Ivan Petrović is a Full Professor at the Department of Control and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER), University of Zagreb. His research focuses on advanced control systems, mobile robotics, computer vision, and estimation theory, with significant contributions to autonomous navigation, path planning, and sensor fusion techniques. Specializations in robotics , SLAM , visual odometry , and nonlinear control systems . Recent work includes transformer-based gesture recognition pipelines, uncertainty-aware calibration methods, and reinforcement learning approaches for soft robotic control. His projects integrate probabilistic models, deep learning, and geometric algorithms for real-time autonomous systems. For collaboration or further information, contact: ivan.petrovic@fer.unizg.hr
Zdenko Kovačić is a Research Associate at the Department of Control and Computer Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER), University of Zagreb. He founded the Laboratory for Robotics and Intelligent Control Systems (LARICS) , focusing on advanced robotics and control systems research. Robotics in viticulture and mariculture Autonomous mobile manipulators and UAVs Human-robot interaction for therapy and diagnostics SLAM and 3D data processing for navigation Fuzzy and adaptive control algorithms
Maja Šetinc is a researcher at the Institute of Anthropology in Zagreb, affiliated with the University of Zagreb. With a Doctor of Science degree in Biology (2024) and Master/Bachelor degrees in Molecular Biology (2019/2016), she specializes in genetic determinants of longevity, telomere biology, and population genetics. PhD dissertation: "Biological determinants of longevity in the Croatian population of very old people" Master's thesis: "Cloning of the Jagged1 ligand and its influence on lymphocyte proliferation" Her research focuses on: Genetic interactions in aging DNA damage pathways in oldest-old populations Population genetic comparisons (Croatian Roma vs general population) Pharmacogenetic distinctions BiCePs_Nutrition project (2024-2028): biological, sociocultural, and psychological determinants of nutritional status BioAntroPoP project (2024-2028): applied bioanthropology in contemporary and ancient populations Notable awards: 2024 L'Oréal-UNESCO 'For Women in Science' Award 2022 EMBO Scientific Exchange Grant Technical expertise includes molecular methods for nucleic acid/protein analysis, CRISPR-Cas9 mutagenesis, telomere length measurement, cell culture, and statistical analysis of polymorphisms, gene linkage, and health data.
Ivan Sabol is a researcher at the Ruđer Bošković Institute, leading the Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Bacteriology within the Division of Molecular Medicine. He completed his BSc (2004) and PhD (2011) in Molecular and Cell Biology at the University of Zagreb. His research focuses on human papillomavirus (HPV) molecular virology, epigenetic mechanisms in head and neck cancers, and diagnostic applications of molecular techniques. Education: BSc in Biology, University of Zagreb (2004) PhD in Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Zagreb (2011) Dr. Sabol's work spans HPV variability analysis, miRNA and methylation profiling in cancers, and novel diagnostic method development. He has pioneered high-resolution melting analysis for HPV genotyping and investigated viral integration mechanisms in cervical and head/neck cancers. His recent publications (2024-2023) highlight multidisciplinary approaches to NTM-PD epidemiology, HPV-driven cancer prognosis, and epigenetic biomarker discovery. Key themes include molecular diagnostics, virology, and translational research in oncology and infectious diseases. Scientific Awards: Rector's award (2002/2003) He has mentored graduate students in HPV research and cancer epigenetics. His laboratory collaborates on projects examining HPV prevalence post-vaccination, miRNA regulation in tumors, and molecular diagnostics for infectious diseases.
Mihaela Matovina is a Researcher and Head of the Laboratory for Protein Biochemistry and Molecular Modelling at the Ruđer Bošković Institute, Croatia. Her work focuses on enzymology, protein interactions, and molecular mechanisms in oncology, with a particular emphasis on dipeptidyl peptidase III and its role in oxidative stress pathways. She leads the Croatian Science Foundation project investigating DPP III interactions and collaborates on international projects like the Unity through Knowledge Fund initiative. Dr. Matovina holds a PhD in Biology from the University of Zagreb and has authored over 50 peer-reviewed articles, with notable contributions to understanding HPV integration in cervical cancer and antibiotic resistance mechanisms. She teaches Genetic Engineering at the University of Osijek and has mentored multiple graduate students. Her awards include the 2010 Annual Award from the Ruđer Bošković Institute for molecular medicine achievements. Education: PhD in Natural Sciences (Biology), University of Zagreb, 2006 MSc in Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Zagreb, 2002 BSc in Molecular Biology, University of Zagreb, 1997 Research Interests: Enzyme function, protein-protein interactions, oxidative stress, cancer biology, HPV pathogenesis, antibiotic resistance. Her articles highlight interdisciplinary approaches, combining biochemistry, molecular biology, and computational modeling to explore enzyme roles in disease. Recent work emphasizes DPP III’s interaction with KEAP1 in cancer contexts and its structural features in thermophilic organisms. Collaborative projects span Croatia, Germany, and the US, addressing clinical and basic science questions. Awards: 2010 Annual Award for Molecular Medicine (Ruđer Bošković Institute) Grants/Projects: CSF Project: DPP III-SH2D3C Interaction (€130k, 2021-2025) UKF Project: Human DPP III Physiological Roles (€185k, 2015-2017) Dr. Matovina’s lab investigates molecular mechanisms underpinning disease, with implications for drug development and clinical diagnostics. She actively contributes to teaching and mentoring in molecular biosciences.
