Monday, 31 July 2023 UP FAMNIT students successfully conducted the international student conference SymBioSE 2023
On Saturday, 29 July 2023, the international student biology conference SymBioSE 2023 concluded at UP FAMNIT, which was successfully brought to Slovenia for the first time in 27 years by (former) UP FAMNIT students.
“Two years ago, together with my (now former) classmates from the Faculty, we applied to host SymBioSE, which back then seemed like a good opportunity for further bonding while working on a joint project. When we were voted by the participants, we were truly thrilled and proud to bring SymBioSE to Slovenia for the first time in 27 years. The symposium was a great success, both from the organizational aspect and also from the satisfaction of the participants. The final result is beyond our expectations. We are genuinely grateful for anyone who joined the organization team, who worked very hard all week to reach our common goal. They were always available, always smiling, and had good spirits, despite the lack of sleep. Without such a dedicated team, the event simply couldn't have been successful as it was,” summed up the experiemce presidents of SymBioSE 2023,Taja Pajmon Rak and Luca Privileggio,
The International Conference was opened on 23 July 2023 by Assoc. Prof. Dr Ademir Hujdurović, the Dean of UP FAMNIT, and Assoc. Prof. Dr Vladimir Ivović from the Department of Biodiversity at UP FAMNIT, who welcomed the participants and presented the activities of the Faculty and the Department.
SymBioSE: made for students by students
The conference brought together 75 participants from 24 different countries and 26 different faculties and institutions. Participants gave 36 oral presentations, 13 posters and 6 workshops, where organisers from Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Macedonia and Russia prepared 2 guest lectures on biology.
Besides the rich programme, the event was highlighted by the treasure hunt, where young enthusiasts learn about Slovenia and its characteristics. For a comprehensive experience, attendees explored the wonders of the Triglav National Park, where unforgettable adventure awaited them, alongside the natural wonders of the area.
In addition, they went to the Innorenew Coe in Izola and the Pira aquarium, concluding the week full of new knowledge and moments with a concert.
We would like to special thank all the companies and organizations that expressed interest in supporting the event: Municipality of Koper, Intesa Sanpaolo, Luka Koper d.d., Dolina Soče, Tourist Association Portorož, Triglav Insurance, Delamaris, DŠD Koper, Borzen - Sustainable Energy, Hrastnik 1860 and Mikropol. The conference was organised under the auspices of UP FAMNIT, the Marezige Youth Association and the Association of Conservation Biologists - BIODIVA, and also supported by the UP FAMNIT and UP Student Council.
What is SymBioSE?
The international conference brings together future scientists in the entire field of biology, and fosters friendship and collaboration.
SymBioSE - Symposium of Biology Students in Europe - was founded in 1996 by members of the German student association. The uniqueness of the conference lies in its non-hierarchical structure, which offers an excellent opportunity for connecting students from all over Europe. Through presentations and excursions, they broaden their horizons, exchange information on current topics, and get new friendships.
