Friday, 25 October 2024 International Day at UP FAMNIT
Are you still uncertain about your exchange? Do you have concerns or questions about administrative procedures, and recognition processes, or maybe you are looking just for practical advice on living abroad?
We invite you to the International Day at UP FAMNIT, where you will gain invaluable information about various opportunities for study and practical mobility exchanges.
Students and staff will join us to share inspiring stories, valuable advice, and practical tips on planning your international exchange.
When and where? On Wednesday, November 13, from 13:30 to 17:00 in the FAMNIT lobby.
Program and Activities:
13:30–14:00: In the introductory part, we will begin with a brief presentation of student mobility within the Erasmus and T4EU programs, where you’ll learn more about the various opportunities they offer.
14:00–17:00: We’ll continue with a social fair, where students will answer your questions. Social and creative activities will also be available.
If you have any concerns, suggestions, questions, or experiences from your exchange, you’re welcome to share them in the exhibition area.
Participants at the FAIR:
- FAMNIT Student Council
- ESN Primorska
- GDSC Primorska
- T4EU Info Point (learn about its offerings and the opportunities it provides)
- International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (IAESTE)
- INTERNATIONAL OFFICE – Students can learn more about the list of partner institutions and receive practical info regarding accommodation etc. We will also be happy to answer questions from staff members considering an exchange.
- ERASMUS Opportunities: Erasmus Internships and Erasmus Study Exchange – information on what to expect before, during, and after the exchange (students will join us to share their experiences in an informal environment).
Wednesday, 23 October 2024 Invitation to the defense of the diploma thesis – Blaž Jerman (Computer Science, 1st cycle)
Blaž Jerman, a student of the study program of Computer Science, 1st cycle, will present the diploma thesis entitled Development of a 3D Voxel Game with an OpenGL ES Interface for Mobile Application Programming: Design and Implementation Process on Monday, 28 October 2024 at 09:00 in the classroom Famnit-MP7.
You are all kindly invited!
Wednesday, 23 October 2024 Research work by our colleagues from the Department of Biodiversity was successfully published in Scientific Data – a database of European vascular plant red lists
The diversity of vascular plant taxa in Europe is under threat. One of the first steps to ensure adequate conservation of organisms is to know their conservation status.
National Red Lists are valuable tools for biodiversity conservation, providing information on how close a taxon is to extinction. However, there are still differences in the methods and implementation of these assessments across European countries, indicating gaps in conservation efforts at national and regional levels. To address these disparities, researchers from the Department of Biodiversity at UP FAMNIT have compiled and analyzed the latest national Red Lists of vascular plants in European countries, including some eastern Mediterranean countries.
As a result of this research, the Department of Biodiversity at UP FAMNIT has led the publication of 2 important scientific articles.
In the first paper, they present the analysis of the use of Red Lists by countries, i.e. what proportion of the countries’ flora is taken into account, to what extent the Red Lists are legally binding, which institutions oversee their compilation, how often they are compiled, what hinders their efforts to assess the risk of species extinction regularly, and so on. Please read about findings and conclusions here.
In the second paper, they have used the data from these European Red Lists to create a database of Red Lists of vascular plants. As the name suggests, it collects extinction risks for numerous European species and can allow us to understand not only national extinction risks but also risks at the European level. They anticipate that this database will be helpful to many researchers, policymakers and conservationists working to protect plant diversity in Europe. Read about the database and access the data here.
All these activities were developed as part of the COST Action ConservePlants.
Saturday, 19 October 2024 UP FAMNIT researchers among award recipients on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Slovenian National Building and Civil Engineering Institute
The Slovenian National Building and Civil Engineering Institute (ZAG) is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. To mark this occasion, a formal event was held yesterday at the Union Hotel in the heart of Ljubljana.
Numerous distinguished guests gathered at the event. Among them was the keynote speaker, Assist. Prof. Dr. Aleš Žnidarič, Director of ZAG, along with Prof. Dr. José Torero from University College London and Dr. Vanja Samec. The guest of honor was Prof. Dr. Igor Papič, Minister for Higher Education, Science, and Innovation.
Prof. Dr. Klavdija Kutnar, rector of UP, and Prof. Dr. Andreja Kutnar, InnoRenew CoE director, attended the event. UP and InnoRenew CoE have been successfully collaborating with ZAG for several years on various research projects and other activities. ZAG is also one of the founders of the InnoRenew CoE and was a key partner in the InnoRenew project, led by UP.
In addition to the mentioned guests, many representatives from domestic and international companies, as well as research institutes, participated at the event.
Several awards were also presented. Among the award recipients were Assist. Prof. Dr. Andrea Lucherini, who received the Turnšek award, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Andraž Legat (also a member of the InnoRenew CoE Executive Board), who received the award for lifetime achievement. Both awardees are members of the Department of Applied Natural Sciences at UP FAMNIT.
On this significant anniversary, we sincerely congratulate ZAG and all awardees and look forward to continuing our successful cooperation in the future.
Friday, 18 October 2024 Vice-rector promoted 18 new Doctors of Science
On Thursday, 17 October 2024, a solemn promotion of Doctors of Science of the University of Primorska took place in the hall of the Armeria Palace in Koper. The Vice-rector of the University of Primorska prof. dr. Štefko Miklavič promoted 18 new Doctors of Science, who completed their doctoral studies between March and September 2024. As of today, the University of Primorska has 360 Doctors of Science.
This year's candidates included 5 candidates who either speak Italian or have studied Italian, which is why the Italian consul in Koper, Mr. Giovanni Coviello, also attended the award ceremony.
A total of 18 candidates were therefore promoted at the two ceremonies:
- Ivan Smiljanić,
- dr. Silvija Komočar,
- dr. Arianna Carta,
- dr. Metka Malčić,
- dr. Maria Rosaria Graziano,
- dr. Rok Kobal,
- dr. Annalisa Brichese,
- dr. Vesna Vojvoda Gorjan,
- dr. Mirjana Kontestabile Rovis,
- dr. Nuwan Tharanga Attygalle,
- dr. Elham Motamedi Mohammadabadi,
- dr. Žiga Peljko,
- dr. Sanja Dolenec,
- dr. Cuauhtli Campos Mijangos,
- dr. Kaja Kastelic,
- dr. Mariem Zouari,
- dr. Nevena Pivač and
- dr. Nina Krohne
were graduated at the ceremony and in the (excused) absence: dr. Ivan Smiljanić and dr. Cuauhtli Campos Mijangos.
UP FAMNIT has 6 newly promoted Doctors of Science
Nuwan Tharanga Attygalle, who defended his doctoral dissertation at the UP Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies entitled »Improving interaction with radar-based gesture recognition when sensing through materials« under the mentorship of izr. prof. dr. Klen Čopič Pucihar and co-mentorship of izr. prof. dr. Matjaž Kljun.
