AI Advancing Science, Industry, and Society: Perspectives from Senior IVI Researchers
Dr. Ognjen Kundačina: “I’m currently involved in three projects, which reflect the diversity of work at the Institute. I’m working on automatic speech recognition for the Serbian language, the application of collaborative robots for welding automation, and a predictive maintenance solution for the power sector. Each of these projects gives me the opportunity to learn and grow in different directions.”
Dr. Velibor Ilić: “I’m engaged in several projects, and I’d highlight the following: fire prediction in the Đerdap National Park based on satellite data, flood detection using satellite imagery, application of autonomous agents and large language models (LLMs) for planning chemical experiments, determining correct atomic positions in crystal structures, the REWARDING project (a machine learning-based system for monitoring and forecasting surface water quality), processing scientific paper abstracts using LLMs to classify them according to the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), software development for movement planning of a robot dog (UNITREE GO2 Pro) and a drone (DJI Mavic 3 Pro), as well as anomaly detection in CNC-machined products.”
Dr. Milan Stojković: “I’m currently contributing the most to three key projects. Within the ARTIFACT project, we are developing machine learning methods to improve the resilience of urban infrastructure to extreme rainfall events by integrating hydrodynamic models with ML algorithms. In the DRINA AI project, my focus is on designing ML algorithms for inflow forecasting at hydropower plants along the Drina and Lim rivers — accurate short-term predictions help optimize water resource usage and reduce flood risks. Within the REWARDING project, we are creating AI models to predict water quality in the Danube and Tisa rivers. These projects bridge scientific research with direct industrial application in the environmental protection domain.”
Scientific research and real-world application of AI knowledge were the main reasons these researchers joined the IVI team. “What drew me most was the chance to work simultaneously on scientific research and industry-oriented projects with real users. That balance is important to me because it allows me to grow in both areas — research and practical application,” explains Dr. Ognjen Kundačina.
Dr. Velibor Ilić has been interested in AI research since completing his master’s degree – long before AI became as popular as it is today. When IVI was established, he transitioned from the RT-RK Institute for Computer Systems, where he was working on autonomous vehicle software development.
For Dr. Milan Stojković, joining IVI was a natural step. “I’ve always believed in the synergy between scientific research and its practical application in environmental protection. At the Institute, various AI concepts are transformed into tools that genuinely assist both public institutions and industry — whether it’s for short-term environmental forecasts during extreme weather events or long-term modeling of climate change impacts. What really motivates me is the multidisciplinary environment where environmental engineering knowledge is enriched and advanced through AI expertise.”
Dr. Velibor Ilić highlights IVI’s flexibility in choosing projects (scientific and commercial), partners (domestic and international), and technologies as key advantages of working at the Institute.
Dr. Ognjen Kundačina points to several important aspects: “Continuous learning and working on cutting-edge AI approaches, a culture of teamwork, and the openness of colleagues to help and share knowledge. Add to that the freedom and trust that allow you to develop your own ideas and take ownership.”
Dr. Milan Stojković emphasizes IVI’s dedication to scientific excellence: “I see great value in every project we secure and every paper we publish in high-impact journals or present at top AI conferences. I also appreciate the open collaboration between junior and senior colleagues — it opens new perspectives from both academia and industry, enriching our team and expanding our partner networks. Most importantly, IVI places strong emphasis on the social impact of our research. We implement projects with a clear understanding of the needs of the public and industrial sectors, but also with awareness of broader societal challenges.”
