news - Archive

Monday, 30 September 2024 A successful European Researchers' Night 2024

The highly anticipated European Researchers' Night 2024 filled the lecture halls and premises of the University of Primorska and kept participants excited about science with a wide range of fun activities throughout the day. Friday, 27 September was held under the slogan "oooZoscience! - Fake News and Conspiracy Theories? Let's empower (ourselves for) science!". The pan-European event, which took place simultaneously in 23 countries and in more than 400 cities across Europe and beyond, was a great success this year also at the University of Primorska.

Researchers brought science closer to schoolchildren and teachers, young people and the general public through a wide range of activities. They held 21 workshops, presentations, guided tours and various other activities in seven different locations. More than 100 researchers, students and professionals from the University were involved in organising and delivering all activities.                           

This year, the event was attended by students from 17 primary and secondary schools in the Obalno-Kraška and Goriška regions, their teachers, students of the University of Primorska and other interested parties. Almost 1200 visitors were present at all locations.

At the UP Faculty of Humanities, the workshop organised by UP FAMNIT, 'Pop-it', named after the popular children's fidget toy used mainly as a stress reliever, attracted the largest number of participants, 160. The workshop 'Learning about statistics through play - for children and adults' (UP FAMNIT) was also very popular, attracting more than 110 participants who learned the basics of statistics through play and acquired basic skills in data analysis.

The Faculty of Health Sciences also had a varied programme. Just over 500 children attended workshops on the basic use of kinesiology tapes, preparing a balanced meal, learning resuscitation, movement challenges, how the brain analyses and integrates information about food into complex perception and many others.

Schoolchildren also had the opportunity to take part in a treasure hunt called "Fantastic animals and where to shoot them" where they got an insight into wildlife sightings. At UP FAMNIT, they were able to build on this knowledge by conducting field research and obtaining genetic samples.

At the storytelling evening in the Mythical Park organised by UP FHŠ, Renata Lapanja, a renowned storyteller from Tolmin, will be telling old religious tales from the Tolmin and Idrija traditions at the mythical point of the shembilla Pod Lisičino (a 15-minute walk from the centre). Afterwards, Dr Katja Hrobat Virloget will touch upon the meaning of boundaries in narrative and ritual traditions.

The successful European Researchers' Night 2024 brought science closer to many and delighted many schoolchildren, adolescents and adults alike with its many fun activities. The event was funded under the Marie Skłodowska Curie Actions through the call HORIZON-MSCA-2023-CITIZENS-01-01: European Researchers' Night and Researchers in Schools 2024 - 2025, and this time the project is also connected to the Science Month campaign.

Monday, 30 September 2024 Delegation from the Estonian Academy of Arts EKA at the UP

A delegation from EKA (Estonian Academy of Arts), a T4EU partner, visited UP from 23 to 27 September with the aim to provide additional educational content on the topic of sustainable construction. Nine students gained valuable knowledge about the work of the InnoRenew CoE research institute and innovative approaches in the field of renewable materials and sustainable construction.

Eager for new knowledge, the students attended the summer school with already accumulated knowledge on the values and principles of the new European Bauhaus compass, engineering living architectural materials, environmental and ergonomic design criteria for renovation works and acoustics in space. In addition to training, seminars and workshops, they also had the opportunity to get to know the sights of our environment. They visited the Sečovlje salt pans and the hidden corners of Izola. On the last day of the summer school, they had the opportunity to listen to a guided architectural tour of the University of Trieste.

This marked the successful conclusion of another UP summer school, in which students gained three credits and pointed to an invaluable exchange of knowledge that students will surely be able to use in their working environment one day.

Thursday, 26 September 2024 MARiNKA project: Introducing fundamental computer science content into the educational activities of primary schools for students from 6th to 9th grade

The Mladostniki s temeljnimi znAnji RIN so KreAtorji prihodnosti (MARiNKA) project (eng. Youth with Fundamental Knowledge of Computer Science as Creators of the Future) is an experimental-research project in which UPR (FAMNIT and PEF) and the University of Ljubljana (Faculty of Computer and Information Science) collaborate, together with ten Slovenian educational institutions.

This project marks the first time in our country that fundamental computer science content is being introduced into the learning activities of primary schools for students from 6th to 9th grade, in a research-driven and applied manner.

The integration of pedagogical and computer science knowledge, which is the central theme of the project, represents an important step in the Slovenian education system in terms of systemic integration and the enhancement of teaching fundamental computer science content.

The MARiNKA project is co-financed by the Republic of Slovenia, the Ministry of Education, and the European Union – NextGenerationEU. The project is being implemented in accordance with the Recovery and Resilience Plan under the development area of Smart, Sustainable, and Inclusive Growth, component: Strengthening Competencies, especially Digital and those Required by New Professions and the Green Transition (C3 K5), for the investment measure E: Comprehensive Transformation (Sustainability and Resilience) of Green and Digital Education.