Doctoral dissertation summary
»Improving interaction with radar-based gesture recognition when sensing through materials«
Gesture recognition with miniaturized millimeter-wave radar sensors has gained attention due to affordable radar chips and advances in deep learning. However, challenges remain, particularly in detecting gestures through materials. This thesis addresses these issues by identifying material properties affecting radar signals and developing a robust gesture classifier that works across various materials. Key contributions include optimizing the training process, minimizing the number of required materials, and demonstrating high-accuracy gesture detection on tangible objects.
Elham Motamedi Mohammadabadi, who defended her doctoral dissertation at the UP Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies entitled »User and Item Modelling Using Eudaimonic and Hedonic Characteristics for Personalised Recommender Systems« under the mentorship of izr. prof. dr. Marko Tkalčič and co-mentorship of izr. prof. dr. Mehdi Elahi.
Doctoral dissertation summary
»User and Item Modelling Using Eudaimonic and Hedonic Characteristics for Personalised Recommender Systems«
In this PhD work, the impact of integrating psychology-informed features, particularly eudaimonic and hedonic experiences, into recommendation systems was explored. The potential for incorporating these qualities into state-of-the-art algorithms to enhance personalised recommendations has been demonstrated. Additionally, automatic models were developed to predict these characteristics for both users and items. The work provides a foundation for future efforts to use these insights in creating more explainable and interpretable recommendations.
Cuauhtli Campos Mijangos, who defended his doctoral dissertation at the UP Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies entitled »Designing Interactive Paper Displays by Interlacing Physical and Digital Content Using Horizontal Touchscreens« under the mentorship of izr. prof. dr. Klen Čopič Pucihar and co-mentorship of izr. prof. dr. Matjaž Kljun.
Doctoral dissertation summary
»Designing Interactive Paper Displays By Interlacing Physical And Digital Content Using Horizontal Touchscreens«
This thesis investigates methods for seamlessly integrating paper with digital content by addressing the limitations of existing systems, particularly the lack of tools and hardware that facilitate interactions between physical and digital realms. In this context, this work introduces several innovative paper display technologies:
Dynamic Pinhole Paper, which enhances the resolution of digital content on a paper screen.
LightMeUp, a technology that allows for multi-stable visuals on printed content using pre-printed designs.
Hybrid Stylus, a novel tool designed to support interaction with both paper and tablet interfaces.
These contributions aim to enhance the interactivity and display quality of interactive paper systems, ultimately bridging the gap between paper and digital media.
Mariem Zouari, who defended her doctoral dissertation at the UP Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies entitled »Biocarbon-based waterborne functional coating for integrated adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of indoor volatile organic compounds« under the mentorship of izr. prof. dr. David DeVallance and co-mentorship of znan. sod. dr. Laetitie Marrot,
Doctoral dissertation summary
»Biocarbon-based waterborne functional coating for integrated adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of indoor volatile organic compounds«
The doctoral dissertation aimed to optimize the preparation of porous photocatalytic biocarbon for application in functional depolluting coatings to improve indoor air quality. The research focused on preparing biocarbon with tailored properties for optimal adsorption of formaldehyde, a common indoor air pollutant. Then, different methodologies were employed to develop and characterize an efficient adsorbent-photocatalyst system, specifically biocarbon-MnO2 hybrid particles. The photocatalytic biocarbon particles were successfully used to develop a functional coating for wood protection and indoor air remediation.
Nevena Pivač, who defended her doctoral dissertation at the UP Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies entitled »Structure and algorithms for graph classes: new results on minimal separators and independent sets« under the mentorship of prof. dr. Martin Milanič.
Doctoral dissertation summary
»Structure and algorithms for graph classes: new results on minimal separators and independent sets«
The first part of the doctoral dissertation examines minimal separators in a graph, which are sets of vertices whose removal disconnects two predetermined vertices and are minimal under inclusion. Classes of graphs having small number of minimal separators are characterized, along with significant impact on algorithm development in these graph classes. Structural and algorithmic properties are provided for graph classes where every minimal separator is a union of two sets of pairwise adjacent vertices, generalizing known results on chordal graphs. In the second part of the dissertation the results concerning algorithmic problems related to finding the maximum independent set in a graph are presented.
Nina Krohne, who defended her doctoral dissertation at the UP Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies entitled »Suicidal Behavior in Women: the Role of Intimate Partner Violence and Resilience to Suicidality« under the mentorship of prof. dr. Vita Poštuvan and co-mentorship of prof. dr. Diego De Leo.
Doctoral dissertation summary
»Suicidal Behavior in Women: The Role of Intimate Partner Violence and Resilience to Suicidality«
The doctoral candidate explored the fundamental mechanisms of suicidal behavior in intimate partner violence survivors, with a particular focus on previously under-researched risk factors and resilience. This cross-sectional study includes a representative sample of 1,016 adult women from Slovenia. Employing robust statistical methods, including network and cluster analysis, the candidate highlighted the protective role of social support and developed a matrix model that serves as a theoretical foundation for interventions aimed at enhancing the mental health of women exposed to intimate partner violence.
We sincerely congratulate all the newly promoted doctors of science!
Friday, 18 October 2024 UP FAMNIT hosted the finals of the UPM competition
On Saturday, October 19, 2024, the final round of the University Programming Marathon 2024 (UPM) took place at the UP FAMNIT. Students from the University of Ljubljana, Maribor, and Primorska competed for the title of Slovenian champion, the champion of their respective universities, and a spot in the CERC 2024 competition, which will take place this year in Wrocław, Poland.
Out of 39 teams and 106 competitors, 18 of the best teams with 49 competitors made it to the finals. The third round took place separately at each of the three participating universities, while the final was held at UP FAMNIT. Throughout the competition, students used the following programming languages to solve tasks: C, C++, Python, and Java.
After 5 hours of solving 10 competition tasks, the winners of the University Programming Marathon 2024 and the champions of the individual universities were announced.
The best three teams:
1. Place: tree toed sloths (Job Petrovčič, Luka Horjak in Jakob Schrader)
2. Place: jesse we need to code (Bor Brudar, Jakob Žorž in Nejc Mozetič)
3. Place: Shaun the Heap (Matevž Miščič, Jon Mikoš in Domen Hočevar)
Winner of individual universities
- University of Ljubljana: tree toed sloths (Job Petrovčič, Luka Horjak in Jakob Schrader)
- University of Maribor: Erdos Fourier Neumann (Mitko Nikov, Alen Granda in Erik Červek Roškarič)
- University of Primorska: al capwned (Luka Svenšek)
The programming committee includes our colleagues from the Department of Information Sciences and Technologies, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nino Bašić, Prof. Dr. Andrej Brodnik, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jernej Vičič.
