Following the symposium "Innovation in Chemical Sciences" in November 2024 at the University of Zagreb, two researchers and eight students from the Faculty of Chemistry at the University of Zagreb visited the Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy at the University of Regensburg from 10 to 14 November.
The students from Croatia completed a one-week laboratory internship according to their specialisation. They were supervised by seven professors from the Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, including professors of organic chemistry, physical chemistry and pharmacy.
The guests from Zagreb were extremely positive about their stay. Luka Sumić, for example, emphasised: "The visit to the University of Regensburg was a rewarding trip that paved the way for new collaborations and possible future visits. We had the pleasure of meeting many wonderful people who gave us a warm welcome and showed us around both the university and the city. The work in the groups was very well structured so that we were able to see a lot in the limited time. As a Master's student, I took away many ideas for my work and was given a great opportunity to return for an Internship in the future. Overall, the visit broadened our horizons and I hope that this was just the first of many more exchange programmes."
Martin Husinec was also impressed: "The five days at the University of Regensburg were an unforgettable and inspiring experience. I was welcomed by researchers who were happy to give me an insight into their work and answer my questions. Seeing state-of-the-art equipment and discussing real research challenges made me even more motivated in my Master's programme. It was an insightful visit that has strengthened my interest in further research."
Brigita Butković particularly emphasised the intensive support and the equipment in the laboratories: "The visit to the University of Regensburg was very inspiring and helpful. Working with researchers and students who are dedicated and passionate about their work and open to all questions made everything even better. The atmosphere and work ethic are truly admirable, but what impressed me the most was the availability of high-tech equipment. As a Master's student, this trip has opened new doors for me, both in terms of lab work and future visits to the University of Regensburg."
In March 2026, the Faculty of Natural Sciences at the University of Zagreb will host the joint Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) "Molecular Innovation: Function Beyond Sweetness", involving other partners from Poland, France and Portugal. The BIP combines physical and virtual learning and awakens students' interest in innovation and research.
It introduces students to the synthesis of sugar-based transition metal complexes, investigates catalytic activity in oxidation reactions and integrates computer-aided modelling and visualisation methods. Upon successful Degree, students receive 3 ECTS credits. In addition, students can enjoy a rich cultural programme, such as the Zagreb Festival of Lights, and network with fellow students and professors from all over Europe.
Dr Jana Pisk and Dr Nikola Cindro from Zagreb discussed further forms of cooperation such as joint doctoral programmes and internship exchanges with Prof. Dr Arno Pfitzner and Prof. Dr Burkhard König from Regensburg. They also visited the University of Bayreuth and FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg to invite students from other Bavarian universities to take part in the workshop in March. The one-week visit to Regensburg was supported by BAYHOST (Bavarian Academic Centre for Central, Eastern and South Eastern Europe).
