Vlado Cuculić

Dr. Vlado Cuculić is a Senior Research Fellow at the Ruđer Bošković Institute, affiliated with the University of Zagreb's Faculty of Science. He serves as a Senior Research Associate in the Division for Marine and Environmental Research, specifically in the Laboratory for Physical Chemistry of Traces, where he focuses on biogeochemistry of metals in aquatic systems and electroanalytical methods.

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Chemistry (2003), University of Zagreb, Ruđer Bošković Institute, Faculty of Science
• MSc in Oceanology (1997), University of Zagreb
• BSc in Chemistry (1994), University of Zagreb

Dr. Cuculić's research centers on trace metal biogeochemistry in marine and freshwater environments, with particular expertise in mercury speciation, microplastic-metal interactions, and electroanalytical techniques. His work bridges environmental chemistry and marine science, addressing critical pollution issues in the Adriatic Sea region. Recent research has increasingly focused on the emerging threat of microplastics as vectors for toxic metals in coastal ecosystems, with numerous publications since 2020 examining plastic-metal interactions.

Analysis of his publication record reveals a strategic progression from fundamental studies of metal-ligand interactions to applied research on pollution pathways, with a significant pivot toward plastic pollution research since 2020. His work demonstrates strong methodological consistency in electroanalytical approaches while adapting to address emerging environmental concerns, particularly the interaction between microplastics and trace metals in the Adriatic Sea ecosystem.

Dr. Cuculić actively participates in doctoral education as Deputy Supervisor of the Oceanology doctoral program at the University of Zagreb, teaching specialized courses in marine chemistry and trace element analysis. He leads research projects funded by the Croatian Science Foundation, including the current project on marine plastic litter and pollutant metals interaction (2020-2024). His professional activities extend to multiple scientific societies including CIESM and COST actions focused on environmental monitoring.

Working within the Laboratory for Physical Chemistry of Traces, he utilizes advanced analytical techniques to investigate metal speciation and distribution across diverse aquatic environments, with particular emphasis on anchialine caves, estuaries, and coastal systems of the Adriatic Sea, contributing valuable data for environmental protection efforts in the region.