University of Nova Gorica · 2015. 7. 9. · University of Nova Gorica »Operation part-financed by the European Union, the European Social Fund and the Ministry of Education, Science

University of Nova Gorica

»Operation part-financed by the European Union, the European Social Fund and the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport. Operation implemented in the framework of the Operational Programme for Human Resources Development for the Period 2007-2013, Priority axis 3: Development of human resources and lifelong learning; Main type of activity 3.3: Quality, competitiveness and responsiveness of higher education.«

2013/1

Title: University of Nova Gorica

ISSN 1855-7538

Edited by: Andreja Leban

Text: Danilo Zavrtanik, Gvido Bratina, Mladen Franko, Urška Lavrenčič Štangar, Tanja Urbančič, Katja Mihurko Po-

niž, Branka Mozetič Vodopivec, Boštjan Potokar, Iztok Arčon, Samo Stanič, Božidar Šarler, Matjaž Valant, Giovanni

De Ninno, Ingrid Petrič, Lorena Butinar, Tanja Dominko, Rok Žaucer, Vanesa Valentinčič Murovec, Mirjana Frelih,

Renata Kop, Sabina Zelinšček, Nives Štefančič, Jasmina Jakomin, Andreja Leban, Marko Vrtovec, Uroš Ferjančič

Photos: Archive of the University of Nova Gorica, Archive of Inštitut za raziskovanje krasa, Mladen Franko, Samo

Stanič, Gvido Bratina, Maja Bračič Lotrič, Nataša Novak Tušar, Elsa Fabbretti, Katja Mihurko Poniž, Jure Gombač,

Tanja Pipan, Ingrid Petrič, Božidar Šarler, Nataša Gregorič Bon, Boštjan Mljač, Beti Bučinel, Maja Wagner, Maja

Radišek, Jana Gregorič, Sebastjan Vodušek, Peter Purg, David Verlič, Simon Škafar, Anja Gluvić, Tina Smrekar,

Darja Marolt, Paolo Sivilotti, Daniel Olivo, Jaka Vogrinčič Bizjak, Drago Papler, Nejc Lekocevic, Miro Zdovc, Marija

Petek, Miha Godec, iStockphoto

Cover design: A-media d.o.o., Šempeter pri Gorici

Print: A-media d.o.o., Šempeter pri Gorici

Print run: 500

Published by: University of Nova Gorica, Vipavska 13, Rožna Dolina, SI-5000 Nova Gorica

Publication year: 2013

Publication is free of charge. Publication is founded from public resources.

Access also on: http://www.ung.si/en/study/

IntroductionUniversity of Nova Gorica Organisational Structure Schools

School of Environmental Sciences School of Engineering and Management School of Applied Sciences School of Humanities School for Viticulture and Enology School of Arts Graduate School

Doctoral Study Programme ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES (Third Level) Doctoral Study Programme PHYSICS (Third Level) Doctoral Study Programme KARSTOLOGY (Third Level)Doctoral Study Programme ECONOMICS AND TECHNIQUES FOR THE CONSERVATION OF THE ARCHITECTURAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HERITAGE(Third Level)Doctoral Study Programme MOLECULAR GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY (Third Level) Doctoral Study Programme LINGUISTICS (Third Level)

Laboratories and Research Centres Laboratory for Environmental ResearchLaboratoy for Astroparticle PhysicsLaboratory of Organic Matter PhysicsLaboratory for Multiphase ProcessesMaterials Research LaboratoryLaboratory of Quantum OpticsCentre for Atmospheric ResearchCentre for Systems and Information TechnologiesWine Research CentreCentre for Biomedical Sciences and EngineeringResearch Centre for Humanities

Other ActivitiesUniversity LibraryPublisherStudent OfficeInternational OfficeCareer CentreAlumni ClubIndustrial Liaison OfficeScientific Evenings

Founder and Co-FounderUniversity of Nova Gorica FoundationPrimorska Technology Park

Contents23678

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Introduction / dear friends

The mission of the University of Nova Gorica is to provide education to young talented people and to enhance

the pursuit of scientific truth. The University comprises seven schools and eleven research centres and offers

modern undergraduate and graduate study programmes, developed on the basis of the knowledge and ex-

pertise of the members of our academic staff who are top researchers and teachers.

The University of Nova Gorica cooperates with similar institutions around the world and takes special care to

promote multidisciplinary research and programmes designed to build partnerships between industry and

academia, with the hope of creating a better society both at local and global levels.

I hope this presentation will encourage you to join us and achieve your life ambitions.

Prof. Dr. Danilo Zavrtanik

Rector

3

The University of Nova Gorica is an institution of

higher education that provides education at un-

dergraduate and graduate levels and enables sci-

entific research. It was established in the 1995/96

academic year as the School of Environmental

Sciences, the first international graduate school

in Slovenia. It was founded by the Municipality of

Nova Gorica and the Jožef Stefan Institute of Lju-

bljana. Due to the introduction of new study pro-

grammes and the expansion of scientific research

activities, the School was re-organised in 1998

and renamed Nova Gorica Polytechnic University.

In 2006, the institution changed its status and its

name and became the University of Nova Gorica,

its founders being the Municipality of Nova Gorica,

the Municipality of Ajdovščina, the Jožef Stefan In-

stitute, and the Scientific Research Centre of the

Academy of Sciences and Arts.

Today the University of Nova Gorica provides edu-

cation at seven schools: School of Environmental

Sciences, School of Engineering and Management,

School of Applied Sciences, School of Humanities,

School for Viticulture and Enology, School of Arts,

and Graduate School, which offers the following

doctoral study programmes: Environmental Sci-

ences, Physics, Karstology, Molecular Genetics and

Biotechnology, Economics and Techniques for the

Conservation of the Architectural and Environ-

mental Heritage, and Linguistics. Research is con-

ducted at six laboratories (Laboratory for Environ-

mental Research, Laboratory for Astroparticle Physics,

Laboratory of Organic Matter Physics, Laboratory for


4

Multiphase Processes, Materials Research Laboratory

and Laboratory of Quantum Optics) and five centres

(Centre for Atmospheric Research, Centre for Systems

and Information Technologies, Wine Research Centre,

Research Centre for Humanities, and Centre for Bio-

medical Sciences and Engineering).

The modern and up-to-date University Library

holds textbooks and professional literature avail-

able to researchers, students as well as general

public. The University of Nova Gorica Publisher

is responsible for publishing textbooks, lecture

notes, collections of scientific papers and other

works. The undergraduate and graduate students,

as well as anyone interested in the work of our

university, can get all the necessary information

at the Students Office. The University’s Internation-

al Office coordinates and carries out international

activities and international projects, while the Ca-

reer Centre provides a link between the University,

students and employers. The University also runs

the Alumni Club, which brings together many

generations of alumni and all other individuals

contributing to the University’s development. In

2013, the University of Nova Gorica established

the ILO – Industrial Liaison Office to manage the

Technology Transfer and promote the use of the

University’s capacities in industrial applications

and research.

A vital link between higher education and the

economy has been forged by establishing the Pri-

morska Technology Park, which comprises techno-

logically innovative companies that facilitate the

transfer of knowledge and development initiatives

to entrepreneurial environment.

Mindful also of the importance of stable and fore-

seeable financial resources for the implementation

of higher education, the University of Nova Gorica

has furthermore established the University of Nova

Gorica Foundation, whose mission is to ensure

high-quality and sustainable development of the

University’s activities.

Through a wide array of complementary enrich-

ment activities, the University of Nova Gorica

strives to achieve and provide the highest level of

quality in education and scientific research as well

as to ensure their comprehensive integration into

local, national and international environments.

Information: Phone: +386 5 3315 223 | E-mail: [email protected] | http://www.ung.si/en/

5

RectorProf. Dr. Danilo Zavrtanik

Vice-rector for Research and Arts

Prof. Dr. Gvido Bratina

Vice-rector for Education

Prof. Dr. Mladen Franko

SenatePresident

Prof. Dr. Danilo Zavrtanik

Members

Prof. Dr. Iztok Arčon

Prof. Dr. Tadej Bajd

Prof. Dr. Gvido Bratina

Prof. Dr. Andrej Kranjc

Prof. Dr. Oto Luthar

Prof. Dr. Katja Mihurko Poniž

Prof. Dr. Maja Ravnikar

Prof. Dr. Tanja Urbančič

Prof. Dr. Urška Lavrenčič Štangar

Doc. Dr. Branka Mozetič Vodopivec

Prof. Boštjan Potokar

Špela Brajer, Student Representative

Governing boardPresident

Dr. Boris Peric

Members

Dr. Gregor Cevc

Dr. Urh Černigoj

Dr. Robert Golob

Dr. Matjaž Kuntner

Borut Lavrič

Dr. Miran Veselič

Robert Žerjal

Jana Gregorič, Student Representative

International advisory councilMembers

Prof. Dr. Alfonso Franciosi, Sincrotrone Trieste, Italia

Prof. Dr. Werner Hofmann, University of Salzburg,

Austria

Prof. Dr. Giorgio Margaritondo, EPFL, Switzerland

Prof. Dr. Soren L. Nielsen, Roskilde University, Denmark

Prof. Dr. Corrado Sarzanini, University of Torino, Italia

Prof. Dr. Boštjan Žekš, University of Nova Gorica,

Slovenia

Student CouncilPresident

Špela Brajer, School of Humanities

Vice-president

Jana Gregorič, School of Engineering and

Management

Members

Aleš Bogovič, School of Applied Sciences

Grega Sarka, School of Environemntal Sciences

Lucija Vidrih, School of Engineering and Management

Ana Marija Tomše, School for Viticulture and Enology

Peter Mišic, School of Arts

Organisational Structure

StudentCouncil

GoveringBoard

SenateInt. Advisory

Council

Vice-rectorfor Education

Rector Vice-rector for

Research and Arts

Education Research

School of Engineering and Management

School of Environmental Sciences

School of Humanities

School of Applied Sciences

School for Viticulture and Enology

School of Arts

Graduate School

Laboratory for Environmental Research

Laboratory of Organic Matter Physics

Laboratoy for Astroparticle Physics

Laboratory for Multiphase Processes

Laboratory of Quantum Optics

Centre for Atmospheric Research

Centre for Biomedical Sciences and Engineering

Support

Library Administration Publisher

University of Nova Gorica Foundation

PrimorskaTechnology Park

Management

Materials Research Laboratory

6

Centre for Systems and Information Tehnologies

Research Centre for Humanities

Wine Research Centre

7

Schools

Fakulteta za znanosti o okoljuPoslovno - tehniška fakulteta Fakulteta za aplikativno naravoslovjeFakulteta za humanistikoVisoka šola za vinogradništvo in vinarstvoVisoka šola za umetnostFakulteta za podiplomski študij

School of Environmental SciencesSchool of Engineering and ManagementSchool of Applied SciencesSchool of HumanitiesSchool for Viticulture and EnologySchool of ArtsGraduate School

8

School of Environmental Sciences Dean: Prof. Dr. Urška Lavrenčič Štangar

The School of Environmental Sciences operates from the very beginning of the University of Nova Gorica

in 1995 (at that time the School of Environmental Sciences) and off ers the fi rst- and second-level study pro-

gramme Environment. The school collaborates closely with the Laboratory for Environmental Research, which

provides most of the academic staff to carry out the study programme and serves also as a research environ-

ment where students can pursue practical training using the facilities of the laboratories.

9

The study programme Environment is an interdisci-

plinary Bachelor’s programme that offers university

degree education. The programme was prepared

according to Bologna guidelines by reorganising

the four-year university degree programme offered

by the School of Environmental Sciences since 2000.

The study programme lasts six semesters and covers

all important subjects of natural, technical and social

sciences that are related to the problems in the en-

vironment, for example, soil, water and air pollution,

measurements in the environment, ecotoxicology,

environmental health, waste management, nature

protection, environmental policy, environmental

impact assessment, environmental economics, en-

vironmental law and communication. Successfully

completed study programme grants the title “Diplo-

mirani okoljski tehnolog” (equivalent to Bachelor in

Environmental Technology).

