PIKBIO

Advancing Research and Innovation Capacity in Biomedicine and Natural Sciences (PIKBIO) (IP-UNIST-33)



Project title: Advancing Research and Innovation Capacity in Biomedicine and Natural Sciences (PIKBIO) (IP-UNIST-33)
Applicant institution: University of Split, School of Medicine
Project value: EUR 238,000.00
Project duration: 01/10/2025 - 30/09/2029
Principal Investigator: Prof. Katarina Vukojević, MD, PhD
Contact: Prof. Katarina Vukojević, MD, PhD (katarina.vukojevic@mefst.hr)

Project description

State of the art
Biomedical and natural sciences research is undergoing a period of intensive transformation characterised by the integration of advanced molecular techniques, digitalisation, and novel knowledge transfer models aimed at the commercialisation of scientific outputs (1-3). Contemporary biomedical research is grounded in the molecular-level understanding of disease (4), providing deeper mechanistic insight into pathophysiological processes, while advanced methodologies such as proteomics, transcriptomics, and electron microscopy enable tissue characterisation at the level of subcellular detail (5). Furthermore, the digital transformation of biomedical research represents a pivotal trend that is fundamentally reshaping established scientific workflows. Artificial intelligence and machine learning have become indispensable tools for the analysis of complex, high-dimensional datasets and the resolution of poorly structured problems (6), demonstrating exceptional performance in the analysis of molecular biomarkers (7) and thereby advancing our understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms.
The proposed project incorporates state-of-the-art research approaches through Work Package 1 (WP1), which encompasses the introduction of novel scientific methodologies into the research practice of MedILS — a newly integrated research unit of the University of Split with a well-established track record in frontier molecular research in biomedicine and natural sciences (tumour biology, tissue ageing and regeneration) — in synergy with established research groups at the School of Medicine (MEFST) and the Faculty of Science (PMF), both equipped with cutting-edge scientific instrumentation including electron microscopy. Through the introduction of innovative molecular platforms such as organoids and organs-on-chips — not yet in routine use in Croatia — alongside the application of artificial intelligence and bioinformatics in translational research into the biological activity of natural compounds, MedILS will substantially strengthen its own research capacity and contribute to raising scientific excellence across other constituent units of the University of Split, complementing the advanced tissue analysis methods and research workflows already routinely conducted at MEFST and PMF. These activities will be carried out primarily in collaboration with the University Hospital of Split (KBC Split) and other relevant external institutions, employing immunohistochemical biomarker analysis and additional state-of-the-art technologies.
Global evidence indicates that only a very small fraction of promising preclinical discoveries ultimately reach clinical application (8). This translational gap — frequently termed the "valley of death" in biomedical innovation — is particularly pronounced in scientific communities with limited resources for technology transfer. The European Commission, through the Horizon Europe programme, explicitly prioritises bridging this gap via dedicated funding instruments for health innovation ecosystems (9). The PIKBIO project addresses this challenge through Work Package 2 (WP2), which focuses on strengthening knowledge transfer and fostering collaboration with clinical departments at KBC Split and other national and international clinical centres, as well as with the private sector — particularly biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies — in full alignment with the priority thematic area of health within the current Smart Specialisation Strategy (S3) of the Republic of Croatia.

Human capital development and sustainable growth represent key drivers of scientific advancement. Recent evidence demonstrates that structured mentoring programmes, lifelong learning, and continuous professional development significantly increase research productivity and the likelihood of retaining early-career researchers in scientific careers (10). Moreover, interdisciplinarity — integrating expertise from molecular biology and chemistry, bioinformatics, and clinical medicine — is a prerequisite for successful biomedical research (10). Accordingly, Work Package 3 (WP3) will develop an integrated approach to advancing STEM education at the University of Split, encompassing a structured mentoring programme, lifelong learning initiatives, and transversal skills workshops for researchers, in alignment with international trends in STEM workforce development, with a particular emphasis on the biomedical domain.
The institutional development model is likewise undergoing radical transformation. Internationally successful research institutions are characterised by flexible organisational structures, strong international collaboration networks, and a strategic focus on specific research domains in which global excellence is achievable (8). This approach is particularly relevant for MedILS as a newly integrated constituent of the University of Split, where this project aims to cultivate an institutional culture that fosters excellence and enhances international visibility.
Smart Specialisation Strategies position health innovation as a priority domain across Europe, with targeted investments in regional biomedical research centres. Countries with implemented S3 frameworks demonstrate increased research productivity and greater success in attracting international collaborations and industry partnerships (9). The PIKBIO project directly aligns with Croatia's S3 strategy, which identifies healthcare as a priority area, further substantiating its strategic importance for the development of research capacity at MedILS and the University of Split.
The existing infrastructure in Croatia — and at MedILS and its partner faculties within the University of Split in particular — provides a solid foundation for further advancement. MedILS is already equipped with functional laboratories for molecular biology and chemistry research, seminar facilities, and a conference platform. However, in order to translate this potential into competitive Horizon Europe or national project proposals, the following guiding principles will be adopted within the scope of the project:
 

