On Wednesday, May 15, 2025, the finals of the national “Innovation 4 Nuclear” (I4N) competition were held at the Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences. The competition aimed to bring together young innovators in the field of nuclear science and technology. Traditionally organized worldwide, this year marked the first time the event was held in Serbia.
The contestants demonstrated an exceptionally high level of knowledge, technical skills, and motivation, all of which can contribute to the development of domestic capacities in the nuclear technology sector.
Based on the decision of the three-member expert jury, first place was awarded to the team from the Public Company "Nuclear Facilities of Serbia," comprised of Nikola Petreski, Luka Marijanović, and Božidar Obradović, former students of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, University of Belgrade. Their project, titled “Integrated System for Identification and Characterization of Lost Radiation Sources Supported by an Automated Robot,” presents an innovative technical solution that integrates advanced algorithms, modern nuclear instrumentation, and robotics. The system has significant potential for application in operational processes at nuclear facilities, particularly in the context of safe handling of radioactive sources. The project simultaneously demonstrates a high level of technical sophistication and a clear understanding of the practical challenges faced by the modern nuclear industry.
Second place was awarded to the team from the University of Novi Sad, composed of Marijana Kajtazi and Marieta Rakoš, students of the Faculty of Sciences and the Faculty of Technical Sciences. Their work, “Remote Detection of Cracks in Reactor Buildings Using Drones and Artificial Intelligence,” stands out for its innovative approach to real-time visual inspection of infrastructure. The solution combines drone technology and machine learning models for early detection of structural damage, which could significantly enhance safety and efficiency in the operation of nuclear facilities.
The Vinča Institute extends its gratitude to all participants, mentors, and representatives of the Serbian Nuclear Society for their exceptional dedication during the preparation and implementation of the national competition. We are particularly pleased that young experts in Serbia are demonstrating a high level of knowledge, innovation, and enthusiasm in the field of modern nuclear technologies. We believe that the ideas presented in this competition will evolve into significant projects and that the participants will play important roles in the future technological and energy development of our country.
We wish the winning team the best of success at the I4N Europe competition, which will be held from June 2 to 6 in Zagreb.
