivana CrnjacView profile

Assistant Professor

• Partial Differential Equations
• Functional Analysis
• Optimal Design
• +2 more

Ivana Crnjac is an Assistant Professor at the School of Applied Mathematics and Informatics, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek. She serves as Head of the Applied Mathematics and Optimization Research Group and maintains an active research program in mathematical optimization and partial differential equations. Her educational background includes a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Zagreb (2019), an MSc in Mathematics from the University of Osijek (2013), and a BSc in Mathematics from the University of Osijek (2011). Dr. Crnjac's research focuses on Partial Differential Equations, Functional Analysis, and Optimal Design, with significant contributions to elasticity theory and structural optimization. Her work bridges theoretical mathematics with practical engineering applications, particularly in the development of numerical methods for optimization problems in solid mechanics. Her recent publications (2023-2024) demonstrate a clear trajectory toward increasingly complex 3D elasticity problems, showing progression from 2D models to more sophisticated three-dimensional frameworks. Her research integrates advanced mathematical techniques like Hashin-Shtrikman bounds with practical applications in structural engineering. Dr. Crnjac actively participates in multiple research projects funded by the Croatian Science Foundation, including the ongoing 'Homogenization and optimization in mechanics of solids' (2023-2027). She regularly presents at international conferences and workshops on applied mathematics. She teaches a variety of mathematics courses including Ordinary Differential Equations, Complex Analysis, and Linear Algebra II. Her academic service includes organizing the Mathos Cup competition and conducting educational workshops for students at various levels.

Igor DudaView profile

Professor

• History of Everyday Life
• Socialist Yugoslavia
• Leisure and Tourism Studies
• +4 more

Professor Igor Duda is a full professor at the Department of History, Faculty of Humanities, Juraj Dobrila University of Pula. He holds a PhD in History from the University of Zagreb (2009) and has been affiliated with institutions like the Leibniz Institute for East and Southeast European Studies (Regensburg) and the University of Oxford as a Chevening Scholar. His research focuses on the history of everyday life and social structures in socialist Yugoslavia, particularly leisure, consumer culture, and self-management systems. Education: Bachelor's in History and Croatian Studies (2000) Master's in History (2004) PhD in History (2009) Research interests include Yugoslav socialism's microstructures, childhood under socialism, and the role of local communities in self-management. He leads the Centre for Cultural and Historical Research of Socialism and has directed major projects like Microstructures of Yugoslav Socialism (HRZZ-funded). Teaching includes courses on contemporary history and doctoral workshops. Grants and projects: Principal Investigator: 'Making of the Socialist Man' (2014–2017) 'Microstructures of Yugoslav Socialism: Croatia 1970–1990' (2018–2023) Labs/Teams: Head of the Chair of Modern and Contemporary History and co-editor of History in Flux . Organizes the Socialism on the Bench conference series and annually hosts the Doctoral Workshop in Pula.

Krešimir BurazinView profile

Professor

• Partial Differential Equations
• Continuum Physics
• Functional Analysis
• +3 more

Krešimir Burazin is a Full Professor and Vice-Dean for Scientific Research at the School of Applied Mathematics and Informatics within the Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek. His academic career spans over two decades, with a PhD from the University of Zagreb (2008) specializing in Friedrichs systems and hyperbolic systems under Prof. Nenad Antonić. Research Interests include Partial Differential Equations, Continuum Physics, and Functional Analysis. He focuses on homogenization theory, optimal design problems, and applications in elasticity and composite materials. His work bridges theoretical mathematics with engineering problems, particularly in structural optimization and mathematical modeling. Publications emphasize contributions to Friedrichs systems, G-convergence, and elasticity. Recent work addresses explicit energy bounds for 3D structures, optimal plate design, and composite materials. His research spans applied analysis, numerical methods, and interdisciplinary collaborations in mechanics. Projects include leadership roles in homogenization research (Croatian Science Foundation-funded), and participation in EU-funded networks like COST MI-NET. He coordinates international projects and has extensive collaboration with institutions in Serbia, Germany, and elsewhere. Teaching includes advanced courses in Functional Analysis, Differential Equations, and Mathematical Physics. He authored textbooks on calculus and variational methods, emphasizing pedagogical rigor and practical applications.

