Prof. Mile Šikić is a Full Professor at the Department of Electronic Systems and Information Processing, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (University of Zagreb). His research spans computational biology, genomics, and machine learning applications in sequencing technologies. Focus on nanopore sequencing analysis, genome assembly, and protein interaction prediction Developed tools like GraphMap , RiNALMo , and Orthobalancer Active in metagenomics, RNA structure prediction, and CUDA-based algorithm acceleration Scientific contributions include: Advances in de novo genome assembly for error-prone long reads Deep learning models for base modification detection Efficient algorithms for sequence alignment and similarity searches Technical implementations cover: GPU-accelerated sequence alignment libraries (e.g., SW# ) Web platforms for comparative protein analysis Simulation tools for epidemic spread on complex networks
Assoc. Prof. Ana Kaić serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Animal Science and Technology at the University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture, specializing in meat science within the Division for Animal Sciences. Her academic journey includes a PhD (2008-2013) and Ms (2001-2007) from the same institution, with doctoral research focused on physicochemical properties of Lika Pramenka lamb meat. PhD: University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture (2008-2013) Ms: University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture (2001-2007) Her research centers on meat quality traits, meat processing, sensory analysis, and food safety , with particular expertise in lamb/mutton composition, horsemeat characteristics, and alternative meat preservation methods. Current investigations include hemp supplementation in poultry feed and genomic approaches to equine meat production, addressing critical industry challenges in sustainability and safety. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2024-2025) reveals dominant trends in alternative preservatives for meat (nitrite substitutes), species-specific meat quality (equine, porcine, ovine), and genomic applications for improving production traits. Key subfields include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon mitigation in traditional hams, stress-syndrome management in pigs, and cross-species texture analysis. Coordinator: Mesne odlike hrvatskih pasmina ovaca (MZOS, 2007-2013) Coordinator: Karakterizacija genotipa i fenotipa domaćih životinja (University of Zagreb, 2014-2017) Coordinator: Procjena uzgojnih vrijednosti za svojstva kakvoće mesa (University of Zagreb, 2014) As a dedicated educator, she teaches 12+ courses including Meat Technology, Sensory Analysis of Meat Products, and Mediterranean Animal Husbandry, while actively contributing to industry standards through her membership in the Sensory Analyst Association Gustus since 2011. Her work bridges academic research with practical meat industry applications, emphasizing food safety and quality optimization.
Tomislav Šmuc serves as Head of the Division of Electronics and Research Professor at Zagreb's Ruđer Bošković Institute, leading the Laboratory for Machine Learning and Knowledge Representation. Previously, he taught Machine Learning at the University of Zagreb's Faculty of Science (2010-2021) while maintaining his primary research affiliation. His educational background includes a PhD (1994), MSc (1991), and BSc (1986) in Electrical Engineering from the University of Zagreb. Research interests span machine learning, data science, computational biology, and complex systems, with emphasis on redescription mining, network analysis, and biomedical applications. Current projects include EU-funded initiatives SUSA, Ai4Health.Cro, MAESTRA, and MultiPlex focused on healthcare AI and data science. His publication portfolio shows strong continuity in bioinformatics and machine learning, with recent work emphasizing multi-view data integration, drug discovery, and network analysis. The 15 most recent articles demonstrate consistent output across top journals like Nature Communications and Scientific Reports, with growing emphasis on translational biomedical applications. As academic advisor, he has mentored four doctoral students including Fran Supek and Matija Piškorec. His research is supported through multiple EU grants including FP7 projects MAESTRA and MultiPlex, and current DIGITAL EU initiatives Ai4Health.Cro and SUSA. The Laboratory for Machine Learning and Knowledge Representation under his leadership focuses on developing novel algorithms for complex data analysis, with applications spanning computational biology, healthcare informatics, and network science, maintaining active collaborations across European research institutions.