Thursday, 26 September 2024 Doctoral student Ivan Damnjanović at the prestigious 11th Heidelberg Laureate Forum

Ivan Damnjanović, a doctoral student in the Mathematical Sciences study programme at UP FAMNIT, has been accepted to the renowned 11th Heidelberg Laureate Forum (HLF), which took place in Heidelberg, Germany, from 22 to 27 September. This prestigious event brings together exceptional young researchers and celebrated laureates from the fields of mathematics and computer science, fostering collaboration and inspiring the next generation of scientists.

At the forum, Damjanović presented his research through a lecture and poster session titled "Circulant Nut Graphs and Beyond". The HLF serves as a unique platform for networking, exchanging ideas, and gaining insights from leading experts, making it a significant milestone in researchers' academic journeys.

Each year, as part of the HLF program, the HLFF organizes a public exhibition centered on mathematics or computer science in Heidelberg’s Old Town. To further inspire the next generation of young scientists, laureates attending the HLF also visit local high schools to speak with students and answer questions about working in mathematics and computer science.

The Heidelberg Laureate Forum is celebrated for its commitment to bridging the gap between young talents and seasoned professionals, encouraging the pursuit of excellence in research and innovation

Thursday, 26 September 2024 Genetics 2024 Congress takes place in Portorož

The 10th Congress of the Genetic Society of Slovenia & the 10th Meeting of the Slovenian Society of Human Genetics GENETICS 2024 will take place at the UP FTŠ Turistica in Portorož from 25 to 28 September, organised by UP FVZ and UP FAMNIT. The congress will bring together top experts and invited speakers from Slovenia and foreign universities for the tenth time in a row. The rich four-day programme will cover various areas of genetics, including human, plant, animal and microbiological research.

Around 170 participants, 61 lectures and 64 posters are expected at the congress. Participants come from Slovenia, Germany, Slovakia, Italy, Croatia, Poland, Hungary and the USA.

The congress also includes the well-established Golden Chromosome Award competition for young researchers under 35 years of age who are at the beginning of their independent scientific careers. Presentations by young researchers offer an insight into current research projects and the dynamics among the younger members of the Society. The programme promises interesting and inspiring discussions that will stimulate new collaborations and provide insights into the latest research.

Tuesday, 24 September 2024 Study at UP - the last application period for enrolment open from 25 to 26 September 2024

From Wednesday, September 25 until Thursday, September 26, 2024, by 10:00 CET, the candidates have the opportunity to apply for enrolment into undergraduate, master and doctoral study programmes at the University of Primorska in the frame of the calls for enrolment into study programmes in the academic year 2024/2025.

The list of study programmes with free enrolment places is available on:

• for undergraduate studies: List of undergraduate study programmes with available places in the deadline for filling remaining vacancies  
• for master's studies: The list of Master study programmes with free enrolment places
• for doctoral studies:  The list of PhD study programmes with free enrolment places

Monday, 23 September 2024 20th International Conference on Applied Statistics is held in Koper

From 23-25 September 2024, the 20th International Conference on Applied Statistics is taking place in Koper, bringing together researchers and practitioners from around the world working on different aspects of data analysis, data science and statistics to present their latest research and learn from each other. The scientific programme includes lectures and abstract presentations, followed by a day of workshops on Wednesday, the two-day main conference (Monday and Tuesday).

The conference brings together 85 participants from Slovenia, Italy, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Israel, Ethiopia and Austria.

Friday, 20 September 2024 Visit from the Gymnasium Škofja Loka

Today, we hosted 20 students and two professors from Gimnazija Škofja Loka.

Students were engaged in two different workshops to explore the brain's structure, which is similar to a mathematical object called a graph. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rok Požar from the Department of Information Sciences and Technologies explained some basic concepts from graph theory and their applicability, illustrated with examples of neurological disorders.

The day concluded with a workshop titled "Little Secrets of Great Students," led by Maja Koblar from the University of Primorska. During the workshop, students learned tricks and secrets that student life offers: access to information, understanding the system, increasing employability, taking advantage of available opportunities, and much more.

Thursday, 19 September 2024 UNDERGRADUATE STUDY: Course schedules for Autumn Semester 2024/25

We would like to inform you that the course schedules for all study programmes for the Autumn Semester 2024/2025 are published on our website (https://www.famnit.upr.si//en/student-pages/timetables). Lectures start on Tuesday, 1 October 2024 and last until Friday, 17 January 2025.

On this website you can also find a short clip that will show you how to check the course schedule.

Important information about the course schedule:

• Please check all weeks in the schedule, because weekly schedules can differ.
• The schedule might change until Monday, 30 September. Please check the schedule again before the beginning of the academic year. All changes from Tuesday, 1 October will be published in the Notices (https://www.famnit.upr.si/sl/obvestila). We would like to emphasize that from 1 October 2024 Student Services will publish the notice about the change only for changes on the same day and the following 2 days.
• In some undergraduate courses, students are divided into groups for laboratory work. Students will receive the information about the group on their student university e-mail no later than Monday, 30 September or on their personal e-mail if they are enrolled in the 1^st year of study.

We would like to inform you:

• BP2, BP3: the course Psychology Practicum is not on the course schedule; students will be informed later.

Freshman will have meeting with the study programme coordinators on Tuesday, 1^st October. All information is published on our website. All lectures and tutorials start on Wednesday, 2^nd October.

Students of the 2^nd and 3^rd year start with lectures and tutorials on Tuesday, 2^nd October (acording to the course schedule).

Meetings with study programme coordinators for students enrolled in English programmes (Computer Science, Bioinformatics, Mathematics) as well for foreing students enrolled in Slovene programmes (Biopsychology, Mathematics in Economics and Finance, Conservation Biology and Agronomy) will take place during Orientation days at UP (for more info please check: https://welcome.upr.si/en/arrive/orientation).

In the beginning of October, study programme coordinators will meet all 2^nd and 3^rd year students. Exact terms will be published in the notices of Student Services.

Student Services UP FAMNIT

Thursday, 19 September 2024 Better together: Scientists from 33 European countries join forces to generate reference genomes for the continent's rich biodiversity

The European Reference Genome Atlas (ERGA) Pilot Project reports its success in uniting researchers from across Europe to produce high-quality reference genomes for 98 species. This marks a significant milestone in the quest to create a high-quality reference genome database for all European animals, plants, and fungi.

The coordinator of the Slovenian consortium ERGA is Dr. Elena Bužan from the Department of Biodiversity UP FAMNIT. Upon being selected as the new member of ERGA Executive board last year, Dr. Bužan summed up her role: »As a newly appointed member of ERGA Executive board, I will seek to expand collaboration with other projects and initiatives from all around the world, who strive to expand the catalogue of  reference genomes and its applicability.  The cooperation is not just a scientific endeavour, but also a work, which brings together various experts in the field of biodiversity protection, from different fields and backgrounds.«

Key Highlights of the Flagship Paper

Among many of the project's milestones are the first chromosome-level genome assemblies of species from Greece, one of Europe’s most biodiverse countries. Species such as the Cretan wall lizard and Aristotle’s catfish were sampled by local researchers in Greece to produce genomes that are now openly available for anyone across the world to access and study. This is a great example of what can be achieved by uniting an international community of biodiversity researchers, fostering collaboration between and within countries. The ERGA Pilot emphasised equity and inclusion, with the goal that genomic research and resources are accessible to all, regardless of geographical boundaries. For many of the participating researchers and countries, the project offered the first opportunity to actively engage in the generation of state-of-the art reference genomic resources for their native biodiversity.

The ERGA Pilot was also successful in building momentum and bringing visibility to the growing importance of biodiversity genomics in Europe and beyond. Genomic data hold immense potential to inform conservation actions for endangered species and unlock discoveries in the fields of human health, bioeconomy, biosecurity and many other applications. Among the species sequenced by the project is for example the greater argentine - a commercially important fish species from the northern Atlantic. This new reference genome will enable scientists to make more accurate assessments of the genetic status of the species’ populations, ultimately guiding management decisions to ensure that fishing practices are sustainable and responsible.

As the global scientific community strives to unlock the full potential of genomic data, the establishment of a Europe-wide collaborative network under the ERGA umbrella accelerates scientific progress and facilitates its translation into tangible benefits for biodiversity and society. Additionally, the network helps researchers at all career stages to find and share opportunities for training, partnerships, and funding.

By fostering international collaboration and focusing on inclusivity and equity, ERGA is setting new standards for biodiversity genomics. The lessons learned and challenges addressed in the Pilot Project will guide future efforts, promoting robust and standardised workflows and a comprehensive genomic database for species in Europe and beyond.

Link to the collection: https://www.nature.com/collections/european-reference-genome-atlas

Thursday, 19 September 2024 POSTGRADUATE STUDY: Course schedules for Autumn Semester 2024/25

We would like to inform you that the course schedules for all study programmes for the Autumn Semester 2024/2025 are published on our website (https://www.famnit.upr.si//en/student-pages/timetables). Lectures start on Tuesday, 1 October 2024 and last until Friday, 17 January 2025.

On this website you can also find a short clip that will show you how to check the course schedule.

Important information about the course schedule:

• Please check the schedule for every week, because weekly schedules can differ.
• The schedule might change until Monday, 30 September. Please check the schedule again before the beginning of the academic year. All changes from Tuesday, 1 October will be published in the Notices (https://www.famnit.upr.si/sl/obvestila). We would like to emphasize that from 1 October 2024 Student Services will publish the notice about the change only for changes on the same day and the following 2 days.

Terms for the meetings with the study programme coordinators with the 1^st year students:

• Mathematical Sciences – Slovene (PMA): Tuesday, 1 October at 15.00 in Famnit-MP4 (Glagoljaška 8, Koper, 2^nd floor);
• Computer Science (PRIN): Tuesday, 1 October at 15.30 in Famnit-Rlab4 (Glagoljaška 8, Koper, ground floor);
• Nature Conservation (PBI):  Wednesday, 2 October at 15.00 in Livade-Epsilon (University campus Livade Izola, Livade 4, ground floor);
• Biopsychology (PBP): Tuesday, 1 October at 15.00 in Famnit-MP5 (Glagoljaška 8, Koper, 2^nd floor);
• Psychology (UPSI): Wednesday, 2 October at 12.00 in Brolo-B5 (Trg Brolo 12, Koper, 2^nd floor);
• Data Science – Slovene (PZ): Tuesday, 1 October at 16.00 in Famnit-Rlab1 (Glagoljaška 8, Koper, 1^st floor).

