Embarking on a mission to ignite a passion for science in the hearts of young minds, our groundbreaking promotional campaign, “Science for the Future,” proudly showcases Nadica Vanova Nakjinova, an exceptional Senior Researcher at Alkaloid ADβs Institute of Research and Development. Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Nadica, whose path, deeply rooted in a legacy of healthcare, exemplifies dedication, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of scientific excellence.
Who is she?
Nadica Vanova Nakjinova, a Master of Pharmacy and Senior Researcher at Alkaloid ADβs Institute of Research and Development works in the department for value-added medicines development. As a formulation scientist, her primary focus is on addressing the complex challenges of formulation and process development for value-added medicines. She and her team are dedicated to rethinking, reinventing, and optimizing medications based on established molecules. Their goal is to innovate in ways that improve human health, meet patients’ unmet needs, and ultimately enhance their quality of life.
Her Journey and Success Story Nadica was born and raised in Veles, where she completed her primary and secondary education. Her lifelong fascination with biology, medicine, and chemistry, influenced by many doctors and pharmacists in her family, naturally led her to a career in pharmaceutical research. Their dedication to improving human health inspired her passion for this field.
Nadica Vanova Nakjinova’s journey in pharmacy began in 2010 at Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Faculty of Pharmacy, where she graduated with a Master of Pharmacy in 2015 and was honored with the βFoundation Trajche Mukaetovβ scholarship, recognizing her as one of the top students. In her current role, she spends long hours in the laboratory, engages in extensive reading, brainstorms with her team, applies critical thinking, and continuously advances in the field. The problem-based learning approach at the pharmaceutical faculty instilled in her a commitment to lifelong learning, which has been crucial to her success.
During her studies, she developed a keen interest in pharmaceutical technology. Her masterβs thesis focused on micro-encapsulation through spray-drying of probiotics to enhance their viability. This research was conducted at the facultyβs Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, where she had the privilege of working with an inspiring PhD candidate and mentor. Later, she became a PhD candidate at the same institute, conducting her research and having the opportunity to publish her work.
Although her current PhD research is in the emerging field of nanotechnologyβspecifically, developing dual drug-loaded lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticlesβand differs from her daily work, it has taught her the importance of discipline, work ethic, resilience, and a courageous spirit. Science has slowly become part of her DNAβa way of thinking and living.
Professional Achievements from junior researcher to team lead at Alkaloid AD Skopje
βI joined the Institute of Research and Development at Alkaloid AD Skopje in 2015, shortly after graduating. Starting as a junior researcher and progressing to a team lead role, I have tackled numerous challenging projects, being part of their development, transfer and scale-up to industrial scale as well as their marketing authorization approval processes.
I am particularly proud to be named as an inventor in three international patent applications submitted under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) for different formulation dosage forms during my nearly nine-year tenure at Alkaloid AD Skopje. This achievement represents a significant milestone in my career and has also introduced a new perspective within the company.
The dynamic work environment at Alkaloid AD Skopje has enabled me to excel in various processing techniques essential for developing new formulations of solid, liquid, and semi-solid dosage forms. I was fortunate to have mentors who generously shared their knowledge during my early days at the company.
Although the formulations our team works on are based on known molecules, they are not fully generic. We leverage the active ingredientβs chemistry to create unique and innovative formulations.
Our institute at Alkaloid AD Skopje is a regional leader, fostering a supportive team environment that encourages young scientists to learn and realize their potential. We have in our institute and also collaborate with some of the greatest researchers in Macedonia, and I am grateful for the opportunities and support that have fueled my passion for science. I am motivated to see how the scientific journey unfolds for the younger generation.β
Giving back to the Homeland
At Alkaloid AD Skopje, there is a strong dedication to contributing to the homeland’s development in every possible way. The company has organized numerous donations, scholarships, internship programs, and motivational campaigns, with plans to continue evolving these efforts to meet future needs. Nadica Vanova Nakjinova chose to build her career in her homeland, believing that with the right discipline and mindset, great achievements and an enhanced quality of life can be realized locally.
