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Ivana BrekaloView profile

Researcher

• Chemistry
• Applied Chemistry
• Mechanochemistry
• +4 more

Ivana Brekalo is a Researcher at the Ruđer Bošković Institute in Zagreb, Croatia, affiliated with the Division of Physical Chemistry and the Laboratory for Applied and Sustainable Chemistry. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Georgetown University (2019), with a thesis on "Solid State Synthesis and Study of Porous Materials," and completed her Master's (2012) and Bachelor's (2010) degrees in Chemistry at the University of Zagreb. Her work bridges mechanochemistry and materials science, focusing on scalable synthesis methods for functional materials. Doctor of Philosophy, Chemistry, Georgetown University (2013–2019) Master of Science, Chemistry, University of Zagreb (2010–2012) Bachelor of Science, Chemistry, University of Zagreb (2007–2010) Her research emphasizes mechanochemical synthesis, particularly for porous materials like metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and coordination polymers. She explores solvent-free methods, polymorphism control, and the role of gas-phase catalysts in solid-state reactions. Recent publications highlight thermally controlled milling for agrochemical cocrystals, conductivity in alkali metal coordination polymers, and real-time monitoring of mechanochemical processes. Key publications include Nature Reviews Chemistry perspectives on advanced mechanochemical synthesis and Inorganic Chemistry studies on low-dimensional magnetism in MOF-74 materials. Her work appears in journals like ACS Sustainable Chem. Eng. and Chemical Science , with a focus on green and scalable methods. Scientific Awards Scholarship of the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange – Ulam Programme (2020) Bepina Sabalić Kunin Fellowship (2013-2015, 2017-2018) Ludo Frevel Crystallography Scholarship, IUCr (2017) CCDC award for best presentation (2022) Brekalo contributes to outreach as the 2019 ACS Volunteer of the Year and has received recognition for her work on solvent-free polymorphism and mechanochemical templation of ZIFs.

• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Molecular Self-Assembly
• Thermodynamic Studies of Complexation
• +5 more

Tamara Rinkovec is a Senior Lecturer at the Ruđer Bošković Institute, affiliated with the Division of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry. Her research focuses on supramolecular chemistry, molecular self-assembly, thermodynamic studies of complexation, and surface-induced phenomena. She leads projects at the Laboratory for the Computational Design and Synthesis of Functional Materials, exploring interfaces between organic and inorganic systems. Research Interests : Dr. Rinkovec's work spans calixarene-based host-guest chemistry, peptide-anion interactions, and the design of nanoconfined molecular systems. She investigates cooperative effects in self-assembly processes and chiral induction at solid-liquid interfaces. Her recent studies address laser-controlled intercalation dynamics and supramolecular architectures in confined spaces. Key Themes : Articles from 2023–2025 highlight advanced topics like reversible solvent intercalation in graphite, bisurea-functionalized molecular switches, and temperature-dependent network formation. Earlier work (2018–2020) established foundational studies on homocyclopeptide anion binding and chloride-assisted macrocyclization. Labs & Teams : Her lab integrates computational design with experimental synthesis to create functional materials. Ongoing projects include developing surface-responsive systems and studying energy transfer in confined environments.

Mile ŠikićView profile

Professor

• Computational Biology
• Genomics
• Deep Learning in Sequencing
• +4 more

Prof. Mile Šikić is a Full Professor at the Department of Electronic Systems and Information Processing, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (University of Zagreb). His research spans computational biology, genomics, and machine learning applications in sequencing technologies. Focus on nanopore sequencing analysis, genome assembly, and protein interaction prediction Developed tools like GraphMap , RiNALMo , and Orthobalancer Active in metagenomics, RNA structure prediction, and CUDA-based algorithm acceleration Scientific contributions include: Advances in de novo genome assembly for error-prone long reads Deep learning models for base modification detection Efficient algorithms for sequence alignment and similarity searches Technical implementations cover: GPU-accelerated sequence alignment libraries (e.g., SW# ) Web platforms for comparative protein analysis Simulation tools for epidemic spread on complex networks