Antonija Tomić is a Senior Research Associate at the Ruđer Bošković Institute in the Division of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry , working in the Protein Biochemistry and Molecular Modelling Laboratory . She holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Zagreb (2015) and a BSc in Chemistry (2008), both from the Faculty of Science. Her research focuses on computational studies of enzymatic mechanisms, particularly human dipeptidyl peptidase III (DPP III), exploring zinc coordination, substrate/inhibitor binding, and catalytic cycles using QM/MM and molecular dynamics simulations. Research Interests: Enzymology, molecular modeling, protein dynamics, zinc metalloenzymes, peptide hydrolysis, and enzyme-inhibitor interactions. Her work bridges experimental and computational approaches to elucidate catalytic mechanisms and structural changes in enzymes. Publications: Over 20 peer-reviewed articles, including studies on DPP III's active site, zinc ion parameters for simulations, and interactions with neuropeptides. Recent work explores KEAP1 protein dynamics under oxidative stress and sex hormone receptor interactions with sonic hedgehog proteins. Awards: 2007 award for academic excellence from the Faculty of Science, Zagreb. Education: PhD in Chemistry, University of Zagreb (2015) BSc in Chemistry, University of Zagreb (2008) Labs/Teams: Active member of the Protein Biochemistry and Molecular Modelling Laboratory, collaborating on projects involving enzymology and computational biology.
Dr. Iva Ištok is an Associate Professor at the University of Zagreb's Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, specializing in wood technology and anatomical properties. She has been engaged in postdoctoral research since 2018 and has held roles at the university since 2011. Her work focuses on investigating wood anatomical properties, particularly in fast-growing broadleaf trees, and addressing environmental impacts like heavy metal contamination. Education and Professional Background: PhD in Forestry and Wood Technology Postdoctoral Researcher (2018–current) Junior Researcher and Assistant (2011–2017) Research Interests: Dr. Ištok’s research emphasizes wood identification techniques and the effects of environmental factors on wood structure. Key areas include anatomical variations in Populus, Quercus, and Fraxinus species, as well as the impact of pollutants like heavy metals. Her studies also explore sustainable forestry practices and bioenergy production from wood resources. Recent Publication Trends: Her recent work (2017–2024) highlights advancements in wood defect detection via machine learning, fungal impacts on bark-stripped trees, and anatomical responses to nitrogen fertilization. Her studies often bridge applied forestry with ecological and material science principles. Labs and Facilities: She collaborates within the Department of Wood Technology’s laboratories, focusing on anatomical and physical wood analysis. Her research contributes to Croatia’s forestry policy and sustainable resource management initiatives.
Hrvoje Buljan is a Full Professor in the Theoretical Physics Department at the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. He has been employed at the institution since 1998, holding roles such as Vice-Dean for Science (2016–2018) and Chairman of the Department (2014–2016). His research focuses on nonlinear photonics, topological states of light, synthetic gauge fields, quantum gases, and plasmonics in graphene. He has authored over 100 publications in leading journals like Nature Physics , Physical Review Letters , and Light: Science & Applications . Education & Academic Path: Bachelor's Degree in Physics (1997) PhD in Physics (2002) Postdoctoral Fellow at Technion, Israel (2002–2004) Research Interests: Buljan’s work spans topological photonics, nonlinear optical phenomena, quantum many-body systems, and the design of synthetic magnetic fields in both atomic and photonic systems. His recent contributions include studies on topological bound states in the continuum, vortex dynamics, and plasmonic effects in graphene. Professional Activities: Visiting Professorships at Nankai University (2019) and MIT (2018–2019) Leadership in projects like ZGal and VLA-COSMOS teams Teaching responsibilities in advanced physics courses (e.g., Classical Electrodynamics, Atomic-Molecular Physics) Labs & Collaborations: Engaged with research groups such as the LTSMFL and ALICE laboratories, focusing on experimental and theoretical collaborations in photonics and quantum physics.
Professor Tihomir Orehovački is a faculty member at the Faculty of Informatics in Pula, University of Pula, Croatia. He has been employed since 2015 and holds the academic rank of Professor. His teaching responsibilities include both undergraduate and graduate courses such as Basics of Programming, Data Structures and Algorithms, Design and Programming of Computer Games, Programming, Advanced Algorithms and Data Structures, Development of IT Solutions, and Human-Computer Interaction. Professor Orehovački's research interests focus on Human-Computer Interaction, Game Development, Software Engineering, and Algorithms. His work spans both theoretical and applied aspects of computer science with a strong emphasis on practical implementations. His publications demonstrate expertise in mobile application development, game design, user experience, and educational technology. His recent publications (2024-2025) reveal a strong focus on practical applications of computer science, particularly in game development using Unity and Godot engines, mobile applications using React Native, and web applications for various business and educational purposes. These works span multiple domains including tourism, sports management, vehicle monitoring, and inclusive game design with attention to LGBTQIA+ representation. Professor Orehovački has been actively involved in supervising numerous student theses across various topics in computer science, reflecting his engagement with the next generation of computer scientists and software engineers. His work demonstrates a consistent commitment to both theoretical computer science and practical applications, with particular strength in bridging academic research with real-world implementation challenges.
