معرفی
Dalibor Paar serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Experimental Physics at the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. His academic appointment includes teaching undergraduate Physics courses (36208 and 37632), integrated Physics programs (171101 and 171109), and specialized courses in science popularization and computer applications in teaching. He actively supervises graduation theses and contributes to educational innovation through demonstration experiment design.
His research spans two primary domains: cave microclimate dynamics in the Dinaric Karst and physics education methodology. In karst studies, he investigates CO2 dynamics, radon concentrations, magnetic susceptibility of cave sediments, and climate change impacts on deep cave systems like Samograd Cave and Modrič Cave. His educational work focuses on developing demonstration experiments, integrating micro:bit and Arduino technologies into physics instruction, and promoting science popularization in primary/secondary schools through field-based learning and STEM initiatives.
Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals strong interdisciplinary integration between geoscience and physics education. Karst research dominates with 11 papers examining microclimate controls, geochemical processes, and environmental monitoring in Croatian caves, while 4 papers address physics pedagogy including demonstration experiments, misconceptions in physics learning, and early STEM education. This dual focus creates unique synergies where cave environments serve as natural laboratories for both environmental research and science education.
No scientific awards were documented in the provided materials. His research collaborations include the CARDIKARST project examining karst systems in the global carbon cycle and multidisciplinary investigations of Velebit Mountain's deep cave systems. He actively contributes to thesis supervision and has developed educational resources including the STEM educator manual "STEM u neformalnom obrazovanju za zanimanja 21. stoljeća".
Professor Paar's field research centers on the Northern Velebit National Park cave systems, particularly the Lukina jama–Trojama cave complex (-1,431 m), where he conducts microclimate monitoring and geochemical analysis. His educational initiatives include the "STEAM Lika" field teaching program and development of the "Jama Varnjača" educational trail concept. He maintains strong connections with Croatian speleological societies and contributes to national cave conservation efforts through scientific monitoring and policy recommendations.
