The effects of pollution on disease development
Microplastics contaminations in digestive, reproductive and circulatory systems of free-ranged sharks, skates and rays
Chaperoning neurological disorders in sharks
Application of hepatic melanomacrophages to understand response to environmental pressures
We are studying elasmobranchs in the continental shelves and upper sloped of the Adriatic and Ionian seas through:
View our equipment
Diving with sharks
We are working closely with both commercial and small-scale fisherman.
Enhancing the post-release survival rates in by-catch.
LABORATORY STUDIES
FIELD EXPEDITIONS
Through the past 10 years, our researchers has published and mentored:
You can download most of our publications for free
Shark, skates and rays of the eastern Adriatic Sea
Written by: Andrej A. Gajić
Comprehensive review of 60 species, 370 pages, supported by ministries of three countries!
Based on the 10 years of research funded by:
– Rufford Foundation (4)
– National Geographic (2)
– Discovery Channel (1)
– Foundation Ensemble (1)
– PADI Foundation (1)
– IDEA WILD (1)
– S.E.E. Foundation (1)
Officially supported by:
– Bosnia and Herzegovina: Federal Ministry of education and science
– Croatia: Ministry of energy and environment
– Slovenia: Ministry of education, science and sport
Original paper
New hope for the critically endangered angel shark (Squatina squatina) in the Adriatic Sea
Short communication
Contemporary records of the rare and critically endangered angular rough shark (Oxynotus centrina) from the eastern Adriatic Sea
View other papers
The effects of pollution and habitat loss on elasmobrachs disease development
Quantitative and qualitative assessment of microplastics in digestive and reproductive system
Rescue, rehabilitation, tagging and re-introduction of sharks, skates and rays
Éviter l’extinction des anges de mer en Adriatique (avoiding extinction in the Adriatic Sea)
Since 2017, we had 20 projects across the Adriatic-Ionian region
Our projects are funded and supported by more than 50 partners
Current projects
We have 7 active cutting-edge research projects in Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania. Track our progress in news section.
Projects by category
Our work is highly recognized across the globe, with more than 250 media appearances.
Besides, we partner with the worlds leading media to educate wider public and raise awareness on conservation, sustainable development and key environmental issues.
View all media features
We had dozens of engagements for NatGeo and NatGeo WILD
Make sure not to miss live show at from our labs during the the Sharkfest 2018 – watch it now!
National Geographic Explorer Magazine featured download:
National Geographic US
National Geographic China
NatGeo: meet Andrej Gajić
Through Explorers Classroom we have lectured over 15.000 students from 75 countries.
Some of the most important features are given below:
Sharklab ADRIA partner with Explorer Club and Discovery Channel on “Plastic Sharks” expedition.
Through the past few years we had numerous appearances on the CNN and their affiliates across Balkans.
Our recent TED talk included How pollution affects the ocean’s most misunderstood creatures
Sharklab ADRIA was featured among top enviornmental organization by Global 3000 at German television Deutsche Welle
Our CEO Andrej Gajić was selected among the “3o under 3o” program. Take look at the video featuring his work and career.
I had an absolute blast and cannot wait to come back for my thesis. I don’t think I have ever learned so much in 2 months, and not just marine biology related skills. Could not have asked for better supervisors. It is an incredible learning opportunity. Andrej and Emina go above and beyond to ensure the interns are included in their day to day work…
It has been an enriching experience that has helped me to grow professionally, to better understand the world of work. I have had the opportunity to acquire knowledge that I would not have learned otherwise and to develop my previously unknown skills in the laboratory. Thank you for making Sharklab feel like home!
Expand your horizons with our diverse training opportunities, encompassing lab and field studies.
Embark on a photo voyage through the captivating moments captured during our internship program.
Embark on an intellectually stimulating journey as you delve into groundbreaking research.
Get to know the talented interns who are continuing the legacy of marine research and conservation.
MEET YOUR SUPERVISOR
Andrej Gajić is senior principal investigator and awarded scientist with advance degrees in pathology, ecology, conservation, and over 70 published articles and two books. Andrej have successfully overseen and managed 21 regional research projects and lectured numerous conferences across United States and Europe. As head scientist, he had assignments for National Geographic and Discovery Channel. His research has been featured in over 300 media outlets, including NatGeo, FOX, Discovery, Warner Bros., BBC, CNN affiliates, Arte, and many others. Extensive field experience in underwater explorations. Despite growing up in a war-torn country, Andrej always dreamed of working with sharks. Today, his remarkable life has inspired several books published by National Geographic.
2022 Ambassador of the Mediterranean
Appointed by Barcelona Convention
2021 Special Governmental Recognition
for extraordinary scientific results
2020 Early Career Leadership
for research by National Geographic
2019 Man of the Year award
Balkan regional award by LadiesIn
Lead Technical Specialist
Emina plays a crucial role in supporting the technical aspects of both research and educational programs. With her background in health studies, she offers valuable insights into understanding the broader environmental pressures.
Research assitant
Endora supports scientific investigations, conducts fieldwork, collects and analyzes data, and contributes to the advancement of knowledge in marine ecosystems. Her background is in MPA management.
Fieldwork coordinator
Kosta is a highly skilled and indispensable team member who plays a crucial role in all aspects of field-related activities, contributing his expertise to ensure successful outcomes. Hobby: freediving, hiking, alpinism, photography.
Important info
The contribution fee directly supports our research and covers accommodation, transportation between project sites (by land or sea), training and lectures, interactive workshops, field and lab work, and long-lasting scientific support.
Please note that the fee does not cover transportation to Albania, transfer to accommodation, mandatory health and/or travel insurance, meals, or personal expenses.
Limited scholarships are available for low-income countries and in exceptional cases. Upon completion, participants receive an recommendation letter.
Please complete the form by submitting your basic data, along with a short motivation letter and your CV. If you encounter any technical issues, feel free to email us your application instead.
Rest assured that our senior officers will respond to you promptly.
we are looking forward to speak with you
E-mail: interns@sharklab-adria.org
Sharklab ADRIA 2007 – 2022 © All Rights Reserved
Designed and developed: A. Gajić