Nataša Ružić, PhD, Awarded with the Recognition of the University of Montenegro for Contribution to development of Science and Research
At the proposal of the Council of the Faculty of Political Science, Associate Professor Nataša Ružić, a faculty member at the Faculty of Political Science, was awarded a recognition for her contribution to development of scientific research work. The recognition was presented to her by the Rector of the University of Montenegro, Mr Vladimir Božović, PhD, at the ceremonial session of the University Senate.
Professor Ružić is one of key figures in development of media and communication studies at the University of Montenegro. Her academic career has been marked by notable achievements in teaching and a rich body of scientific research, thereby making a significant contribution to the advancement of science in Montenegro.
She began her academic training at prestigious international institutions, among which the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia in Moscow stands out, where she earned her Master’s degree with the highest grade. She defended her doctoral dissertation at the Faculty of Political Science at the University of Montenegro, thus completing a strong scientific and academic foundation. She added an additional research dimension through her engagement at the Institute for Political Science at the University of Vienna, where she developed research in the field of the internets influence on social change.
Throughout her university career, Professor Ružić has continuously contributed to the reputation of the Faculty of Political Science both through direct teaching work and through the organization and management of study programs. As Vice Dean for Teaching and Development at the Faculty of Political Science, and as Head of the Media Studies and Journalism Study Program, she played a key role in modernizing and updating curricula in accordance with contemporary social challenges.
Her scientific bibliography includes chapters in nationally significant monographs and dozens of scientific papers published in high-ranking international journals, such as Studia Europejskie, Communication and Media, CM, Anthropological Notebooks, and others. The thematic scope of her research covers a wide range of contemporary and relevant issues: from media literacy, media populism, disinformation, covert and native advertising, to the transformation of the media system in Montenegro — from a communist, through a transitional, to a polarized pluralistic model — and the role of the media in informing citizens about European integration and climate change.
Her engagement is not limited to the academic community. She has participated in numerous international projects, particularly in areas focused on combating disinformation and strengthening media freedom. She was a member of the Commission for the allocation of funds from the Fund for Encouraging Pluralism and Diversity in 2021 and 2022, as well as a member of the Commission for the EU Investigative Journalism Awards in 2023.
Her collaboration with UNICEF stands out in particular, within which she developed manuals and guides for students and professors, focusing on childrens rights and responsible journalistic practice.
With the awarding of this recognition, the University of Montenegro affirms the significance of her contribution to the development of scientific research and the academic community as a whole.