Meetings with study programme coordinators for students enrolled in English programmes (Mathematical Sciences, Data Science) as well for foreing students enrolled in the Slovene programme Nature Conservation will take place during Orientation days at UP (for more info please check: https://welcome.upr.si/en/arrive/orientation).

In the beginning of October study programme coordinators will meet 2nd year students. Exact terms will be published in the notices of Student Services.

We would like to inform you:

• PBP2, UPSI2: the course Master Thesis – seminar is not on the course schedule; students will be informed later.

Student Services UP FAMNIT

Thursday, 19 September 2024 TUESDAY, 1ST OCTOBER – MEETINGS OF FRESHMEN WITH COORDINATORS

Dear freshmen!

Your first Academic year is about to start and we are warmly inviting you to take part of the activities of the first day! The meeting with the study programmes coordinators will take place on 2 locations: in Koper (Glagoljaška 8, Koper) and in the University campus Livade in Izola (Livade 6, Izola):

KOPER – students gather at 9:30 in the park in front of the faculty, and from 10.00 to 11.30 there will be meetings with the study programme coordinators:

• Mathematics (Slovene) and Mathematics in Economics and Finance: in classroom Famnit-MP1 (1st floor),
• Computer Science (Slovene): in classroom Famnit-VP3 (2nd floor),
• Biopsychology: in classroom Famnit-VP2 (1st floor),

IZOLA - students gather at 9:30 in front of the campus, and from 10.00 to 11. 30 there will be meetings with the study programme coordinators:

• Conservation Biology: in classroom Livade-FAMNIT 3 (3rd floor),
• Agronomy: in classroom Livade-Epsilon (ground floor),
• Bioinformatics (Slovene): in classroom Livade-Delta (ground floor).

At 11.30 students are invited to attend a joint presentation of the Student Council and tutors of UP FAMNIT, aa well as the Student Organization UP (ŠOUP):

• Koper (Glagoljaška 8, Koper): classroom Famnit-VP3 (2nd floor),
• Izola (Livade 6, Izola): classroom Livade-FAMNIT 3 (3rd floor). 

We kindly ask you to come on time, as the meetings will start at 10.00 with the official welcome from the rector UP.

During the Orientation days at UP foreign students will meet with study programme coordinators. The meetings are for students enrolled in English programmes (Computer Science, Bioinformatics, Mathematics), but also for students enrolled in Slovene programmes (Biopsychology, Mathematics in Economics and Finance, Conservation Biology, Agronomy). More information: https://welcome.upr.si/en/arrive/orientation. You are kindly invited to apply, if you haven't so far.

All courses will start on Wednesday, 2^nd October – please check the schedule here (https://www.famnit.upr.si//en/student-pages/timetables). Students should check the schedule daily. If a change of the schedulle occurs, Student Services arranges the change in the schedule. At the same time they publish the notice (https://www.famnit.upr.si/sl/obvestila), but only for changes on the same day and the following 2 days. We advise all students to register for the news and notices for the study programme they are enrolled in.

Soon you'll receive the first NEWSLETTER FOR UP FAMNIT STUDENTS, through which the faculty will inform you about current events, career opportunities and other events during the academic year. If you do not want to receive news, you can unsubscribe.

See you soon!

UP FAMNIT professors and staff

Wednesday, 18 September 2024 Workshop: Economic Efficiency of Hotel Enterprises

We invite you to join us on  Friday, 20 September 2024 at 10.30 for the workshop Economic Efficiency of Hotel Enterprises, led by Prof. Dr. Štefan Bojnec. The lecture will be held in the framework of the Green, Digital and Inclusive University of Primorska (GDI UP). 

When? Friday, 20 September 2024 at 10.30 to 12.00. 

Where? Faculty of Management, University of Primorska, Izolska vrata 2, 6000 Koper (lecture room FM-Predavalnica 3). 

Registration HERE. 

The workshop is free. 

We invite all interested parties, general public, companies, organisations. 

Language: slovene 

MORE 

The project is co-financed by the Republic of Slovenia, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, and the European Union – NextGenerationEU. The project is implemented in accordance with the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) under the development area Smart, Sustainable and Inclusive Growth, component Strengthening competencies, in particular digital competencies and those required by the new professions and the green transition (C3 K5), for the investment measure Investment F. Implementation of pilot projects, the results of which will serve as a basis for the preparation of a roadmap for the reform of higher education for a green and resilient transition to a Society 5.0: project Pilot Projects for the Reform of Higher Education for a Green and Resilient Transition. 

