FULL PROFESSOR , at University of Rijeka, Faculty of Maritime Studies,Croatia
Prof. Dr. Alen Jugović is a distinguished Croatian academic and maritime economist with a profound impact in the field of port systems, maritime transport, and logistics. With over two decades of experience in higher education, research, and strategic project leadership, he is a full professor at the University of Rijeka, Faculty of Maritime Studies, where he also served as Dean from 2016 to 2022. His leadership and academic vision have significantly advanced maritime education and research infrastructure both in Croatia and across the Adriatic region.
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Education
Prof. Jugović holds a Ph.D. in Maritime Economics, with his doctoral work focused on economics of infrastructure projects in ports and port systems development. His education blends strong theoretical foundations with practical insight into the maritime transport sector. He has further honed his expertise through continuous collaboration with leading academic institutions and participation in inter-university doctoral programs.
Experience
Prof. Jugović has a rich professional background that combines academic excellence with institutional leadership. From 2016 to 2022, he served as Dean of the Faculty of Maritime Studies, overseeing academic programs, research initiatives, and administrative reforms. Previously, he held the position of Vice Dean for Finance (2013–2016). He has taught key courses such as Maritime Economics, Port Business, Passenger Traffic, and Entrepreneurship, and has been a guest lecturer at universities across Croatia. He has led or participated in over 90 strategic and expert projects, including EU-funded IPA cross-border cooperation programs like PROMARES, MIMOSA, and FRAMESPORT.
In addition, he is the founder of the Maritime Science and Technology Research Hub (MASTER Hub), a cutting-edge facility hosting labs in virtual reality, refrigeration technology, materials, and cognitive neuroscience. He also established educational centers and foundations supporting student excellence and social equity.
Research interest
Prof. Jugović’s research revolves around maritime economics, port business management, passenger maritime transport, and entrepreneurship in logistics. He is especially recognized for his work on infrastructure development, multimodal transport systems, and innovation in port operations. His interdisciplinary approach bridges economic theory with operational and policy-driven maritime logistics, making his work highly applicable to both academia and industry.
Awards
In 2021, he was honored with a national award from the Ministry of Sea, Traffic, and Infrastructure for his outstanding contribution to the development and international reputation of Croatian maritime transport. This recognition reflects his longstanding influence and thought leadership in shaping the future of the shipping and port industries.
Publications
“Seaports and Economic Growth: Panel Data Analysis of EU Port Regions”
Authors: G. Mudronja, A. Jugović, D. Škalamera-Alilović
Published in Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, Vol. 8(12), 2020
Citations: 81
“Menadžement pomorskoputničkih luka”
Authors: B. Kesić, A. Jugović
Published in 2006
Citations: 76
“Factors Influencing the Formation of Freight Rates on Maritime Shipping Markets”
Authors: A. Jugović, N. Komadina, A. Perić Hadžić
Published in Pomorstvo, Vol. 29(1), 2015
Citations: 74
“Sustainable Development Model for Nautical Tourism Ports”
Authors: A. Jugović, M. Kovačić, A. Hadžić
Published in Tourism and Hospitality Management, Vol. 17(2), 2011
Citations: 72
“A Study on Cyber Security Threats in a Shipboard Integrated Navigational System”
Authors: B. Svilicic, I. Rudan, A. Jugović, D. Zec
Published in Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, Vol. 7(10), 2019
Citations: 66
Conclusion
Prof. Dr. Alen Jugović stands out as a leading academic figure in maritime economics and port systems management. His combined expertise in research, education, and institutional leadership has helped shape national policies, modernize educational infrastructure, and contribute meaningfully to international collaborations. With a rare blend of theoretical insight, practical knowledge, and innovation leadership, he is a deserving candidate for any prestigious academic or research excellence award in the fields of transport economics, maritime studies, and sustainable infrastructure development.