Korana Kocic

Korana Kocic is a Senior Research Fellow at the Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, specializing in Zoology with a focus on parasitoid wasps (Aphidiinae). Her research integrates systematics, phylogenetics, and ecology to advance biological control applications.

Education:

• Undergraduate studies in Biology (2007-2012), University of Belgrade
• Master's degree (2012-2013) on salivary gland proteins of Ixodes ricinus ticks
• Doctoral studies (2014-2019) at University of Belgrade

Research Interests: Her work centers on the taxonomy and ecology of Braconidae parasitoids, particularly Aphidiinae subfamily. She investigates biodiversity patterns in endangered ecosystems like Serbian coniferous forests and high-altitude habitats, examining tritrophic interactions between plants, aphids, and parasitoids. Current priorities include conservation of specialized trophic associations and developing biocontrol frameworks for agricultural systems.

Publication Focus: Recent articles (2023-2025) demonstrate taxonomic expertise through descriptions of new parasitoid species from Europe, Africa, and South America. Her research consistently addresses biodiversity assessment methodologies, phylogenetic relationships within Braconidae, and regulatory frameworks for biocontrol agents. Molecular systematics and morphological diagnostics feature prominently across publications.

Grants & Projects:

• Rufford Foundation: 'Aphid Parasitoids of High Mountains in Serbia' (2016) - Documented specialized trophic associations in alpine ecosystems
• Rufford Foundation: 'Biodiversity Assessment in Endangered Coniferous Forests' (2018) - Evaluated impacts of habitat disturbance on aphid-parasitoid communities