More information about the competition can be found here.
The tasks are available here.
Congratulations to all the participants of the competition!
UPM winner 2024
Winner of the University of Primorska
Winner of the University of Maribor
Wednesday, 16 October 2024 Biotechnology summit held today at the National Institute of Biology
The BIOTECHNOLOGY SUMMIT WITH LEK'S RESEARCHERS' DAY AND TOUR OF THE NIB (National Institute of Biology) took place today, 16 October 2024, at NIB in Ljubljana. The event brought together prominent figures from academia and industry to discuss the latest advancements in biotechnology.
The rector of UP, Prof. Dr. Klavdija Kutnar, participated in one of the key highlights of the event – a panel discussion titled »How do we respond to the increased need for personnel in the academic sphere«. Besides our rector, also Prof. Dr. Zdravko Kačič (rector of UM), Prof. Dr. Gregor Majdič (rector of UL), Duša Marjetič (Head of the Higher Education Sector at the Ministry of Education, Science, and Sport) and Dr. Darja Ferčej Temeljotov (Strategic Programs at Lek d.d.) contributed to the discussion.
As part of the summit LEK'S RESEARCHERS' DAY showcased top achievements, innovations, and best practices from Lek and other research institutions. The theme of this year's sixth Researcher's day was biopharmaceuticals (related to the topic of biological drugs). As part of this programme, a lecture was delivered by Assoc. Prof. Jure Pražnikar from the Department of Applied Natural Sciences at UP FAMNIT, who spoke on »Graphs of 3D Protein Structures«.
The summit served as a platform for fostering collaboration and innovation in the field of biotechnology, reinforcing Slovenia's commitment to advancing scientific research and development.
The event was part of a project co-financed by the public tender to support activities of knowledge transfer offices (JR KTO), with additional funding from the Republic of Slovenia and the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
Foto: Lek Archive
Tuesday, 15 October 2024 Invitation to the defense of the Master’s Thesis - Gaja Jenko (Nature Conservation, 2nd cycle)
On Tuesday, 22 October 2024, at 15:00 via ITC tool Zoom (link: https://upr-si.zoom.us/j/91397283643, ID: 913 9728 3643), Gaja Jenko, a student of the master's study program Nature Conservation, 2nd cycle, will present her Master's Thesis entitled Use of the Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) filtration function as a sustainable tool for water column microplastic monitoring.
You are all kindly invited!
Tuesday, 15 October 2024 Lecture invitation: Let’s discuss Environmental, Conservation, and Animal Ethics
We kindly ask you to join us on the thought-provoking talk titled »Renewing our Values Towards the Planet in the Anthropocene Era: Why We Need to Discuss Environmental, Conservation, and Animal Ethics More Than Ever Before«. The lecture will be held by Prof. Carolyn Stephens (London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine & University College London & University of primorska) in a hybrid format, with the option to attend either in person or via Zoom.
Time: Tuesday, 5 November 2024, 17:00
Place: UP FAMNIT (Glagoljaška 8, 6000 Koper), lecture room VP3 (3rd floor)
PLEASE APPLY here: https://forms.office.com/e/wA89QGwDPX
ABOUT THE TOPIC
In 2020, the UNDP Human Development Report confirmed the concept of the Anthropocene, »in which humans are a dominant force shaping the planet’s future«.
Climate change, pollution of all natural environments, biodiversity loss, and mass extinctions of other species challenge the planet, and us. UNDP argues that »Consciously or not, human choices, shaped by values and institutions, have given rise to the interconnected planetary and social imbalances we face«.
This lecture will examine the global environmental and social context, focusing on the need for renewed ethical discussions, especially for future scientists and policymakers. It will also introduce the University of Primorska's new course on environmental ethics, launching in 2025 under Professor Stephens, with a concluding discussion with UP FAMNIT professors.
ABOUT PROF. CAROLYN STEPHENS
Professor Carolyn Stephens is an environmental epidemiologist and ethics expert, holding positions at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, University College London, and since 2024, the University of Primorska. Her research focuses on equity, environment, health, ethics, and human and environmental rights globally. With over 25 years of teaching experience in international development and environmental ethics, she has worked extensively in low-income countries like India, Liberia, Brazil, and Argentina.
She has led numerous international research projects, advised UN agencies, and serves on the editorial boards of five peer-reviewed journals. Prof. Stephens has been on executive boards of global organizations like the International Association of Ecology and Health and the pan-European NGO Health and Environment Alliance. She also sits on the International Ethics Advisory Board of the EU's BEPREP programme.
Her awards include the UK Royal Society Kohn Award for Public Engagement in Science and the Mayor of London's Academic Excellence Award.
Monday, 14 October 2024 Three Zois Prize winners at UP this year
This year's Zois Prize winners include three employees of the University of Primorska. The award, named after the Slovenian researcher Žiga Zois, has been awarded in Slovenia since 1998 to all outstanding researchers whose work has made a lasting mark on scientific research and development in the Republic of Slovenia and has made a significant contribution to its development. We would like to extend our sincere congratulations to all the winners of this highest and most prestigious award in Slovenia.
This year, three UP employees are among the recipients: Associate Prof. Dr. Tomaž Grušovnik and Prof. Dr. Vito Vitrih received the Zois Acknowledgment, and Prof. Dr. Igor Klep received the Zois Award - we congratulate them all on receiving the award.
The winners were announced at today's press conference of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, and the prizes will be awarded at a ceremony to be held this year in the Gallus Hall of the Cankarjev dom on 28 November.
Among the recipients of the Zois Award for significant scientific and research achievements in the field of cardiovascular medicine is Prof. Dr. Mitja Lainščak, who participates as a lecturer in the study process at UP FVZ and we also congratulate him!
The Zois Acknowledgment for significant achievements in the field of numerical mathematics will be awarded to Prof. Dr. Vito Vitrih, UP IAM, UP FAMNIT.
Prof. Dr. Vito Vitrih's research in the fields of numerical mathematics and computer-aided geometric design has contributed significantly to more effective solutions of engineering challenges and developments in the fields of robotics, computer graphics and animation. His contribution in isogeometric analysis is particularly valuable in helping to improve technological processes and the design of industrial products. By developing new mathematical tools, he strengthens the link between theoretical knowledge and its application in industry.
The Zois Award for outstanding achievements in the field of algebra and its applications will be awarded to Prof. Dr. Igor Klep, UP FAMNIT, UL FMF.
Prof. Dr. Igor Klep is one of the most prolific and internationally renowned Slovenian mathematicians, especially in the field of the application of algebra in quantum physics, functional analysis and computational mathematics. He has solved one of the key problems in matrix theory, which had been unsolved for almost 40 years, and with his colleagues has proved important properties of matrix bundles, opening up new areas of research in algebra. His work also includes the application of mathematical theories to quantum physics, where he and his colleagues have contributed to a better understanding of quantum networks.
