INTERVIEW WITH MARINA TIŠMA – UNIVERSITY OF OSIJEK

“Within the BEAMING project, we will broaden our horizon, knowledge and experience by working with an interdisciplinary team within the consortium to realise the Bioeconomy Alliance.” Marina Tišma speaks in this interview about the University of Osijek’s contribution to the BEAMING project as well as the initiative challenges.

Q What are the main tasks and activities of the University of Osijek, Faculty of Food Technology Osijek within the BEAMING project?

A: Over the past ten years, the Faculty of Food Technology Osijek has successfully carried out several research projects in the field of bioeconomy, mainly focusing on the utilisation of lignocellulosic waste materials from the food industry and agriculture into biofuels and value-added products. During our research work, we have found that there is a great lack of education in the field of bioeconomy, which has led us to establish a one-year postgraduate study programme “Circular and sustainable bioeconomy”. These two experiences will help us to contribute to the BEAMING activities as specified by the leaders of the working groups. We are strongly focused on expanding our capacities by acquiring new knowledge in all aspects of bioeconomy development. Within the BEAMING project, we will broaden our horizon, knowledge and experience by working with an interdisciplinary team within the consortium to realise the Bioeconomy Alliance.

Q: What challenges do you find in the BEAMING project?

Answer: The first challenge has already been mastered. It was a challenge to put together a highly interdisciplinary team of 17 partners from 13 countries. For this reason, it will certainly require a lot of communication between the participants to understand each other without a doubt. However, based on the meetings that have already taken place and the strong leadership, I can personally say that this is not only a challenge but also an opportunity to learn from experts in fields other than science.