Inspirational Message
Her inspirational quote/personal message to all primary school students is to motivate them to choose a science-related career/education: “We build on the work of those before us and owe it to those who are yet to come. Our mission is to advance the knowledge passed to us and inspire new generations to do the same. Our scientific contribution can transform local communities and should serve as a beacon of hope and innovation for the new generations, paving the way for a brighter future here in our homeland.”
The Power of Knowledge
In a world full of possibilities, the gift of knowledge is the most valuable treasure we can bestow upon the next generation. By joining this initiative, you become a beacon of inspiration for those who will carry the torch of science forward.
Let’s work together to inspire, empower, and educate. Let’s ignite the passion for science in the hearts of primary school pupils. Your words could be the spark that lights the fire of curiosity and excellence.
Share your favorite motivational quote and/or a short success story that highlights your journey as a scientist, on the following LINK
Join us in shaping the future of science and the young scientists who will define it. Together, we can make a difference.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey!
The campaign is implemented as part of Johnson Matthey’s Community Impact Program βScience and Meβ
Embarking on a mission to spark a passion for science among young minds, our promotional campaign, “Science for the Future,” proudly features Semial Sinani, a dedicated teacher of biology and natural science at the primary school “Emin Duraku” in village BukoviΔ. Semial Sinani’s enthusiasm for teaching is more than just a profession; it is a calling to inspire curiosity and a thirst for knowledge in her students.
She shared her life philosophy with us, stating: βFrom early childhood, we are naturally curious about the world around us. Every day, we encounter new changes and ask ourselves and others, ‘How is this possible?’ In our search for answers, researchers, thinkers, philosophers, and scientists have immeasurably influenced the world. Their medical breakthroughs, scientific discoveries, physical laws, and mathematical principles have brought order, coherence, and clarity to what once seemed a random, indistinguishable, lawless world. Let us sail together in the endless ocean of knowledge, reason, and truth.β
Through the “Science for the Future” campaign, we aim to celebrate educators/teachers like Semial Sinani, who light the spark of curiosity and foster a lifelong love for learning in their students. Let us work together to inspire more pupils to embrace science, fostering a generation of inquisitive minds ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
Her message to all primary school students is profoundly motivational: βLook for the truth in the factsβ. These reflective words serve not only as a message but as a symbol of encouragement, beckoning the next generation to embrace the wonders of science. They inspire students to join the pursuit of a future rich in scientific exploration and discovery, highlighting the vital role science plays in understanding and improving our world.
The Power of Knowledge
In a world full of possibilities, the gift of knowledge is the most valuable treasure we can bestow upon the next generation. By joining this initiative, you become a beacon of inspiration for those who will carry the torch of science forward.
Let’s work together to inspire, empower, and educate. Let’s ignite the passion for science in the hearts of primary school pupils. Your words could be the spark that lights the fire of curiosity and excellence.
Share your favorite motivational quote and/or a short success story that highlights your journey as a scientist, on the following LINK
Join us in shaping the future of science and the young scientists who will define it. Together, we can make a difference.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey!
Join us as we honor the brightest minds at the Atanas Bliznakoff Certificates of Excellence Awarding Ceremony on the second day of the Macedonia2025 Summit.
The Atanas Bliznakoff Foundations in the US, the Atanas Bliznakoff Foundations within the University βSt. Cyril and Methodiusβ Skopje, and the Foundation MK2025 take immense pride in presenting these certificates to selected scholarship beneficiaries for their unwavering dedication to academic excellence. These Certificates were awarded to students who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment and perseverance, maintaining a remarkable Grade Point Average (GPA) of 9.5 or higher for three consecutive years.