The Zois Acknowledgment, for outstanding achievements in the field of environmental and animal ethics goes to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tomaž Grušovnik, UP PEF.
Associate Prof. Dr. Tomaž Grušovnik researches the relationship between people and the environment and animals. His work reveals that people know, but at the same time ignore, unpleasant truths about environmental problems and animal exploitation. Willful ignorance makes it difficult to tackle these issues. He stresses that it is not enough to give information; it is also important to foster a desire to learn about the world. With his original thesis, he has contributed to a better understanding of the public's unresponsiveness to the key environmental challenges facing humanity.
Foto: Peter Irman for MVZI
Wednesday, 9 October 2024 UNESCO Delegation Explores Collaboration with University of Primorska on Mental Health Research
On Tuesday, 8 October 2024, representatives from the UNESCO Regional Bureau for Science and Culture in Europe visited the University of Primorska (UP). Programme Specialist Megumi Watanabe and Associate Project Officer Laura Bortolutti discussed with UP representatives about a potential collaboration in the field of Mental Health and Suicidology, thus fostering research and educational partnerships between UNESCO and UP.
They met with Prof. Dr. Vita Poštuvan, Deputy Head of UP IAM Slovene centre for suicide research (SCSR), Dr. Nina Krohne, first Doctor of Science at the Suicidology and Mental Health Programme at UP FAMNIT, and PhD candidate Vanja Gomboc.
The meetings focused on the innovative work being conducted by SCSR and the ongoing activities of their online platform Živ? Živ!, which provides support and resources for suicide prevention in Slovenia. They discussed UP Psychological Counseling Centre’s role in supporting student mental health and the Suicidology and Mental Health doctoral programme.
In conclusion, UNESCO representatives Megumi Watanabe and Laura Bortolutti met with six scholarship recipients from the UP Scholarship fund who received scholarships from the UNESCO donation—Aleksandra Zec, Alja Šlenc, Diar Gashi, Dmytro Tupkalenko, Filip Trajkoski, and Marija Ćetković.
This initiative reinforced the University of Primorska's dedication to supporting talented students, particularly in STEM fields, by providing them with the financial resources to achieve their academic ambitions. The UNESCO funds have been instrumental in creating these opportunities, enhancing students’ academic achievements, and boosting their career prospects through the university’s scholarship program.
Tuesday, 8 October 2024 Rector's Day 2024
This year's Rector's Day will take place on Wednesday, 16 October 2024, once again in the spirit of socialising and getting to know each other. We invite you to take a day off from your everyday commitments on Rector's Day and add your own little piece to the mosaic of team spirit.
FOR STUDENTS
On 16 October 2024, students are invited to take part in the traditional "JESENSKA ČISTKA 10ka". The event, organised by the UŠZP and the ŠOUP will see university teams competing in a variety of sporting and less sporting disciplines with the aim of winning the transitional Cup "Čistke desetke". Students who will not be competing are invited to cheer on the performers at Arena Bonifika in Koper.
FOR STUDENTS FOR STUDENTS AND STAFF
UP employees will have a rich programme of workshops, hikes, excursions and other meetings on Rector's Day, to which students are also invited. Some events require registration to facilitate their organisation. Based on last year's survey, we have tried to make it possible to attend several events during the day, and we are repeating some of them so that you can visit them over the years.
PROGRAM
Below you will find an overview of the programme by sections. You are invited to read the full programme and combine the activities from the different parts.
The application form is the same for all parts of activities and the deadline for applications is Tuesday 15 October 2024 at 10:00.
*If there are any changes, we will inform you before the activity. We reserve the right to change the programme.
REGISTRATION FORM
SPORTS
- Seafront walk from Koper to (and back) Simon's Bay with the possibility of a guided tour of the Archaeological Park | difficulty 1 | 9.30 meeting, 11.00 tour| meeting in Žusterna
The meeting point will be at the entrance to the macadam car park in Žusterna at 9.30. There are no guided walks.
- Seafront walk from Koper to (and back) Simon's Bay with the possibility of a guided tour of the InnoRenew CoE building | difficulty 1 | 9.30 meeting, 11.00 tour | meeting in Žusterna
The meeting point will be at the entrance to the macadam car park in Žusterna at 9.30. There are no guided walks. The guided tour will be in English.
- Seafront walk from Turistica to Piran (and back), with a visit to the Aquarium | difficulty 1 | 9.30 meeting, 10.30 tour| meeting in fornt of UP FTŠ Turistica
A relaxed walk to Piran with the possibility of a group visit to the Aquarium at 10.30. The walk and tour are not guided. Meeting point will be at the Turistica car park at 9.30 with option of parking for employees.
- Group rollerblading trip around Koper and to Ruda (Canava) in Izola (and back) | difficulty 2 | 9.00 gathering, duration up to 2 hours| gathering at the Park by the Koper Marketplace (tržnica)
Let's go roller skating! Meeting point at the park by the market, first warm up with a lap around Koper and head to Izola, where we stop for a coffee at Ruda and slowly head back to Koper. (Trip leader: Luka Kejžar).
- Hike Prešnica Slavnik Prešnica with ŠportUP | difficulty 3 | 9.00 start, expected to finish around 14.00| meeting at Prešnica parking spot
A hike to Slavnik from the village of Prešnica. We would meet at the car park in Prešnica (at the end of the village), we suggest coordinating the transport once the participants are known. The hike starts at 9.00, food and drinks from the backpack. The walk is suitable for those who are used to walking uphill and will take up to 2 hours one way. Equipment: hiking shoes, at least 1 litre of water, rucksack, anorak, change of clothes. (Activity is led by Simona Glavan).
- Hike to Lačna | difficulty 2 | 9.00 start, scheduled until 12.00| gathering in Gračišče
"Hike" from Gračišče to Lačna (1.2km walk). Lačna is a 451 m high hill located between Gračišče, Kubed and Hrastovlje. The top of the hill has a metal lookout tower, which offers a beautiful view of the nearby and distant surroundings, a sign-in box and a few small wooden benches. Equipment: hiking shoes, at least 1 litre of water, backpack, change of clothes. Parking directions (Google Maps). It is a good idea to share the ride, to save on fuel and parking. (Activity is led by Aljoša Gačnik).
- Motorbike ride | difficulty 2 | 8.00 start, expected until 10.00 | gathering at Square Brolo
A circular ride for all motorbike enthusiasts - from Koper it will take you through the coastal municipalities where you will see UP facilities that the organiser from maintenance knows very well. The tour is suitable for everyone with their own motorbike (tour leader: Boris Zudič).
