Italia-Croatia

26/02/2026

Objectives

The Summer School aims to:

• Transfer advanced knowledge on NIS monitoring systems in the Adriatic;
• Provide practical training on sampling, laboratory identification, and DNA-based methods;
• Introduce modelling and forecasting tools (including Copernicus data and agent-based models);
• Strengthen cross-border scientific cooperation;
• Enhance integration between science, policy and citizen engagement.

Target Participants

Approximately 35 participants will be selected. Eligible applicants include:

• PhD students
• Master’s students (final year preferred)
• Early-career researchers
• Environmental agency technicians
• Professionals working in marine monitoring, biodiversity, fisheries or aquaculture

Applicants must demonstrate academic or professional background relevant to marine ecology, environmental sciences, oceanography, modelling, or related disciplines.

Programme Structure

The Summer School will include:

• Theoretical sessions on NIS in the Adriatic Sea
• Monitoring methodologies (including microscopy, taxonomic identification, eDNA techniques)
• Field sampling activities (plankton, macroalgae, jellyfish)
• Modelling and forecasting sessions using Copernicus data
• Agent-based modelling applications
• Citizen science tools and science communication sessions
• Field visit to a protected marine area
• Poster and networking session A certificate of participation will be awarded at the end of the programme.

Financial Conditions

Participation in the Summer School is free of charge. The organisation will cover:

• Accommodation for the entire duration of the Summer School (3 nights, April 13-14-15)
• Meals

Participants are responsible for:

• Travel costs to/from Rovinj
• Personal insurance coverage
• Bring their own laptop

Application Procedure

Applicants must submit:

• CV (max. 2 pages)
• Short motivation letter (max. 500 words)
• Indication of current affiliation
• If applicable, abstract of poster (optional but encouraged)

Applications must be submitted by:  15 March 2026

To: dmaric@irb.hr

Subject line: “Application – ALIENA Summer School 2026 – Name Surname”

Selection Criteria

Selection will be based on:

• Academic/professional background relevance
• Motivation and expected benefit
• Geographic balance (Italy–Croatia cross-border dimension prioritised)
• Gender balance
• Participation of environmental agencies

Contacts Scientific Coordinators

• Dr. Daniela Marić Pfannkuchen (IRB) – dmaric@irb.hr
• Dr. Mirta Smodlaka Tanković (IRB) – mirta.smodlaka@irb.hr