Tuesday, 17 September 2024 SAVE THE DATE FOR THE UPCOMING 2024 ORIENTATION DAYS

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE UPCOMING 2024 ORIENTATION DAYS
26–28 and 30 SEPTEMBER 2024

Please register for the 2024 Orientation Days using this form

TENTATIVE PROGRAMME OF THE 2024 ORIENTATION DAYS

​Moreover, you will get to know university facilities, academic departments, student services and different student organisations.

We are looking forward to welcoming you to the University of Primorska and to our Orientation Days, where you will have the chance to start the new academic year with lots of fun and great memories.

UP’s Orientation Days are organised twice a year: before the start of the first semester and before the start of the second semester. 

Tuesday, 17 September 2024 UP FAMNIT students acquired new skills in software development at the FAMNIT/HTW Dresden Hackathon

Between September 11 and 17, the first hackathon in collaboration with the University of Dresden – HTW Dresden (Mechlab) took place at Livade 1.0. During the hackathon, young enthusiasts in computer science, along with the experienced Prof. Dr. Toralf Trautmann from the Automotive Mechatronics Laboratory and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Branko Kavšek from the Department of Information Sciences and Technologies (UP FAMNIT), developed new functions that benefit both driver and vehicle automation. 

Dr. Toralf shared his knowledge of automotive software development and technology with the students, who later divided into groups and delved into their projects, which they tested and presented on the final day. 

At the end of the hackathon, a student from the Computer Science program also shared their experience with us, having encountered and learned new techniques to which they had not previously been exposed: "It was pretty interesting, honestly, to be involved with a new system and type of engineering that we had never experienced before. It was nice to work with it, experiment with it, and create something from it. I made an LED strip that worked with object proximity and object detection using the lighter algorithm. However, I definitely want to improve the lighter detection so we can have a fully functional system.” 

Dr. Trautmann was also very impressed with the successful execution and final products, believing that the event has opened up opportunities for further collaboration. 

“I was very excited about the results, and the students were also highly motivated. As I mentioned, they did not have experience with the so-called smart lab, but they still managed to develop their own code and systems. I hope that we will continue to develop such systems next year in Dresden. Such events also represent an excellent opportunity for students, as the knowledge gained is recognized by many companies,” he adds. 

We would also like to big thank company Dewesoft for supporting our students with their gifts. 

Monday, 16 September 2024 Research visit at the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Pollenzo, Italy 

Over the past 3 months, the Department's head, Assist. Prof. Dr. Živa Fišer, had the pleasure of visiting and collaborating with Prof. Andrea Pieroni from the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Pollenzo, Italy.

Her research focus during this visit was ethnobotany—a science that studies local plants and their uses by traditional cultures—focusing on Slovenian foraging communities and how social media facilitates knowledge transfer among foragers. After conducting 31 interviews with Slovenian foragers of different skill levels, the results confirmed the significant role of social media and other web platforms in the dissemination of foraging knowledge. The study found a growing sense of community among Slovenian foragers, fostered by events like the festival nabiralništva and FesDivjal. One of the main takeaways from this research is the potential of wild food plants and wild foraging to assist in diversifying food sources and promoting environmental sustainability in an era of climate change and environmental degradation.

This branch of science is still in its infancy in Slovenia, so further collaborations with experienced Italian colleagues in exploring the role of wild plants in food security and their significance in modern and traditional foraging practices will be crucial. 

The research visit was supported by the grant of the DIVERSICROP COST Action. 

Monday, 16 September 2024 InnoRenew CoE and University of Primorska successfully organized the International Conference 2024

The research institute InnoRenew CoE and University of Primorska organized the InnoRenew CoE International Conference 2024 (IRIC2024), which took place 11-12 September 2024, in the InnoRenew CoE building in Izola, Slovenia. International experts gathered in Izola to exchange knowledge and experience on the use of renewable materials in creating healthy and sustainable buildings.

Dr Andreja Kutnar, InnoRenew CoE director, opened the conference and welcomed attendees saying: “At the two-day conference, we heard from international experts who shared with us the latest insights in advanced manufacturing technology, sustainability and energy efficiency in buildings, the buildings skin and design for human well-being.”

It also focused on the results of research in the increasingly important field of engineered living materials. Dr Anna Sandak from InnoRenew CoE has also recently been awarded a European Innovation Council project for Pathfinder, where they will develop bio-inspired living microbial “tattoos” for buildings with the aim of improving quality of life.

The keynote address was given by Pablo van der Lugt, who is a passionate advocate of bio-based high-performance materials and is convinced that our future will be based on them. He presented his vision for the building revolution and the transition to a more circular economy. Pablo Van der Lugt advocates the use of natural materials, such as engineered bamboo, which can replace environmentally unfriendly materials such as metals and plastics.

In addition to the four thematic sessions, participants had a chance to listed to a discussion about the New European Bauhaus Academy Hub in Ukraine and the NEBA consortium. Dr Andreja Kutnar and Pablo van der Lugt discussed the importance of involving relevant stakeholders in the further development of NEB Academies and NEB Hubs across Europe.

