Montenegro: University-led research with local impact

For more than half a century, the University of Montenegro’s Faculty of Metallurgy and Technology has been driving research in metallurgy, chemical technology and environmental protection. By participating in several international Eureka projects, the faculty has transcended beyond its traditional fields of expertise, bringing tangible benefits to the local Montenegrin economy.

The faculty’s first Eureka endeavour was the COMPLANT project with German, Polish, Serbian and Montenegrin partners. Tapping into Montenegro’s growing oenology industry, the partners aimed to transform local medicinal plants and winemaking residues into reusable, high-value ingredients. The project team developed a scalable and environmentally friendly process and technologies for carbon dioxide extraction and fractionation, resulting in the production of concentrated bioactive compounds with potent antioxidant properties, ideal for natural cosmetics and dietary supplements. From the COMPLANT project, and with the same consortium, collaboration continued with the SCIMPLANT and GREENTECH Eureka projects, proving the strength of trust-based partnerships.

Eureka projects show us what happens when local knowledge is applied in international collaboration. Through Eureka, we empower our researchers to turn ideas into solutions that improve health, protect the environment and give our region new strength.

Biljana Damjanović-Vratnica and Željko Jaćimović – professors at University of Montenegro Faculty of Metallurgy and Technology

Not stopping there, the faculty embarked on a second Eureka project titled MED-BIO-TEST with partners from Serbia. The team developed diagnostic electrochemical test strips capable of quickly and accurately detecting vital disease biomarkers, such as dopamine, hydrogen peroxide, homocysteine, morphine or riboflavin. These single-use strips are small, affordable and easy to use, leading to earlier treatment and improved health outcomes, especially in places where resources are limited.

This story goes beyond the diagnostic test’s potential in medical, pharmaceutical and environmental applications. The project also strengthened Montenegro’s scientific infrastructure, trained young researchers and built bridges between Montenegro and Serbia.

More recently, the faculty launched the Eureka project SAFEDRINK with Serbian partners, aiming to improve public health through access to clean and safe drinking water. The project team designed an ecological and reusable filter targeting arsenic ions using novel sorbents and nanocomposite materials. Silver-based antibacterial agents were also added to prevent microbial contamination. The impact is widespread: these filters can empower communities in underserved areas.

Beyond positively impacting water quality, healthcare and sustainability in the wine and cosmetic industries, Eureka and the Montenegrin Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation have helped to leverage local knowledge and resources by connecting Montenegrin researchers with international teams, modern laboratories and ambitious goals. The faculty has earned recognition as a reliable regional partner delivering innovations with a purpose. By boosting visibility within the European research community, the team is now positioned for future commercialisation.

International collaboration has reshaped the faculty’s culture; interdisciplinary teamwork expanded and innovation became linked to real societal needs. What began as one initiative soon expanded into multiple Eureka projects, proving the strength of trust-based partnerships. The achievements in these projects demonstrate how connecting local expertise can lead to solutions that enhance health, protect the environment and bolster regional competitiveness.