Dubrovnik hosted a major event for the global scientific community — from the 5th to the 10th of October, 2025, the city was the venue for the prestigious 33rd Miller Conference on Radiation Chemistry, held in Croatia for the very first time. This international meeting, continuously organized every two years since 1959, is recognized as one of the most important forums for the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and innovations in the field of radiation chemistry.
The main organizers of the conference were the Ruđer Bošković Institute and the Laboratory for Radiation Chemistry and Dosimetry, in cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and with the support of the International Irradiation Association (IIA). The event was coordinated by scientists Dr. Tanja Jurkin and Doctor of Science Ivana Tartaro Bujak, while Dubrovnik’s Deputy Mayor, Dr. Velibor Puzović, welcomed the participants at the official opening ceremony.
Top Scientists, Inspiring Lectures, and Young Researchers
The conference brought together 147 participants from 27 countries — including the USA, Brazil, China, Japan, Thailand, the Philippines, Israel, Russia, Algeria, and most European nations. Over the five days, the program featured seven keynote lectures, fifteen invited talks, and fifty-seven oral presentations, while fifty participants presented their work during the poster session.
The program was structured into seven thematic sections, covering a broad range of topics — from basic to applied research — including the synthesis of advanced materials and nanomaterials, new energy solutions, innovative approaches to environmental protection, applications in medicine, and the development of new experimental and computational tools and techniques.
Among the distinguished speakers were some of the most renowned names in radiation chemistry — Mohamad Al-Sheikhly, Jay LaVerne, Mehran Mostafavi, Radoslaw Wach, Mathew Bird, Suresh Pillai, Xavier Coqueret, and many others. In the spirit of previous Miller Conferences, the event encouraged open exchange of ideas and informal discussion among participants.
Emphasis was placed on connecting young scientists with experienced researchers and providing guidance for their professional development. Prior to the conference, a Workshop for Young Scientists was held — an initiative designed to support the next generation of researchers, not only through knowledge sharing but also through mentorship and direct engagement with leading experts in the field. Eminent scientists delivered lectures on both fundamental and cutting-edge topics across various areas of radiation chemistry, helping young researchers gain deeper insight into this scientific discipline. The workshop was attended by 36 young scientists.
Dubrovnik – An Inspiring Stage for Science and Networking
Alongside a rich scientific program, the organizers prepared an unforgettable social schedule that highlighted Dubrovnik’s beauty and hospitality. On Wednesday the 8th of October, participants enjoyed a guided tour of the historic Old City, followed by a boat excursion aboard the Tirena — a replica of a traditional 16th-century Dubrovnik wooden ship. The event offered a perfect blend of history, the sea, and friendly exchange in a unique Adriatic setting.
The relaxed atmosphere during excursions and evening gatherings demonstrated that Dubrovnik — beyond being a world-famous tourist destination — continues to stand out as a recognizable venue for top-level scientific and professional conferences.