For the sixth consecutive year, the InnoRenew International Conference CoE 2024 (IRIC2024) provided a forum for the exchange and discussion of new scientific developments and innovations in the field of renewable materials that can be used in the built environment to improve human and environmental well-being.

Friday, 13 September 2024 International Symposium on Phlebotomy Sandflies (ISOPS XI) gathered researchers from 27 countries

The Department of Biodiversity UP Famnit, in collaboration with the Association of Conservation Biologists (BIODIVA) and with the support of the CLIMOS project, has successfully concluded the 11th International Symposium on Phlebotomine Sandflies (ISOPS XI), dedicated to the latest developments in parasitology, microbiology, and medical entomology.

During the five-day event, held from September 9 to 13, 111 participants from 27 countries gathered at the Faculty of Tourism Studies at the University of Primorska in Portorož. The symposium brought together participants from Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Ecuador, France, India, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Laos, Portugal, Serbia, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Uruguay, the United States of America, and the United Kingdom. Among them were leading biologists, pharmacists, doctors, and veterinarians worldwide, who came together to exchange knowledge, innovations, and experiences, which are crucial for progress in both human and veterinary medicine.

In the opening ceremony, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vladimir Ivović from the Department of Biodiversity at UP FAMNIT, the chair of the organizing committee, welcomed all the participants and encouraged them to continue researching this seemingly charming sandfly.

As part of the symposium, 68 presentations were delivered by the participants. The organizers also arranged an excursion to one of the most beautiful caves in Europe, the Škocjan Caves, which is listed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. Additionally, the participants took a stroll through the picturesque capital of Ljubljana and visited Bled.

At the end of the symposium, Dr. Ivović highlighted its success in a brief statement, noting that climate change, milder winters, and increased travel are increasingly affecting the spread of sandflies and the diseases they carry. Therefore, such events and the consolidation of knowledge worldwide are crucial.

"Today was the final day of the symposium, which we organize every four years. We are extremely pleased with this year's attendance, as we had over a hundred participants who shared new achievements, results, and insights related to sandfly research. We observe that climate change is undoubtedly affecting the distribution of diseases, and it is quite likely that we will increasingly record cases of diseases transmitted by these insects, even in Slovenia."

As he admitted, due to the spread of these insects, the results of various studies are very important. However, despite advanced research, controlling the disease itself is difficult, primarily due to daily migrations. "Researchers can mainly influence the spread of their population and thereby indirectly affect the occurrence of the disease, but the problem primarily arises from daily migrations, especially from Asian countries where the diseases are transmitted" he explains.

According to Ivović, there is no common solution to prevent these diseases yet, as the solutions are either politically unsuitable or have negative environmental impacts. However, understanding sandflies certainly contributes to a better understanding of disease transmission.

One of the participants also shared his impressions of the symposium, emphasizing the event's organization: "The entire experience was very positive and well-organized. To sum up, I believe this is certainly one of the best ISOPS congresses to date," he adds.

ISOPS rotates between Europe, Asia, and one of the countries in South or North America. This time, the organization was handed over to the biologists from the University of Primorska.

The book of abstracts, which includes both presentations and posters, is available at the following link.

Full gallery > HERE

Thursday, 12 September 2024 New student's book “Od genov do vedenja in naprej” has been published by the University of Primorska Press (ZUP)

At the beginning of September, a new textbook titled Od genov do vedenja in naprej was published by the University of Primorska Press (ZUP), prepared by Prof. Dr. Simona Kralj-Fišer from the Department of Psychology. 

The textbook is intended for Psychology and Biopsychology students to assist them with their studies and work. It includes chapters that describe fundamental yet essential areas of genetics and the basics of inheritance. Additional chapters address the biological basis of key human behaviors, personality, and the biology of major emotional, mental, and cognitive disorders. The final chapter provides a brief overview of human evolution to offer a broader perspective on human behavior. 

Tuesday, 10 September 2024 AVAILABLE SPOTS FOR ENROLLMENT IN MASTER'S STUDY PROGRAMS

EU citizens & Slovene nationals without Slovene citizenship and citizens of the Western Balkans can apply for enrollment in UP FAMNIT Master's study programs until Thursday, September 12, 2024.

Available spots for EU citizens & Slovene nationals without Slovene citizenship are in the following Master's study programs: Biopsychology, Mathematical Sciences in Slovenian and English, Data Science in Slovenian, Computer Science, Sustainable Built Environments in Slovenian and English, Nature Conservation.

Available spots for citizens of the Western Balkans (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, Serbia, North Macedonia) are in the following Master's study programs: Biopsychology, Mathematical Sciences in Slovenian and English, Data Science in Slovenian, Computer Science, Sustainable Built Environments in Slovenian and English, Nature Conservation.

Applicants submit their applications for enrolment via an electronic application on the eVŠ web portal (https://portal.evs.gov.si/prijava/) no later than Thursday, September 12, 2024.

For more detailed information, candidates can contact the UP FAMNIT Student Services: referat@famnit.upr.si.

