Jelena Martinović, Ph.D., is a Senior Research Associate in the Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology at the VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences – National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade. She earned her Ph.D. in Experimental Neurobiology in 2013 from the Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade. Her earlier research focused on animal models of depressive-like behavior, brain ischemia-reperfusion, neuropsychopharmacology and oxidative stress. Building on this background, Dr. Martinović now investigates molecular changes in glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling pathways following the administration of various pharmacological substances. Additionally, alongside her work in neuroscience, her recent research interests have expanded to address the emerging and critical issue of microplastics, focusing on their accumulation and subsequent effects on human health. Throughout her academic career, she has published numerous research papers in peer-reviewed journals, with an emphasis on synaptic mechanisms, neuropharmacology, and cellular signaling. Demonstrating leadership in international academic collaboration, Dr. Martinović successfully served as principal investigator on a joint research project with the Ruđer Bošković Institute (Zagreb, Croatia). She is an active member of several professional networks, including the Serbian Neuroscience Society (SNS) and the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS).