YOUNG SERBIAN SCIENTIST JELENA VLADIĆ AMONG 2023 UNESCO–AL FOZAN INTERNATIONAL PRIZE WINNERS

Dr. Jelena Vladić, young talented scientist from Serbia and former member of the Faculty of Technology, University of Novi Sad, currently working at NOVA School of Science and Technology, University NOVA, Lisbon, Portugal, received the prestigious UNESCO-Al Fozan International Prize for the Promotion of Young Scientists in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in 2023. Overall five talented scientists from Argentina, Cameroon, China, Egypt and Serbia, were promoted at the ceremony held at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France.

Dr. Jelena Vladić was recognized for her work in the development of innovative ecological extraction processes to obtain products from aromatic and medicinal plants and add value to food and agricultural waste. Moreover, she has used microalgae from wastewater treatment to extract bioactive compounds. Although microalgae are known for being rich in nutrients and health-relevant components, those grown in wastewater are typically considered unsafe for human and animal use, owing to their origin and potential contamination. However, Jelena Vladic's breakthrough research has discovered that a green solvent called subcritical water can effectively purify microalgae biomass derived from wastewater treatment. This extraction process eliminates pathogens and ensures that the liquid extracts obtained are safe and contain bioactive components that could be utilized in diverse industries. Her approach could contribute to a truly circular economy.

For her exceptional scientific contribution and research results during her previous engagement as a member of the Faculty of Technology, University of Novi Sad, Dr. Jelena Vladić was also awarded with international recognitions, such as Danubius Young Scientist Award 2018 and L'Oréal-UNESCO „For women in science“ 2020 in Serbia.

Photo: UNESCO / He LI