The objective of the study programme Environ-

ment is to educate experts who will be capable

of working in research, technical and administra-

tive fields, and who will be able to realise legisla-

tive and executive tasks at the local, national and

international level. One of the characteristics of

the study programme is a uniform syllabus for all

first-year students. Thus, it offers a good and broad

background in the natural and mathematical sci-

ences and the knowledge needed to understand

relationships between individual segments and

processes in the environment.

In the second and third year the students are able

to choose some of the courses they want to take

Bachelor’s Study Programme ENVIRONMENT (First Level)

from various modules which will bring them the

necessary credits. The modules are composed and

arranged in a way that provides an upgrade to the

knowledge acquired in the compulsory courses.

Throughout the study we want to allow the stu-

dents to obtain as much practical experience as

possible. the students gain the necessary experi-

ence working in the laboratory and in the field

during the courses, in the group research project

and when they are preparing the final thesis. The

group research project is a particular character-

istic of the study programme Environment. This

is a compulsory course in which the emphasis is

on solving practical environmental problems by

working in a multidisciplinary team. The group

project runs through all three years and is con-

cluded by a public presentation of the obtained

results in the form of a seminar.

The programme is evaluated with credit points

according to the European Credit Transfer System

(ECTS), which makes the programme internation-

ally comparable and compatible with similar pro-

grammes all over the world and can also provide

international exchanges within the EU Socrates-

Erasmus project. Accordingly, the students can

be integrated into research and other study pro-

grammes both in Slovenia and abroad. After fin-

ishing the first level, graduates can continue their

study at the Master’s programme Environment

(second level) at the University of Nova Gorica and

at other universities, for which they fulfil the admis-

sion requirements.

10

To register as a student at the first level of the

study programme Environment the students must

successfully complete secondary school by pass-

ing the final general examination (“matura”) or

vocational leaving exam (“poklicna matura”). The

number of available positions at the Bachelor’s

programme Environment is limited to 40.

The School of Environmental Sciences also offers

the possibility to secondary school pupils to work

in a research laboratory. Pupils who express inter-

est in experiencing laboratory work and learning

how it is conducted in reality are integrated into

a particular research project where they learn ba-

sic steps of the workflows, including safety proto-

cols, sample preparation and work on laboratory

equipment. Their research results are presented in

a report which can be evaluated as a part of their

general examination (matura).

11

Master’s Study Programme ENVIRONMENT (Second Level)

The second-level study programme Environment

leads to a Master’s degree in the field of environ-

mental sciences and a Double-Master’s Degree

in Environment, Sustainable Chemistry and Tech-

nologies, according to the recently signed agree-

ment between the University of Nova Gorica and

the Ca’ Foscari University of Venice. The study lasts

four semesters and is distinctly interdisciplinary

and research-oriented. The programme covers

the most important fields of environmental sci-

ences, such as water, air and soil pollution; meas-

uring techniques for identification and control of

pollution; waste treatment and consequences of

its disposal; chemical, physical, biological, health

effects of pollution; legislative, economical and

managing aspects of environmental protection.

Successfully completed study program grants

the title Master of Environmental Sciences (MSc

in Environmental Sciences). The lectures are held

in Slovene and English. The objective of the pro-

gramme is to educate experts with interdiscipli-

nary knowledge who are able to understand and

perform demanding tasks in environment, which

are at the intersections of natural and technical as

well as social and economic sciences. A Master of

Environmental Sciences is expected to successfully

investigate, analyse and link relationships between

various phenomena in environment, society, tech-

nology and economy needed for sustainable de-

velopment. This is demanded for the assurance of

sustainable development. Graduates of this pro-

gramme should also be capable of establishing

creative relationships between experts from differ-

ent scientific fields who must cooperate in solving

problems in the environment. The students will be

able to do research during their studies on specific

projects related to the environment, which may in-

clude measurements in the environment, monitor-

ing, environmental impact assessment, the intro-

duction of environmentally friendly technologies,

renewable energy, etc. Credit evaluation of the

programme under the European Credit Transfer

System (ECTS) enables the integration of the stu-

dents in other degree programmes at the Univer-

sity of Nova Gorica and other institutions in Slove-

nia and abroad. The Master’s study programme of

Environment (second level) is limited to 30 places.

After finishing the second-level courses, graduates

can continue their study in doctoral programmes

that grant the title “Doktor znanosti” (equivalent to

Doctor of Science), in agreement with admission

conditions of each study programme.


School of Engineering and Management Dean: Prof. Dr. Tanja Urbančič

In modern economy eff ective management of enterprises requires not only experts in individual professional

fi elds, but also personnel with broad-based knowledge of engineering, management and economics. Since

1998/99 the School of Engineering and Management has therefore been providing a study programme of In-

dustrial engineering management and economics. In 2007/08 the programme was modifi ed to meet the recom-

mendations of the Bologna Declaration, renamed to Engineering and Management and upgraded with a two-year

Master’s study programme.

1998/99 the School of Engineering and Management has therefore been providing a study programme of

. In 2007/08 the programme was modifi ed to meet the recom-

and upgraded with a two-year



dustrial engineering management and economics

mendations of the Bologna Declaration, renamed to

School of Engineering and Management and Management







and upgraded with a two-year

and Management Dean: Prof. Dr. Tanja Urbančič





dustrial engineering management and economics

mendations of the Bologna Declaration, renamed to




dustrial engineering management and economics. In 2007/08 the programme was modifi ed to meet the recom-

mendations of the Bologna Declaration, renamed to Engineering and Management

School of Engineering and Management and Management Dean: Prof. Dr. Tanja Urbančič





Engineering and Management

Dean: Prof. Dr. Tanja Urbančič







School of Engineering and Management

The basic aim of the programme is to provide future experts with a comprehensive insight into the sphere of

industrial enterprises. The study of Engineering and Management at the University of Nova Gorica is further

distinguished by its emphasis on the practical implementation of knowledge (tutorials, seminars, industrial

placement). An important contribution to the quality of study lies in a relatively small student–teacher ratio,

which makes individual treatment of students’ interests possible.

The faculty off ers career and employment consultations. 95% of graduates are able to fi nd a regular job within

the fi rst year after the completion of studies.

14

Bachelor’s Study Programme ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT (First Level)

The full-time first-level study programme lasts six

semesters and comprises lectures, tutorials, indus-

trial placement and a diploma thesis. Upon com-

pletion of the studies, the students receive the title

“diplomiran gospodarski inženir” (equivalent to BSc

in Engineering and Management).

The programme includes basic courses in natural sci-

ence as well as a wide range of courses in engineer-

ing, economy and management. Third year students

also conduct a tutored practical placement in com-

panies. This gives them an opportunity to implement

their theoretical knowledge in real-life situations.

Graduates are qualified to work in administrating

and managing technological and business sys-

tems, marketing engineering services and indus-

trial products, planning, managing and assessing

investment projects; strategic and operational de-

velopment planning, managing computer-based

production supervisory systems, etc. Their em-

ployment opportunities lie in the so-called mid-

dle management where they work as production,

maintenance or sales managers.

15

Master’s Study Programme ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT (Second Level)

The growing demand for experts in the field of

engineering and management both in Europe and

worldwide encouraged us to extend the Bache-

lor’s (first-level) study programme Engineering and

Management to the Master’s (second-level) study

programme. Apart from the students who gradu-

ated in our first-level programme, the second-level

programme is also suitable for Bachelors in Engi-

neering who search for wider knowledge. Upon

completion of the studies, graduates receive the

title “magister gospodarski inženir” (equivalent to

MSc in Engineering and Management).

The syllabus has a distinct interdisciplinary and

research character. It covers all the major fields of

management and economics, as well as technol-

ogy and engineering, information sciences and

environmental sciences. The programme con-

sists of five obligatory courses which provide the

knowledge for an improved understanding of all

major areas. The students may select two obliga-

tory elective courses and three elective courses

enabling them to strengthen their knowledge in

engineering, informatics and other relevant fields

of interest. The programme also requires participa-

tion in group and individual research projects.

The students are provided with individual consult-

ing and guidance in all principal phases: during en-

rolment, course selection and employment enquiry.


16

School of Applied SciencesDean: Prof. Dr. Gvido Bratina

The School of Applied Sciences off ers the fi rst-level and second-level study programme Physics. Both study

programmes represent a modern approach to teaching physics and allow the students to work in small

groups. This results in a direct interaction between the students and the teachers, stimulating lively discussion

during lectures. As a result of the School’s international cooperation with foreign research institutions and

universities, the students can also benefi t from student and staff exchange programmes such as the Erasmus

mobility programme.

Univerzitetni študijski program

17

The first-level study programme Physics builds a

bridge between basic theoretical knowledge of

physics and its practical applications in engineer-

ing and natural sciences. This is reflected in the

contents of the courses taught, which also cover

modern aspects of physics and engineering. Com-

pulsory courses, especially Mathematics, have been

designed to enable the students to acquire basic

knowledge without resorting to further complexity.

The courses aim to use the acquired knowledge as

a problem-solving strategy in physics. The students

perform most of the experiments in laboratories on

the premises of various industries and R&D units.

The study programme places emphasis on the de-

sign and use of sophisticated measurement tech-

niques. Courses such as Measurement Techniques

or Physical Laboratory enable the students to be-

come acquainted with problem-tackling in R&D

practice, starting from their first year of studies.

The first-level study programme Physics educates

future experts in the field which is of extreme

importance for businesses that require precise

measurement procedures. First-level graduates

acquire sufficient basic practical knowledge to

find employment in R&D and measurement units

of various industries, government consulting ser-

vices and research laboratories where they can

carry out measurement procedures and lead small

teams of experts in engineering. At the same time,

the graduates master various aspects of physics to

the level that allows them to further develop their

knowledge within the Master’s programme Phys-

ics at the University of Nova Gorica or within re-

lated study programmes at other institutions.

Bachelor’s Study Programme PHYSICS (First Level)

18

Master’s Study Programme PHYSICS (Second Level)

The second-level study programme Physics builds

on the knowledge obtained within the first-level

programme Physics. While the latter provides the

graduates with basic knowledge in applied phys-

ics, ensuring ample employment opportunities in

the field of engineering, the second-level study

programme Physics offers a sound theoretical ba-

sis for further studies on the PhD level and a num-

ber of competences which the graduates will be

able to use while working for R&D industry units or

in scientific environments.

The two modules established within the study pro-

gramme, Solid State Physics and High Energy Physics,

are experimentally oriented and thus ensure general

progress in the acquisition of scientific knowledge

and the rise of engineering culture. By focusing on

experimental methods and allowing the graduates

to work with the latest technologies, the modules

also give the graduates a competitive edge in the

global knowledge market and therefore drive the

relevant sectors of the Slovene economy to success.

The graduates will have ample opportunities to

work in leading positions within development-

oriented laboratories and government agencies.

They will also be able to successfully conduct ex-

periments in research laboratories.


School of HumanitiesDean: Prof. Dr. Katja Mihurko Poniž

The School of Humanities merges traditional and contemporary fi elds of the humanities within the courses taught

in its fi ve accredited study programmes (Slovene Studies – fi rst and second level, Cultural History – fi rst and second

level and Migrations and Intercultural Relations – second level). Our study programmes meet high scholarly, aca-

demic and methodological standards and train future graduates to pursue further studies and become involved

in research and academic activities either on a national or an international scale. The faculty of the School of Hu-

manities have been introducing and developing new methodologies in the humanities in Slovenia to study area-

specifi c as well as global phenomena. Most of our teaching and research staff members are young but renowned

scholars; a number of them have received part of their academic education abroad, where they continue to be

involved in scholarly or academic projects. This ensures a rapid and successful exchange of ideas between interna-

tional and local academic spheres and thus allows the students to develop their creative thinking skills throughout

their studies, either at their home university or at any foreign institution. Our future plans are to broaden our edu-

cational mission by introducing new programmes and courses and thus provide our students with the knowledge

and expertise that cannot be attained during the course of studying at any other university in Slovenia, while still

remaining faithful to the old Animus facet nubile motto.

