Zagreb, January 21, 2025. – The scientific community in Croatia has achieved another significant breakthrough. Two scientists from the Ruđer Bošković Institute (IRB), Dr. Damir Baranašić and Dr. Jelena Bujan, have become recipients of prestigious grants from the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO). This recognition highlights the importance of their work on a global level and opens up new opportunities for research in the fields of evolutionary biology, ecology, and climate change.

What is EMBO and why is it important?

The European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) brings together more than 2,100 leading scientists from around the world. Its main goal is to support young, promising researchers by providing them with financial and logistical support to establish their own research teams. Each year, EMBO recognizes innovative projects and awards grants that include substantial funding, mentorship, and access to top-tier laboratories. These grants are not just financial injections but also opportunities for researchers to connect with European scientific elites.

Understanding the Evolution of Multicellular Organisms

Dr. Damir Baranašić, one of this year's recipients, focuses on one of the most important questions in biology – how single-celled organisms became complex, multicellular forms of life during evolution. While previous research emphasized the creation of new genes as a key factor, contemporary scientific approaches suggest that the key lies in the regulation of existing genes.

"Our goal is to identify the genetic switches that enabled this transformation. We combine laboratory experiments with artificial intelligence to gain a clearer picture of the evolutionary process," explains Dr. Baranašić. In addition to contributing to the understanding of the emergence of multicellular organisms, the results could have applications in regenerative medicine, where precise gene regulation plays a crucial role.

Climate Change and the Future of Biodiversity

On the other hand, Dr. Jelena Bujan focuses on climate change and its impact on biodiversity, particularly on insect resilience. Insects are crucial for pollination, nutrient recycling, and ecosystem stability, but increasingly intense heatwaves and habitat degradation pose a serious threat to their survival.

"We will use advanced technologies such as 3D thermal mapping and simulations to understand how microhabitats affect insect survival. This data will help us develop strategies for conserving key species," says Dr. Bujan. Special emphasis will be placed on Mediterranean areas, which are extremely sensitive to climate change.

Broader Perspective: How Science is Changing Society

Receiving EMBO support is not only an individual success for scientists like Dr. Baranašić and Dr. Bujan but also a significant step for Croatian science as a whole. These grants enable the establishment of research teams, acquisition of sophisticated equipment, and strengthening of international cooperation. Additionally, the scientific results of these projects could contribute to global efforts to preserve the environment and improve medical technologies.

This success comes at a time when science is crucial for addressing the greatest challenges of the modern age – from climate change to health crises. In this context, the work of scientists like Dr. Baranašić and Dr. Bujan demonstrates how innovative research can bring about concrete changes, not only locally but also on a global scale.