BHFF Alumna Emina Očuz Presents Research on Novel Ruthenium Complexes at International Chemistry Congress

Bosnia & Herzegovina Futures Foundation (BHFF) Alumna Emina Očuz presented her research at the 6th International Congress of Chemists and Chemical Engineers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, held from June 23 to 27 in Sarajevo.

Her research, titled “Synthesis and Characterization of Four Novel Cationic Ruthenium Arene Complexes Based on Cycloalkyl Aldimine Schiff Base Ligands”, focuses on the development of new organometallic compounds with potential applications in medicine.

The study introduces four newly synthesized ruthenium-based complexes, designed as promising candidates for future drug development, particularly in the treatment of cancer and infectious diseases. The research primarily focused on the synthesis, stability, and detailed structural characterization of these compounds, confirming their key chemical properties and potential for further investigation.

The results presented at the congress represent preliminary findings, which were also part of Emina Očuz’s master’s thesis. The research is set to continue in the coming period, with a strong emphasis on evaluating the biological activity of the synthesized compounds. Future studies will include analysis of their interactions with DNA, providing deeper insight into their potential therapeutic applications.

This research was conducted in collaboration with experts from leading institutions in the region, including Prof. Dr. Adnan Zahirović from the Laboratory for Bioinorganic Chemistry at the Faculty of Science, University of Sarajevo, Dr. Aleksandar Višnjevac from the Laboratory for Chemical and Biological Crystallography at the Ruđer Bošković Institute in Zagreb, and Dr. Sunčica Roca from the NMT Centre at the same institute.

Participation in this international congress provided an important platform for presenting innovative scientific work and exchanging knowledge with researchers and professionals in the field of chemistry and chemical engineering.

Through her work, Emina Očuz contributes to the advancement of bioinorganic chemistry and highlights the important role of interdisciplinary research in addressing global health challenges. Her achievements reflect the mission of the Bosnia & Herzegovina Futures Foundation—to support young researchers in developing impactful scientific solutions and engaging with the global scientific community.