21

Bachelor’s Study Programme SLOVENE STUDIES (First Level)

The Bachelor’s study programme Slovene Studies

was the first study programme in the field of the

humanities to be launched at the University of Nova

Gorica. The study programme does not aim to “rep-

licate” the already existing programmes within the

same field, but rather to offer new courses, different

methodologies and unique approaches. The pro-

gramme has thus overcome the traditional division

into linguistic and literary sciences by introducing

new core and elective courses in general linguistics

and literary theory as well as by investigating lin-

guistic and literary phenomena with methods that

are new to the Slovene educational sphere. The rich

variety of elective courses in each field of interest al-

lows our students to become acquainted with top-

ics which they will encounter during their further

studies or at work.

Our faculty encourage the students to become en-

gaged in autonomous research on individual top-

ics or issues throughout the course of their studies.

Moreover, besides merely dealing with literary and

linguistic sciences, the students are also provided

with an overview of other topics in the humanities,

which secures them easier access to second-level

research-oriented study programmes or further

studies to obtain teaching qualifications. Students

who wish to find employment after graduating

have the opportunity to acquire more “practical”

skills, which they will require in their future work

(computing, editing, publishing etc.). On the one

hand, the study programme Slovene Studies is

closely linked to the local environment by giving

the students the opportunity to explore the dy-

namics of intercultural contacts and influences,

cultures of the neighbouring nations and meth-

ods used to investigate these phenomena. On the

other hand, the programme is internationally com-

parable by offering courses in general linguistic

and literary sciences, literary theory, methodology,

foreign languages and world literature, which al-

lows the students to pursue further studies or seek

employment in Slovenia or abroad.

The study programme is subject to continuous

improvement and development in order to keep

abreast of the latest scientific discoveries and to

cater to the emerging needs of our society and our

students. The University of Nova Gorica operates

the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation

System (ECTS), which allows students of this study

programme to perform part of their study activi-

ties at various host universities or continue their

studies elsewhere, either in Slovenia or abroad.

22

Master’s Study Programme SLOVENE STUDIES (Second Level)

The second-level study programme Slovene Stud-

ies is a two-year Master’s programme, designed to

complement the Bachelor’s three-year study pro-

gramme Slovene Studies. Two tracks are available

– Linguistics and Literary Sciences. The study pro-

gramme places emphasis on the students’ autono-

mous research work and focuses on investigating

area-specific phenomena. It offers a vast variety of

elective courses, ensures international comparabil-

ity and is subject to continuous improvement. In ad-

dition to core courses, the track Linguistics compris-

es elective courses within two modules: Language

and Communication. The module Language covers

topics in general linguistics and the module Com-

munication deals with various language-related sci-

ences and other humanities.

The track Literary Sciences gives the students a pro-

found insight into literary sciences through scien-

tific approaches used to investigate the aforemen-

tioned field. By completing their core course work,

the students are expected to build a foundation in

literary sciences and extend their linguistic knowl-

edge. The elective courses can be chosen within

three modules – Slovene Literature from the Middle

Ages to Romanticism, Literatures of Minorities and

Small Nations, Gender Studies and Literature.

A link has been established between the tracks

Linguistics and Literary Sciences, as the students are

allowed to choose a large number of courses be-

longing to either of the two tracks, which provides

them with a complete education in the field of

Slovene studies. The study programme takes into

account both well-established and contemporary

methodologies in linguistics and literary sciences

and helps the students gain area-specific knowl-

edge, a brief insight into the dynamics of intercul-

tural relations and their influences on language

and literature, as well as an insight into the cultures

of the neighbouring nations and language policy

issues. The degree earned is comparable to simi-

lar international degrees and allows the students

to pursue employment in research, education,

culture or public administration. We are proud of

the fact that our study programmes are shaped

by young but renowned Slovene and foreign re-

searchers and scholars.

23

Bachelor’s Study Programme CULTURAL HISTORY (First Level)

Programme directress: Prof. Dr. Petra Svoljšak

The study programme Cultural History is a unique

and innovative programme based on the tradition

of cultural history in Slovenia, where culture has

long been the sole medium for recognising the

purpose and the existence of the people’s national

identity. From the diachronic perspective, cultural

history has always represented one of the key

and most studied disciplines in the humanities in

Slovenia. Despite this, no independent study pro-

gramme in this field existed in Slovenia before the

study programme Cultural History was launched

by the University of Nova Gorica. The programme

covers all the topics necessary to build a successful

profile of a graduate in cultural history.

The general aim of the programme is to educate

experts who will be able to perform research or

work in the areas of culture and public administra-

tion. In order to reach the expected goals, the stu-

dents are expected to acquire basic knowledge in

cultural history, history of ideas and ideologies and

intellectual development.

A considerable part of the study programme is de-

voted to Antiquity, which had a tremendous impact

on the development of the Northern Primorska re-

gion. The programme Cultural History also addresses

various other fields (legal history, history of religion,

history of agriculture, cultural heritage, intellectual

history, history of historiography), all of them being

unique to the Slovene higher education sphere. In-

troducing core and elective courses, as well as es-

tablishing connections with other humanities and

social sciences both contribute to the interdiscipli-

nary character of the study programme.

Besides acquiring theoretical knowledge, the stu-

dents will also broaden their horizons by under-

taking practical tasks and performing research on

topics that are of particular interest to the local

area as well as to the international environment.

Owing to the programme’s close links to the lo-

cal area, which stands at the intersection of Slavic,

Romance and Germanic worlds, the study pro-

gramme shall also render crucial support to the

Slovene national community living outside Slove-

nia’s borders. The faculty members are renowned

scholars who transfer the latest scientific discover-

ies into their teaching practices. Since the Univer-

sity of Nova Gorica operates the European Credit

Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), the

study programme Cultural History is comparable to

and compatible with similar study programmes at

other universities in Slovenia and abroad and thus

offers the students various mobility opportunities.

24

Master’s Study Programme CULTURAL HISTORY (Second Level)

The study programme Cultural History focuses

on the reflection on our lives throughout history.

Upon completion of this research-oriented study

programme, the students are awarded a Master’s

degree in history.

The general aim of the programme is to educate

experts who will be able to perform research or

work in the areas of culture and public administra-

tion, in positions that require mastery of specific

knowledge and skills within the sub-fields of his-

tory. Graduates are expected to be able to perform

applied research as well as establish strong and

productive links among experts in various fields of

science, which is undoubtedly required to success-

fully solve practical problems and research issues

in the field of cultural history.

The structure of the programme can to a great ex-

tent be tailored to each individual’s needs and en-

ables the students to deepen their knowledge of

specific issues in cultural history. It therefore caters

to each individual’s expectations and wishes and

allows the students to earn credits within other

study programmes as well. The graduates’ compre-

hensive knowledge will be their asset in problem-

solving tasks arising from the yet to-be-resolved is-

sues in history, which contributes to tolerance and

competitiveness in the border area.

During the course of their studies, the students

develop critical awareness of the Slovene national

identity, Europeanism and cosmopolitanism and

learn that personal and group identities of different

levels are not mutually exclusive. The graduates are

expected to be capable of being actively involved

in theoretical and practical tasks, which is conditio

sine qua non in the contemporary view of history.

Both core and elective courses do not merely pro-

vide the students with theoretical knowledge but

above all encourage them to tackle practical issues

(writing project proposals, preparing treatises, con-

ducting micro studies, taking part in team work,

selecting research topics). The second-level study

programme is ECTS-based and thus enables the

students to take part in mobility programmes in

related study programmes at various host universi-

ties in Slovenia and abroad.

26

Master’s Study Programme MIGRATIONS AND INTERCULTURAL RELATIONS (Second Level)

Direktorica: Prof. Dr. Marina Lukšič Hacin

The joint study programme European Master in

Migration and Intercultural Relations has been de-

veloped in cooperation with other European and

African universities and is run by the University of

Oldenburg. In the academic year 2011/12, the pro-

gramme was first carried out within the framework

of Erasmus Mundus, an elite programme promot-

ing international cooperation and student and

staff mobility within the higher education sector.

Unique interdisciplinary and intercultural perspec-

tives are the programme’s main assets noted by

the European Commission.

Focusing on human rights, democratic values, wel-

fare state and labour market, the study programme

responds to the challenges which the EU member

states and other countries on the global scale are

facing. Through Erasmus Mundus, the study pro-

gramme European Master in Migration and In-

tercultural Relations helps raise the awareness of

these challenges among the Slovene people. On

the other hand, the programme promotes local

knowledge and views on the future within the Eu-

ropean, African and global academic spheres.

The basic goal of this joint international study pro-

gramme is to train professionals who will possess

theoretical, methodological and empirical knowl-

edge (with the emphasis on interdisciplinary ap-

proaches and transcultural aspects of migrations)

to lead or autonomously conduct scientific re-

search projects.

The students will be involved in practical work

with migrants within an intercultural context and

thus gain the ability to critically assess the existing

studies as well as current practices and strategies

employed in the field of migration and integration

policies. Equipped with the expertise to carry out

planning, coordination and evaluation activities,

they are expected to be able to create and imple-

ment in all sovereignty the strategies of formal,

legal and practical regulations of intercultural rela-

tions within the area of migration studies.

Cooperating universities: University of Nova Gorica

(Slovenia), University of Oldenburg (Germany),

University of Stavanger (Norway), University of

South Bohemia (Czech Republic), Ahfad University

for Women (Sudan), Makerere University Kampala

(Uganda) and Mbarara University of Science and

Technology (Uganda).

In the first year of studies, the academic activities

take place in Germany and Norway, while in the

second year of studies, the students study at the

partner university where the chosen module takes

place. There are a limited number of scholarships

available.


School for Viticulture and EnologyDean: Doc. Dr. Branka Mozetič Vodopivec

28

Bachelor’s Study Programme VITICULTURE AND ENOLOGY (First Level)

The School for Viticulture and Enology offers a

practically oriented Bachelor’s programme of Viti-

culture and Enology. The programme focuses on

the integration of grape-growing, winemaking

and wine marketing. It has been developed by the

University of Nova Gorica in cooperation with the

Slovenian National Institute of Biology, the Jožef

Stefan Institute, the Scientific Research Centre of

the Academy of Sciences and Arts, the Agricultural

Institute of Slovenia and the Instituto Esperimen-

tale per la Nutrizione delle Piante in Gorizia, Italy.

The curriculum of the programme is consistent

with the guidelines and recommendations of the

OIV (International Organization of Vine and Wine)

for the education of enologists. In the course of

the programme, the students acquire necessary

theoretical and practical knowledge. Classroom

lectures are constantly combined with lab practice

and fieldwork. The important part of the curricu-

lum is practical training in various small and large

wine cellars/estates, wine labs and research insti-

tutes. The approval of subjects from other study

programmes is also possible, as long as they meet

the criteria of the Nova Gorica University.

The programme is based on the required number

of ECTS credits (European Credit Transfer System),

which enables the integration of the curriculum

into a credit system to other higher education

institutions in Slovenia and abroad. To complete

the programme, the students must collect 180

ECTS credits (60 each year of the programme).

The study programme lasts for six semesters and is

completed with a successful defence of the Bach-

elor’s thesis. Upon completion of the study, the

students obtain a degree of “diplomirani inženir

vinogradništva in vinarstva”, which is an equivalent

to Bachelor of Science in Viticulture and Enology.

Viticulture and Enology graduates will gain com-

petencies relating to the independent and creative

management of wine estates as well as to function

as professionals in various occupations associated

with grape-growing and/or winemaking and mar-

keting. This comprehensive knowledge will enable

them to readily adapt to changes in local and glob-

al markets as well as to global changes and thus

give them a competitive edge. They will be able to

critically assess new technologies and their appli-

cability in the local environment. After graduation,

29

Information: Phone: +386 5 90 99 700 | E-mail: [email protected] | http://www.ung.si/en/

the candidates will be able to continue studies at

the Master (second) level, and then at PhD (third)

level in accordance with the admission requests

and recommendations of the selected postgradu-

ate study programme.

