Dr. Dušan Sredojević
Award for Achievements in Fundamental Research Representing a Significant Scientific Contribution
Dr. Dušan Sredojević has achieved significant scientific results in theoretical and computational chemistry, particularly through the application of advanced quantum chemical methods to understand the structure, electronic properties and catalytic activity of functional materials. His research encompasses the modelling of organic-inorganic hybrid systems, catalysts based on two-dimensional materials and interfacial charge-transfer complexes, with potential applications in energy technologies and environmental protection. Particularly noteworthy are his findings from theoretical investigations of the electrocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide on defective hexagonal boron nitride structures, as well as his research on photocatalytic materials intended for hydrogen production and pollutant degradation. Between 2023 and 2024, he published 12 scientific papers in international journals, 11 of which appeared in leading international journals, demonstrating the continuity and high quality of his scientific research. Through the development of theoretical models, international collaboration and leadership of research projects, Dr. Sredojević has made a notable contribution to understanding fundamental processes in advanced materials and advancing computational chemistry at the Vinča Institute.
Dr. Marija Vuksanović
Award for Achievements in Applied Research Representing a Significant Scientific Contribution
Dr. Marija Vuksanović has been recognized for her significant achievements in materials science and engineering, particularly in the development of multifunctional polymer composites, biomaterials and environmentally friendly technologies based on the use of natural and waste-derived raw materials. Her research focuses on the synthesis and modification of functional reinforcing materials, including layered double hydroxides and materials obtained through sol-gel processes, with the aim of improving the mechanical, physicochemical and other functional properties of composite materials. She has made a particularly important contribution through the development of materials with potential applications in wastewater treatment, the packaging industry, construction and dental medicine, successfully connecting fundamental research with practical technological solutions. During 2023 and 2024, she published 18 scientific papers in international journals and achieved significant innovation-related results through the development of two technical solutions and several national patents. Her successful collaboration with scientific institutions and industry partners, as well as her mentoring of early-career researchers, is also particularly noteworthy. Dr. Vuksanović has made a substantial contribution to advancing applied research and strengthening the innovation capacities of the Vinča Institute.
Dr. Vedran Milanković
Award for Achievements in Fundamental Research by Early-Career Researchers
Dr. Vedran Milanković has achieved notable scientific results in physical chemistry and environmental protection, particularly through the development of novel carbon-based materials derived from biowaste for the removal of pollutants from water. His research encompasses the thermochemical conversion and activation of waste biomass, including spent coffee grounds, to produce efficient adsorbents for removing pesticides, antibiotics and organic dyes from aqueous systems. Particularly significant are his findings on the adsorption of the organophosphate pesticides chlorpyrifos and malathion, which have helped elucidate key kinetic and thermodynamic mechanisms and demonstrated the potential for the selective removal of these pollutants. These studies have confirmed that appropriate modification of biowaste can yield efficient, regenerable and reusable adsorbents, opening up new opportunities for the development of sustainable water treatment technologies. Among the achievements submitted for the 2024 award are eight scientific papers published in international journals, including five in journals of exceptional scientific standing (M21a), two in leading international journals (M21) and one in a distinguished international journal (M22), as well as three chapters in international scholarly monographs. These publications demonstrate both the quality and diversity of his scientific research. The originality of his scientific approach, independence in designing and conducting experiments, and research findings published in reputable international journals represent a major contribution to advancing research in green chemistry and environmental protection at the Vinča Institute.