Bionanotechnology; Biosensor design; Bio-inspired materials; Water remediation; Science education; Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology; School of Technology
Dr Ljiljana Fruk is a Lecturer and Research Group Leader at the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, a Fellow of Sidney Sussex College and a Fellow of Royal Society of Chemistry. She is also on the Advisory Board of the University of Cambridge’s Public Engagement.
Ljiljana researchers the use of synthetic chemistry, molecular biology and various instrumental techniques to design bio-nano elements and hybrid materials for application in catalysis and medicine.
Her research and her interest in the cultural and societal impacts of new technologies such as nanotechnology and synthetic biology can impact the lives of the world’s poorest 3 billion people through the development of novel, robust and affordable medical diagnostic devices and materials for water remediation.
Ljiljana’s motivation to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals through the participation in Cambridge Global Challenges stems from her experience towards the end of elementary school, when the war in ex-Yugoslavia brought insecurity, fear and poverty to a once peaceful region. She got engaged in work with refugees and realised that one of the best ways to help is giving not only hope, but also the tools to the people in need. Ljiljana also spent two years in United World College of the Adriatic with 200 young people, some of which from the most deprived regions of the world. This further inspired her commitment to teaching, science popularisation and education in general, as she believes that knowledge is the post powerful asset to overcome current global challenges.