CULTURAL AND SOCIAL
- Silent Reading Morning with the UP Book Club | difficulty 1 | 8.30 start, scheduled until 10.30| MixUP
Silent reading parties are becoming an increasingly popular way to socialise - the UP Book Club organised the first one as part of the National Month of Reading Together. How does it work? You come, take a coffee or tea, sit down, switch off your phones and on a signal, the one-hour reading clock (planned from 9.00 to 10.00) will start counting down. Bring a book with you, whatever you are reading at the moment. During the reading time, the mixUP will be closed, giving you one hour of complete peace and quiet to really focus on one activity and calm down. After the reading, you can chat with your fellow students and share your reading experiences. (Activity leader: Tina Lekan Kraševec, UP Book Club, UP UK).
- Calming the mind and focusing on handicrafts - workshop on making a soft crochet "scrunchie" | difficulty 1 | 10.30 start, scheduled until 12.30 | MixUP
This workshop provides an opportunity to chat and socialise as well as to retreat with quiet work, as handicrafts always bring a calm from the daily rush. Everyone can make a scrunchie (elastic) with soft wool. Materials (wool and elastic) will be provided, but it is preferable to bring your own crochet hook size 4.5 - 5.5 (some will be available to borrow). The workshop is suitable for complete beginners, as it provides up to two basic hooks, which can be learnt quickly. Making them for intermediate takes about 15 minutes, you can come at any time during the specified time, as long as the material does not run out. (Activity led by Martina Marušič Kos, UP Communication Office).
- Tarok Tournament | difficulty 1-3 | 10.00 start| Avla UP Famnit
You are invited to the Tarok Tournament! The event will take place in the lobby of UP FAMNIT, in a relaxed atmosphere, where participants will draw lots to determine the tables they will play on. The game will be played with four players per table, numbers permitting. If the number of participants is different, tables with three or five players will also be set up. Beginners can also join in, and will be guided by experienced players and will be actively involved afterwards. All participants are asked to arrive 10 minutes before the tournament starts so that we can distribute the players among the tables in time. We will play according to the rules of the local tarot club Berač from Koper. (Activity leader: Tanja Labus, UP Famnit)
WORKSHOPS
- Presentation of the activities of the Health Promotion Centre and aerobic fitness test with a 6-minute walking test | difficulty 1 | 9.00-12.00 | LIVADE facility
In addition to other services, the Izola Health Centre offers a Health Promotion Centre where you can find expert information, skills and support to make lasting changes in your lifestyle habits that will lead to better wellbeing and health. Before the test, each participant is checked for any health problems and has their blood pressure measured. A blood pressure measurement of no more than 165/100 is the first entry requirement for the walking test. After the test results are available, the physiotherapist and the kinesiologist will be available for individual consultations on appropriate physical activity for health promotion (Activity in cooperation with UP FVZ).
After registration you will receive the exact date of the test. The number of registrations is limited to 30 persons.
- Non-verbal communication: "Read body language" | difficulty 1 | 13.00| B3 Brolo
Through this lecture, participants will learn about different forms of non-verbal communication and the specifics of body language as its key element. The lecture offers insights into what certain gestures, body gestures, voice, our outward appearance or our choice of place in a room tell us. It will also present some interesting rules of behaviour in different cultures around the world. (Activity leader: Dr. Vesna Grahovac, KC UP).
- Creative Thinking | difficulty 1 | 13.00 to 14.00| ZOOM
Which is harder to do: perform surgery or make an effective advert? I will share with you the creative process, from insight, idea to execution. (Activity led by Lana Milovanović, Alumni of UP FHŠ).
- Body in space | difficulty 1 | 14.00 to 15.00| MP1 FAMNIT
This movement workshop is for anyone who wants to deepen body awareness. We will explore the relationship between body and space, listening and feeling. How to give the body the space and time to express its inner movement? The workshop is suitable for everyone; no prior knowledge of dance techniques is necessary. (Activity leader: Valentina Tomažinčič, UP IAM).
- Innovation and society | difficulty 1 | 15.00 | UP FM
The aim of the workshop is to discuss our attitudes towards innovation through different types of personal experiences. What do we mean by innovation, how do we recognise it, is it important to us at all, why, when, for whom, what are the benefits but also the fears associated with innovation for the individual and society. (Acivity is led by: dr. Simona Kustec, UP FM, CRPZ)
LECTURES
- Food for the Future: From Young Talent to Global Challenges | difficulty 1 | 12.00 | P8 UP PEF
Representatives from the Slovenian Chamber of Commerce and Industry will present key activities, services and products of the Chamber of Agriculture and Food Enterprises, with a special focus on work with young people, including the annual Ecotrophelia and Ecotrophelia Junior competitions and the European FoodEducators programme, where they are participating as national representatives in the EIT Food project. In the second part of the lecture, they will delve into current challenges, opportunities and trends in the field of food, nutrition and grocery. (Activity led by: GZS, Lecture in Slovenian language, more information: Andreja Perčič, UP PEF)
SIDE EVENTS
- ETHICS DAY 2024: Round Table on Ethics Day on Ethical Awareness in Research and Teaching at UP | difficulty 1 | 18. 10. 2024 | 12:00 | ZOOM
Ethical awareness influences how much attention is paid to the ethical aspects of research and teaching. Ethics committees, whose protocols guide reflection on the ethical aspects of various studies, also help to strengthen ethical awareness. The round table will share experiences on ethical awareness in research and teaching, present the work of the committees at different levels and encourage the transfer of good practices to other fields. (Activity implemented by: Prof. Dr. Vita Poštuvan and Prof. Dr. Ernest Ženko, more information: Tjaša Vidmar)
REGISTRATION FORM
Tuesday, 8 October 2024 UP participates in the Erasmus Days with an exhibition and an Erasmus+ World Café
The University of Primorska is joining the international Erasmus Days campaign aimed to promote all the opportunities proposed by Erasmus+. The Vice-Rector for Internationalisation, Prof. Dr. Michaël Mrissa, will inaugurate the exhibition in the lobby of theArmeria palace on Monday, 14 October at 10:00.
At the exhibition, students, teaching and support staff will find out:
- why you should participate in an international mobility in the first place,
- where and for how long you can go on a mobility,
- how your mobility is funded,
- how courses taken abroad are recognised,
- what you can do if you are not completely confident about your foreign language skills,
- how to find accommodation abroad.
After the opening, we will move to the rectorate's courtyard, where a world café will take place. Teaching and support staff who have already been on an exchange and would like to share their experience, and especially those who are just considering going on a mobility, are invited to a relaxed get-together over a cup of coffee. This will be a great opportunity to chat with UP students, Erasmus students and staff from the international offices of all UP faculties.
