On September 27th and 28th, 2024, the first CROSCIENCE Symposium was held at the University of Rijeka, gathering many prominent names from the Croatian scientific community. The symposium was organized by renowned scientists such as Nenad Ban, Ivan Đikić, Stipan Jonjić, Ivana Novak Nakir, Igor Rudan, Igor Štagljar, Iva Tolić, and Adrijana Vinter. This event provided an important opportunity to present new scientific projects and ideas, as well as to connect with researchers from various fields. The opening address was given by President Zoran Milanović, with a few remarks on Croatian science.
The symposium was attended by Penkala’s vice president, Tea Vasiljević, and secretary, Dario Lečić, who presented the project “Map of Croatian Scientists.” This unique platform and database brings together Croatian researchers working outside of Croatia, both in academia and industry. The “Map of Croatian Scientists” allows scientists to create a profile where their basic research information is visible, and users can search for researchers based on various criteria.
It is important to note that detailed profiles are accessible only to registered members, while non-registered users can only view metadata about the institutions and countries where Croatian researchers are located. Undergraduate and graduate students can also register on the platform, but their profiles will only become visible once they enroll in doctoral studies.
Symposium participants had the opportunity to learn more about this project, which has the potential to significantly enhance collaboration among Croatian researchers worldwide. More details about the project and its goals can be heard in the latest podcast, where the possibilities and advantages of using the “Map of Croatian Scientists” are presented on YouTube or Spotify.
The symposium concluded with enthusiasm and great interest in continuing further initiatives that will contribute to the development of the Croatian scientific community.