Vanja Daničić

Prof. Vanja Daničić is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Forestry, University of Banja Luka, specializing in forest genetics and reforestation. Their research focuses on genetic conservation of endangered tree species (e.g., Serbian spruce), climate change adaptation in forest ecosystems, and sustainable forestry practices. They lead projects on drought tolerance in fruit crops and have contributed to national forest genetic resource strategies for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Daničić has authored over 50 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, with key work published in journals like *Forest Ecology and Management* and *Annals of Forest Science*. They actively collaborate with international organizations like COST Actions and the EU on forest biodiversity projects.

Current research initiatives include dynamic conservation of endangered conifers, ex situ/in situ conservation strategies, and genetic analysis of sessil oak populations. Daničić serves as a key researcher in national projects like the *Master Plan for Afforestation and Forest Management in Republika Srpska* and leads EU-funded studies on forest resilience to climate change. Their work bridges theoretical genetics with practical forestry applications, emphasizing climate-smart afforestation and biodiversity preservation.

Key projects include conservation of Picea omorika (critically endangered conifer), analysis of drought stress in fruit crops, and genomic studies of Quercus petraea populations. Daničić has organized international conferences like FORSD2D and contributes to educational programs at the Faculty of Forestry, mentoring students in forest genetics and sustainable management practices.