• Chemical Crystallography
• Structural Chemistry
• Hydrogen Bonding
• +5 more

Dr. Krešimir Molčanov is a Senior Scientist at the Ruđer Bošković Institute in Zagreb, Croatia, working within the Division of Physical Chemistry, Laboratory for chemical and biological crystallography. He maintains a dual academic role as an educator at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, where he teaches specialized courses in crystallography and general chemistry. Dr. Molčanov's educational background includes primary education at Ivan Gundulić school in Zagreb (1985-1993), secondary education at II. gimnazija high school in Zagreb (1993-1997), undergraduate studies in Chemistry at the University of Zagreb (1997-2002), and doctoral studies in Inorganic and Structural Chemistry at the same institution (2003-2008). His research primarily focuses on chemical crystallography with special emphasis on radical systems, particularly semiquinone radicals and their electronic properties. Dr. Molčanov investigates the relationship between crystal structure and functionality, with applications in magnetic materials, conductivity, and proton transport. A recurring theme throughout his career is the investigation of 'pancake bonding' - a special type of multicenter bonding in radical systems that bridges the gap between covalent and intermolecular interactions. His work increasingly incorporates quantum crystallographic methods to understand electron density distribution in complex systems. Analysis of Dr. Molčanov's publication record shows consistent evolution from fundamental hydrogen bonding studies toward advanced applications in functional materials. His most recent work (2023-2025) demonstrates sophisticated integration of experimental crystallography with electronic structure analysis, particularly in systems involving radical anions and multicenter bonding. The recurring themes across his publications include π-stacking interactions, charge transfer phenomena, and the design of materials with tailored electronic properties. Dr. Molčanov has led multiple research projects funded by the Croatian Science Foundation and Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts. His leadership roles include projects on metal-organic systems based on oxalate and quinoid ligands, interactions of semiquinone radicals for magnetic materials, and design of functional materials based on quinoid rings. He has coordinated international collaborations with researchers from France, Slovenia, and India, focusing on crystallographic studies and materials design. Within the Laboratory for chemical and biological crystallography at the Ruđer Bošković Institute, Dr. Molčanov maintains close collaboration with multiple research teams, including the long-standing partnership with Dr. Biserka Kojić-Prodić (his PhD supervisor). His interdisciplinary approach spans chemistry, physics, and materials science, with particular emphasis on the structural basis of electronic properties in solid-state systems.

Toni MilunView profile

Lecturer

• Mathematics Education
• Financial Mathematics
• Business Statistics
• +3 more

Toni Milun serves as a lecturer in mathematics and statistics at Algebra University of Applied Sciences, where he bridges theoretical concepts with practical business applications. His academic foundation includes a 1999 degree from the Faculty of Science and Mathematics at the University of Zagreb and a 2012 postgraduate specialist degree in Statistical Methods for Economic Analysis and Forecasting from the Faculty of Economics in Zagreb. He is currently completing his doctoral research in Economics at the Faculty of Economics in Rijeka. His research spans Mathematics Education, Financial Mathematics, and Business Statistics, with a distinctive focus on making complex quantitative concepts accessible through innovative pedagogical approaches. Milun's work consistently connects mathematical theory to real-world economic scenarios, particularly in SME financing, investment analysis, and statistical literacy for decision-makers. His publications reveal a strong emphasis on practical applications in Croatian business contexts and educational settings. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications shows dominant themes in financial mathematics (35%), business statistics (30%), and adult education (25%), with recurring subfields including percentage calculations in commerce, regression modeling of socioeconomic factors, and maritime/IT-specific mathematical applications. His research demonstrates consistent engagement with Croatian economic data and educational challenges. His notable recognition includes: Pride of Croatia award for special contribution to education Milun actively disseminates knowledge through public-facing initiatives rather than formal academic advising. He has co-authored a high school mathematics textbook and provides consulting services in applied mathematics and statistics, focusing on business problem-solving. His educational outreach generates significant impact through digital platforms and traditional media. He leads the www.tonimilun.com educational portal and television productions ('Školski sat' and 'Financijalac'), directing teams of educators, video producers, and subject-matter experts to create accessible mathematical and financial literacy content for diverse audiences across Croatia.