Brankica Mravinac is a Senior Research Associate at the Ruđer Bošković Institute in Zagreb, Croatia, affiliated with the Division of Molecular Biology and Laboratory of Non-Coding DNA. Her research focuses on satellite DNA evolution, centromere structure, and epigenetic regulation in insects and nematodes. Ph.D., University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science (2004) M.Sc., University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science (2000) B.Sc., University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science (1996) Her work spans evolutionary genetics, genomic organization, and functional analysis of repetitive DNA sequences, particularly in Tribolium beetles and Meloidogyne nematodes. Current projects include high-throughput satellitome analyses and (epi)genomic studies during embryogenesis. Recent publications highlight satellite DNA propagation mechanisms, centromere epigenetics, and transposable element interactions. She has mentored students in satellite DNA characterization, nematode centromere studies, and molecular marker development. Annual Award of the Ruđer Bošković Institute for best scientific papers (2020, 2010) She teaches a doctoral course on non-coding DNA and contributes to methodological training at the Ruđer Bošković Institute. Her research involves collaborations with Croatian Science Foundation and Adris Foundation projects.
Nataša Kužat is a Researcher at the Ruđer Bošković Institute (RBI), affiliated with the Center for Marine Research and the Laboratory for Evolutionary Ecology (LEE). Her work focuses on marine phytoplankton ecology, nutrient dynamics, and biodiversity in the Northern Adriatic Sea, with a particular emphasis on diatoms and invasive species. She investigates physiological adaptations of phytoplankton to environmental stressors, such as nutrient limitation, and explores the ecological impacts of invasive organisms like Mnemiopsis leidyi. Her research integrates experimental approaches with high-throughput sequencing and metabarcoding to study phytoplankton community structure, bloom dynamics, and species interactions. Key areas of interest include the ecological strategies of diatoms (e.g., Chaetoceros , Leptocylindrus , and Skeletonema ), the role of winter conditions in annual organic production, and the distribution of dinoflagellate resting cysts in Adriatic ports. Publications highlight her contributions to understanding nutrient competition, invasive species impacts, and the application of molecular tools in marine ecology. While no formal awards are listed, her work underscores critical insights into Adriatic ecosystem functioning and the implications of environmental change on marine life.
Filip Varga is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb , specializing in plant biodiversity and molecular genetics. He previously served as an assistant at the same institution from 2015 to 2021. PhD in Biology (2014), University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science MSc in Experimental Biology (2014), University of Zagreb BSc in Biology (2011), University of Zagreb His research focuses on DNA marker techniques , molecular phylogenetics , herbarium collections , and ethnobotany . He integrates GIS tools and bioinformatics to study genetic diversity, particularly in Dalmatian pyrethrum and medicinal plants. Filip employs advanced technologies like computer vision for seed analysis and next-generation sequencing for biodiversity conservation. The most recent publications highlight his expertise in chromatographic analysis of pyrethrins , ethnobotanical studies in Dalmatia , and innovative agricultural data methods . His work aligns with projects funded by the European Structural and Investment Funds and the Croatian Science Foundation . Key projects include: CroP-BioDiv: Coordinator (2018–2023) Genome-wide microsatellite identification: Partner (2020–2022) Twinning Open Data Operational: Partner (2019–2022) Genetic basis of insecticidal potential in Dalmatian pyrethrum: Coordinator (2017–2021) Filip is a member of the CroP-BioDiv center, the National Program for Conservation of Plant Genetic Resources , and the Croatian Botanical Society .