Tuesday, 10 September 2024 ISOPS XI Symposium on Phlebotomine Flies takes place in Portorož

The 11th International Symposium on Phlebotomine Flies (ISOPS XI), organised by the Biodiversity Department of UP Famnit, is taking place in Portorož from 9 to 13 September 2024. In collaboration with the Association of Conservation Biologists (BIODIVA) and with the support of the CLIMOS project, the Department has taken over and organised the symposium, dedicated to the latest developments in parasitology, microbiology and medical entomology.

The symposium brings together 111 participants from 27 countries - Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Ecuador, France, India, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Laos, Portugal, Serbia, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Uruguay, United States of America, United Kingdom. They include leading biologists, pharmacists, physicians and veterinarians from around the world, with the aim of sharing knowledge, innovations and experiences that are of paramount importance for the advancement of human and veterinary medicine. 

In his invitation to colleagues, the Symposium Chairperson, Dr. Vladimir Ivović, wrote: »Finally, after 5 years, we will meet again to share our new achievements, results and visions related to the research of Phlebotomine sandflies, small hairy bugs so dear to us. Our colleagues, experts with many years of experience in the field of medical entomology, will guide us through a rich and interesting program in which we will include all aspects of research on Phlebotomine sandflies as well as the pathogens they transmit.«

Monday, 9 September 2024 Dr. Anna Sandak first female scientist in Slovenia to secure the European Innovation Council Pathfinder project

For the first time in Slovenia, an ERC (European Research Council) grant recipient, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Anna Sandak, InnoRenew CoE Deputy director and professor at the University of Primorska, has successfully secured funding from the European Innovation Council (EIC) through the Pathfinder Open Call. This marks an important milestone as it is also the first Pathfinder project in Slovenia to be led by a female coordinator.

The EIC has selected the next set of proposals under the 2024 EIC Pathfinder Open call. Among 1110 proposals evaluated, only 45 were selected to receive altogether up to €138 million. These projects aim to develop cutting-edge technologies throughout a wide range of fields, including health, artificial intelligence, computing, environment, and energy.

Among the successful projects is also Dr. Sandak’s project, REMEDY –Archibiome Tattoo for Resistant, Responsive, and Resilient Cities< /strong>. REMEDY is the third Pathfinder project coordinated by a Slovenian institution, and the consortium brings together six partners from four EU countries: Slovenia, Austria, the Netherlands, and Slovakia. The collaboration includes InnoRenew CoE, University of Ljubljana, Technical University of Graz, TIGER Coatings, Xylotrade B.V., and Qres Technologies with the in-kind support of the University of Primorska as a third party.

REMEDY aims to achieve a breakthrough in fundamental research in microbiology and synthetic biology, transfer the know-how to materials science in the form of engineered living materials, and develop compatible biofabrication processes that allow personalised design in the architectural context. The tailored and engineered microbial consortia will create a beneficial microbiome, providing resilience and resistance against pathogenic microorganisms, allowing carbon sequestration, oxygen production, and bioremediation. By bespoke decoration and functionalisation of various building surfaces, REMEDY will boost probiotic architecture and introduce metabolic thinking in the circular building industry.

“I am very proud and honoured that the European Innovation Council confirmed the importance of our research idea. We are eager to start working anddevelop a new product – living ink and a new disruptive technology – archibiome tattoo for the building sector ,” said Dr. Anna Sandak.

The EIC Pathfinder scheme supports the exploration of bold ideas for radically new technologies. It welcomes the high-risk/high gain and interdisciplinary cutting-edge science collaborations that underpin technological breakthroughs.

By receiving this prestigious EIC financing, InnoRenew CoE and University of Primorksa will be able to continue to push the boundaries of cutting-edge research related to engineered living materials, putting Slovenia at the forefront of technical innovation and sustainable architecture.

Friday, 6 September 2024 Invitation to the defense of the Master’s Thesis - Klaudia Opačak-Vukušić (Nature Conservation, 2nd cycle)

On Thursday, 12 September 2024, at 16:30 in the classroom Livade-FAMNIT 3, Klaudia Opačak-Vukušić, a student of the master's study program Nature Conservation, 2nd cycle, will present her Master's Thesis entitled Mass occurrence of Salpa fusiformis Cuvier, 1804 in the northern Adriatic Sea.

You are all kindly invited!

Friday, 6 September 2024 Invitation to the defense of the diploma thesis – Elena Spirova (Computer Science, 1st cycle)

Elena Spirova, a student of the study program of Computer Science, 1st cycle, will present the diploma thesis entitled Music and Myth: The Relationship Between Music Preference and Unverified Beliefs on Thursday, 12 September 2024 at 15:00 on Zoom - https://upr-si.zoom.us/j/5389732484?pwd=bUxySzZhRkFmUjMrekozdFE5NTBwUT09.

You are all kindly invited!