Practical experiences our students gain also in

University estate which has its vineyard planted on

the upper part of Vipava Valley with total size of 7

ha. The estate provides also experimental work for

researchers of Wine Research Centre of University

of Nova Gorica. The current variety in the estate is

Merlot, but an ambitious renewal in the following

years will lead to an increase in the quantity of local

varieties and the planting of an extensive collec-

tion vineyard of neglected domestic varieties and

world known varieties as well. The wines under the

University Brand are University Zelen, University

Red and University Rose.

Since the beginning of 2013, the School for Viticul-

ture and Enology is housed in the Lanthieri Man-

sion, Vipava, in the middle of Slovenia’s Primorska

wine region.

School of ArtsDean: Prof. Boštjan Potokar

32

Interested in moving images, film, video, anima-

tion, perhaps photography, or new media? Want

to tell audio-visual stories in unique ways? Animat-

ing drawings and objects? Filming and editing?

Creating with web, mobile and other interactive

technologies? Perhaps you are interested in artistic

research and could well use its experimental free-

dom? Want any of these things to become your

profession? The BA programme Digital Arts and

Practices offers just that!

Carrier modules:

Animation (animated film, animation in creative

industries)

Videofilm (feature, documentary, experimental

videofilm, art video)

Photography (fine art, applied)

New Media (creative use of new technologies)

The programme structure enables combining car-

rier modules and creative environments (film, crea-

tive industries, contemporary art), which opens an

array of different professional pathways -- from be-

coming an author of an integral artwork, animated

film, photo or interactive multimedia projects to

developing competencies for interdisciplinary

creative teams (virtual environments artist, mobile

app designer or animator, video reporter for TV

and new media, photojournalist or fashion pho-

tographer, director of photography in videofilm,

character animator etc.).

The programme derives from the three-year pro-

gramme Digital media at the renowned Famul Stu-

art School of Applied Arts, of which the School of

Arts is a successor. The School of Arts at the Univer-

sity of Nova Gorica has thus, already in its founda-

tion, merged the rich experience and knowledge

of both institutions.

The Bachelor of Arts in Digital Arts and Practices is

a three-year programme; the student accumulates

60 credit points each year, altogether at least 180

ECTS points which include the diploma project.

Candidates with a completed final examination of

a suitable four-year secondary school programme

(matura or vocational matura equivalent) can ap-

ply and enter the artistic ability assessment.

Bachelor’s Study Programme DIGITAL ARTS AND PRACTICES (First Level)

33


The Master’s programme of Media Arts and Prac-

tices (120 ECTS) offers the students to specialise

in any of – or in between – the carrier module

areas of:

Animation

Film

Photography

New Media

Contemporary Art Practices

Scenographic Spaces

The candidates are invited to approach the pro-

gramme with a project idea or clear interest in a

specific medium or creative realm. In an interna-

tional study and production atmosphere the stu-

dents will gradually develop their final project and

theoretical thesis, all in close interaction with men-

tors, guest teachers and fellow students.

Regular peer reviews by academic committees

and trans-disciplinary interaction in workshops

foster the student’s increasing proficiency in the

chosen area. Along the two years of study the stu-

dent takes part in an individual selection of short

skill- and theory-based courses, both on- and

offline. Developed within the international (EU-

supported) ADRIART (www.adriart.net) project, the

Master’s Study Programme MEDIA ARTS AND PRACTICES (Second Level)

programme offers academic experience in several

site-specific course runs at referenced partner in-

stitutions in Austria, Italy and Croatia.

34

Graduate School Dean: Prof. Dr. Iztok Arčon

The Graduate School combines and implements all doctoral study programmes (third level) of the University

of Nova Gorica. The single integrated Graduate School provides a large possibility of choice and interdiscipli-

narity in developing individual doctoral study programmes. Moreover, based on the European Credit Transfer

System (ECTS), it enables the students to select most appropriate courses for their respective research orienta-

tions from the Graduate School’s wide array of available, mutually complementary study programmes.

All doctoral study programmes closely collaborate with research laboratories, centres and institutes of the

University of Nova Gorica as well as other research institutions both in Slovenia and abroad where students

can conduct their research or participate in international research projects.

The Graduate School forms a creative environment in which students, professors, researchers and experts in

various fi elds can meet the common objective of building new know-how and translating it into practice in

an entrepreneurial environment.


35

Doctoral Study Programme ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES (Third Level) Programme director: Prof. Dr. Anton Brancelj

The three-year doctoral study programme Envi-

ronmental Sciences presents a reconstruction of

the previously four-year direct doctoral study pro-

gramme of the same name, which had been pro-

vided by the University of Nova Gorica since the

academic year 1995/96. A successful completion of

the programme leads to the title “doktor znanosti”

(equivalent to PhD in Science). The language of in-

struction is English.

Environmental sciences require an explicitly inter-

disciplinary approach and therefore scientists who

have the competence to work in environmental

research, protection and management. Due to the

lack of scientists with adequate multidisciplinary

knowledge, one of the main issues faced by the en-

vironmental science is cooperation of top experts

in natural sciences on the one hand and managers,

economists, legal experts and so forth on the other.

This is why the basic aim of the study programme

is to educate leading-edge researchers with sub-

stantial interdisciplinary know-how. Environmental

studies both at the undergraduate and graduate

level are considered an important asset worldwide.

In conducting research, our students may focus

on investigating basic phenomena and chemical

processes in the environment, developing and im-

proving technologies that reduce environmental

impacts, as well as on exploiting renewable energy

resources, and developing and introducing new

techniques for detecting environmental pollutants.

The students may also devote their attention to

investigating the environmental impact of human

activities, their effects on the quality of human life,

and the socio-economic and health-related conse-

quences of environmental changes, etc.

The programme comprises a compulsory subject

(a seminar in environmental sciences), three elec-

tives (in the field of atmosphere, hydrosphere or soil

research, or nature protection and conservation of

biodiversity), a compulsory research project and the

preparation of the doctoral dissertation. The pro-

gramme is intended for candidates who have com-

pleted a second-level study programme in natural

sciences, biotechnology, engineering or medicine;

a study programme under Article 36 of the Higher

Education Act of the Republic of Slovenia (in natural

sciences, biotechnology, engineering or medicine,

provided that it has a fixed study load of 240 credit

points), or who have completed education abroad

that is equivalent to the programmes above.

36

Doctoral Study Programme PHYSICS (Third Level)

Programme director: Prof. Dr. Samo Stanič

The graduate study programme Physics encom-

passes studies in physical sciences provided by

the University of Nova Gorica with an emphasis

on high energy physics (astroparticle physics and

cosmology), solid state physics (investigation of

electronic, structural and chemical properties of

materials and corresponding characterisation

methods) and physics of fluids (numerical model-

ling of phase transitions in various materials and

studies of aerodynamic surfaces). The programme

is strongly research-oriented and tailored for stu-

dents who will, after graduation, pursue the most

demanding types of tasks in academic or corpo-

rate environments as independent and highly mo-

tivated researchers.

The basic objective of the programme Physics is

to educate versatile scientists who will be able

to approach and solve problems from both the

theoretical and experimental point of view. The

programme provides a framework for the pursuit

of study and research interests of the students

within which the curriculum for each student is

determined individually and coordinated by the

student’s PhD supervisor. Most courses are elective

and conducted either in small groups or individu-

ally. Horizontal integration of the studies is based

on the European ECTS credit system, which fa-

cilitates the exchange of courses between related

programmes at the Graduate School of the Univer-

sity of Nova Gorica and those at other universities.

Based on the feedback from our alumni, the gradu-

ates of the programme Physics have been recog-

nised as competitive candidates to successfully

pursue their academic careers at research insti-

tutes, universities and corporate entities world-

wide. In a number of cases (e.g. in Sandoz/Novartis

and Fotona), our graduates obtained key positions

in corporate research facilities, working on scien-

tific aspects of the R&D of new technologies, prod-

ucts and strategic corporate research directives.

37

Doctoral Study Programme KARSTOLOGY (Third Level)

Programme director: Prof. Dr. Martin Knez

The doctoral study programme Karstology is in-

tended for candidates who have completed the

previous study programme leading to a Bachelor’s

degree or a second-level study programme in

various fields and wish to gain knowledge in this

broadly integrated system of sciences on karst to

become karst researchers or karst managers. The

programme offers a broad-based basic insight

into karstology (e.g. in terms of geological struc-

ture, surface and underground landscape, waters)

on the one hand and highly-focused orientation

on the other, depending on the students’ require-

ments (e.g. karst waters use and protection). The

programme’s curriculum places great emphasis on

a small number of compulsory subjects and a wide

range of electives. The study also gives emphasis

to autonomous research work.

Graduates will have an opportunity to employ

the acquired knowledge in institutions dealing

with karst research or management. The teach-

ing staff conducting the programme consists of

top Slovenian and international karstologists. The

programme’s basic objective is to educate two

types of karstologists. The first type is karstolo-

gist-researcher who will have the competence to

conduct autonomous research of karst and karst

phenomena from different perspectives and for

different purposes. The second type is karstologist

manager who will have the capacity to integrate

the knowledge conveyed by highly specialised sci-

entists and apply it for a wide range of utility pur-

poses (economy, education, protection).

A successfully completed three-year study pro-

gramme Karstology leads to the title “doktor zna-

nosti” (equivalent to PhD in Science). Language(s)

of instruction is/are Slovene and/or English.

38

Doctoral Study Programme ECONOMICS AND TECHNIQUES FOR THE CONSERVATION OF THE ARCHITECTURAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HERITAGE (Third Level)

Programme directress: Doc. Dr. Sasa Dobričič

The postgraduate study programme Economics

and Techniques for the Conservation of the Archi-

tectural and Environmental Heritage is a joint inter-

national programme founded by the University

of Nova Gorica and the University IUAV of Venice,

Italy, in cooperation with the universities of Naples,

Paris 1 and ENSAP Paris-Belville. The course is car-

ried out under the patronage of ICCROM (Interna-

tional Centre for the Study of the Preservation and

Restoration of Cultural Property).

The study programme is based on an interdiscipli-

nary approach that combines engineering and ar-

chitecture with legal and economic knowledge that

integrate theoretical aspects of conservation.

The programme offers two specialisations: Tech-

niques and Materials and Economics and Manage-

ment. The initial part of the programme provides

common lectures with an emphasis on the basic

theoretical principles of conservation, international

case studies, general European legislation and the

main conservation organisations and institutions.

The specialisation in Techniques and Materials aims

at training highly qualified experts with substantial

theoretical and practical competences on structural

properties and characteristics of historical building

materials and technologies, on the application of

diagnostic procedures, on the selection of the ap-

propriate intervention and on building site admin-

istration. Key activities of the specialisation are the

design and the implementation of conservation-

restoration projects.

The specialisation in Economics and Management

aims at training highly skilled experts in the eco-

nomics of culture and art and cultural heritage

management to develop sustainable policies of

cultural heritage protection and valorisation. The

key topics of the specialisation are: critical com-

parison of the legislation and policies regarding

cultural heritage and cultural activities in Europe

and internationally, methodologies of economic

assessment and valorisation of cultural heritage,

cultural tourism, and comprehensive strategies for

39

the promotion, management and development of

cultural heritage markets.

Within the three-year doctoral study programme

(180 ECTS) students may complete a one-year

Master’s level (60 ECTS). The specific feature of the

programme is the joint diploma issued by both its

founders. Lecturers who participate in implement-

ing the programme are university teachers and top

experts at key international scientific institutions,

thus ensuring and promoting the multidisciplinary

exchange of expertise, educational methods and re-

search activities. The official language is English and

the main language of instruction is English. Lectures

are held on the premises of the University of Nova

Gorica in Venice, Italy.