Out of the 74 scholars completing their third year of studies, we are proud to present our 13 top achievers:
Jovan Bozhinovski – Iustinianus Primus Law Faculty
Kliment Sinikoski – Faculty of Economics
Ana Sofronievska – Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technologies
Mihail Stojkoski – Faculty of Medicine
Anastasija Uzunska – Faculty of Pedagogy βSt. Kliment Ohridskiβ
Jovana Stojcheska – Faculty of Pharmacy
Aleksandra Isajlovska – Faculty of Philosophy
Mihaela Lazarovska – Faculty of Philosophy
Tijana Toshevska – Faculty of Philosophy
Petar Petreski – FINKI – Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering
Lucija Tonkovikj – FINKI – Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering
Mila Gjorgjevska – Hans Em Faculty of Forest Sciences, Landscape Architecture and Environmental Engineering
Sofija Jovanovikj – Iustinianus Primus Law Faculty
Through their dedicated work, passion for learning, and relentless pursuit of knowledge, these students have distinguished themselves as exemplary scholars. Their exceptional academic performance not only reflects their commitment but also contributes to the advancement of education and the betterment of society as a whole.
We trust that they will continue to shine as beacons of inspiration to their peers, institutions, and the community at large. May this recognition serve as a source of pride and motivation as they continue their educational and professional journeys. Their accomplishments today symbolize the great things they will achieve in the future, and we eagerly anticipate their continued success.
On the same day, the ABF scholars had an annual gathering with Sophie and Mitre Kutanovski, representing the Atanas Bliznakoff Foundations in the US, Rector of the University βSt. Cyril and Methodiusβ Skopje Biljana Angelova, and Nena Manchev, Macedonia2025 Program Manager for Leadership and Education Program.
Let’s applaud their hard work and achievements as they continue to set standards of excellence.
We are thrilled to announce that Vojdan, Nikola, and Marko have been selected as the new Zafirovski Fellows. They will be attending the prestigious Executive Development Program at Northwestern University – Kellogg School of Management from June 2-21, 2024.
This in-person program, held at the renowned Allen Center on the Evanston Campus, promises to be an enriching and transformative experience for our fellows. It is designed to hone their leadership skills and expand their strategic vision, preparing them to drive positive change and innovation in their respective fields. We look forward to sharing more updates as they embark on this exciting journey, including details about our upcoming October 2024 cohort.
With the addition of Vojdan, Nikola, and Marko, the number of Zafirovski Fellows has now increased to 45. This growing community of leaders is making a significant impact on Macedonian society and economy, driving advancements and fostering sustainable growth across various sectors and industries.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mike Zafirovski and his family for their unwavering support and commitment. Their dedication to elevating leadership excellence and fostering the next generation of leaders in Macedonia is truly inspiring. This fellowship is a testament to their vision and generosity, and we are confident that Vojdan, Nikola, and Marko will carry forward this legacy with pride and distinction. Best of luck to our fellows as they take on this incredible opportunity!
Embarking on a mission to provoke a passion for science among young minds, our promotional campaign, “Science for the Future,” proudly presents Katerina Jancevska, a team leader at Alkaloid AD Skopje’s Institute of Research and Development.
She shares her inspiring journey from Resen to becoming a leading figure in pharmaceutical research. Jancevska’s story highlights her commitment to professional growth and dedication to contributing to her homeland’s thriving pharmaceutical industry.
Heritage
Hello! My name is Katerina Jancevska, and I am a researcher and team leader at the Institute of Research and Development at Alkaloid AD Skopje. As a member of the Scientific Excellence team, I have the opportunity to work on some of the most intriguing scientific projects related to human health and wellbeing. Here, I would like to briefly share my success story.
I was born in the small town of Resen, where I completed my primary and secondary education. Ever since then, chemistry and biology have captured my interest and slowly grown into a passion. The opportunity to learn about nature itself and, at the same time, create products such as medicine that can change lives was a deciding factor for me to choose to continue my education in the natural sciences, and later build a professional career in pharmaceutical research.
Success story
I started my education in natural sciences in 2008, earning a bachelorβs degree in biochemistry at Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics. I graduated with summa cum laude honors and was recognized as the best graduate student of the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Class of 2013. This part of my journey was formative in providing me with a broad education in natural sciences and particularly biochemistry.