• Fluid Dynamics
• Aerodynamics
• Environmental Engineering
• +3 more

Hrvoje Kozmar is a Full Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Zagreb's Faculty of Science. His research focuses on fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, and environmental engineering, with particular emphasis on wind energy systems, atmospheric boundary layer flows, and structural dynamics. His work addresses challenges in offshore engineering, wind turbine design, and urban building aerodynamics. Professor Kozmar has contributed to advanced computational models for hydrodynamic loads on offshore structures, turbulence effects on tall buildings, and wind energy harvesting systems. His studies on Bora wind dynamics and rotor blade aerodynamics highlight interdisciplinary applications in meteorology and renewable energy. Key projects include surrogate modeling for offshore monopiles, numerical simulations of wave-current interactions, and experimental studies on porous double-skin façades for wind load mitigation. He has collaborated on wind farm layouts, cable-supported bridge stability, and aerodynamic optimization of vehicles.

Gabriela AmbrožićView profile

Associate Professor

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Polymer Chemistry
• +7 more

Gabriela Ambrožić is an Associate Professor at the Department of Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Rijeka, Croatia, where she leads the Laboratory for Synthesis of Functional Materials. With a PhD in Chemical Sciences from the University of Ljubljana, Slovenia, she has built an extensive research career spanning materials science, nanotechnology, and chemistry. Education: 2003-2004: Postdoctoral Fellow, European "EMMMA" Program, University of Trieste, Italy 1997-2002: PhD in Chemical Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia 1989-1997: University Degree in Chemistry, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia Professor Ambrožić's research focuses on the synthesis and characterization of advanced functional materials, particularly semiconductor thin films, hybrid materials, and zinc oxide nanoparticles. Her work combines experimental chemistry with materials engineering to develop innovative solutions for environmental and biomedical applications. She specializes in Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) techniques, polymer/ZnO nanocomposites, and photocatalytic materials for water purification and antibacterial applications. Her recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on semiconductor thin films, particularly zinc oxide-based materials with enhanced photocatalytic properties. Her research shows consistent innovation in surface functionalization techniques, hybrid material synthesis, and the development of novel nanomaterials with specific structural and functional properties for environmental applications. Scientific Awards: 2023: Award for the Best Scientific Paper in 2022, University of Rijeka, Faculty of Physics 2020: Award for the Best Scientific Paper in 2020, University of Rijeka, Department of Physics Professor Ambrožić has mentored numerous undergraduate and graduate students across physics, biotechnology, and environmental science programs. She has secured significant research funding, including an HRZZ project worth 977,485.50 HRK for developing porous thin-film materials for water purification using ALD techniques, and has participated in multiple EU-funded research initiatives. She leads the Laboratory for Synthesis of Functional Materials at the University of Rijeka, where her team specializes in developing advanced nanomaterials using Atomic Layer Deposition and other thin-film techniques. Her research group collaborates extensively with international partners and has made significant contributions to the fields of photocatalysis, hybrid materials, and semiconductor thin films.

• Econometrics
• Healthcare Management
• Regional Economics
• +3 more

Dr. Danijela Rabar is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Economics and Tourism 'Dr. Mijo Mirković' in Pula, University of Primorska. She specializes in quantitative methods, with teaching responsibilities in Mathematics for Economists and related courses. Her research focuses on efficiency analysis using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), applied to healthcare, regional economics, public administration, and industrial processes. Key projects include MEGASFORA (economic growth modeling) and MEPHS (public health service efficiency measurement). She has authored over 30 articles since 2009, emphasizing nonparametric methods in evaluating economic and institutional performance. Her work spans efficiency assessments of Croatian hospitals, municipalities, airports, and shipyards, with a particular interest in fiscal policy implications and regional development. Rabar’s interdisciplinary approach bridges econometrics, operations research, and policy analysis, contributing to both academic literature and practical decision-making frameworks.

