Darko Kontrec is a Senior Researcher at the Ruđer Bošković Institute (RBI), affiliated with the Division of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry and the Laboratory for Chiral Technologies (LKT). He holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Zagreb (1999). His research focuses on chiral recognition mechanisms, enantioselective separations via chromatography, and the synthesis of chiral stationary phases for HPLC/SFC. He has pioneered studies on aroylhydrazone derivatives, metal complexes, and their applications in pharmaceutical and materials science contexts. Key research areas include: Development of novel chiral stationary phases for enantioseparation Synthesis and characterization of organic compounds with pharmaceutical potential (e.g., hydantoins, β-lactam ureas) Photochemistry and photocyclization of organic molecules Coordination chemistry of transition metals (Fe(III), Ga(III), Cu(II), Al(III)) with hydrazone ligands Materials science investigations of liquid crystals and fluorinated nematogens Notable contributions include over 70 peer-reviewed publications (2024-1993) across high-impact journals like Molecules , Pharmaceuticals , and Journal of Coordination Chemistry . He has mentored students such as Mladenka Jurin in chromatographic method development and enantioselective synthesis projects. His work bridges organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, and medicinal applications, with a focus on practical separation technologies and drug discovery.
Barbara Pem is a Researcher at the Ruđer Bošković Institute , affiliated with the Division of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry and the Laboratory for Engineering of Biomembranes . Her work focuses on theoretical and physical chemistry, with applications in biomedicine, pharmacy, and nanoparticle interactions. Educational Background: PhD in Pharmaceutical and Biochemical Sciences (2017–2021), Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb Master's in Pharmacy (2012–2017), Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb Research Interests: Dr. Pem explores the mechanisms of nanoparticle-biomolecule interactions, particularly involving metallic nanoparticles (silver/gold) and biomolecules like thiols and proteins. Her computational and experimental studies address topics such as cysteine oxidation in biological systems, lipid membrane dynamics, and nanotoxicity assessment. She employs advanced techniques like molecular dynamics simulations, NMR spectroscopy, and alchemical perturbation methods. Awards & Recognition: British Scholarship Trust (BST) scholarship (2019) for research on metallic nanoparticle-biothiol interactions FEBS scholarship (2018) for investigating protein-nanoparticle interactions via thiol residues Grants & Collaborations: Her work integrates interdisciplinary approaches, with collaborations involving institutions like the Institute of Occupational Medicine (Edinburgh) and the University of Graz. She actively participates in conferences, presenting on topics ranging from lipid bilayer modeling to nanoparticle toxicity. Labs & Teams: Her research is conducted in the Laboratory for Engineering of Biomembranes , focusing on biomimetic systems and nanomedicine applications.
Petra Grozić is an Assistant Professor in the Theoretical Physics Division of Condensed Matter at the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. Her office is located in room 310, and she can be reached via email at petra@phy.hr or through her official webpage at http://www.phy.pmf.unizg.hr/~petra/ . She is affiliated with the Department of Physics and contributes to research in theoretical and condensed matter physics. Her research interests include areas such as condensed matter theory, quantum mechanics, and material science, as inferred from her departmental affiliation. Published papers are recorded in the Croatian Scientific Bibliography Database, though specific titles or projects are not detailed in the provided text. No academic awards, grants, or advising records are explicitly mentioned in the available information. She is currently active in her role and not noted as retired or former staff.
Lucija Blašković serves as Assistant Professor at the Department of Information Science and Mathematics within the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb. She has maintained continuous affiliation with the university since 2003, progressing from Assistant to Postdoctoral Researcher (2015) and currently holding her assistant professorship since 2017. Her office is located in the 5th Pavilion, 3rd floor, room 65, with consultations held Wednesdays 11am-1pm. Her academic credentials include: PhD in Information and Communication Sciences from Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb Master of Economics (mag. oecc) in Information Management from Faculty of Economics, University of Zagreb Master of Economics in Marketing from Faculty of Economics, University of Zagreb Dr. Blašković specializes in digital transformation of agricultural systems , with core expertise in E-business implementation , E-learning pedagogy , and information systems quality assurance . Her research bridges computational methodologies with agricultural education, examining data literacy frameworks, influencer marketing efficacy for agricultural products, and machine learning applications in farming systems. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2024-2015) reveals three dominant research trajectories: (1) Pandemic-driven digital adaptation in agricultural education and consumer behavior, (2) Computational methods (K-means, CNNs) for educational and agricultural data analysis, and (3) Strategic implementation of e-learning systems in agricultural higher education. Her work consistently applies technical solutions to domain-specific agricultural challenges. She has secured research leadership through competitive grants: "Mjesto i uloga informatike u razvitku poljodjelskih sustava: primjer Hrvatske" (2017-2019, MZOS-funded) as Project Coordinator "Mogućnosti i oblici primjene optimiziranja proizvodnje na obiteljskim poljoprivrednim gospodarstvima" (2017, University of Zagreb-funded) as Project Coordinator Her teaching portfolio spans communications systems, agricultural information systems, AutoCAD drafting, and e-commerce, reflecting her interdisciplinary approach to agricultural informatics education.