40

Doctoral Study Programme MOLECULAR GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY (Third Level)

Programme directress: Prof. Dr. Elsa Fabbretti

The doctoral study programme Molecular Ge-

netics and Biotechnology is the result of a cross-

border effort in molecular biology between the

University of Nova Gorica and the International

Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnol-

ogy (ICGEB) in Trieste, Italy. The programme offers

high-quality education of young experts who will

be able to use their expertise in various fields. Mo-

lecular biologists will find employment in health

care, food-protection industry and environmental

protection, and biotechnologists will be able to

apply their knowledge on advanced technologies

in industrial production of human-friendly prod-

ucts. The programme provides for students’ inten-

sive participation in research, seminar-based work,

as well as critical and reflective participation in dis-

cussions. The study programme lasts three years

(180 ECTS) and leads to the title “doktor znanosti”

(equivalent to PhD in Science).

Future PhDs in science will be equipped with the

knowledge and skills necessary to understand

scientific research in bioscience, develop autono-

mous thinking and critical evaluation, as well as

personal responsibility and capacity of decision-

making. Projects conducted during the period

of studies are, as a rule, a continuation of a wider

research programme of the research group. The

students may select from basic scientific pro-

grammes, such as: genome and gene expression

control, DNA replication, DNA repair and RNA

processing, studies on human viruses, molecular

biology, molecular genetics, experimental haema-

tology, and human gene therapy. Other projects in

which the students may conduct research work fall

within the fields of bacteriology and yeast genet-

ics, protein structure and bioinformatics, as well as

plant virology and bacteriology.

41

The students acquire general competences in vari-

ous fields of molecular biology and biotechnology,

such as: molecular immunology; RNA processing,

translation and transcription; DNA replication,

recombination and repair, proteomics, bacteriol-

ogy, yeast genetics, molecular pathology, virol-

ogy, protein structure and bioinformatics. Applied

knowledge and skills (including communication

and data analysis) are complemented by research

competences and laboratory practice.

Doctoral studies at the University of Nova Gorica

not only lead to the doctoral dissertation, but con-

stitute a training period that is essential to gener-

ate highly qualified researchers. The doctoral study

in Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology enables

the students to strengthen their knowledge in

specific research areas and become researchers

with an in-depth understanding of the subject of

interest and the capacity to translate their knowl-

edge into practice as well as to interpret and criti-

cally evaluate data and results.

Virus and Cancer Travelling ofthe papillomavirus HPV-16 pseudovirions (VLPs – in green) from cellular membrane, through

early endosomes (EEA1) and toward lysosomes (LAMP2). Photo M. Bergant

42

Doctoral Study Programme LINGUISTICS (Third Level)

Programme director: Prof. Dr. Arthur Stepanov

Modern linguistics is a rigorous scientific study of

cognitive processes in the human brain related

to the production and understanding of natural

language utterances. Investigation into these

processes allows us to answer scientific ques-

tions about the nature of mind/brain activity (e.g.

what is the knowledge of language and how is

it reflected in the mind/brain?). It also provides

knowledge for highly practical purposes like de-

signing intelligent machines understanding and

interacting in natural language, developing a

cure for patients suffering from various kinds of

linguistic impairments or setting up better lan-

guage teaching practices. On 1 October 2010 the

University of Nova Gorica launched a three-year

doctoral study programme Linguistics, which is

the first of its kind in Slovenia. It is aimed at pre-

paring high-quality experts in the cognitive study

of language in the Balkan and Central European

region.

The programme provides students with solid edu-

cation and training in the core areas of formal lin-

guistic theory: syntax, semantics and phonology in

the framework of generative grammar. The curric-

ulum consists of required coursework, in addition

to writing and orally defending a doctoral disserta-

tion. PhD-level courses in the core areas are taught

by the programme faculty. The programme also

offers a selection of courses in the current trends

in phonology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, psy-

cho- and neurolinguistics, and computational lin-

guistics. These are taught by leading international

researchers and take the form of mini-courses.

From the very outset of their doctoral training,

the students are actively involved in research in

collaboration with the faculty members of the

programme. Linguists from other universities are

regularly invited to present their work at organ-

ised colloquia.

The programme is open to students from all coun-

tries. Prospective applicants should normally have

a background corresponding to an MA in Lin-

guistics or another field that has Linguistics in its

curriculum. Since the programme emphasises a

formal approach, we also encourage applications

from students in fields that use formal tools and

methods of analysis (e.g. mathematics, computer

science etc.), who have an interest in natural lan-

guage and its mental representation.

The language of instruction is English.

Laboratoriesand Centres

Laboratory for Environmental ResearchLaboratoy for Astroparticle PhysicsLaboratory of Organic Matter PhysicsLaboratory for Multiphase ProcessesMaterials Research LaboratoryLaboratory of Quantum OpticsCentre for Atmospheric ResearchCentre for Systems and Information TechnologiesWine Research CentreCentre for Biomedical Sciences and EngineeringResearch Centre for Humanities

44

Laboratory for ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH

Head: Prof. Dr. Mladen Franko

The Laboratory for Environmental Research conducts basic and applied research in different areas of

environmental sciences.

Basic ResearchIn the area of basic research, the activities of the

Laboratory are directed towards the investigation

of photochemical degradation of various organic

pollutants in aqueous environment as well as the

transport of pollutants, toxicity assessment of vari-

ous organic pollutants to selected non-target or-

ganisms in aqueous and terrestrial environment,

the development of laser-based and bioanalytical

methods for the identification and determination

of toxic compounds and their effects on the envi-

ronment, as well as the development and evalua-

tion of new materials for their application in envi-

ronmentally friendly technologies.

In the investigations of the photochemical deg-

radation of various pollutants (pesticides, phar-

maceuticals, personal care products and their

degradation, and transformation products) in the

environment, we are monitoring changes in con-

centrations of pollutants, possible transformations

and identifications of degradation products under

laboratory conditions with simulation of light at

different intensities and wavelengths. We monitor

the concentrations of pollutants after their appli-

cation in agricultural areas, swimming pools and

broader environment. In the last years we have

focused on investigating the stability of selected

UV filters, compounds, which absorb UV light and

are increasingly used for personal care as a conse-

quence of the growing awareness of the harmful

sun exposure and the increasing risk of skin cancer.

With the application of tracing methods, we moni-

tor the discharging of different pollutants into soil

layers and groundwaters.

We investigate the toxicity of different pollutants

(pesticides, pharmaceuticals, personal care prod-

ucts) towards selected non-target organisms (Vi-

brio Fischeri, Gammarus, Isopoda) in aquatic and

terrestrial environments and the applicability of

these organisms for the assessment of environ-

mental pollution with these compounds. The

effects of pesticides on isopods and gammarus

are investigated on the basis of changes in the

activity of enzymes, such as acetylcholinesterase,

Glutathion-S-transferase, energy reserves (lipids,

glycogen) and the lipid peroxidation level in inves-

tigated specimen.

45

Among the research achievements of great im-

portance, mention should be made of the newly

developed highly sensitive analytical methods

based on laser photothermal techniques, such as

thermal lens spectrometry (TLS), which are com-

bined with bioanalytical techniques (acetylcho-

linesterase, transglutaminase and immunological

ELISA biosensors), flow injection analysis (FIA) in

microfluidic systems, and liquid chromatography.

Different immobilised biomolecules such as en-

zymes and proteins are exploited for this purpose.

In addition, we are developing methods based on

microscopic TLS and photothermal beam deflec-

tion, which is used for the determination of op-

tical and thermal properties of nanostructured

thin films of semiconductors and photocatalysts.

Possibilities of replacing lasers in the developed

methods by broadband incoherent light sources

are currently being investigated. For this purpose,

new theoretical models have been developed,

describing the thermal lens effect under the ex-

citation by incoherent and non-Gaussian light

sources. Despite low-power excitation light (1

mW), the developed TLM method is ten times

more sensitive compared to the transmission

mode measurements. In addition to detection of

toxic compounds (organophosphate and carba-

mate pesticides, chromate, Ag nanoparticles and

ions, allergens, biogenic amines, cyanotoxins),

the developed methods are applied for the de-

tection of biologically active compounds such as

antioxidants (carotenoids, polyphenols and biliru-

bin). Carotenoids are subject to our investigations

concerning the decay of plankton cells during

the algal blooms. Similarly, we exploit pigments

such as allophycocyanin and phycoerythrin in

order to develop methods of detecting cyano-

bacteria and their presence in freshwaters. Highly

sensitive detection of bilirubin by TLS is utilised to

study the transport of antioxidants across the cel-

lular membrane and the role of transport proteins

in this process.

Part of the Laboratory’s activities is also devoted to

investigations into the synthesis of photocatalyti-

cally active thin films and powders, which are used

for the degradation of various organic pollutants

in water and air as well as for self-cleaning and an-

tibacterial purposes. The main component of the

photocatalytic system is the catalyst, a semicon-

ducting material, with titanium dioxide being the

most widely used one. As an advanced oxidation

method, photocatalytic oxidation of organic com-

pounds is applied to the decontamination of water

and air. It is also of great importance to monitor the

formation of by-products (with chromatographic

and spectroscopic methods) during the decon-

tamination process. Our laboratory is equipped

with photoreactors of different sizes for liquid and

gaseous-phase photocatalysis, in which the syn-

thesised materials are evaluated with respect to

their efficiency in water and air treatment. The effi-

ciency of the photocatalyst in water treatment can

be considerably enhanced by ozonation, resulting

in a synergistic effect. Regarding air depollution,

we are currently using a photoreactor system for

gas-phase photocatalysis with on-line GC-MS anal-

ysis, enabling reliable quantitative and qualitative

measurements of VOC photocatalytic degradation.

We also use our own advanced methodologies for

studying the activity of photocatalysts for the in-

activation of microorganisms such as bacteria Es-

cherichia coli. Different microplate-based viability

assays enable us to detect differences in photoca-

talysis-related antibacterial effects.

46

In the field of applied research we investigate the

possibilities of applying photothermal and bioana-

lytical techniques in biomedical diagnostics as well

as in food quality and safety control. In this regard,

novel analytical methods are applied as fast screen-

ing tests to determine the presence of biogenic

amines, indicators of poor hygienic conditions or

spoilage of food, or for the detection of allergens.

Another area of great application potential is self-

cleaning surfaces. We produce stable colloidal

solutions for depositing transparent TiO2-SiO2 na-

nostructured thin films on glass or other inorganic

substrates. After the evaporation of solvents a thin

Information:

Phone: +386 5 3315 368 | E-mail: [email protected] |

http://www.ung.si/en/

Applied Researchlayer with self-cleaning properties is retained on the

surface. Under sunlight this layer possesses, on the

one hand, photocatalytic activity that leads to the

degradation of organic dirt, such as soot, which is

degraded to carbon dioxide and, on the other hand,

superhydrophilicity, which allows inorganic dirt (like

sand) to be easily washed away by rain and avoids

the formation of drops (fogging). The layer remains

stable on the surface for years under outdoor condi-

tions. We also prepare highly efficient photocatalyt-

ic coatings on metallic and glass supports for their

application in air-cleaning devices and prototype

industrial water treatment reactors, according to

the demands of some companies. Additionally, we

collaborate in nanotoxicity assessments of products

containing nanoparticles.

In the framework of socio-environmental research,

nature protection is studied as a social and politi-

cal process. Research is conducted on several the-

matic areas, such as waste management, exploring

ecosystems, nature conservation and environmen-

tal impact assessment. The goals of these studies

are to achieve higher environmental awareness,

anthropogenic interactions with landscapes at

local, regional and international levels, and to en-

hance general knowledge about environmental

problems and sustainable natural resource utilisa-

tion and protection.

47

The basic research of the Laboratory is oriented to-

wards the fields of experimental astroparticle and

particle physics as well as theoretical astrophys-

ics and cosmology, and is focused on processes at

extreme energies and dimensions in nature. The

research is to a great extent pursued through large

international scientific collaborations.

