Experienced researcher with 22 years of expertise in managing and leading an ISO 17025-accredited Food Microbiology laboratory. My work bridges academia, regulation, and industry, delivering impactful solutions in food safety and microbiology. Currently, I am exploring the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create next-generation tools that enhance food safety. By combining AI with microbiological expertise, I study intelligent systems that process vast amounts of data, transforming them into actionable strategies that go beyond the limits of human capability. My technical strengths include advanced molecular microbiology techniques (qPCR, digital PCR, NGS) for detecting foodborne viruses (HuNoV, HAV, HEV) and bacterial pathogens such as STEC, CPS, Cronobacter sakazakii, Listeria monocytogenes, Campylobacter, and Salmonella. I am passionate about driving “proof of concept” innovations that deliver cutting-edge diagnostic tools and strategies to combat emerging foodborne hazards. On the international stage, I represent Serbia in the European Reference Laboratories for foodborne viruses, Campylobacter, and coagulase-positive staphylococci. I also contribute as an active member of ISO/CEN Working Groups, shaping and validating global standards for detecting and quantifying foodborne bacteria, viruses, and parasites, as well as serving as a registered expert for the National Standardization Institute in Food Microbiology.