Friday, 6 September 2024 Invitation to the defense of the diploma thesis – Marina Spanchevska (Computer Science, 1st cycle)

Marina Spanchevska, a student of the study program of Computer Science, 1st cycle, will present the diploma thesis entitled  on Tuesday, 10 September 2024 at 11:00 in the classroom Famnit-MP2.

You are all kindly invited!

Thursday, 5 September 2024 Department of Biodiversity Summer School successfully concludes

The Department of Biodiversity of UP FAMNIT in cooperation with Škocjan Caves Park and Beka Landscape Park succesfully organised the summer school in the style of biological camps for students and other biodiversity enthusiasts. From 2 to 6 Septemeber, 18 participants from Slovenia and Italy were researching amphibians, beetles, reptiles, birds and plants. Some attention was also paid to the ecosystem services of the area. The programme also included a visit to the Glinščice Valley Nature Reserve in Italy, adjacent to the Beka National Park, and a visit to the Škocjan Caves.

The summer school was made possible by the E-Nat2care (Krepitev čezmejnih vezi za ohranjanje in obnavljanje območij Natura 2000 v širšem obmejnem prostoru / Strengthening cross-border links for the conservation and restoration of Natura 2000 sites in the wider border area) and EnGreen 2 (Krepitev zelene infrastrukture v čezmejni kulturni krajini IT-SI / Enhancement of Green Infrastructure in IT-SI Cross-border Landscape)  projects, co-funded by the European Union under the Interreg VI-A Italy-Slovenia Programme 2021-2027.

Thursday, 5 September 2024 Invitation to the defense of the Master’s Thesis - Milan Milivojčević (Computer Science, 2nd cycle)

On Friday, 6 September 2024, at 10:00 in the classroom Famnit-MP6, Milan Milivojčević, a student of the master's study program Computer Science, 2nd cycle, will present her Master's Thesis entitled A multi-echelon vehicle routing problem for waste wood collection and processing.

You are all kindly invited!

Thursday, 5 September 2024 UP FAMNIT student and her team won 6th place at the Paralympic Games in Paris

Tija Vrhovnik, a Master's student in Psychology UP FAMNIT, and her team won sixth place at the Paralympic Games in Paris.

Tija also shared her impressions of the game in a short statement for RTV SLO: “Even though the Italian team didn’t play their best today, we simply couldn’t get it together. We failed to lift the ball and play effectively; every effort that we managed ended in a mistake. I regret how the match unfolded, but that’s sports,” said Tija Vrhovnik, who added: “Our dreams were certainly bigger, but unfortunately, things turned out the way they did. I’m sorry that we couldn’t make a comeback in the end. 

Despite the challenges they have faced, we believe they have immense power, which they have already proven. It should be emphasised that last year, the team won an excellent second place at the Sitting Volleyball European Championships, where in December, they were awarded the prize for the best athlete with a disability. Later, they earned a ticket to Paris. 

We sincerely congratulate Tija and her team and wish them continued success in their sporting endeavours! 

Wednesday, 4 September 2024 Invitation to the defense of the diploma thesis – Marko Kusić (Computer Science, 1st cycle)

Marko Kusić, a student of the study program of Computer Science, 1st cycle, will present the diploma thesis entitled Comparison of machine learning techniques for optical character recognition on Monday, 9 September 2024 at 09:00 in the classroom Famnit-VP3.

You are all kindly invited!

Wednesday, 4 September 2024 Invitation to the defense of the diploma thesis – Tilen Gimpelj (Bioinformatics, 1st cycle)

Tilen Gimpelj, a student of the study program of Bioinformatics, 1st cycle, will present the diploma thesis entitled Mathematical model of a fed-batch bioreactor on Monday, 9 September 2024 at 09:00 in the classroom Famnit-VP3.

You are all kindly invited!

Wednesday, 4 September 2024 Invitation to the defense of the diploma thesis – Luka Žibert (Computer Science, 1st cycle)

Luka Žibert, a student of the study program of Computer Science, 1st cycle, will present the diploma thesis entitled Development of a Decentralized Matchmaking System for Programmers Using Smart on Monday, 9 September 2024 at 09:00 in the classroom Famnit-VP3.

You are all kindly invited!

Tuesday, 3 September 2024 Invitation to the defense of the diploma thesis – Ana Karanfilova (Computer Science, 1st cycle)

Ana Karanfilova, a student of the study program of Computer Science, 1st cycle, will present the diploma thesis entitled SSVEP Signal Classification: Identifying Subject Focus on Stimuli on Wednesday, 11 September 2024 at 09:00 in the classroom Famnit-MP4.

You are all kindly invited!

Monday, 2 September 2024 Invitation to the defense of the diploma thesis – Eva Klančnik (Conservation Biology, 1st cycle)

Eva Klančnik, a student of the study program of Conservation Biology, 1st cycle, will present the diploma thesis entitled Comparison of the allelopathic effect of black locust (Robinia pseudacacia), tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) and narrow-leaved ragwort (Senecio inaequidens) on garden radish (Raphanus sativus) over a longer period of time on Wednesday, 11 September 2024 at 11:00 in the classroom Livade-FAMNIT 3.

You are all kindly invited!