Josip ŽubrinićView profile

Assistant Professor

• Applied Mathematics
• Homogenization Theory
• Elasticity and Materials Science
• +3 more

Dr. Josip Žubrinić is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Applied Mathematics at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER), University of Zagreb. His research focuses on applied mathematics, homogenization theory, elasticity, and interdisciplinary applications in materials science and quantum systems. He is affiliated with FER's applied mathematics group and actively contributes to the Bibliography (CROSBI) research repository. Dr. Žubrinić's work spans theoretical and applied domains, including: Homogenization of PDEs in heterogeneous media Statistical mechanics models (e.g., Rydberg atoms, Flory polymer models) Combinatorial optimization for settlement planning Mathematical analysis of elastic structures and poroelastic plates Recent research highlights include studies on critical-contrast PDEs, quantum lattice systems, and multiscale modeling of composite materials. His articles demonstrate a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary methods bridging pure mathematics and real-world engineering problems. No scientific awards or grants are explicitly listed in the provided materials. His teaching includes specialized topics like complexity functions in jammed systems and combinatorial models.

Ivana Jelovica BadovinacView profile

Associate Professor

• Surface and materials science
• Solid state physics
• Atomic and molecular physics

Ivana Jelovica Badovinac is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Physics, University of Rijeka. She holds a PhD in Atomic and Molecular Physics (2011) and has expertise in Surface and Materials Science , Solid State Physics , and Atomic and Molecular Physics . Her work focuses on material functionalization, surface modification, and photocatalytic properties of thin films. She teaches Physics 1: Mechanics , Physics 4: Heat and statistical physics , and Atomic and molecular physics . Educational Background: PhD in Atomic and Molecular Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Rijeka (2011) Master of Education in Mathematics and Physics, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Rijeka (2001) Research Focus: Her studies explore surface engineering, photocatalytic activity of ZnO and TiO₂ thin films, and material responses to ion bombardment. Recent work highlights advancements in atomic layer deposition techniques and antibacterial surface functionalization. Key Contributions: Over 30 publications since 2004, including seminal studies on oxide formation via low-energy ion implantation and photocatalytic material optimization. Her research bridges materials science with biomedical and environmental applications. Affiliations: Office O-115, contact at ijelov@phy.uniri.hr or +385 51 584 607. Active in the Faculty of Physics' divisions and laboratories, contributing to interdisciplinary collaborations.

Milna Tudor KalitView profile

Associate Professor

• Food Safety
• Cheesemaking
• Biochemistry of Cheese Ripening
• +5 more

Assoc. Prof. Milna Tudor Kalit, PhD, is an Associate Professor at the Department of Dairy Science, University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture. Her work focuses on food safety , cheesemaking , and the biochemistry of cheese ripening , with a particular interest in traditional dairy products and their role in human diet. She teaches courses such as 'Biochemistry and Technology of Cheese Ripening' and 'Food Safety'. Education: PhD in Biotechnical Sciences (University of Zagreb Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, 2012), thesis: 'Characterization of cheese in a sack according to free fatty acid profile, physicochemical and sensory properties' BSc in Food Technology (University of Zagreb Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, 2005) Research Highlights: Milna investigates the physicochemical and sensory properties of traditional cheeses like Škripavac and Bračka skuta, and explores innovations in ice cream production, whey utilization, and functional dairy foods. Her work often involves sensory evaluation, proteolysis, and physicochemical analysis. Projects: She has led grants funded by the European Social Fund and University of Zagreb, including optimizing milk thermal treatment for sheep milk yogurt and mathematical modeling for milk standardization in traditional cheese production. Professional Involvement: Milna is a member of the editorial board of Mljekarstvo and Mlijeko i ja , the Croatian Association of Food Technologists, and an expert panel for cheese sensory evaluation.