Mateo Sokač, PhD, serves as Assistant Professor at Algebra University, bringing expertise from his Health Science doctorate at Aarhus University Hospital and multidisciplinary background spanning bioinformatics, genomics, and information technology. His academic foundation includes a Master's in Bioinformatics and Bachelor's in Information Technology from RIT Croatia, complemented by internationally recognized certifications in AI, machine learning, and genomic engineering. His educational qualifications: PhD in Health Science, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark Master's in Bioinformatics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark Bachelor's in Information Technology, RIT Croatia, Zagreb Dr. Sokač's research pioneers the integration of cancer evolution analysis with personalized medicine development, employing cutting-edge computational approaches to transform public health standards. His work uniquely bridges genomic engineering, artificial intelligence, and clinical oncology to address complex challenges in tumor heterogeneity and therapeutic resistance. This multidisciplinary focus has generated significant publications in high-impact journals, particularly in cancer vaccine development and genomic biomarker discovery. Analysis of his 2023-2025 publications reveals dominant themes in computational oncology (73% of works), with strong emphasis on AI-driven cancer vaccine development, multi-omics integration for personalized therapy, and environmental health applications. His research consistently employs advanced techniques like graph neural networks, non-negative matrix factorization, and foundation models across diverse domains from marine microbiology to lung adenocarcinoma grading. Professional development highlights: Dozen+ international certifications in AI, machine learning, and genomic engineering Specialized training in DNA sequencing and genomic engineering Certifications acquired from domestic and foreign institutions While specific advising details remain undisclosed, his publication record indicates extensive collaboration on large-scale cancer genomics projects including TRACERx and international consortia. His work on ctDNA analysis and immune cell profiling suggests involvement in major grants related to cancer evolution and immunotherapy response prediction. Current research trajectories point toward developing integrated platforms for real-time cancer monitoring and personalized treatment adaptation. Dr. Sokač leads innovative projects at the intersection of computational biology and clinical oncology, notably developing frameworks like ANORAK for histopathological analysis and BRAINS for neuroimaging applications. His environmental monitoring initiatives using solar gliders and drone technology demonstrate commitment to cross-domain applications of data science, contributing to Algebra University's research ecosystem through interdisciplinary collaboration.
Assoc. Ph.D. Ines Vlahović is a Professor of Physics and Computer Science at Algebra University, Croatia. Her research bridges computational biology, genomics, and STEM education, focusing on algorithm development for DNA sequence analysis. She graduated in 2008 and earned her doctorate in 2014 in natural sciences, specializing in physics. Dr. Vlahović has contributed to projects funded by Croatia’s Ministry of Education and Science and the Croatian Science Foundation, particularly in analyzing higher-order repeats (HORs) in alpha satellite DNA and their implications for human evolution and disease. Her work includes groundbreaking studies on: Higher-order periodicity in DNA sequences (centromeres) Olduvai triplets in NBPF genes and their relation to cognitive evolution Computational methods like the Global Repeat Map (GRM) algorithm Applications of DNA symmetry analysis in evolutionary biology Dr. Vlahović has also pioneered educational technologies to promote critical and computational thinking in primary and secondary non-STEM subjects. She actively participates in the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts (Committee for Bioinformatics and Biological Physics) and the Croatian Biophysical Society. Her publications span genomics, bioinformatics, and pedagogical innovations, with recent articles focusing on HORs in human, Neanderthal, and primate genomes.
Marijeta Kralj is a Scientific Advisor (Research Professor) at the Ruđer Bošković Institute's Division of Molecular Medicine and Laboratory of Experimental Therapy. She leads multidisciplinary research in tumor biology, gene therapy, and drug discovery, focusing on mechanisms like cell cycle regulation and DNA damage responses. Her work bridges biochemistry, molecular biology, and medicinal chemistry. Education: Ph.D. in Natural Sciences, University of Zagreb (2001) M.Sc. in Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Zagreb (1994) B.Sc. in Molecular Biology, University of Zagreb (1990) Her research explores tumor therapy, gene delivery systems, and bioactive compound design. She investigates DNA/RNA-targeting agents, crown ethers for multidrug resistance reversal, and photodynamic anticancer strategies. Recent work emphasizes computational drug design and metabolomics in oncology. Kralj's publications span anticancer agent development, nucleic acid interactions, and nanomedicine. Trends include hybrid molecule synthesis (e.g., harmine-coumarin conjugates), photoresponsive compounds, and targeting cancer stem cells. Her studies often integrate QSAR modeling, NMR metabolomics, and fluorescence imaging. Awards: Croatian Society of Natural Sciences Award for M.Sc. Thesis (1994) She secured grants as PI for projects like 'MultiCaST' (Croatian Science Foundation) and co-led the EU FP7 'InnoMol' initiative. She advises postgraduate courses at the University of Zagreb and co-directs doctoral programs in Functional Genomics and Cancer Biology. Her lab focuses on experimental therapy, collaborating internationally on drug delivery systems and ABC transporter modulation.