Marijana ĐakovićView profile

Professor

• Mechanically Induced Flexibility of Crystals
• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Crystal Engineering
• +3 more

Prof. Marijana Đaković serves as Full Professor and Vice Dean for Science at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. Her academic career spans over 25 years with progressive appointments from Assistant (1997-2013) to current Professor (2023-present). She maintains strong international collaborations including with Kansas State University and University of Vienna. Her research focuses on mechanically induced flexibility of crystals, supramolecular chemistry, and crystal engineering. She investigates how specific structural features and intermolecular interactions govern mechanical properties in crystalline coordination polymers, particularly cadmium(II) systems. Her work bridges chemistry and materials science to develop design principles for flexible crystalline materials with tunable mechanical responses. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals dominant research themes in mechanical flexibility of coordination polymers (87%), crystal engineering (73%), and supramolecular chemistry (60%). Key methodologies include crystallographic analysis (93%), computational modeling (40%), and mechanical property characterization (33%). Her work shows consistent progression from fundamental structural studies toward applications in smart materials design. Associate Member of Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts (2020) Annual Science Award by Republic of Croatia (2022) Multiple Rector's Awards for student mentorship Best Poster and Presentation Awards at international conferences Prof. Đaković has mentored 16 graduate students including PhD candidate Mateja Pisačić (2022). She leads major research projects funded by Croatian Science Foundation and Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts, with total funding exceeding 3 million HRK. Her laboratory focuses on crystal growth, structural characterization, and mechanical property testing of coordination polymers. Current research explores the relationship between molecular structure and macroscopic mechanical behavior in crystalline materials, with potential applications in flexible electronics and responsive materials.

Josip TambacaView profile

Professor

• Partial Differential Equations (PDEs)
• Continuum Mechanics
• Numerical Analysis
• +6 more

Prof. Josip Tambaca is a Professor of Mathematics at the University of Zagreb's Faculty of Science (PMF), specializing in mathematical modeling of mechanical systems, continuum mechanics, and biomedical engineering. He holds a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Zagreb (2000) and has conducted extensive research on fluid-structure interaction, stent mechanics, and micropolar elasticity. His work bridges theoretical analysis (PDEs, asymptotic methods) with applied problems in cardiovascular systems and engineering structures. Education: B.Sc. Mathematics, University of Zagreb (1994) M.Sc. Mathematics, University of Zagreb (1999) PhD Mathematics, University of Zagreb (2000) Research focuses on mathematical models for elastic structures (rods, plates, shells), with emphasis on biomedical applications like coronary stents. Key projects include 'Mathematical Modeling of Vascular Stents' and 'Modeling Endovascular Stents.' Collaborations with institutions like Texas Heart Institute and SIAM highlight his interdisciplinary impact. Publications span 20+ years, emphasizing fluid-structure interaction, asymptotic analysis, and numerical methods. His work 'A New Linear Shell Model for Shells with Little Regularity' (2014) and 'Mechanical Behavior of Fully Expanded Coronary Stents' (2011) are seminal in their fields. Teaching responsibilities include courses on Partial Differential Equations and Elasticity Theory.

• 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).

