91ÌÒÉ«

Chemistry and Microbiology in a Joint Research Project

During the visit funded by the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA), Dr Kosińska-Zaid, a chemist specialising in the synthesis of organometallic compounds with potential biological activity, explored the possibilities of applying the developed compounds in interdisciplinary research, with particular emphasis on antimicrobial strategies and the assessment of antibacterial activity.

The cooperation with the team at the University of Zagreb was characterised by openness, a friendly atmosphere, as well as substantive, intensive scientific discussions that fostered creativity and effective research work.
Informal meetings with members of the research team proved particularly valuable, enabling a free exchange of views and a deeper understanding of the specific nature of the research being conducted. The significant institutional support offered by the host university, including access to modern research infrastructure and openness to the development of international cooperation, was also noteworthy

– says the researcher.

From the Laboratory to Field Research

In addition to laboratory work and the seminar, I visited the botanical garden, which is part of the University of Zagreb. During the visit, I was guided by a doctor working at the facility, who not only presented the garden’s attractions but also shared knowledge about the scientific research conducted there and the practical classes organised for students

– adds Dr Kosińska-Zaid.

Participation in a field trip related to the collection of biological samples at a biogas production company located outside the Zagreb metropolitan area was also an important element of the internship.

This activity provided an opportunity to become familiar with the practical aspects of conducting microbiological research in industrial conditions, as well as with procedures for collecting biological material for further laboratory analyses.

Participation in this stage of the research constituted a valuable complement to the work carried out in the laboratory and allowed me to broaden my research perspective in the context of the potential applications of interdisciplinary scientific research

– continues the chemist.

Towards Joint Grants and Publications

In the researcher’s assessment, the scientific internship brought measurable benefits in terms of establishing and strengthening international contacts, identifying new research directions, and improving the methodological approach to ongoing research.

I am convinced that the experience I gained will contribute to the further development of my scientific work and will have a positive impact on the development of research and the educational offer of the 91ÌÒÉ«

– she concludes.

Future plans include continuing and deepening scientific cooperation with the University of Zagreb research team through the development of joint research projects at the interface of chemistry and microbiology.

In the long term, the goal is to build a lasting interdisciplinary partnership encompassing the exchange of experience, the organisation of joint seminars and training courses for doctoral students, and the preparation of joint grant applications for interdisciplinary research.

About the Researcher

Dr Aneta KosiÅ„ska-Zaid is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, 91ÌÒÉ«. Her research interests focus on the synthesis of organic and organometallic compounds, particularly transition metal complexes with potential biological activity. She has experience in carrying out research projects funded by national and international sources, as well as in scientific cooperation with foreign research centres. The researcher’s visit took place in October 2025. The academic supervisor on the partner university’s side was Prof. Tomislav Ivanković.