Marijela Miličević is a lecturer at the Faculty of Informatics in Pula, Croatia. Her professional focus spans computer science, informatics, and education technology, reflecting her role in shaping digital learning tools and curricula. She is affiliated with the University of Pula and contributes to its academic programs in informatics. Her email contact is marijela.milicevic@unipu.hr .
Nikola Vlahović, PhD is a Full Professor at the Department of Informatics , Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Zagreb. His work bridges informatics with business applications, focusing on data-driven decision making and digital transformation. University: University of Zagreb School: Faculty of Economics and Business Department: Informatics Academic Rank: Professor Email: nvlahovic@efzg.hr Research Focus Vlahović’s research spans information systems , process mining , and emerging technologies in business . His work emphasizes: Application of machine learning (e.g., Kohonen maps) to financial fraud detection Integration of blockchain into e-government frameworks Development of semantic analysis tools for website benchmarking Exploration of mobile-assisted learning and NLP in education Recent articles highlight his contributions to smart city technologies , retail innovation , and quality assurance in digital interfaces.
Helena Bukovac is a Lecturer at Algebra Bernays University, specializing in User Experience (UX) Design and Financial Technologies (FinTech). Her work focuses on design and consulting for early-stage international startups. She is certified in UX Management by NN/g and contributes to professional development through workshops, manuals, and a dedicated UX design course. Education: Master's Degree in Graphic Technology Engineering (2016) Helena combines academic instruction with industry expertise, volunteering services for NGOs and hosting the inspirational podcast "Design Party."
Linda M. Dunn-Jensen serves as an Associate Professor of Management at San Jose State University's Lucas College of Business, School of Management. She has established herself as a respected academic in the field of management and organizational behavior with a career spanning multiple prestigious institutions. Her educational background includes a doctorate in organizational behavior from New York University, Stern School of Business, a master's degree in human resource management from Loyola University (Chicago, Illinois), and a bachelor's degree in computer science (major) and business administration (minor) from Marquette University (Milwaukee, Wisconsin). Dr. Dunn-Jensen's research interests center around organizational behavior, management practices, and human resource development. Her academic journey reflects a unique blend of technical knowledge from her computer science background and business expertise, which likely informs her interdisciplinary approach to management studies. Her work contributes to understanding how organizational structures and human resources interact to create effective business environments in today's technology-driven landscape. American Academy of Management Her teaching career includes previous appointments as a visiting lecturer and assistant professor at Indiana University, Kelley School of Business, Department of Management and Entrepreneurship (2007-2014), and as a visiting assistant professor at Northern Illinois University, Department of Management. This progression demonstrates her growing expertise and recognition in the field of management education.
Mislav Kuleš serves as a Professor at Algebra Bernays University, teaching Croatology and Sociology while actively contributing to the Computer Game Development study program through his dual expertise in humanities and gaming industry practice. His interdisciplinary research profile bridges cultural studies and digital media: Croatology (Croatian language, literature, and cultural studies) Sociological analysis of digital communities Narrative design frameworks for interactive media Contemporary literacy development in digital contexts Central to his work is the Erasmus+ project "New Literacy," where he delivered instruction in Croatian language, sociology, ethics, politics, and economics. His industry background includes progressive roles at two Croatian game studios—Community Manager, Game Designer, and Lead Narrative Designer—informing his academic approach to game development education. While no scientific awards or student advisees are documented in available materials, his career exemplifies the integration of scholarly rigor with practical game design experience.
Đani Pašić is a lecturer at Algebra University of Applied Sciences , specializing in computer science. He holds international certifications in Java programming and SQL Server database management, and his research focuses on gamification and machine learning applications in education and sports. Education: Specialist graduate degree in computer science (2018) from Algebra University of Applied Sciences. Research Interests: His work explores how gamification principles can enhance student motivation and outcomes in programming courses. Additionally, he investigates machine learning models for predicting student dropout risks and applies gamification techniques to recreational sports, particularly tennis. Professional Work: Concurrently, he serves as a Senior Specialist Software Development Engineer at Ericsson Nikola Tesla, contributing to R&D projects. His expertise bridges academic research and industry software engineering practices. Key Publications: 2023: Project-based exams in education 2022: Long-term effects of gamification in programming 2021: Leaderboards in object-oriented programming 2020: ML models for student dropout prediction 2018: Gamification in sports 2018: Gamification solutions in tennis