Mario Spremić is a Full Professor at the Department of Informatics, Faculty of Economics & Business, University of Zagreb, with significant international affiliations including Imperial College London, School of Economics and Business at University of Ljubljana, and Sapienza University of Rome. He serves as Vice-President of the National Scientific Committee for Information Science and Director of the Postgraduate Study Programme in IT Management. His academic career spans over two decades since joining FEB Zagreb in 2000, following prior corporate experience as a computer programmer, project manager, and executive manager. Born in Dubrovnik, Croatia (1970) B.Sc. in Mathematical Sciences (1996) M.Sc. in IT Management (1999) Ph.D. in Business (2002) Additional education from MIT Sloan School of Management Professor Spremić's research focuses on digital transformation, cybersecurity, strategic IT management, and IT auditing. His work bridges academic theory with practical business applications, resulting in over 100 scientific and professional publications. He has authored or co-authored 15 books on digital transformation, cybersecurity, and enterprise information systems. His research methodology combines theoretical frameworks with empirical validation through case studies across multiple industries. His publication record demonstrates consistent scholarly output with recent contributions focusing on digital business model maturity measurement, cybersecurity frameworks, and digital transformation strategies. The publications reveal a strong emphasis on practical applications of information systems theory in business contexts, particularly in financial services, retail, and public sector organizations. His work often employs mixed-method approaches combining bibliometric analysis, case studies, and empirical validation. Winner of the CGEIT (Certificate in Governance of Enterprise IT) Reviewer for WoS, ISI and Scopus indexed journals International accreditor for EFMD and NAKVIS Active member of IEEE, ISACA, and IAE professional organizations Professor Spremić maintains strong connections with the business world through consulting work, having conducted over 100 consultancy projects, IT audits, and cybersecurity assessments across financial institutions, public sector organizations, and consumer industries. He serves as an international accreditor for higher education institutions, specializing in helping them achieve and maintain international accreditations like EQUIS. His industry engagement complements his academic work, ensuring practical relevance of his research. At FEB Zagreb, he teaches courses including e-Business, Enterprise Information Systems, Cybersecurity, IT Auditing, and Digital Transformation. His teaching approach integrates current industry practices with academic theory, preparing students for digital challenges in modern business environments. He has participated in numerous international study visits to institutions including Henley Business School, Westminster University, WU, MIT, and Technical University Munich.
Franka Grubišić is a Lecturer at Algebra Bernays University , with a focus on Computer Science , Geospatial Science , and Design . She holds a specialist undergraduate degree in Multimedia Computing (2019) and a graduate degree in Computer and Systems Sciences from Stockholm University (2023). Her work bridges creative and technical domains, including public transport systems, resilient societies, and humanitarian technology. Education: Specialist in Multimedia Computing (2019), Graduate in Computer and Systems Sciences (2023) Fields of Interest: Computer Science, Design, Sustainable Development, Geospatial Science Her research emphasizes geodesign , spatial data infrastructure , and human-centered technology , with applications in public services, crisis management, and smart cities. Recent publications highlight biomimetic geodesign , value mapping tools , and augmented reality cartography . She has received multiple Dean's awards , Rector's awards , and international recognitions. Her business consulting focuses on service design , user experience , and technical system optimization .
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.
Domagoj Ševerdija is an Assistant Professor at the School of Applied Mathematics and Informatics at Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, where he leads the Computer Science and Machine Learning Research Group. He holds a PhD in Electrical Engineering (2013) and a dual BS in Mathematics and Computer Science (2007) from the University of Osijek. His research spans computational linguistics, natural language processing, machine learning, and combinatorial optimization, with applications in bioinformatics, robotics, and energy systems. Recent work focuses on neural language models, domain adaptation techniques, and efficient algorithm design. Publications show strong interdisciplinary trends: computational linguistics (Croatian morphology, sentence embeddings), bioinformatics (cell typing, RNA splicing), and algorithm optimization (terrain guarding, matrix operations). Recent papers emphasize knowledge distillation, domain adaptation, and compressed representations. Awards: Best paper award in AIS - Artificial Intelligence Systems track (MIPRO 2023) Research funding includes: Computer-Assisted Corpus Linguistics (UNIOS, 2019-2020) Croatian Identity Network Framework (Adris Foundation, 2020-2021) Croatian Language in Global Cloud (Adris Foundation, 2019-2020) Leads the Computer Science and Machine Learning Research Group, coordinating projects in NLP, computational geometry, and AI applications.
