Dr. Marija Rajičić

Marija is a research associate at the Department of Genetics Research, where she has been employed since September 2012. In June 2019, Marija completed her PhD in Genetics at the University of Belgrade. Previously, Marija completed her studies in Molecular Biology and Physiology at the University of Belgrade in July 2012.

Marija's research includes both laboratory and field work. Her main interest is genetics research, karyotype analysis with a focus on B chromosomes – additional chromosomes in the standard karyotype, in small mammals and bats. She is particularly interested in the various zoonoses transmitted by these two groups of organisms. She is currently working on the establishment and maintenance of primary tissue cultures and karyotype analysis of the yellow-necked mouse (Apodemus flavicollis), Leisler’s bat (Nyctalus leisleri) and common shrew (Sorex araneus). She is also investigating the presence of Borrelia burgdorferri sensu lato infections in rodents that are its most common known reservoirs in the Belgrade area.

Marija is involved in science popularization and promotion of the Institute. Since 2016, Marija has taken part in organization of the European Researcher's Night as part of the Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković” team. She actively participated in projects from HORIZON 2020 Programme (H2020-MSCA-NIGHT-2016-2017-ReFocuS-722341; H2020-MSCA-NIGHT-2018-2019-ReFocuS 2.0-818325; H2020 - ReFocuS 3.0, 2020) and participates in Horizon Europe project: HORIZON-MSCA-2022-CITIZENS-01-ReFocuS Art-101061356; HORIZON-MSCA-2023-CITIZENS-01-101161922. Since September 2017, Marija has been working as a Teaching Associate at the Petnica Science Centre, training young people.