Croatian Microscopists Explore Opportunities with Euro-BioImaging

On 21 November, the Croatian microscopy community gathered in Zagreb for the 32nd Annual Meeting of the Croatian Microscopy Society (CMS) – an energetic annual event that brings together researchers, imaging specialists, and industry partners from across the country. This year’s meeting highlighted the breadth of Croatian expertise in imaging, spanning atomic force microscopy, electron and light microscopy, and applications ranging from material science and plant biology to developmental and cellular biology research.

A key focus of the programme was community-building: participants used the opportunity to reconnect, exchange experiences, introduce young scientists to the field, and explore new collaborations. The scientific programme reflected this diversity and curiosity, including a talk on a newly installed instrument used for regenerative medicine research on cartilage reconstruction through 3D bioprinting, accompanied by a live demonstration. The opening lecture celebrated the work of an early female microscopy pioneer in Croatia - an accomplished electron microscopist whose groundbreaking research on nectar-capturing pores in plants has been largely forgotten. The talk offered a thoughtful reminder of her scientific contributions and the importance of preserving the stories of women whose work helped shape the field.

“It was a pleasure to meet such an engaged and diverse community. Croatia is clearly at an exciting moment in its internationalisation journey, and Euro-BioImaging is very eager to work with Croatian researchers as they look towards deeper participation in Euro-BioImaging.”

-- Johanna Bischof, Head of Bio-Hub Operations

Euro-BioImaging was invited as the external guest speaker to highlight the value and opportunities available to Croatian researchers through Euro-BioImaging, and to outline how the national community can move towards active participation and membership. In her presentation, Johanna Bischof, Head of Bio-Hub Operations, also introduced the EVOLVE project (GA# 101130986), with a focus on the project’s relevance for Croatia: strengthening imaging communities through training, building capacity in imaging facilities, and enhancing data services that equip imaging scientists with tools for FAIR image data management.

“We are truly grateful to the Croatian Microscopy Society for the invitation,” said Johanna Bischof, Head of Bio-Hub Operations at Euro-BioImaging. “It was a pleasure to meet such an engaged and diverse community. Croatia is clearly at an exciting moment in its internationalisation journey, and Euro-BioImaging is very eager to work with Croatian researchers as they look towards deeper participation in Euro-BioImaging.”

The programme also featured strong engagement from sponsors across the microscopy industry, underscoring the broad support for Croatia’s diverse and growing imaging community. With clear enthusiasm, expanding expertise, and momentum towards European integration, the meeting highlighted Croatia’s readiness to take important next steps towards joining the Euro-BioImaging network.