Since 1999 our research activities in the field of as-

troparticle physics have been closely connected

with the Pierre Auger Collaboration, which explores

the existence of ultra-high energy cosmic rays

(UHECR). Their identities and sources are as yet un-

known, and, at the highest energies, less than one

particle per millennium hits a square kilometre of

the Earth’s surface, so the UHECR can only be de-

tected through their interaction with the Earth’s

atmosphere. In collision with molecules of air they

create extensive air showers of charged energetic

particles that almost simultaneously hit the ground,

covering an area of tens of square kilometres. To

detect them, the Pierre Auger Collaboration oper-

ates a vast UHECR observatory that stretches over

some 3000 square kilometres of pampa in Argen-

tina’s Mendoza province and is capable of measur-

ing incoming directions, rates and energies of the

UHECR. The most important result of the collabora-

tion so far has been the discovery of a high-energy

Laboratory for ASTROPARTICLE PHYSICS

Head: Prof. Dr. Danilo Zavrtanik

cut-off in the UHECR energy spectrum, which im-

plies that the UHECR lose energy along their path

through interactions with the microwave cosmic

background and, consequently, that their range in

space is limited. At present we are trying to pinpoint

possible astronomical sources to ultimately provide

an answer to fundamental questions about the

acceleration mechanism that drives the UHECR to

such enormous energies, as well as to determine

how to classify UHECR in terms of the known el-

ementary particles. Our Laboratory has made vis-

ible contributions to the implementation of the air

shower simulation algorithms, the development of

analysis software, studies of the angular resolution

of the surface detector, development and manage-

ment of atmospheric monitoring sites, as well as to

the analysis of the effect of the galactic magnetic

field on the UHECR trajectories. At present we are

also taking part in the development of the distrib-

uted GRID computing system for data analysis.

Since 1999 the Laboratory for Astroparticle Physics

has also been involved in a project with the Japa-

nese Centre for Accelerator Research (KEK) where

we have, within the framework of Belle and Belle2

collaborations, been investigating the differences

between properties of particles and anti-particles

called B mesons. Our results indicate a discrepancy

between measured and theoretically predicted

values of the so-called CP asymmetry, which may

be due to the existence of additional, yet undis-

Basic Research

48

Information:



covered CP-violating processes not present in the

standard model of elementary particle physics.

The search for such processes is crucial for the un-

derstanding of the evolution of the universe and

its current properties. Since 2011 we have been

participating in the NA61/SHINE experiment at

the European Center for Nuclear Research (CERN),

which is dedicated to the studies of hadron and

heavy ion collisions. This collaboration is particular-

ly valuable for our group as the NA61 results on the

interactions between hadrons at high energies can

be used to improve the identification of cosmic

rays at extreme energies, such as those detected

by the Pierre Auger observatory.

In the fields of theoretical astrophysics and cosmol-

ogy we are investigating the nature of space and

time both in the distant past when the universe

was recently formed and in the presence of black

holes. Black holes play an important role as a tool

to investigate physics in the limit of extreme energy

densities, and also in the astrophysical context as

the motor that drives many sources of high energy

particles in the universe. From the perspective of

fundamental physics in each of these situations,

we are investigating physics in a regime where

quantum (gravitational) effects often dominate the

classical gravitational effects that rule the motion of

our solar system and the physics of our sun. Such

studies can thus provide an insight into a more fun-

damental, and as yet undiscovered, theory of quan-

tum gravity. From the astrophysical point of view,

black holes are at the centre of many distant and ex-

tremely energetic formations, such as active galactic

nuclei, quasars, supernovae, and are thus very likely

an important part of acceleration mechanisms that

produce the UHECR observed by observatories like

Pierre Auger. Furthermore, microscopic black holes

(MBH) may also be formed in a collision between

the UHECR and the Earth’s atmosphere if the fun-

damental scale for gravitational interactions is de-

termined by physics in more than four dimensions

– a typical scenario in many contemporary models

for physics beyond the standard model. We are

investigating possible signatures that such MBHs

may leave in the observed particle showers that are

produced when the UHECR collide with the Earth’s

atmosphere. These theoretical studies are being car-

ried out in collaboration with the University of Bern

in Switzerland and with ICTP and SISSA in Italy.

In the scope of our research activities in astroparti-

cle physics and cosmology we are for the third con-

secutive time the organisers of Time and Matter, an

international scientific conference dedicated to the

study and elucidation of the concepts of time and

matter at all scales in nature. The last conference

took place in Venice, Italy, on 4–8 March 2013.

49

The Laboratory’s research activities focus on the

electronic properties of materials that may serve

as components of organic solar cells and organic

thin-layer transistors. Within this scope, a unique

method has been developed to measure the drift

velocity of charge carriers in thin-film organic sem-

iconductors and two-dimensional materials such

as graphene, while the research of thin-layer or-

ganic semiconductors is based on vacuum evapo-

ration and spin coating.

Morphology is studied with the use of atomic force

microscopy, which also allows us to perform the

characterisation of electronic properties of thin

layers, as it is equipped with a picoammeter for

measuring the currents between the microscope

tip, the sample and the lock-in amplifier for meas-

uring the electric field (Kelvin probe microscopy).

A state-of-the-art glovebox allows us to fabricate

organic-semiconductor-based devices and in-

cludes vacuum metallisation and in-situ optical

and electrical characterisation facilities.

The projects in the field of organic solar cells deal

with the optimisation and development of meth-

ods for the application of polymere blends to large

surfaces and comprise research on alternative ac-

ceptor materials as well as studies of stability of the

contacts between metal and organic semiconduc-

tors. Organic thin-layer transistors are studied in

terms of the development of electronic properties

by increasing the thickness of the layers. For this

Laboratory of ORGANIC MATTER PHYSICS

Head: Prof. Dr. Gvido Bratina

purpose, a special sample holder has been con-

structed, allowing us to measure the electric cur-

rents between two metal contacts during the pro-

cess of growth of organic semiconductor layers.

Studying graphene-based transistors also forms

an important part of our research activities. We

are responsible for charge carrier mobility meas-

urements in nanographene composites within

the European Science foundation-funded project

GOSPEL. Also related to the graphene properties

are our investigations of the initial growth stages

of organic semiconductors on graphene and the

transport of electric charge on graphene and gra-

phene materials.

Information:



50

Laboratory for MULTIPHASE PROCESSESHead: Prof. Dr. Božidar Šarler

Basic ResearchThe Laboratory conducts fundamental research

into the development of advanced numerical

methods for multiphase systems and the develop-

ment of physical models for solid-liquid processes.

The focus is on meshless methods for the simula-

tion of solid and fluid mechanics problems in the

presence of moving boundaries. The models are

developed within continuum mechanics, cellular

automata and phase field concepts. They involve

systems without phase change, like dispersions and

porous media, as well as systems with melting or

solidification and laminar or turbulent behaviour of

the liquid phase. The description of the processes

is coupled on different scales, from the microstruc-

ture evolution to the macroscopic transfer of mass,

energy, momentum and species. The Laboratory is

involved in the development of international test

cases for Stefan problems and in comparisons be-

tween numerical models and experiments. The re-

search is incorporated into numerous European, US

and Chinese research projects. The members of the

Laboratory have received numerous domestic and

international awards and recognitions.

Applied ResearchOur applied research is directed towards numerical

modelling of a wide variety of processes with me-

tallic, polymer or ceramic materials and their com-

posites. The principal interest is in the simulation

and optimisation of relations between the process

parameters and the product properties. Modelling is

based on physical models, coupled with artificial in-

telligence. Our focus is on development of through

process models for aluminium and steel industries.

The models are validated on the basis of infrared

thermography and other in-situ industrial measure-

ments. The models encompass casting, rolling, extru-

sion and heat treatment. The collaboration reflects

in improved regulation algorithms and a substantial

enhancement of product quality and process yield.

All related industrial process modifications and up-

grades are performed in close cooperation with

industrial research teams. We also started to numeri-

cally model multiphase processes in nature, like the

growth of stalagmites and stalactites in karst caves.

ExpertiseWe collaborate with numerous companies in sim-

ulation-supported development of new products

with higher knowledge, reduced environmental im-

pact, higher quality and more efficient production.Information: Phone: +386 5 3653 521 |

E-mail: [email protected] | http://www.ung.si/en/

51

MATERIALS RESEARCH laboratoryHead: Prof. Dr. Matjaž Valant

The Materials Research Laboratory covers research

topics in the fields of electronic and environmen-

tal materials. Both fields are complementary with

respect to types of materials (semiconducting ox-

ides) and physical effects (electron transfer).

Materials for electronics

Past experiences of our group members dealing

with electronic materials are incorporated into

new research projects in this broad research field.

Currently, we are running projects in the area of

multiferroics and magnetoelectric thin films. These

systems exhibit a coupled magnetic and dielectric

dipole ordering; i.e. they are concurrently (anti)

ferromagnetic and ferroelectric. These materials

will enable the development of a new generation

of electronic systems in the fields of information

technology, sensors, telecommunication, medi-

cine, transport etc. We are, furthermore, very active

in the research of electrocaloric materials (that can

also be considered environmental materials). Us-

ing a theoretical as well as experimental approach,

we focus on the development of systems with im-

proved cooling powers that will enable the devel-

opment of a solid state refrigerator without liquid

refrigerant, which will be environmentally very

friendly. From a standpoint of basic research, the

research of electronic materials is a highly interest-

ing and relevant topic. In addition, it has a high ap-

plied value and provides background knowledge

for the research of environmental materials. New

electronic materials are strategic materials for ad-

vanced information and telecommunication tech-

nologies. Our high international research reputa-

tion opens doors to collaboration with the most

prestigious international academic and industrial

laboratories.

52

The research of environmental materials has

gained an enormous global momentum with an

increasingly positive trend in funding. Environ-

mental topics are also a major research theme of

our university. Hence, we are pleased to contribute

to the sustainable growth. Currently, our research

focuses on photocatalytic materials for hydrogen

generation by water splitting. Water splitting is

an uphill reaction with a large positive change

in Gibbs free energy (237 kJ/mol). A potentially

attractive route to overcome a thermodynamic

potential required for water splitting is in the use

of photoelectrochemical cells with a photoactive

catalyst immersed in water. The key for achieving a

quantum efficiency of visible light over 10%, which

Information: Phone: +386 5 3653 521 |


is the limit for a commercial realisation of such a

system, is in further improvement of the existing

photocatalysts and/or development of new ma-

terials, which will efficiently exploit their unique

functional properties to achieve the targeted

catalytic activity. This involves the application of

the most recent progress in the science of mate-

rial interfaces. The main goal of our research work

is to develop new photocatalysts based on metal

oxides that will exhibit a better quantum efficiency

and photocorrosion resistivity. We intend to study

transition metal-oxide semiconductor materials

that, based on their unique structural character-

istics, represent a novelty in this type of research.

An intensive collaboration with Slovene and in-

ternational laboratories is of vital importance for

an excellent research work. We cooperate with a

majority of relevant Slovene research groups and,

particularly closely, with the University of Maribor,

a partner in our research programme “Heterogene-

ous photocatalytic processes: hydrogen produc-

tion, water and air purification”. We have strong

research links with Imperial College London, Uni-

versity of Sheffield, Queen Marry University (all

GB), University of Berkeley (USA), Kyoto Institute of

Technology (Japan), National Institute of Interdis-

ciplinary Science & Technology, Indian Institute of

Technology (both India) and others.

Materials for Environmental Technologies

53

Laboratory of QUANTUM OPTICS

Head: Prof. Dr. Giovanni De Ninno

Matter characterisation methods based on the use

of light sources allow us to obtain enhanced infor-

mation on interactions occurring at atomic level.

Such information is, in turn, fundamental for many

technological applications, as well as for a large va-

riety of studies relevant to basic research. Applied

and theoretical research aimed at developing new

quantum light sources (QLSs) is also in itself a very

reach field of study. This includes: the study of prin-

ciples at the base of light generation, the develop-

ment of new technologies relevant to source im-

plementation, and the attempt to shed light on the

mechanism on which the interaction between light

and matter is based.

