The main purpose of the training was to gain both theoretical and practical knowledge concerning application of combined chemical-analytical and bioanalytical methods of the effect-directed identification of the xenobiotics in complex environmental samples. This was achieved through the involvement in the ongoing research activities at the UFZ, practical work concerning investigation of contaminants in environmental samples, and discussions with the researchers about their topics of investigation and methods they use to complete the research tasks.

During the first month of the training, I had opportunity to get an insight into the ongoing investigations at the Department of Effect-Directed Analysis and get familiar with sophisticated methods that require implementation of instrumental techniques that are not available at my home institution. The second month of the training was oriented to practical work with sediment samples from highly polluted locality in Serbia, and predominantly considered procedures for extraction of organic contaminants from environmental samples by Accelerated Solvent Extractors ASE 300 and ASE 200, followed by an automated on-line fractionation procedure on three coupled normal phase HPLC columns, which enables fractionation of contaminants into 18 fractions, each containing different type of pollutants based on their structure, physical and chemical properties. Also, I had opportunity to get insight into analyses for the identification of isolated compounds. All these methods are closely connected to the research interest of my home laboratory and to the investigations conducted in the frame of my PhD thesis.

The accomplishment of the training was of great benefit for my home laboratory and me. Thanks to all members of the Department of Effect-Directed Analysis, training itself, and the way it was completed, I improved my knowledge and comprehension of many scientific questions concerning the research activities I conduct at my home institution. Not only it enabled fulfilment of the anticipated tasks, but also it enabled strengthening scientific ties between two institutions, and eventually will contribute to greater eligibility of my home institution for future involvement in international projects. Collaboration realized within this project, and contacts we have made with the researchers from UFZ will for sure be a solid base for further common activities.
    Last, but not least, during my stay in Leipzig, I had a wonderful opportunity to learn more about Germany and all its beauties - its people, culture, history… Time I have spend in Leipzig and friendships I have made are unique, lifetime experience, and will always have special place in my memories.