• Welding Technology
• Residual Stress Analysis
• Corrosion Protection
• +3 more

Doc. dr. sc. Dejan Marić is an Assistant Professor at the Mechanical Engineering Faculty, University in Slavonski Brod, Croatia, where he also serves as a post-doctoral researcher. He has held academic roles since 2014, progressing from Assistant to his current rank, while maintaining strong industry connections through applied projects. Education: PhD in Technical Sciences (2014-2019) – Mechanical Engineering Faculty, Slavonski Brod Master in Mechanical Engineering (2007-2012) – Mechanical Engineering Faculty, Slavonski Brod Research Interests: Dr. Marić’s research spans welding technology, residual-stress analysis, corrosion protection, and manufacturing-process optimization. He investigates how technological parameters influence residual stresses and corrosion behaviour in welded structures, aiming to enhance durability and performance. His work integrates advanced welding processes (MIG-CMT, plasma cutting, laser welding), surface engineering through protective coatings, and quality-assurance methodologies. He also explores lean-manufacturing applications in SMEs and tribological aspects of mechanical systems, contributing to both academic knowledge and practical industrial solutions. Scientific Output: Over the last three years he has published more than 30 peer-reviewed articles focusing on: Post-weld heat treatment of high-strength steels Optimization of welding parameters for aluminium alloys Corrosion resistance of stainless steels and protective primers Plasma-jet cutting quality modelling using fuzzy logic Friction and wear reduction in automotive and power-train components Projects & Funding: Principal investigator, University of Osijek: “Optimization of cladded layer made with Ni-alloy” Institutional project leader: “Influence of technological parameters on residual stresses” European project partner (RCK-Slavonika 5.1, ROBO CHALLENGE, MAGMA) Industry collaborations with Đuro Đaković Kompenzatori d.o.o. on welding-quality testing and corrosion evaluation Laboratories & Teams: Dr. Marić conducts research within the Welding and Joining Technologies Laboratory at the Mechanical Engineering Faculty, supervising experimental work on residual-stress measurement, corrosion testing, and welding-process monitoring systems.

• Materials Chemistry
• Coordination Polymers
• Ferroelectric Materials
• +3 more

Lidija Androš Dubraja is a Senior Research Associate at the Ruđer Bošković Institute (RBI), Department of Materials Chemistry, within the Laboratory for Synthesis of New Materials. Her research focuses on advanced materials science, particularly the synthesis, characterization, and applications of coordination polymers, ferroelectric materials, and heterometallic compounds. She specializes in designing novel materials through molecular engineering approaches, with a strong emphasis on understanding structure-property relationships in functional oxides and radical-based systems. Her work integrates interdisciplinary techniques such as crystal engineering, solid-state chemistry, and materials physics. Key research themes include: (1) Developing multifunctional oxalate-based compounds for electronic and photocatalytic applications, (2) Exploring humidity/temperature-driven phase transitions in ferroelectric thin films, and (3) Designing conductive materials through tailored intermolecular interactions like π-holes and resonance-assisted hydrogen bonds. Dr. Dubraja’s recent publications highlight advancements in: novel laser materials using erbium-doped glass microspheres, humidity-responsive ferroelectric systems based on natural alkaloids, and one-step synthesis methods for spinel oxides with tunable magnetic/photocatalytic properties. Her studies often bridge molecular-level mechanisms (e.g., charge transfer pathways, radical stacking) with macroscopic material behaviors, contributing to next-generation electronic and energy storage systems. Her laboratory focuses on translating molecular precursors into technologically relevant materials through controlled thermal decomposition and template-assisted synthesis. Current projects emphasize multifunctional oxides, smart responsive materials, and sustainable synthesis routes for advanced materials.

• Sedimentology
• Petrology
• Provenance Analysis
• +3 more

Matej Plavac, M.Sc. in Geology, is an assistant at the Division of Mineralogy and Petrology, Department of Geology, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. He contributes to teaching courses in System of Mineralogy , Rock Microstructure , and Geology of Mineral Deposits while pursuing doctoral studies in Geology. Education : Master's degree in Geology (2024) from University of Zagreb, focusing on petrological analysis of Eocene deposits in Zrinska Gora. Research Focus : Geochemical characteristics of granitoid clasts and heavy minerals in Paleogene sediments of the Sava Zone, emphasizing geotectonic placement and regional sediment provenance. Projects : Participated in EIT RawMaterials Academy programs on ore waste management and geochemical mapping, with prior involvement in the ProSPer project and Croatian Geological Survey internships. Infrastructure : Affiliated with the Central Library of Geology and the Division of Mineralogy and Petrology.

Igor VelčićView profile

Professor

• Applied Mathematics
• Elasticity Theory
• Homogenization Theory
• +3 more

Prof. Igor Velčić is a Full Professor at the Department of Applied Mathematics, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (University of Zagreb). His research focuses on the mathematical analysis of materials, particularly homogenization theory, nonlinear elasticity, and structural mechanics. Key areas include the derivation of effective models for composite materials, plate and shell theories, and micropolar elasticity. He has contributed to the understanding of elastic and plastic behavior in heterogeneous media through rigorous mathematical frameworks. His work integrates advanced techniques from calculus of variations, spectral analysis, and stochastic processes. Notable contributions include homogenization of von Kármán plate equations from 3D nonlinear elasticity and analysis of high-contrast composite materials. Current research emphasizes multiscale modeling, with applications in elastic plates, rods, and shells under varying microstructural conditions. Prof. Velčić’s publications span homogenization of elasto-plastic models, spectral analysis of composite plates, and stochastic approaches to high-contrast media. His studies often bridge theoretical results with engineering applications, focusing on structural behavior under mechanical loads and material heterogeneity.