Centres relying on the development and use of

QLSs are at the junction between basic science,

state-of-the art technology, high-level education

and training and business sectors.

At the University of Nova Gorica a new centre

will be created on the basis of the project CITIUS,

co-funded by the Cross-Border Cooperation Pro-

gramme between Italy and Slovenia 2007–2013.

The project strongly relies on the collaboration

between the University of Nova Gorica and Sincro-

trone Trieste. The working principle of the CITIUS

QLS relies on the generation of the high-order

harmonics (HHG) of a powerful “seed” laser, after

the interaction of the latter with a gas jet of noble

atoms. The use of light generated by CITIUS will

allow us to carry out a number of cutting-edge

experiments, ranging from material study (both in

solid- and gas-phase conditions) to medicine and

biology. One of the aims of these experiments is

to understand the working principle of Phthalo-

cyanines, macrocyclic compounds currently used

for photodynamic cancer therapy.

The CITIUS development will be also propaedeutic

to that of the single-pass free-electron laser FERMI@

Elettra, presently under commissioning at Sincro-

trone Trieste. Indeed, the two light sources work

within a similar wavelength range (even though the

number of photons per pulse generated by FERMI@

Elettra is significantly higher). At the moment, FER-

MI@Elettra is able to generate photons in the tuna-

ble range between 60 nm and 20 nm (FEL-1 phase).

Starting from next year, FERMI@Elettra will attempt

to generate photons in the spectral range between

20 nm and 4 nm (FEL-2 phase).

The new research group at the University of Nova

Gorica will carry out joint experiments with the

team working at FERMI@Elettra.

The activity of the new group will also concentrate

on the study of long-range interacting systems.

The characterisation of new materials with synchro-

tron radiation is mainly dedicated to the analysis of

the atomic and molecular structure of new materi-

als with X-ray absorption methods EXAFS (Extended

X-Ray Absorption Fine Structure) and XANES (X-Ray

Absorption near Edge Structure). The measure-

ments are performed at the synchrotron radiation

facilities of HASYLAB at DESY in Hamburg, ESRF in

Grenoble, and at ELETTRA Sincrotrone in Trieste.

The analysis can be applied to crystalline, nano-

structured or amorphous materials, liquids, molecu-

54

lar gases, and even to molecular complexes in differ-

ent plant tissues on sub-cell level. EXAFS is often the

only convenient way to study the arrangement of

atoms in materials without long-range order, where

traditional diffraction techniques cannot be used.

We collaborate with several Slovene and foreign

material science, physics, chemistry, biology, phar-

macology, and environmental research labora-

tories as well as institutes for the preservation of

cultural heritage. In this way we provide partner

laboratories with access to the advanced technol-

ogy for material characterisation with synchrotron

light. So far we have contributed to the develop-

ment of several technologically important materi-

als, e.g. microporous catalysts, cathode materials

for Li-ion batteries and other nanostructured ma-

terials, superconducting and ferroelectric ceram-


ics, protective coatings, and macromolecules used

in pharmacology. We are actively involved in the

development of new solutions for environmental

protection in cases of heavy metal pollution, and

in a project for the preservation of ancient manu-

scripts. At the same time, we are performing an

experimental study of multielectron photoexcita-

tions in free and bound atoms to obtain informa-

tion on the collective motion of electrons in the

atomic system. Our results have provided a signifi-

cant experimental and theoretical contribution to

the interpretation of the exact atomic absorption

background in EXAFS spectra and thereby helped

improve the accuracy of the structural analysis

with this method.

55

Centre for ATMOSPHERIC RESEARCH

Head: Prof. Dr. Samo Stanič

With the increasing industrialisation, human activi-

ties tend to have a major impact on the environ-

ment, including the Earth’s atmosphere. Increased

concentrations of greenhouse gases and sulphate

aerosols are responsible for a general decrease in

the quality of life and can in extreme cases even

pose a direct health hazard. Furthermore, aerosol

emissions alter the energy balance of the Earth’s

surface, an important factor that may initiate long-

term climate changes and an increase in the oc-

Basic ResearchMeasurements of aerosol transport in the tropo-

sphere are being conducted with the use of a Mie

lidar system at the Otlica observatory (965 m above

sea level) and a mobile lidar capable of identifying

aerosols of biological origin through the fluores-

cence of the amino-acid tryptophan. The Otlica

Mie lidar provides information on optical proper-

ties of the troposphere above the Vipava Valley, the

Karst Plateau and the Gulf of Trieste up to the dis-

tances of about 40 km from the lidar site, based on

which the areas with increased aerosol concentra-

tions can be identified. Further information regard-

ing aerosol origin and microscopic properties can

be obtained by the use of meteorological models

for the backtracking of their transport trajectories.

Using the mobile lidar, we also investigate the

currence of extreme weather conditions, not only

causing material damage but also claiming human

lives. The necessity for a deeper understanding of

atmospheric processes, especially those related to

aerosols, led in 2004 to the establishment of the

Centre for Atmospheric Research at the University of

Nova Gorica. Our research activities include remote

sensing and studying tropospheric and ionospheric

processes, as well as assessing environmental vul-

nerability to natural disasters, particularly drought.

processes in the planetary boundary layer above

urban areas, including the identification of aerosol

sources and daily cycles of aerosol loading due to

human activities. Recently performed campaigns

include measurements of urban aerosols in Nova

Gorica and Ljubljana in 2012. Since 2011, we have

also been performing remote sensing measure-

ments of water vapour content with the use of our

Raman lidar system at Otlica and GPS ionospheric

monitors at Nova Gorica and Ajdovščina. Tropo-

spheric research is being performed in close col-

laboration with the Environmental Agency of the

Republic of Slovenia.

A part of the Centre’s research activities is focused

on the study of the ionosphere. An important

ionospheric effect is dynamic irregularities in the

56

electron plasma density. They strongly influence

communications between satellites and ground

receivers, as a radio wave propagating through

drifting irregularities experiences irregular fluctua-

tions in both its amplitude and phase. The char-

acteristics of these fluctuations, known as scintil-

lations, depend on the wavelength, the current

magnetic and solar activity, the time of day, the

season of the year and the magnetic latitude of the

observation point. Scintillations are responsible for

signal degradation as well as the disruption of sat-

ellite navigation services, such as GPS and Galileo.

Remote sensing of electron density irregularities is

crucial for the understanding of fundamental pro-

cesses behind scintillations in navigation signals

and will provide important feedback for the per-

formance improvement of GPS ground receivers.

Of particular interest are small-scale irregularities

in the electron plasma density at high magnetic

latitudes. The Centre is also actively involved in

the ionospheric studies in Brazil within the FP7

CALIBRA project. The study of plasma density fluc-

tuations in the lower ionosphere is also conducted

using the propagation of very low frequency radio

waves from ground-based transmitters and their

simultaneous detection by several receivers. From

the comparison of the signals received at different

locations we can reconstruct electron plasma den-

sity profiles and predict solar flares.

57


Since 2005 standard meteorological and environ-

mental measurements have been continuously

performed by the atmospheric observatory at

Otlica, which is a node in the national network for

environmental monitoring operated by the Envi-

ronmental Agency of the Republic of Slovenia. By

providing lidar-based remote sensing data for a

number of atmospheric processes, which are either

inaccessible or complementary to those obtained

from other monitoring sites, the Centre for Atmos-

pheric Research actively participates in broadening

of the scope of atmospheric monitoring activities

in Slovenia. The Centre is also involved in drought

impact and drought-related risk assessment in agri-

culture as a part of the development of strategies for

adapting to climate change in Slovenia.

Applied Research

20:00 02:00 08:00 14:00 20:00 02:00 08:00 14:00 20:00 02:00 08:00 14:00

Arb

. Uni

ts

5

4.5

4

3.5

3

2.5

2

1.5

1

0.5

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

0

Alti

tude

[km

]

Time (18/06/2012~21/06/2012)

Temporal development of aerosol loading over Nova Gorica from 18 to 21 June 2012 in terms of atmospheric extinction.

High extinction values at the altitude of 4 km denote the arrival of air masses carrying Saharan dust.

58

the Centre use an innovative approach based on

rare terms to analyse large textual databases and

search for new connections. In the field of bio-

medicine, the Centre is primarily involved in the

analysis of autism and related conditions. Research

is also conducted in the field of sustainable de-

velopment of protected areas and environmental

education by multi-criteria modelling.

Other research areas include:

integration of computer applications and meth-

ods to support decision-making and data min-

ing processes,

applications of knowledge technologies in

medicine and health care,

data processing methodologies and tools for

education and research in information society,

mathematical modelling and use of automatic

control of dynamic systems,

optimisation of production procedures and pro-

cesses,

sustainable innovation systems and their perfor-

mance in companies,

knowledge management in networked organi-

sations.

Centre for SYSTEMS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES

Head: Doc. Dr. Ingrid Petrič

The Centre was established in March 2007 with

the aim of integrating researchers in the fields of

systems and information technologies. Its activities

concentrate mainly on:

information technologies for supporting activi-

ties in medicine, public health system and envi-

ronmental sciences,

theory of systems and control,

design and optimisation of systems and opera-

tions.

The Centre for Systems and Information Technolo-

gies has six regularly employed and four associate

workers. Most of the staff takes part or closely co-

operates in R&D projects at other institutions (Jožef

Stefan Institute, Iskra Impuls d.o.o.). Some of them

have obtained substantial experience working at in-

ternational research institutions, such as: University

of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, Technical

University in Prague, Czech Republic, University of

Glasgow, Great Britain, Hamilton Institute at the Na-

tional University of Ireland, and many others.

Currently, the Centre’s work is concentrated on

analysing large textual databases to generate new

hypotheses for explaining complex, not yet suf-

ficiently understood phenomena in the field of

biomedicine. The methods and tools developed at


E-mail: [email protected]

59

WINE RESEARCH Centre

Head: Doc. Dr. Lorena Butinar

The Wine Research Centre at the University of Nova

Gorica has been operating since November 2008.

The establishment of the Centre brought together

researchers connected with the fields of viticulture,

enology and wine marketing and led to the

collective implementation of common research

activities. Located in the middle of the wine-

growing region, the Centre is strongly connected

with local winegrowers and winemakers. The

experts of the Wine Research Centre have excellent

research skills as well as practical knowledge. One

of the main goals of the new Centre is also the

establishment of active cooperation with similar

institutions abroad.

The research work and plans of the newly

established Centre are mainly focused on applied

and expert activities in the following fields: analyses

of grape and wine secondary metabolites; analyses

of various plant origin samples; optimisation of

viticulture technologies in accordance with wine

quality; optimisation of wine-making technologies

in correlation with wine composition and wine

sensory characteristics; microbiology of vines,

grapes and wine; grape and yeast metabolomics;

as well as economics and wine marketing.


60

Centre for BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES AND ENGINEERING

Head: Prof. Dr. Tanja Dominko

The Centre for Biomedical Sciences and Engineer-

ing was established in 2012, bringing together

researchers previously engaged in the Laboratory

for Environmental Research with researchers that

have recently joined the University of Nova Gorica,

with the main goal of forming a cohesive research

group focused on biomedical sciences. The group

has developed several research priority areas

which together focus on our common interest – to

jointly explore modern technologies in biomedi-

cine, nanotechnology and engineering to develop

new solutions to improve the quality of the aging

process. The Centre is housed in the Lanthieri Man-

sion in Vipava.

The Centre combines research activities in neurobi-

ology, molecular biology, protein characterisation,

toxicology, nanostructured biomaterials, as well as

in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

The Centre conducts its activities in close collabora-

tion with national and international initiatives work-

ing on aging-related degenerative pathologies – re-

search and clinic-oriented, and with the main focus

on the efficient translation of research discoveries

into clinical applications. It also actively collaborates

with Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), USA,

Curie Institute Paris France, International Center for

Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Tri-

este, Italy, International School for Advanced Studies

(SISSA), Trieste, Italy, and Optical Manipulation Labo-

ratory (CNR-IOM), Trieste, Italy.