Prof. Ana Babić is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Engineering (EFRI) , University of Rijeka. Her expertise spans Digital Transformation , Artificial Intelligence in Business , and Medical Genetics . She teaches courses such as 'Application of Digital Technologies in Business' and 'Artificial Intelligence in Business', focusing on strategic digitalization, AI applications, and ethical implications. Her research bridges clinical genetics and bioinformatics, addressing rare diseases, congenital disorders, and epigenetic mechanisms. Her educational background includes a PhD in Biomedical Sciences, with extensive experience in next-generation sequencing (NGS) and genetic diagnostics. Recent research focuses on gene prioritization for rare muscle diseases and epigenetic risk factors in Down syndrome. She has published widely on DNA methylation patterns, congenital heart defects, and diagnostic techniques like optical genome mapping. Teaching & Research Interests Digital Transformation strategies and business model innovation AI ethics and practical implementation in organizational processes Genetic diagnostics for rare disorders using NGS and PCR techniques Epigenetic factors in congenital anomalies and Down syndrome comorbidities Key Contributions Developed frameworks for digital business communication channels and content creation Advanced methodologies for gene prioritization in molecular diagnostics Conducted large-scale epidemiological studies on genetic risk factors in Croatian populations
Zoran Štefanić is a Senior Researcher and Head of the Laboratory for Chemical and Biological Crystallography at the Ruđer Bošković Institute in Zagreb, Croatia. He earned his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Zagreb in 2004, with a thesis on hydrogen bonding in amino acid derivatives. Research Interests : Structural biology, enzyme catalysis, crystallography, supramolecular chemistry, molecular dynamics, and biophysics. Key Contributions : Structural characterization of purine nucleoside phosphorylases, allosteric regulation studies, and development of mechanochemical synthesis methods. Scientific Awards : Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre Poster Prize (2004). Students : Supervised Lucija Papa (2017, structural studies of purine nucleoside phosphorylase) and Marta Bošnjaković (2018, phosphate binding in Helicobacter pylori enzymes). His recent publications focus on allosteric communication in enzymes , supramolecular materials , and ferroelectric phase transitions , with computational tools like MDavocado for protein motion analysis. He teaches Group Theory in Crystallography and contributes to outreach projects with the Croatian Association of Crystallographers.
Tina Paradžik is a Researcher at the Ruđer Bošković Institute , specifically within the Division of Physical Chemistry Laboratory for chemical and biological crystallography . She has been actively involved in both research and education since 2006, with affiliations at institutions like the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb, and J.J. Strossmayer University of Osijek. Education : PhD in Molecular Biosciences (2008–2013), University of Zagreb (Molecular Biology undergraduate), Gymnasium Juraj Baraković, Zadar Her research focuses on Molecular Biosciences with specific interests in post-translational modifications in bacterial proteins , protein interactions , and bacterial interactions . She has made significant contributions to understanding SSB protein functions in Streptomyces species and exploring algae-bacteria co-cultivation systems. Notable scientific achievements include three annual awards for publications on SSB proteins, arsenic-resistant bacteria, and protein motif scanning. Her recent work explores epigenetic modifications in cancer therapy and environmental microbiology applications. Key research areas : Bacterial protein dynamics Antibiotic production regulation Algae-bacteria metabolic interactions Environmental extremophile microbiology Epigenetic cancer therapy Protein motif annotation Key publications demonstrate expertise in Streptomyces chromosome segregation, phosphoproteomics, and biotechnological applications of marine bacteria and algae. Her collaborations span Croatian, Italian, and international institutions, including the University of Tübingen and John Innes Centre.
