BioSense Institute had the pleasure of welcoming a delegation of the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), represented by Executive Director Dr Christian Feichtinger and Senior Advisor Dr Elena Feichtinger, during their visit to Serbia.

The delegation was welcomed by Prof. Dr Snežana Pajović, Acting Director of BioSense Institute, who presented the Institute’s development, mission and key scientific achievements. She emphasized that BioSense, as a member of the University of Novi Sad and one of Serbia’s leading research institutes, develops cutting-edge digital technologies that contribute to sustainable agriculture, environmental protection and improved quality of life.

During the visit, Dr Christian Feichtinger presented the work of the International Astronautical Federation and its role in connecting research institutions, industry and organizations from the global space community. Particular attention was given to opportunities available to students and early-career researchers, including the IAF Career Forum, which will be held as part of the International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026) in Antalya.

Representatives of BioSense Institute’s five research centers then presented their key research areas, current activities and expertise, highlighting the Institute’s multidisciplinary approach spanning artificial intelligence, advanced sensor technologies, biosystems research, product development, innovation and technology transfer.

BioSense Institute was represented by Dr Sanja Brdar, Head of the Center for Information Technologies; Dr Jelena Jović, Research Associate at the Center for Biosystems; Dr Jovana Stanojev, Head of Laboratories at the Center for Sensor Technologies; Milica Trajković, Head of the Center for Innovation and Business Development; and Dragana Mađerčić, Associate at the Center for Product Development.

During a tour of BioSense laboratories and research infrastructure, discussions focused on opportunities for future collaboration and the application of space technologies, satellite data and digital innovations in addressing contemporary global challenges.

Particular potential for cooperation was identified in the areas of sustainable food production, monitoring and mitigating the impacts of climate change, environmental and natural resource protection, as well as the use of advanced digital technologies and data to develop new scientific and practical solutions.

The visit of the International Astronautical Federation representatives provided an opportunity to further strengthen BioSense Institute’s connections with the international scientific and space communities and to explore new possibilities for cooperation at the intersection of space technologies, digitalization, agriculture and environmental protection.

We thank the representatives of the International Astronautical Federation for their visit and inspiring exchange of ideas and look forward to future opportunities for collaboration.