Dr. Berislav Perić is a Senior Research Associate at the Ruđer Bošković Institute , affiliated with the Department of Materials Chemistry and Laboratory for Solid State Chemistry and Complex Compounds in Zagreb, Croatia. His research focuses on experimental and computational crystallography, NMR crystallography, and supramolecular chemistry, particularly in transition metal complexes and chiral systems. Education: PhD in Physics (Crystallography and Magnetism), 2004, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb M.Sc. in Physics (Molecular Biophysics, Crystallography), 2001, University of Zagreb B.Sc. in Physics (Solid State Physics), 1995, University of Zagreb Research Interests: Dr. Perić’s work spans crystallographic methods, computational structure refinement, solid-state chemistry, and NMR studies. His projects explore symmetry breaking in molecular solids, stereochemistry of metal complexes, chirality inversion in supramolecular systems, and applications in catalysis and material science. Scientific Contributions: He has authored 15+ publications, including studies on ferrocene-based chiroptical switches, hexacoordinated metal complexes, and chiral coordination cages. His research integrates experimental techniques (X-ray diffraction, NMR) with theoretical approaches. Awards: Annual Award of the Ruđer Bošković Institute (2011, 2017) Professional Memberships: Croatian Crystallographic Society Croatian Physical Society Croatian Mountaineering Association "Zagreb-Matica"
Josip Lončar is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Radio Communications, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, University of Zagreb. His research focuses on high-frequency electronics, stability analysis of networks with non-Foster elements, and active/passive metasurfaces. He holds a PhD from the University of Zagreb (2017) and has collaborated with institutions such as the Radiation Laboratory at the University of Michigan and Fuzhou University. He teaches courses including 'Innovative Electromagnetic Systems' and 'Microwave Electronics'. Lončar has received awards including the Rektorova nagrada for biomedical engineering work and an Osijek City Scholarship (2009–2013). His research projects include 'Optical Communication Systems with Extended Resonant Gaps' (HRZZ-funded), 'Non-Foster Source-Load Networks' (EOARD-funded), and 'Metamaterial Structures for Electromagnetic Energy Guidance' (UKF-funded). He has contributed to advancements in CubeSat antenna design, attitude control systems, and active metasurface applications. Lončar’s work bridges theoretical electromagnetic analysis with practical implementations in aerospace and biomedical engineering.
Karlo Veličan is a Researcher affiliated with the Faculty of Physics at the University of Rijeka. He holds an M.Sc. in Physics (Solid state physics) from the Department of Physics, University of Rijeka (2018). His research focuses on material science, nanotechnology, and photocatalysis, with particular attention to thin films, atomic layer deposition (ALD), and the optimization of photocatalytic efficiency in materials like ZnO and TiO₂. His work explores substrate effects, doping strategies (e.g., copper doping), and surface functionalization to enhance material performance for applications in energy and environmental technologies. Key research trends in his publications include advancing photocatalytic properties through controlled synthesis methods, investigating temperature and light-dependent behaviors in semiconductor materials, and developing optomechanical sensors. These studies bridge fundamental material science with practical applications, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches between physics, chemistry, and engineering. His technical expertise is supported by his role as a Technical Associate Expert at the Faculty of Physics, where he likely contributes to experimental setups, instrumentation, and collaborative research projects. While no awards or student advisements are explicitly cited, his active publication record suggests involvement in cutting-edge laboratory activities and potential contributions to academic teams within the Faculty's Divisions and Laboratories.
Pejo Konjatić is a Professor at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Zagreb. He specializes in structural analysis, mechanical design, and materials science, with a focus on applications in thermal power plants and automotive engineering. His research involves finite element analysis, fracture mechanics, and the optimization of mechanical systems. He has mentored over 140 students in Master's and undergraduate theses, covering topics like structural integrity, welding techniques, and additive manufacturing. Mentored 45 Master's and undergraduate theses, including projects on boiler design, 3D printing, and rotor dynamics. Supervised 95 papers as a committee member, focusing on mechanical systems, materials science, and safety engineering. His work emphasizes practical applications, such as improving equipment safety in explosive environments and optimizing composite materials for additive manufacturing. Key areas include fracture analysis of welded joints, rotor dynamics, and vibration diagnostics in industrial machinery. Recent research trends involve advancing computational methods (e.g., finite element modeling) and addressing challenges in sustainable manufacturing through material storage effects and lightweight design.