Evelin Despot-Slade is a postdoctoral researcher at the Ruđer Bošković Institute in Zagreb, Croatia. She works within the Division of Molecular Biology at the Laboratory of non-coding DNA, focusing on satellite DNA dynamics in model organisms. Education: PhD in Biology (2022) - University of Osijek/Juraj Dobrila University of Pula/Ruđer Bošković Institute Master of Science (2015) - ETH Zurich Bachelor of Science (2013) - University of Zagreb Her research explores satellite DNA evolution in nematodes and beetles, centromere epigenetics , and genome organization . Key projects include developing SatXplor pipeline for repeat analysis and studying telomere structures in polyploid nematodes. Recent work (2024-2025) focuses on genomic repeat propagation in Tribolium species and high-resolution nematode genome assemblies. Publications cover topics ranging from holocentromere characterization to epigenetic regulation of transposable elements .
Dr. Ksenija Zahradka is a Senior Research Associate at the Rudjer Bošković Institute , affiliated with the Division of Molecular Biology and Laboratory for Molecular Microbiology . She holds a PhD in Biology from the University of Zagreb (1999) and completed postdoctoral training at the Necker Institute, Paris (2002). Education : B.Sc. in Molecular Biology, University of Zagreb (1991) M.Sc. in Biology, University of Zagreb (1994) Ph.D. in Biology, University of Zagreb (1999) Research Areas : Her work focuses on DNA recombination and repair , genome stability , and molecular mechanisms of radiation resistance in bacteria. Current projects include studying alternative DNA repair pathways in Escherichia coli and Deinococcus radiodurans (Croatian Science Foundation grant IP-2022-10-7476) and bioprospecting Adriatic Sea biodiversity (European Regional Development Fund). Recent Publications reveal trends in radiation-induced genomic rearrangements, nuclease roles in DNA degradation, and helicase interactions in recombination. She has contributed book chapters to Metode u molekularnoj biologiji (2007) and Brenner's Encyclopedia of Genetics (2013). Scientific Awards : 2007 National Annual Science Award (Croatian Parliament) 2006 Excellence in Science Grant (Croatian Ministry of Science) 2002 Necker Institute Postdoctoral Fellowship (Paris) Advising includes mentoring PhD students Jelena Repar (2012) and Svjetlana Cvjetan (2013), along with multiple diploma theses on genome instability and DNA repair. She has served on scientific committees for EEMGS (2024), Croatian Geneticists' Congress (2018), and Power of Microbes symposia.
Dr. Bono Lučić is a Senior Research Associate and Professor at the Ruđer Bošković Institute's NMR Centre in Zagreb, Croatia. He holds an honorary Associate Professor position at J. J. Strossmayer University in Osijek since 2022 and teaches PhD courses in Structural Bioinformatics at multiple Croatian institutions. His educational background spans Electronics (B.Sc.), Physics (M.Sc.), and Chemistry (Ph.D.), creating a unique interdisciplinary foundation. His research focuses on computational approaches to structural bioinformatics, chemoinformatics, and free radical chemistry, with emphasis on protein modeling, molecular descriptor development, and antioxidant mechanisms. Lučić's publication record shows consistent output in computational chemistry and bioinformatics, with recent work emphasizing machine learning applications in toxicity prediction, solubility modeling, and kinase inhibitor target mapping. His research demonstrates strong methodological development in QSAR modeling and validation techniques. Associate Professor (honorary) at J. J. Strossmayer University (2022) Member of IUPAC Committee on Publications and Cheminformatics Data Standards (2012-2019) President of Croatian Biophysical Society (2022-) As a mentor, he has supervised two PhD dissertations, one MSc thesis, and three BSc theses across physics, chemistry, and pharmacy disciplines. His editorial roles include membership on the Editorial Board of Croatica Chemica Acta (2000-) and Editor position (2011-). He has co-edited special journal issues honoring prominent scientists like Nenad Trinajstić and Douglas Jay Klein.