• Economics
• Sociology
• Financial Markets
• +4 more

Denis Buterin is a Professor of Professional Studies at Veleučilište u Rijeci (College of Rijeka), specializing in Sociology and Economics. He holds a PhD in Sociology and focuses his research on demographic shifts, tax policies, cryptocurrency dynamics, and economic growth in Croatia and the EU. His work bridges macroeconomic analysis with socio-political and institutional reforms. Education & Teaching: His academic background includes advanced studies in sociology and economics. He teaches courses such as Financial Markets , BASICS OF THE TAX SYSTEM , and BUSINESS FINANCING , emphasizing practical applications of financial and policy frameworks. Research Interests: Dr. Buterin’s research explores the interplay between demographic trends, fiscal policies, and capital market integration. He analyzes cryptocurrency’s role in financial stability, the impact of tax reforms on pension systems, and Croatia’s economic challenges within EU frameworks. His studies employ advanced econometric tools like the VAR model to assess policy outcomes. Recent Work Trends: Recent publications address Croatia’s demographic challenges, tax structure reforms, and Bitcoin’s risks and opportunities. He frequently examines institutional reforms’ effects on healthcare and public finance, advocating for sustainable policy solutions.

Tina FilipovićView profile

Researcher

• Political History
• Social History of Socialist Yugoslavia
• Memory Culture
• +3 more

Tina Filipović is a Senior Researcher at the Department of Modern and Contemporary History, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Juraj Dobrila University in Pula. She holds a Master's degree (2015) and is completing her PhD (expected 2025) in Modern and Contemporary Croatian History at the University of Zagreb. Her research focuses on political and social history of socialist Yugoslavia, particularly the culture of memory, social policy, and veterans' influence in late socialism. Completed primary/secondary education in Pula Employed as a research assistant on multiple projects including HRZZ-funded 'Microstructures of Yugoslav Socialism' (2018-2023) and ERC-funded 'Social Politics in European Borderlands' (2019-present) Collaborates with the Center for Historical and Cultural Research on Socialism (CKPIS) Organized international conferences like 'Socialism on the Bench' and edited academic collections Key research interests include veterans' organizations (SUBNOR), memory politics in post-socialist Croatia, and local governance dynamics in socialist Yugoslavia. She has published extensively on veterans' networks, commemorative practices, and microhistories of socialist institutions. Current work explores transnational comparisons of social policy in European border regions through the ERC project.

Josip ArnerićView profile

Researcher

• Econometric methods and models
• Financial time-series and volatility
• Univariate and multivariate GARCH models
• +3 more

Josip Arnerić, PhD, is a researcher at the Department of Statistics within the Faculty of Economics & Business at the University of Zagreb. His work focuses on econometric modeling, financial time-series analysis, and high-frequency data applications. Academic affiliation: Faculty of Economics & Business, University of Zagreb Research focus: Financial econometrics, volatility modeling, neural networks Email: jarneric@efzg.hr Research Interests Arnerić specializes in econometric methods for financial markets, with particular expertise in: Univariate and multivariate GARCH models Stochastic processes and volatility dynamics High-frequency data analysis Machine learning applications to financial forecasting Market risk modeling and portfolio optimization Publication Trends His work spans econometric modeling of stock market volatility (2023-2025), housing affordability analysis (2024), and neural network applications in inflation forecasting (2021). He has also explored: Price jump identification techniques Gold as safe-haven asset Interdependencies between traditional and cryptocurrency markets

Zvonko KostanjčarView profile

Professor

• Financial Engineering
• Machine Learning
• Complex Systems
• +3 more

Zvonko Kostanjčar is a Full Professor at the Department of Electronic Systems and Information Processing, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER), University of Zagreb. His academic work focuses on financial time series analysis, complex systems modeling, and integration of machine learning techniques in finance. Academic Rank: Professor Department: Electronic Systems and Information Processing University: University of Zagreb Primary Research Areas: Financial Engineering, Reinforcement Learning, Complex Systems His research explores applications of deep reinforcement learning , stochastic signal modeling , and network-based analysis in financial markets. Key methodologies include block-diagonal covariance estimation , market microstructure modeling , and latent factor discovery . He has developed educational tools like Tmil-O-Mat for electrical network theory teaching and contributes to signals and systems pedagogy. His work also addresses statistical arbitrage , portfolio optimization , and credit risk assessment using advanced neural networks.