• Networking of laboratories across the University through shared protocols and joint digital data repositories;
• Strengthening industry linkages in line with Croatia's Smart Specialisation Strategy, which designates health as a priority domain for research and development funding;
• Enhancing international visibility channels through MedILS's conference platform, which can facilitate collaboration with leading scientists worldwide.

Project team

STEM domain:
 
Katarina Vukojević - Full Professor with Tenure (MEFST & MedILS); expert in biomedical research; Professor of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology; experienced mentor; Principal Investigator on multiple research projects and science outreach initiatives.
Natalija Filipović - Full Professor (MEFST); expert in biomedical research; Professor of Anatomy; experienced mentor; Principal and Co-Investigator on research and science outreach projects.
Snježana Mardešić - Full Professor (MEFST); expert in biomedical research; Professor of Histology and Embryology; experienced mentor; contributor to research and science outreach projects.
Mirna Saraga-Babić - Full Professor with Tenure (MEFST); expert in biomedical research; Professor of Histology and Embryology; experienced mentor; Principal Investigator on multiple research projects and contributor to science outreach.
Sandra Kostić - Associate Professor (MEFST); expert in biomedical research; Professor of Histology and Embryology; experienced mentor; Principal and Co-Investigator on research and science outreach projects.
Irena Pintarić - Associate Professor (MEFST); neurologist and clinician; Professor of Anatomy; contributor to research and science outreach projects.
Benjamin Benzon - Assistant Professor (MEFST); expert in biomedical research; Assistant Professor of Anatomy; experienced mentor; contributor to science outreach projects.
Petar Todorović - Research Assistant (MEFST); physician (MD); doctoral candidate, Doctoral Programme in Tumour Biology, MEFST.
Danica Boban - Research Assistant (MEFST); physician (MD, PhD); contributor to research and science outreach projects.
Mia Tranfić - Research Assistant (MEFST); dental surgeon (DMD, PhD); contributor to research and science outreach projects.
Nela Kelam - Research Assistant (MEFST); MSc in Biology and Chemistry Education, PhD; contributor to research and science outreach projects.
Igor Jerković - Full Professor with Tenure (UNIST & MedILS); expert in natural sciences research; Vice-Rector for Science; experienced mentor; Principal and Co-Investigator on numerous research and science outreach projects.
Jelena Budimir - Senior Research Assistant (MedILS UNIST); expert in natural sciences and biomedical research; contributor to science outreach projects.
Andrea Gelemanović - Senior Research Assistant (MedILS UNIST); expert in biomedical research with a focus on bioinformatics; contributor to research and science outreach projects.
Ana-Marija Skračić - Senior Research Assistant (MedILS UNIST); expert in natural sciences and biomedical research; contributor to research and science outreach projects.
Ivana Bočina - Full Professor with Tenure (PMF); expert in biomedical research; Professor of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology; experienced mentor; Principal and Co-Investigator on research and science outreach projects.
Nives Kević - Assistant Professor (PMF); expert in biomedical research; Assistant Professor of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology; contributor to research and science outreach projects.
Ivana Restović - Associate Professor (FF); expert in biomedical research; contributor to research and science outreach projects; Professor in the field of Natural Sciences and Sustainable Development.
 
Humanities and Social Sciences (DH) domain:
 
Nikša Alfirević - Full Professor with Tenure (EF); expert in social sciences research; Principal and Co-Investigator on research and science outreach projects.
 

Project objectives

Objective 1. Strengthening research activity in biomedicine and natural sciences, and in related fields that enable the development of innovations and novel therapeutic approaches in healthcare.
Objective 2. Advancing translational research, promoting intellectual property management, and fostering the commercialisation of scientific outputs.
Objective 3. Enhancing the relevance, quality, and effectiveness of academic programmes and professional development in biomedicine and natural sciences through improvements in study programme delivery and alignment with labour market demands and international visibility standards.
Objective 4. Strengthening social responsibility, promotion, and public outreach of biomedical research at the University of Split, leveraging digital technologies and tools.
 
"Funded by the European Union - NextGenerationEU."
"The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official positions of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the European Commission can be held responsible for them." Print page