Emerging Technologies in Colorectal Cancer Research:
Hands-on workshop on single-cell RNA-seq, mass spectrometry imaging and extracellular vesicles
Zagreb, 22-23 April 2026
We are pleased to invite you to a two-day workshop dedicated to advanced research techniques in colorectal cancer (CRC). Taking place on April 22–23, 2026 in Zagreb, Croatia, the workshop combines expert lectures and hands-on practical sessions designed to discuss emerging technology and applied skills. Participation in the workshop is free of charge and will be available on site in Zagreb and online.
The first day will focus on key methodologies in CRC research, including clinical sample collection, single-cell RNA sequencing analysis, mass spectrometry imaging (MSI), and the study of extracellular vesicles (EVs).
Sessions will be delivered by leading experts and will include interactive discussions. We will share our experience gained within the project "Spatial omics for profiling of colorectal cancer heterogeneity, identification of biomarkers, microbiota characterization and translation into personalized therapy".
The second day (on-site only) will be dedicated to practical training and will demonstrate how research is conducted in practice.
Participation on the second day is limited (first come, first served basis) to ensure a high-quality, hands-on learning experience. It will be an opportunity to engage directly in single-cell analysis, MSI techniques, and vesicle sample analysis and data processing, under expert guidance.
This workshop is intended for researchers and professionals interested in expanding their expertise and sharing knowledge in advanced CRC research methods and it is supported by Waters and Labtim, 10x genomics and Labena, Altium and Unchained Labs.
This event is funded by the European Union – Next Generation EU, National Recovery and Resilience Plan 2021. – 2026. (project NPOO.C3.2.R3-I1.04.0266: “Spatial omics for profiling of colorectal cancer heterogeneity, identification of biomarkers, microbiota characterization and translation into personalized therapy”).
Agenda
Day 1 - April 22
Event Opening
Project Overview: Spatial Omics for Profiling Colorectal Cancer Heterogeneity
Clinical Sample Processing
Coffee Break
Section 1: Single Cell RNA Sequencing
scRNAseq: High-Resolution Insights into Tumor Heterogeneity
Single Cell RNA Sequencing of CRC
From Tissue to Molecules: Integrating Spatial Profiling into Multi-Omics Cancer Research
Spatial Biology with STOmics
Panel Discussion
Lunch Break
Section 2: MSI
Current and Future Perspectives of DESI and MALDI Mass Spectrometry Imaging
CRC Sample Preparation and Histological Analysis
MSI Analysis of CRC
Panel Discussion
Coffee Break
Section 3: Extracellular Vesicle
Extracellular Vesicles: No Longer a Myth, but Are They Always Real?
Extracellular Vesicle Analysis
Comprehensive Characterization of Extracellular Vesicles Using Leprechaun
Panel Discussion
Day 2 - April 23
Section 1: Single Cell RNA Sequencing
Sample Preparation
Data Processing
Coffee Break
Section 2: MSI
MSI Analysis
Lunch Break
Data Processing
Coffee Break
Section 3: EVs Analysis
Sample Preparation and EV Analysis
Data Processing
Workshop Partners
Malcolm Clench
Scientific Consulant
Malcolm R. Clench is a mass spectrometrist with over 40 years of experience in analytical chemistry and academic research. He earned his PhD in 1988 for his work on applying Fast Atom Bombardment mass spectrometry to protein and peptide structure elucidation.
After positions in the scientific instrument industry at Kratos Analytical, VG Tritech, and VG Biotech, he joined Sheffield Hallam University (formerly Sheffield City Polytechnic) in 1990, where he taught and led research in applied mass spectrometry. Over three decades, he served as Head of Research at the Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre and supervised 34 PhD students.
A pioneer in mass spectrometry imaging (MSI), he has authored over 130 peer-reviewed papers, including 75 focused on MSI. He has also served as Vice President of the Mass Spectrometry Imaging Society, Chair of the Imaging and MALDI Special Interest Group of the British Mass Spectrometry Society, and Associate Editor for Proteomics and Nature Scientific Reports.
Since retiring in 2023, he has continued his work in the field as founder of Imagtech Ltd and Consultant at Selvita. He currently serves as Chair of the Trustees of the International Mass Spectrometry Imaging Society (IMSIS).
Ana Butorac
Lead Scientist at Selvita
Ana Butorac is a Lead Scientist and Team Leader of Omics Platform at Selvita. She holds a PhD in Biotechnology and is an analytical scientist with 15 years of experience in applying mass spectrometry to the life sciences.
Her expertise includes method development, biomolecule characterization, and advanced proteomics research with a strong emphasis on integrating mass spectrometry-based techniques to support both fundamental research and applied projects in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. To date, she has mentored numerous graduate students, participated in 6 scientific research projects, and a co-authored 25 scientific articles indexed in the Web of Science.
Since joining Selvita in 2024, her work has focused on Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI) based techniques, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionisation (MALDI-MSI) and Desorption Electrospray Ionisation Mass Spectrometry Imaging (DESI-MSI). Her research in this area contributes to the understanding of drug distribution, metabolism, and molecular interactions, supporting innovation in pharmaceutical research and drug discovery.
Mislav Novokmet
Lead Scientist at Selvita
Mislav Novokmet is a Lead Scientist within the Omics Platform at Selvita. He holds a PhD in Molecular Biosciences and is an analytical scientist with 18 years of experience in academia, pharma, and biotech, specializing in mass spectrometry-based analytics.
His expertise includes glycomics and glycoproteomics, advanced LC-MS workflows for biomolecule characterization, and high-throughput analytical approaches. Over the course of his career, he has led R&D teams, managed scientific and commercial projects, and contributed to several European Framework initiatives (FP7, Horizon 2020).
For the past decade, his research has focused on exploring the role of protein glycosylation in metabolic and inflammatory diseases. Since joining Selvita in 2024, he has been instrumental in developing and implementing Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI) workflows, including Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionisation (MALDI-MSI) and Desorption Electrospray Ionisation (DESI-MSI). His work provides deep insights into the spatial distribution and biological relevance of molecules in complex biological systems, driving innovation in drug discovery.
This research was supported by Croatian National Recovery and Resilience Plan 2021-2026 (project NPOO.C3.2.R3-I1.04.0266: Spatial omics for profiling of colorectal cancer heterogeneity, identification of biomarkers, microbiota characterization and translation into personalized therapy).