Scott Shackelford is a Professor of Business Law and Ethics at Indiana University's Kelley School of Business. He serves as Executive Director of the Center for Applied Cybersecurity Research and the Ostrom Workshop. He is also affiliated with the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard Kennedy School and the Center for Internet and Society at Stanford. Academic Rank: Professor Key Roles: Executive Director (2), Research Collaborator (Harvard, Stanford) Research Focus: Cybersecurity, privacy, international law, and sustainability. His work bridges academia and policy, with contributions cited in major media outlets like Politico, CNN, and Washington Post. Scientific Awards: Harvard Research Fellowship Hoover Institution National Fellowship (Stanford) Notre Dame Advanced Research Institute Fellowship Indiana University Outstanding Young Teacher Award (2014) Elinor Ostrom Award (2015) Poets & Quants Best MBA Professors Under 40 (2022) Publications: Authored over 100 articles and books on cyber governance, including Oxford and Cambridge publications. His research emphasizes cross-border cybersecurity frameworks, IoT security, and sustainable cyber practices. Professional Experience: Former legal roles at Hogan Lovells LLP, Paul Hastings LLP, NASA Office of General Counsel, and Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies. Also a Boren Fellow with the National Security Education Program.
Ina Erceg is a Researcher at the Laboratory for Biocolloids and Surface Chemistry, Division of Physical Chemistry, Ruder Boskovic Institute. She holds a PhD in Chemistry (2022) and Master's (2017) from the University of Zagreb, focusing on biomimetic synthesis of calcium phosphate/titanate nanocomposites. PhD, University of Zagreb (2022) Master's, University of Zagreb (2017) Bachelor's, University of Zagreb (2015) Her research spans biomimetic nanocomposite synthesis for biomedical applications, radiation dosimetry using fortuitous dosimeters (e.g., salted crackers), and nanoparticle-protein interactions. Journal articles highlight innovations in metal-doped ZnO coatings, superhydrophobic underwater protection, and antioxidant delivery systems. Scientific collaborations include NATO SPS Project "BioPhyMeTRE" for radiological emergency triage methods. She has contributed to 15+ peer-reviewed publications since 2018, focusing on calcium phosphate biomineralization, TiO2 nanomaterials, and surface chemistry mechanisms. Laboratory for Biocolloids and Surface Chemistry NATO SPS Project "BioPhyMeTRE" Interdisciplinary work with European institutions Conference presentations at ECIS, Croatian Microscopy Congress, and EMC2024 demonstrate her expertise in colloidal synthesis, XPS analysis, and EPR radiation studies. Current work explores antibacterial coatings, nanotoxicology, and advanced dosimetry techniques.
Mario Stipčević is a senior scientist at the Ruđer Bošković Institute (RBI) in Zagreb, Croatia, where he heads the Photonics and Quantum Optics Laboratory within the Division of Experimental Physics. Holding the Croatian rank of scientific advisor in permanent position —equivalent to full professor—he has led national and international research efforts spanning quantum optics, quantum-information science, and high-energy neutrino physics. Education 2011–2012: Visiting Specialization in Experimental Quantum Information, University of California, Santa Barbara, USA 2010–2011: Fulbright Scholar, Experimental Quantum Information, University of California, Santa Barbara, USA 1994: PhD in Particle Physics, Université de Savoie, Chambéry, France 1991: BSc in Theoretical Nuclear Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb Research Interests His work focuses on quantum communication , quantum randomness , single-photon detection , quantum key distribution , and quantum holography . Early in his career he contributed to neutrino oscillation experiments (NOMAD, OPERA) and calorimetry R&D for the LHC. Scientific Awards Fulbright Scholarship (2010–2011) Golden Medal ARCA 2005, Zagreb International Autumn Fair Golden Medal, Salon International de Inventions, Geneva 2005 Young Investigator Award, Ministry of Science and Technology, Croatia (1998) Projects & Leadership Since 2014 he has been Head of the Photonics and Quantum Optics Research Unit at the RBI Centre of Excellence for Advanced Materials and Sensing Devices. Earlier projects include the Croatian Ministry of Science grant Experiments in Quantum Communication and Quantum Information (2007–2014) and World-Bank-funded development of a Quantum Random Bit Generator (2004–2005). Laboratory & Teams At RBI he directs the Photonics and Quantum Optics Laboratory , a multi-disciplinary group developing photon-counting detectors, entangled-photon sources, and quantum-network testbeds. The lab participates in European initiatives such as the European Quantum Internet Alliance and the ESSnuSB neutrino super-beam design study .
