Zorana Kovačević | Nanobiocomposites | Best Researcher Award
Assist. Prof. Dr. Zorana Kovačević , University of Zagreb Faculty of Textile Technology, Croatia.
Dr. Zorana Kovačević is an assistant professor at the University of Zagreb, Faculty of Textile Technology, specializing in sustainable textile technologies and advanced nanobiocomposites. She teaches courses on textile finishing, fiber identification, and performance enhancement processes. Actively involved in national and European research projects, Zorana has contributed to patents, trademarks, and numerous scientific publications. She has honed her expertise through international collaborations and advanced training, including becoming an Ambassador of Sustainable Development in Textiles. Her work focuses on innovative solutions for sustainable materials and processes, making significant strides in eco-friendly textile advancements. 
Publivation Profiles
Orcid
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Education and Experience
- Ph.D. in Textile Technology, University of Zagreb (2019)
- Graduate Engineer in Textile Technology, University of Zagreb (2009)
- Assistant Professor, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Textile Technology (2023–Present)
- Assistant, University of Zagreb, Faculty of Textile Technology (2009–2023)
- Research Secondments at Institute for Natural Fibres and Medicinal Plants, Poland (2 months) & Brunel University, London (3 months)
Suitability summary for best researcher Award
Dr. Zorana Kovačević is a distinguished researcher with expertise in biodegradable composites, natural fibers, and sustainable materials. Her significant contributions to the field include advancing the development of biodegradable flame retardant nano-biocomposites and leveraging natural fibers such as Spartium junceum L. for innovative applications. Dr. Kovačević’s research aligns with current global priorities for sustainable and environmentally friendly materials, making her an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award.
Professional Development
Dr. Zorana Kovačević has consistently enhanced her knowledge and skills throughout her academic career. In 2018, she earned the “Ambassador of Sustainable Development in Textiles” certificate from TU Chemnitz and Gherzi, following her participation in a textile sustainability school. Zorana completed a General Intellectual Property Course in 2022. Her commitment to research is evident through her active involvement in patent applications and trademark registration. Her scientific research skills have been honed through the use of advanced technologies such as SEM, DSC, and FTIR. She is also a frequent attendee at summer schools and workshops. 
Research Focus
Dr. Kovačević’s research is centered around sustainable textile technology and nanobiocomposites. Her doctoral research on “Development of Advanced Polylactide Nanobiocomposites Reinforced with Spartium junceum L. Fibres” focuses on creating eco-friendly materials with enhanced properties. Zorana is passionate about textile sustainability, and her research includes exploring alternative processes for fiber identification and innovative finishing techniques. She actively participates in EU-funded projects, such as BIOCOMPOSITES and InWaShed-MP, which aim to enhance the sustainability and performance of textile products. Her work is a step toward a more environmentally friendly textile industry. 
Awards and Honors
- Dean’s Award for Best 4th Year Student, University of Zagreb (2007)
- Certificate of Excellence for Conference Organization, DAAAM International (2010, 2012)
- EMS Scholarship for Participation in the 15th European Microscopy Congress (2012)
- Dean’s Award for Scientific Excellence, University of Zagreb (2013)
- Textile Science Research Centre Award for Best Scientific Paper (2016)
Publication Top Noted
- Progress in biodegradable flame retardant nano-biocomposites, Polymers 13 (5), 741, 2021 Cited by: 70
- The influence of Spartium junceum L. fibres modified with montmorrilonite nanoclay on the thermal properties of PLA biocomposites, Composites Part B: Engineering 78, 122-130, 2015 Cited by: 63
- The influence of pre-treatment of Spartium junceum L. fibres on the structure and mechanical properties of PLA biocomposites, Arabian Journal of Chemistry 12 (4), 449-463, 2019 Cited by: 32
- Comparison of Spanish broom (Spartium junceum L.) and flax (Linum usitatissimum) fibre, Textile Research Journal 82 (17), 1786-1798, 2012 Cited by: 27
- Natural Dyeing of Cellulose and Protein Fibers with the Flower Extract of Spartium junceum L. Plant, Materials 14 (15), 4091, 2021 Cited by: 21
- Natural dyeing of cellulose and protein fibers with the flower extract of Spartium junceum L. plant, 2021 Cited by: 18
- Brnistra-zaboravljena tekstilna sirovina, Tekstil 59 (9), 410-421, 2010 Cited by: 11
- The potential of nanoclay modified Spartium junceum L. fibres used as reinforcement in PLA matrix composites for automotive applications, International Journal of Nanotechnology 15 (8-10), 695-700, 2018 Cited by: 8
Cited by: 70
, specializes in Biochemistry, 
. He collaborates with universities across Asia and the Americas, driving innovation in the biomedical field.
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. With global collaborations spanning 20 universities, he is also a reviewer for 14 international journals 
. He frequently presents keynote talks at conferences and actively contributes to the scientific community as an examiner and organizer for various events 
. His commitment to excellence is demonstrated by numerous academic and research awards 
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. His work in antimicrobial, anticancer, and food science applications through nanotechnology is highly regarded. He explores innovative uses of Microalgal Food Supplements and Nano-biofertilizers for sustainable agriculture 
. With a strong focus on health and wellness, his studies have contributed significantly to the development of new therapies and biotechnological products aimed at improving human health and agricultural productivity 
. His research collaborations extend across multiple countries, contributing to global scientific advancements 
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