Monday, 7 October 2024 ŠtartUP, for the perfect start of the year 24/25!
The fourth successful edition of the social and sports event StartUP is already behind us. The first Saturday in October was once again dedicated to a relaxed social gathering among the students, alumni, senior students and the professional services of UP, or all those who have been and still are helping the students throughout their studies at the University of Primorska.
In addition to the teaching members and the UP Institute, the University's centres and units were also represented, presenting to the students how they work and how they link the University's content with the environment. The UP Tutors were particularly helpful, as well as the International Office, which introduced the students to international options, especially in the context of joining the European University Transform4Europe.
This year's participation of associations, organisations and companies was record-breaking. More than 55 exhibitors were part of our event, which made our StartUP even richer and more diverse. Thanks to their generous donation of gifts, the StartUP raffle was also very successful and varied, for which we would like to thank them.
As every year, this year's event was also held in the spirit of charity, as each exhibitor confirmed their participation by paying a symbolic entry fee, which was fully and directly transferred to the association Palčica Pomagalačica. This year, this humanitarian spirit was even greater thanks to the participation of coastal barbers called Barberijansquad, who collected voluntary contributions in exchange for haircuts, which were also donated to the Palčica Pomagalčica association for students in need.
This year, we stayed true to our green commitment to sustainability. Everyone brought their own cup or drink bottle. Coffee cups were also available for a voluntary contribution from the Centre of Useful Objects, which is run by Komunala Izola. Traditionally, delicious bobiches were served for lunch, which participants could also take home after the event.
This year, more than 550 students attended the event and were welcomed by more than 100 employees and representatives of associations. Together, we managed to make one of the biggest events for the students of the University of Primorska, which enriched the start of the academic year.
We wish all students a successful start, course and end of the academic year 24/25!
Monday, 7 October 2024 First consortium meeting of the MARiNKA project took place at UP FAMNIT
On Wednesday, September 25, 2024, the first consortium meeting of the MARiNKA project took place at UP FAMNIT.
During the meeting, Dr. Sonja Čotar Konrad from UP PEF (project leader) and Prof. Andrej Brodnik from the Department of Information Sciences and Technologies UP FAMNIT presented the planned activities and content to representatives of the other consortium partners: the UL Faculty of Computer and Information Science, Trzin Primary School, Prežihov Voranc Primary School in Ljubljana, Prof. Dr. Josip Plemelj Primary School in Bled, 8 Talcev Primary School in Logatec, Stane Žagar Primary School in Kranj, Maks Pečar Primary School, Vojka Šmuc Primary School in Izola, Fran Erjavec Primary School in Nova Gorica, Janez Puhar Primary School in Kranj, and Elvira Vatovec Primary School in Prade.
The project aims to develop essential knowledge of computer science and informatics (RIN) among students from the 6th to the 9th grade in primary school. As part of the project, the inclusion of fundamental RIN content will be planned, executed, and evaluated through interdisciplinary collaboration and the solving of authentic problems. Moreover, innovative teaching methods and a whole-school approach will be developed to introduce fundamental RIN content.
The project is co-financed by the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Slovenia and the European Union – NextGenerationEU. The applicant and lead partner of the project is UP FAMNIT.
Saturday, 5 October 2024 ŠtartUP | IMPORTANT NOTICE | The official start of the event has been rescheduled for 12 PM
ŠtartUP is a meet & greet event for ALL students of the University of Primorska with which we mark the start of the new academic year. It will occur on 5 October 2024, from 12 pm, in the Žusterna Seaside Park
At the event, first-year students network with each other and get to know senior students. Also university’s administrative and pedagogical staff join the event to network with students which gives the event a special mark.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT FROM THE EVENT?
All the University of Primorska faculties and more than 40 local organizations, associations, institutions, and companies will present themselves and their possibilities for extracurricular activities for UP students.
Each booth prepared a fun activity that gets you a stamp on your "StartUP stamp collection card" after you complete it. SportUP (official recreation for students of the UP) will take care of the fun sports activities (badminton, zorbing, "štrbunk", ...).
The location offers endless possibilities for lounging in the sun, so bring a picnic blanket or bath towel. We will take care of lunch. Since we support Zero Waste management, we encourage you to bring your bottles and lunch box.
SUSTAINABILITY
As we support sustainability, we encourage our visitors to bring:
- water bottles (flask/bidon), as there will be drinking fountains from Rižanski vodovod for hydration;
- and a container for lunch/lunch boxes (to take food home if there is any left over).
PROGRAM
The event will take place from 12:00 to 17:00 in Žusterna Seaside Park (Koper).
(in case of bad weather it will be moved to Taverna Koper)
- A presentation of all the faculties of the University of Primorska, centres and units where students can get involved in extra-curricular activities.
- More than 55 participating local organisations, associations, institutions and companies who have prepared fun activities to show you how to get involved and participate while studying.
- Sports activities organised by ŠportUP (the official recreation for UP students), which will provide sports activities such as badminton, "štrbunk", zorbing and paddling.
*unofficial meeting after the ŠtartUP event at Canava House Izola
Jan David Kljenak is a stand-up comedian who is more fiery than the flames he encounters every day as a firefighter. When he's not fighting fires, he's usually with his family. He loves to swim, but not more than 4 meters from the shore for fear of stepping on an urchin. Once he stepped on an urchin and it was not good.
Benjamin Kovač Keber a comedian who does stand-up out of pure love for laughter, comedy and life. He makes short, funny jokes and hilarious dissections of reality.
APPLY NOW
Students of the University of Primorska can apply for the event here.
REGISTRATION ON THE DAY OF THE EVENT
- On the day of the event we met first at the registration desk where you will get:
- wristband #OdpriUP | #OpenUP ((wristband colours are separated by faculties);
- first-year students will get a T-shirt OpenUP (newly enrolled students can get a T-shirt just at the ŠtartUP event)
- stamp collection card
Friday, 4 October 2024 Newly acquired UP projects in September
September brought six projects, many of them co-developed by two UP members, which shows the excellent collaboration between researchers.
UP FAMNIT projects
EUROPEAN INNOVATION COUNCIL EIC - PATHFINDER REMEDY
REMEDY - ARCHIBIOME TATTOO FOR RESISTANT, RESPONSIVE, AND RESILIENT CITIES, ASSOCIATED PARTNERS, UP, LEAD: INNORENEW COE, UP LEAD: DR. ANNA SANDAK
The 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.
