Invited lecturers
🧪 LabCore
Founded during the turbulence of COVID-19, LabCore has grown into a powerhouse of medicinal chemistry. From GMP anaylitcs (e.g. cannabinoid analysis) and anti-aging research (Sirtuin 6 activator) to biopharma processing, specialized organic synthesis, and deformulation – they thrive on complex challenges and deliver cutting-edge pharmaceutical solutions.
🔬 dr. Iva Hafner Bratkovič (National Institute of Chemistry Slovenia)
A renowned expert in the molecular mechanisms of innate immune signaling, dr. Hafner Bratkovič focuses on processes linked to inflammation and cancer. Her recent work introduces a novel cancer immunotherapy approach that combines immunostimulatory protein secretion with immunogenic cancer cell death. For her impactful research, she received the Miroslav Zei Award for Exceptional Achievements.
☢️ dr. Doroteja Novak (UKC Ljubljana)
A radiopharmacist at the Clinic of Nuclear Medicine, dr. Novak works at the intersection of radiopharmacy, radiochemistry, and physics—where radioactive medicines are developed for clinical use and translational research. Nuclear medicine harnesses the diagnostic and therapeutic power of radioisotopes, offering deep insights into biological processes at the molecular level, and ultimately helping to save lives.
🧬 JAFRAL
A world-leading CDMO in bacteriophage, plasmid DNA, mRNA, LBP and recombinant protein production. In addition to their key role in phage-based solutions in various fields (e.g. human therapeutics, veterinary, and more), JAFRAL is also involved in cell therapy and gene therapy where among others they also produced drug for treating cancer, as part of SmartGene.Si project. In 2012, they were finalists for the Slovenian Start-up of the Year award.
⚗️ prof. dr. Petar Djinović (National Institute of Chemistry Slovenia)
An expert in heterogeneous catalysis and chemical engineering, with a strong emphasis on utilizing nanomaterials in his research, dr. Djinović focuses on the catalytic conversion of CO₂ into value-added chemicals. He also explores hydrogen production, epoxidation, and hydrocarbon functionalization, and is a pioneer of photothermal catalysis research in Slovenia. For his globally relevant research contributions, he received the Pregl Award—the most prestigious scientific recognition given by the National Institute of Chemistry.
🌍 assoc. prof. dr. Gabriela Kalčíková (Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology Ljubljana)
An expert in microplastics, dr. Kalčíková explores their production, environmental aging, ecotoxicological effects, and interactions with other pollutants. She leads the PLANTERASTICS group at the University of Ljubljana, which, in addition to raising awareness about microplastic pollution, drives research focused on pollution mitigation and plastic waste reduction.
💠 dr. Matjaž Mazaj (National Institute of Chemistry Slovenia)
An expert in porous materials, dr. Mazaj specializes in the synthesis, structural optimization, and characterization of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for diverse gas adsorption applications. His work focuses on enhancing CO₂ capture, especially in confined spaces, and on developing bioMOFs for efficient drug delivery. Crystallography underpins his work by providing critical insights into the structural features necessary for fine-tuning MOF performance.
🔥 dr. Matija Uršič (ZAG)
At the crossroads of materials science, toxicology, and engineering, Dr. Uršič explores fire safety through rigorous research and real-world testing at the Slovenian National Building and Civil Engineering Institute (ZAG). His work focuses on the chemical analysis of fire residues—gases, particulates, and semi-volatile organics—to understand their toxicity and long-term health impact. From safer battery systems to sustainable construction materials, his research helps design solutions that protect both people and the planet.
A space where ideas meet and possibilities unfold is making a return.
Where minds connect, curiosity rises — and the scent of something freshly baked is in the air. 🍪
| 8:00 | Registration and poster installment | |
| 8:30 | Opening ceremony | |
| 8:45 | Plenary lecture 1 (speaker) | |
| 9:15 | Oral lecture 1 (speaker) | |
| 9:35 | Oral lecture 2 (speaker) | |
| 9:55 | coffee break with sponsors | |
| 10:10 | Plenary lecture 2 (speaker) | |
| 10:40 | Oral lecture 3 (speaker) | |
| 11:00 | Oral lecture 4 (speaker) | |
| 11:20 | Oral lecture 5 (main sponsors) | |
| 11:35 | coffee break with sponsors | |
| 11:50 | Oral lecture 6 (speaker) | |
| 12:10 | Oral lecture 7 (speaker) | |
| 12:30 | Oral lecture 8 (main sponsors) | |
| 12:45 | Lunch | |
| 14:00 | Elevator pitch sessions | Young Minds |
| 15:00 | Poster session & coffee break with sponsors | |
| 16:00 | Closing remarks and award ceremony | |