Working in pharmaceutical research and development requires both broad knowledge and specialized expertise in several niche disciplines relevant to drug discovery and formulation. To meet these demands, I pursued postgraduate education with a master’s degree at the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, specializing in High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry. My master’s studies were supported by a prestigious DAAD scholarship.
Beyond learning the details of the chromatographic spectrometric methods, which I now apply daily, I also served as a teaching assistant (demonstrator). This role allowed me to transfer knowledge to students across a spectrum of coursesβfrom general chemistry to biochemistry. At the same time, this experience strengthened my skills as a communicator and team leader, attributes I consistently apply in my professional work at Alkaloid.
Almost simultaneously with finishing my master’s degree, I joined the Institute of Research and Development at Alkaloid AD Skopje. This defining moment marked the beginning of my professional career. I was fortunate to join a team of some of the brightest researchers in the country. The Institute is distinguished not only by its excellent science but also by its collegial and supportive coworkers. This environment facilitated a smooth transition from academia to the pharmaceutical industry.
My professional career began with the Preformulation team, responsible for evaluating the complex interactions of raw materials used in creating pharmaceuticals. This work is of paramount importance in ensuring safe and effective medicines. Initially, my work focused on applying the chromatographic spectrometric methods I learned during my graduate studies. However, at Alkaloid, continued professional growth is not only expected but strongly encouraged. Consequently, I began broadening my expertise in various areas, such as learning in-silico toxicology methods, among others.
Concurrent with my day-to-day work, I pursued doctorate studies at the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, focusing on the study of elemental impurities in pharmaceuticals. This research discipline is extremely important for the work we do at Alkaloid, and for any pharmaceutical company. I completed my PhD in 2022, with published papers in internationally renowned and recognized journals. Today, I have broad expertise, which allows me to tackle various scientific challenges.
In addition to the professional growth, Alkaloid is a place where I experienced tremendous personal growth as a team leader. Throughout my transition from junior to senior scientist and team leader, I mastered various soft skills necessary for leading a team of excellent researchers tasked with solving some of the trickiest research problems.
I am currently working as part of the Scientific Excellence team, and the name of our team truly reflects our mission. Our role is to bring scientific excellence to every aspect of pharmaceutical product development, from evaluating the starting raw materials to ensuring a safe and effective final product.
Itβs worth mentioning that my next step will be enrolling Specialist program: Toxicological Risk Assessment, as crucial part in my career path.
I must say that working for a company that invests in my future through meaningful opportunities is incredibly motivating.
In my decade-long journey with Alkaloid AD, I have found it deeply inspiring to contribute to solving problems and challenges that directly impact human health and well-being. Moreover, I consider myself fortunate to be part of a company that actively nurtures both personal and professional growth.
Giving Back to the Homeland
We should strive to contribute to our homeland in the best way possible. We live by this motto at the Scientific Excellence team, within the Institute of Research and Development, and across Alkaloid AD as a whole. Like those of many others in my team, my success story is a testament to young professionals who have chosen to remain in our homeland, contributing to the growth of a robust and globally recognized pharmaceutical industry.
Her inspirational quote/personal message to all primary school students to motivate them to choose a science-related career/education is: βYour homeland needs your passion, your energy, and your innovation. By investing in the place that shaped you, you help build a future where dreams are realized, and communities thrive.β
The Power of Knowledge
In a world full of possibilities, the gift of knowledge is the most valuable treasure we can bestow upon the next generation. By joining this initiative, you become a beacon of inspiration for those who will carry the torch of science forward.
Let’s work together to inspire, empower, and educate. Let’s ignite the passion for science in the hearts of primary school pupils. Your words could be the spark that lights the fire of curiosity and excellence.
Share your favorite motivational quote and/or a short success story that highlights your journey as a scientist, on the following LINK
Join us in shaping the future of science and the young scientists who will define it. Together, we can make a difference.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey!