RECOVERY AND RESILIENCE PLAN (NOO)
MARINKA - MLADOSTNIKI S TEMELJNIMI ZNANJI RIN SO KREATORJI PRIHODNOSTI / YOUNG PEOPLE WITH BASIC RIN SKILLS ARE THE CREATORS OF THE FUTURE, VODILNI PARTNERJI UP FAMNIT, PARTNER UP PEF, VODJA NA UP: DR. SONJA ČOTAR KONRAD
Young people with basic skills RIN are the Creators of the Future (acronym: MARIiNKA) is an experimental research project involving the UPR (FAMNIT - the project promoter and PEF) and the University of Ljubljana (Faculty of Computer Science and Informatics), together with ten educational institutions (FIEs) in Slovenia. This project is the first in our country to introduce, in a research and applied way, the core content of Computer Science and Informatics (CSI) into the learning activities of primary schools for students from 6th to 9th grade. The integration of pedagogical and computing knowledge, which is the core of the project, is an important step in the Slovenian education system in the field of systemic integration and upgrading of the teaching of the core content of RIN.
COST
CA23121 GENOA GENETIC NATURE OBSERVATION AND ACTION / OPAZOVANJE NARAVE IN AKCIJE Z GENETSKEGA STALIŠČA, PARTNERS, UP FAMNIT, LEAD: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE IN SILVICULTURA MARIN DRACEA, ROMANIA, UP LEAD: DR. ELENA BUŽAN
Genetic diversity is fundamental for adaptation and essential to species survival, hence for nature’s contributions to people. Furthermore, genetic knowledge supports the effective use of resources to ensure the holistic protection of biodiversity. While genetic diversity data and indicators are available, they are often not integrated into species management and monitoring schemes in Europe due to a lack of capacity. Furthermore, current national policies and practices have not yet ‘adapted’ to the new Global Biodiversity Framework. In order to better understand genetic diversity in species and their populations and actively use it to monitor and safeguard biodiversity, there is an urgent need to refine, assess, inform and facilitate the implementation of genetic diversity data and indicators across European countries. This implementation of genetic diversity data should be achieved by including practitioners, companies, policymakers and the wider public. The needs of all these stakeholders should be investigated and taken into account in order for collaborations to be inclusive and effective, as such, building knowledge, capacity and trust among partners. Hence, GENOA will co-create and improve the procedures, methods and data on genetic diversity (indicators) and co-develop tailored dissemination packages to reach out to and exchange with targeted stakeholders to enable a better understanding of genetic diversity information. In addition, the monitoring, reporting and application of genetic data will improve, which will contribute to the conservation of biodiversity at all levels.
COST
CA23133 LILY LILY: A LARGE-SCALE INTERDISCIPLINARY ALLIANCE ON NATURE-BASED SOLUTIONS AND HEALTH: INDICATORS, INEQUALITY AND INNOVATION / OBSEŽNO INTERDISCIPLINARNO ZAVEZNIŠTVO O NARAVNIH, PARTNERS, UP FAMNIT, UP LEAD: DR. ELENA BUŽAN
Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are instrumental in European climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies. Through creating ecosystems, NbS can have positive and negative impacts on the health of people, animals, and the environment, i.e., co-benefits and unintended consequences. As NbS are increasingly integrated into policy and implemented on the ground, it is urgently needed to adopt evidence-based approaches to their design and implementation, which minimize maladaptation and mislabeling practices, particularly in the health domain. This Action (LILY) focuses on NbS impacts on health (NbS-Health) and addresses: (i) the lack of a comprehensive framework outlining health outcomes and underlying pathways, (ii) gaps in NbS-Health indicators, (iii) vulnerability and inequality, (iv) NbS-Health monitoring, (v) NbS-Health gaps in NbS platforms. LILY comprises 69 interdisciplinary partners from 18 COST Countries, with 10 being COST Inclusiveness Target Countries and one-third young researchers. LILY will engage scientists, implementers, stakeholders, and community in participatory approaches and produce (i) a conceptual NbS-Health framework, (ii) best-practice guidelines for spatio-temporal NbS-Health indicators considering vulnerability and inequality, (iii) recommendations on novel data streams and methodology for indicator-based monitoring and evaluation, and (iv) a network and data platform for proficient information sharing. LILY will empower young scientists through summer schools, knowledge exchange workshops, and arranging the first NbS-Health conference. The outcomes will be translated into policy briefs, materials for Lancet Countdown, EU-Horizon projects and clusters, and public dissemination. LILY commits to excellence and innovation through co-production among scientists and stakeholders, transdisciplinarity, One Health concept, Exposure-Vulnerability-Risk framework, and inclusive and gender balance approaches in its governance.
Clik HERE to find all newly acquired UP projects.
Friday, 4 October 2024 Registrations for the 7th Slovenian Entomological Symposium with international attendance (SES7) are open
The Department of Biodiversity once again invites you to this unique scientific meeting, which will take place from January 31 to February 1, 2025, in picturesque Izola. It will bring together leading experts, researchers, and enthusiasts of entomology.
The symposium will provide an opportunity for in-depth discussions on the latest discoveries, innovations, and challenges in the insect world, as well as a space for sharing ideas, networking, and collaboration.
With its rich natural environment and historical heritage, Izola is the perfect place for this important meeting. In addition to professional lectures and workshops, the organisers will ensure pleasant moments of socializing.
The organisers of the symposiums are the Department of Biodiversity together with the Slovenian Entomological Society of Štefan Michieli.
Before the official start of the symposium, a Biocreative Workshop (From Knowledge to Story) will be organized.
SHORT DESCRIPTION:
Knowledge has been passed down through storytelling for millennia. Even today, we love stories. So could we combine biology with creativity? At the Biocreative Workshop, participants will learn how to write a story for children with biological content. They will learn how to present their scientific discoveries to the general public in a simple, understandable and entertaining way. As part of the workshop, participants will try to create their own stories about nature and get feedback.
For the workshop, you need paper, pencil, crayons, some biological knowledge and imagination.
- WHO: professional public, symposium participants, students, conservationists…
- NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: MAX 15
- WHEN: 31/01/2025
- WHERE: Famnit 3 lecture hall, UP FAMNIT, Livade 4
- PRODUCT: story – comic book – picture – or something completely different
General information:
To register for the symposium, please fill in the registration form, send your abstract to our e-mail and pay the registration fee as a bank transfer. If you are employed and the registration fee is covered by your institution, we will send the invoice to them.
LANGUAGE OF THE SYMPOSIUM: English.
IMPORTANT DATES:
- Deadline for registration and abstract submission: 15 November 2024
- Last date for registration (without poster/oral contribution): 15 January 2025
REGISTRATION FEE:
Registration fee: € 50 for employed persons and € 25 for students, unemployed persons and pensioners. The fee includes the book of abstracts, organisation costs and refreshments during coffee breaks.
Deadline for payment of the registration fee: 1 December 2024
IMPORTANT: Refund of the already paid registration fee is possible upon timely cancellation until 10 January 2025. No refund of the registration fee is possible for later cancellations.