• Machine Learning
• Data Science
• Computational Biology
• +4 more

Tomislav Šmuc serves as Head of the Division of Electronics and Research Professor at Zagreb's Ruđer Bošković Institute, leading the Laboratory for Machine Learning and Knowledge Representation. Previously, he taught Machine Learning at the University of Zagreb's Faculty of Science (2010-2021) while maintaining his primary research affiliation. His educational background includes a PhD (1994), MSc (1991), and BSc (1986) in Electrical Engineering from the University of Zagreb. Research interests span machine learning, data science, computational biology, and complex systems, with emphasis on redescription mining, network analysis, and biomedical applications. Current projects include EU-funded initiatives SUSA, Ai4Health.Cro, MAESTRA, and MultiPlex focused on healthcare AI and data science. His publication portfolio shows strong continuity in bioinformatics and machine learning, with recent work emphasizing multi-view data integration, drug discovery, and network analysis. The 15 most recent articles demonstrate consistent output across top journals like Nature Communications and Scientific Reports, with growing emphasis on translational biomedical applications. As academic advisor, he has mentored four doctoral students including Fran Supek and Matija Piškorec. His research is supported through multiple EU grants including FP7 projects MAESTRA and MultiPlex, and current DIGITAL EU initiatives Ai4Health.Cro and SUSA. The Laboratory for Machine Learning and Knowledge Representation under his leadership focuses on developing novel algorithms for complex data analysis, with applications spanning computational biology, healthcare informatics, and network science, maintaining active collaborations across European research institutions.

• Materials Science
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Solid State Physics
• +3 more

Ana Šantić serves as Head of Division at the Ruđer Bošković Institute's Division of Materials Chemistry, leading the Laboratory for functional materials in Zagreb, Croatia. Her research spans materials science with emphasis on electrical properties of disordered systems. PhD in Chemistry (2005), University of Zagreb Diploma in Chemistry (2000), University of Zagreb Her primary research interests focus on electrical/dielectric properties of materials , utilizing impedance spectroscopy to investigate glasses , ceramics , glass-forming liquids , ionic liquids , and bioactive materials . She has pioneered studies on polaronic transport mechanisms in phosphate-based systems and developed supramolecular ionogels for advanced electrolytes. Her work bridges fundamental charge carrier dynamics with applications in energy storage materials. Analysis of her recent publications reveals strong trends in sodium-ion battery cathode development , polaronic conductivity engineering in vanadate-phosphate systems, and structural-property relationships in functional glasses. Key subfields include transition metal oxide doping effects, mixed glass former phenomena, and nanoscale structural modifications for enhanced ion transport. Commendation award for PbO-Fe 2 O 3 -P 2 O 5 glasses research at 2004 Younger European Chemists Conference She has secured multiple competitive grants including Croatian-German bilateral projects on supramolecular ionogels (DAAD), Croatian Academy of Science and Arts projects on Li-battery electrolytes, and National Foundation postdoctoral research on ionic liquids. Her teaching includes Bioinorganic Chemistry at University of Rijeka and Physical Chemistry at University of Münster. Her laboratory specializes in impedance spectroscopy characterization of functional materials, with recent focus on glass-ceramic composites for energy applications and supramolecular ionic liquid systems.

Josip MiklečićView profile

Assistant Professor

• Wood Technology
• Coatings and Surface Treatment
• Thermal Modification of Wood
• +3 more

Josip Miklečić is an Assistant Professor at the University of Zagreb's Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Department of Wood Technology. His research focuses on wood-coating systems durability, thermal modification, and surface treatment optimization. He has held roles including junior researcher (2008–2013), postdoctoral researcher (2013–2018), and current assistant professor since 2018. His work emphasizes practical applications of coatings and adhesives in wood products, with a strong focus on enhancing weathering resistance and material durability. His scientific interests include studying the impact of surface preparation, nanoparticle additives, and coating formulations on wood properties. Notable areas are the analysis of bonding mechanisms in laminated wood and the evaluation of thermal modification effects on wood chemistry and surface behavior. He collaborates with institutes like the Institute of Wood Science and Institute for Materials Technology, contributing to interdisciplinary projects in wood technology and environmental management. Publications highlight advancements in coatings for wood-based panels, UV stability of modified wood, and vapor permeability studies. His research trends emphasize eco-friendly materials, nanotechnology applications, and practical solutions for outdoor wood durability. Despite no listed awards, his contributions to wood science are evident through his prolific publication record and active roles in academic programs like the Master study Close to Nature Forestry. He advises students and contributes to educational initiatives, including lab management and curriculum development. His work integrates theoretical insights with industry applications, addressing challenges in wood finishing and structural engineering.

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.