The Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Goce Delcev – Stip continues its successful international scientific research cooperation through the implementation of a new bilateral project between the Republic of North Macedonia and the Republic of Austria, which has been approved for funding by the Ministry of Education and Science.
On June 4, 2026, the Ministry of Education and Science signed the Agreement for the implementation of the project entitled “SMART MINERALS: Unlocking Bioindicative Markers for Next-Generation High-Value Foods”, which will be implemented in the period from 2026 to 2028.
The project is within the scientific area of smart agriculture and food with higher added value, which is one of the priority areas of the Smart Specialization Strategy of the Republic of North Macedonia.
The principal investigator of the project from the Macedonian side is Prof. Dr. Biljana Balabanova from the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Goce Delcev – Stip. The project is a joint initiative of the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Goce Delcev – Stip and BOKU University of Vienna (Austria), one of the leading European higher education and research institutions in the field of natural resources, agriculture, food and natural sciences.
The aim of the project is the development of modern analytical approaches for the identification of bioindicative mineral markers that will enable better characterization, traceability and evaluation of food with high added value. Through the application of advanced instrumental techniques and an interdisciplinary scientific approach, the project will contribute to improving the quality and competitiveness of agricultural and food products, as well as to strengthening the scientific and research capacities and international cooperation at the University of Goce Delcev – Stip.
The project will conduct joint research aimed at identifying mineral and isotopic biomarkers, developing analytical models for determining the origin and quality of food, as well as harmonizing laboratory procedures in accordance with the highest European standards. The project activities will enable mobility of researchers, exchange of knowledge and joint publications with international visibility.
The approval of this project represents a significant recognition of the scientific research work of the Faculty of Agriculture and the University “Goce Delcev” – Stip, as well as confirmation of their active role in the development of innovative solutions in the field of sustainable agriculture, food safety and modern analytical sciences. At the same time, the project further strengthens the position of the University as a relevant partner in the European research area and contributes to the internationalization of the scientific research activities of the institution.