REGISTRATION FEE PAYMENT DETAILS:
- UNIVERZA NA PRIMORSKEM
- FAKULTETA ZA MATEMATIKO, NARAVOSLOVJE IN INFORMACIJSKE TEHNOLOGIJE
- IBAN: SI56 0110 0600 0023 788
- SWIFT code: BSLJSI2x
- Reference 1-2025 should be used.
For further information, please contact: ses@famnit.upr.si
The official website of the symposium > HERE
Friday, 4 October 2024 Join the Lek's Researchers' day and a tour of NIB
We invite you to join the event BIOTECHNOLOGY SUMMIT WITH LEK'S RESEARCHERS' DAY AND TOUR OF THE NIB (National Institute of Biology), which will take place on Wednesday, October 16, at NIB (Večna pot 121, Ljubljana).
The first part of the program includes two panels. The first panel will present why biotechnology is an opportunity for Slovenia, while the second will focus on how the academic sphere is responding to the increasing demand for talent. Both panels will feature top experts. In addition, there will be a presentation and tour of the new NIB building.
As part of the Biotechnology Summit, there is a special program segment: LEK'S RESEARCHERS' DAY. The event will be held entirely in Slovenian language. The theme of this year's sixth Researcher's day is biopharmaceuticals. The event will showcase top achievements, innovations, and best practices from Lek and other academic and research institutions in the field of biological medicines. During the Researcher's Day, Assoc. Prof. Jure Pražnikar from the Department of Applied Natural Sciences at UP FAMNIT will give a lecture titled »Graphs of 3D Protein Structures«.
From 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. there will be a panel titled »How do we respond to the increased need for personnel in the academic sphere«, in which the rector of UP, Prof. Dr. Klavdija Kutnar will be participating.
We invite you to attend the event and take advantage of the opportunity for:
- new insights and knowledge,
- a look at the achievements of academic and research organizations,
- networking and meeting interesting researchers and opinion leaders,
- asking questions and further discussions after the presentations.
Registration is possible until spots are filled, so we recommend securing your place as soon as possible. Program and registration: https://uniminds.si/dogodek/biotehnoloski-vrh-z-lekovim-dnevom-za-raziskovalce-in-ogled-nib-v-zivo/
Friday, 4 October 2024 Leap into the Future: UP FAMNIT Researchers Contributed to Animated Film Selected for the Festival of Slovenian Film
The short animated film titled »Jump into the Future« has been accepted to the 27th Festival of Slovenian Film, which will take place in Portorož from October 22 to 27, 2024. Two researchers from the Department of Information Sciences and Technologies at UP FAMNIT contributed to the making of the film: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Klen Čopič Pucihar participated as a co-producer and motion capture system administrator, and Asst. Dr. Anuradhi Maheshya W. Weerasinghe Arachchillage worked as a motion capture assistant. Their collaboration took place within the HICUP Lab (»Humans Interacting with Computers” Lab at University of Primorska«).
The film »Jump into the Future« is based on a comic of the same name by Miki Muster, which he drew in 1971. In this work, far ahead of his time, Muster highlighted the issues of environmental pollution, air quality, and drinking water. The film's characters venture into the future, where they uncover the causes of pollution in the present and fight for a better world. Miki Muster is regarded as a pioneer of Slovenian comics, picture books, and animation, and his works remain beloved across all generations. His iconic characters, from Zvitorepec and Lakotnik to the famous bunnies from the Cikcak commercial, Viki cream, Čunga Lunga, and many others, have left a lasting impact on Slovenian culture.
We invite you to the film screening, which will take place on October 24, 2024, at 1:30 PM in Magazin Grando (Portorož).
Source: Slovenian Film Centre (SFC)
Thursday, 3 October 2024 Invitation to the defense of the diploma thesis – Kristijan Jeliskovski (Computer Science, 1st cycle)
Kristijan Jeliskovski, a student of the study program of Computer Science, 1st cycle, will present the diploma thesis entitled The simultaneous conjugacy problem on Monday, 28 October 2024 at 10:00 in the classroom Famnit-MP6.
You are all kindly invited!
Thursday, 3 October 2024 The young researcher Petra Gabrovšek received the 1st prize for her poster presentation at the 10th GENETIKA 2024 congress
Petra Gabrovšek, a young researcher at the Department of Applied Natural Sciences at UP FAMNIT, received the 1st prize for the poster presentation entitled "Development of EST-SSR from Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G. Don. (Asteraceae) de novo assembled transcriptome", at 10th Congress of the Genetic Society of Slovenia & the 10th Meeting of the Slovenian Society of Human Genetics – GENETICS 2024.
The congress was held in Portorož (UP FTŠ – Turistica) between September 25 and 28, organized by UP FVZ and UP FAMNIT and it brought together participants from Croatia, Germany Hungary, Italy, Slovakia, Slovenia, Poland and the USA.
We sincerely congratulate our researcher and wish her much success in the future!
Tuesday, 1 October 2024 18th Generation of students begins the new academic year at UP FAMNIT
UP welcomed freshmen at the traditional reception for new students, held in person this time in the Municipality of Piran, at the UP Faculty of Tourism Studies – Turistica.
The UP Rector Dr. Klavdija Kutnar, addressed the students at the reception, wishing them: »You have come to an open university. Help us to broaden our perspectives even further, to look for bold ideas, to overcome differences, to push ourselves out of our comfort zone. Let us overcome the boundaries of worlds together and with enthusiasm – because only beyond the boundaries lies true freedom.« (The full speech is available via the link).
At UP FAMNIT (in Koper and Izola), freshmen, together with the coordinators of their study programs, followed the introductory welcome, which was also attended by the Dean of UP FAMNIT, Dr. Ademir Hujdurović, through a live broadcast. Afterward, key information for the start of the new academic year was presented in the lecture rooms. Following the meetings with coordinators, there was a presentation of the UP FAMNIT Student Council tutors, as well as the Student Organization of the University of Primorska (ŠOUP).
Freshmen formally step into the university for the first time on October 1st – but last week, UP already welcomed foreign students during the so-called orientation days.
The University of Primorska enters this academic year as a fully active member of the European Transform4Europe University (T4EU), as November 1st marks one year since joining and deepening cooperation in the field of exchanges as well as conducting joint courses, welcoming members to the T4EU week in May and other collaborations that put UP students in the right role as European students.
The activities marking the start of the new academic year continue on Saturday, October 5th, when we will host the Start UP event at the Seaside Park in Žusterna – a sports and social event for all UP students, featuring presentations from various university organizations and local community groups, along with a musical program and prizes for successfully completing activities at different stations.
Official enrollment data for the 2024/25 academic year will be available in a month.
We wish all students a successful, interesting, and enjoyable academic year!