Ageing has a significant social and economic im-

pact on the society, since longer life expectancy

is not associated with an acceptable health and

life quality. The main goal is therefore to find new

strategies to improve the health condition of

older adults, minimising their diseases, disabili-

ties, pain and discomfort. The Centre will tackle

one of the most important challenges in biology

today, namely: Why are cells and tissues aging

and which molecular mechanisms are driving the

transition from a healthy to a pathological state?

New discoveries in stem cell biology, together

with the advances in biomaterial development

are the major milestones in regenerative medi-

cine, with the final goal to fully restore functional-

ity of damaged tissues.

Research activities focus on the following topics:

Molecular mechanisms of cell aging and disease

We are investigating molecular and cellular

mechanisms of normal cellular senescence in

order to better understand molecular processes

that underlie the transition from normal ageing

to pathological and disabling ageing, including

degenerative disorders. In addition to normal bio-

logical progression of aging, lifelong exposure to

different environmental factors has cumulative ef-

fects, often causing premature tissue ageing and

disease. Our aim is to study at the cellular level the

mechanisms that trigger the onset of disease. We

61

will introduce high-throughput molecular imag-

ing and advanced molecular-biology techniques

for high-throughput analyses, which in combina-

tion with pharmacological approaches represents

a technological milestone in biology, molecular

toxicology and nanotoxicology. In collaboration

with the Wine Research Centre, we identify novel

compounds in wine with anti-aging properties.

Cellular aging and epigenetics

Aging and disease

Immunology and cancer

Antioxidants and aging

Modulation of pain

Degenerative disease

Aging is a normal process that leads to cellular

senescence and diminished tissue function. How-

ever, exposure to chemical toxic compounds and

their accumulation, and oxidative stress can accel-

erate the aging process and lead to cell degenera-

tion and disease. We are investigating the effects

that toxic compounds and oxidative stress exert

on cells in order to develop strategies to protect

the cells and minimise the damage. In collabora-

tion with the Laboratory for Environmental Re-

search we are developing cell-based assays for

the evaluation of cytotoxicity. We are particularly

interested in the cellular response to different pes-

ticides, especially on the neurological level. Our

studies in neurobiology are focused on molecular

and cellular mechanisms coordinating intracellular

transfer of pain signals.

In collaboration with the Curie Institute Paris

France, the group is developing recombinant anti-

body technology and will apply it to different bio-

logical fields, such as cancer research and therapy,

diagnosis of pathogenic bacteria, and identifica-

tion of drought markers in forest plants and char-

acterisation of harmful microalgae. Collaborations

have been already established with scientific and

62


industrial partners interested in the opportunities

offered by our approach.

Cardiovascular protection

Neuroprotection

Immunomodulation

Cytotoxicity

Regenerative medicine and stem cells

Regenerative medicine is based on the use of

advanced medical technologies and scientific

approaches for the treatment of dysfunctions,

disorders and diseases associated with aging.

The majority of diseases in adults are linked to

the degenerative processes of aging. We explore

novel approaches for the replacement of tissue

functionality based on stem cells and induced re-

generation – competent cells, as well as on stimu-

lation of endogenous tissue self-regeneration.

Cell transplantation

Endogenous regeneration

Selective removal of diseased/aged cells

Tissue Engineering

Novel biocompatible nanomaterials are being

developed in collaboration with the Materials

Research Laboratory that are useful for drug de-

livery, help regeneration and repair, and serve as

models for studying disease progression. Primar-

ily, we focus on the three-dimensional cell culture,

which mimics the natural environment within an

organism and strongly influences cell character-

istics and functionality. We introduce a variety of

biological and synthetic scaffolds, bioengineering

technologies for dynamic cell culturing as well

as automated cell culture systems and analyses.

Established collections of cell cultures and three-

dimensional models will enable the testing of var-

ious chemical and biological substances for their

therapeutic, toxic or other effects on cell develop-

ment and functionality. We are collaborating with

the Centre for Systems and Information Technolo-

gies and the Laboratory for Multiphase Processes

in the development of computational models for

biomedical research.

Smart cells for drug delivery

Smart nanomaterials for controlled drug release

and cell delivery

Cell-informed materials

63

Research Centre for HUMANITIES

Head: Doc. Dr. Rok Žaucer

The work of the Research Centre for Humanities

falls into two main streams: language and cognitive science literary studies

Language and Cognitive Science

Our language and cognitive science group works

mostly in formal generative linguistics (especially

syntax, semantics and morphology), although our

research also extends to other cognitive-science

disciplines related to language, in particular psy-

cholinguistics and language acquisition. Members

of the group are closely connected with linguists

and cognitive scientists from Slovene and foreign

research institutions (University College London,

Universität Konstanz, University of California, San

Diego, University of Patras, etc.).

In addition to three standard Slovenian Research

Agency-funded projects and an externally-funded

applied project that individual members of our

group are currently involved in, we pursue our

group research agenda in the scope of the Sloveni-

an Research Agency-funded research programme

Theoretical and experimental linguistics (P6-0382).

Alongside their research endeavours, our mem-

bers are also engaged pedagogically as instructors

of various courses in the Bachelor’s programme

Slovene Studies and the Master’s programme SL

Studies – Linguistics at the University of Nova Gori-

ca’s School of Humanities, as well as in the doctoral

programme Linguistics at the University of Nova

Gorica’s Graduate School.

Basic research topics of the language and cogni-

tive science group have recently included: research on theoretically relevant characteristics

of various languages (e.g. status of syntactic is-

lands, syntax and semantics of the noun phrase,

resultative secondary predication, left periphery,

semantics of vagueness, superlatives, etc.) analysis of theoretically relevant features of col-

loquial and dialectal varieties of Slovene (e.g.

clitic doubling, case-suffix doubling, competing

agreement patterns) – in contrast to traditional

Slovene linguistics, which investigates structural

aspects only on standard Slovene and settles for

64

Literary Studies

Our literary studies group focuses primarily on four

areas of research. The first one is related to the Eu-

ropean Cooperation in Science and Technology

(COST) action “Women writers in history”, which

aims to stimulate European researchers’ collabora-

tion in the field of European women literary his-

tory. In literary history, women writers have often

been overlooked, which is why this COST action

attempts to stress their presence in history and lit-

erature. Their texts are being reanalysed, relations

between women writers from various European

countries are being examined, and their reception

investigated. The newly gathered data are entered

into the Women Writers Database, which allows a

reevaluation of the role of women writers in Euro-

pean literary history.

Our second focus is tightly linked to our location

– it constitutes literature written in the borderland

area of Slovenia and Italy, and more generally, of

the Slavic- and Romance-speaking worlds. We in-

vestigate various aspects of the so-called literature

in the borderlands, such as images of the Other,

literary influence, literary contacts and translations,

intercultural relations, migrations, etc.

Our third area of research focuses on Classical An-

tiquity motifs and their transformation in Slovene

literature, and the fourth on the relation between

literature and new media from the perspective of

the recent changes in European spiritual history. In

this context we also study the fast-growing field of

digital humanities, which uses quantitative meth-

ods to address traditional questions of literary

studies and the humanities in general, and survey

the work of Slovene and international new-media

authors, in particular their attitude towards the

language-based varieties of new media art (the

data collection/archiving in the context of col-

loquial and dialectal varieties psycholinguistic testing of theoretical models

(testing of linguistic models of the grammar

of agreement, experiments on recursion and

hierarchy as the central characteristics of hu-

man language knowledge, testing the correla-

tion between general cognitive abilities and

language through an investigation of the link

between children’s acquisition of mathematical

number and grammatical number)

Applied work of the language and cognitive sci-

ence group has recently included: studies providing government bodies (e.g. the

Ministry of Culture’s Department for Slovene

Language) with support in the preparation of

new regulations and language-policy measures

by investigating the effects of current regula-

tions on public language use, the efficiency of

the principles of determination of domestic/for-

eign status in vocabulary, the language policy in

higher education and science, etc. language consulting services for the Slovene

minority in Italy (financing: Slov.I.K. (Italy), within

the EU-funded project JezikLingua) participation in a European linguistics consorti-

um for the preparation of evaluation guidelines

for theoretical and experimental linguistics in

European Framework research funding pro-

grammes

65

Information:



language of visual arts, conceptual art, new media

semiotics, sound, etc.).

In addition to three standard Slovenian Research

Agency-funded projects that our group is current-

ly involved in and three Slovenian Research Agen-

cy-funded PhD research projects, our research is

conducted within the Slovenian Research Agency-

funded research programme Collective memory

and cultural dynamics (P6-0347). Alongside their

research pursuits, our members are also engaged

pedagogically as instructors of various courses in

the Bachelor’s programme Slovene Studies and

the Master’s programme SL Studies – Literary Sci-

ence at the University of Nova Gorica’s School of

Humanities.

Basic research topics of the literary studies group

have recently included: the role of women writers in history and a

reinterpretation of the European literary culture literature in the borderlands the transformation of Classical Antiquity motifs

in 19th- and 20th-century Slovenian literature new media art

Other Activities

University LibraryPublisherStudent Offi ceInternational Offi ceCareer CentreAlumni ClubIndustrial Liaison Offi ceScientifi c Evenings

67

University Library

Head: Vanesa Valentinčič Murovec

The University Library of the University of Nova

Gorica was established in April 1998 and has

hitherto been the only university library in the

entire Northern Primorska region. The library is

a full member of the Slovenian Cooperative On-

line Bibliographic System and Services – COBISS,

which contains all bibliographical data on the li-

brary’s holdings. It is open to all University’s stu-

dents and members of the teaching staff, as well

as other visitors interested in the library’s holdings.

Library members are able to check, reserve and

renew the material online. The library catalogue

(COBISS/OPAC) is available at: http://www.ung.

si/en/library/. The said site also offers important

information about the library as well as links to

e-publications, databases, new materials, etc. The

library is open 7 to 10 hours per day and 47 hours

per week, respectively. Its collection primarily cov-

ers the fields of ecology, physics, chemistry, math-

ematics, biology, economy, Slovene studies and

viticulture. Currently, it catalogues approximately

15,500 monograph titles, 150 periodical titles, 410

items of non-book materials (mainly CD-ROMs)

and e-editions of scientific journals that are acces-

sible via digital collections, such as ScienceDirect,

Springer Link, APS Journals, JSTOR, CAB abstracts,

FSTA, ACS Publications, MathSciNet, EIFL Direct

databases EBSCO-host. Our users also have access

to databases, such as Web of Science etc. The bulk

of the library’s holdings is sorted by fields and is

freely accessible. In the first place, the library pro-

vides literature required for educational and re-

search purposes. Apart from loaning books, it also

enables online search from publicly accessible da-

tabases, as well as provides materials from other

libraries through interlibrary loan. Visitors are free

to use the library’s reading room (28 seats), com-

puter room (8 computers) and the possibility of

wireless internet connection. Another important

task of the library is managing bibliographies of

researchers and teachers working at the Univer-

sity of Nova Gorica.



68

Publisher

Head: Mirjana Frelih

The specifi c nature of the study and research

programmes at the University of Nova Gorica has

created the need for this institution to publish its

own books. Because the existing literature does

not cover all the topics and views of scientifi c and

educational work, the University of Nova Gorica

has launched its own publishing activity with the

aim of providing our students, teachers and re-

searchers with high-quality scholarly and profes-

sional literature that will meet the requirements of

individual study courses and research activities by

taking into account the latest scientifi c achieve-

ments. Book publishing includes textbooks and

other study materials, as well as professional and

scientifi c works. The publishing activity is gov-

erned by the Rules of Publishing and controlled by

the Publishing Commission. Published works can

be purchased at the University Library of University

of Nova Gorica or online by visiting the University

publisher’s web site: http://www.ung.si/en/pub-

lisher/, which also off ers all information about the

available materials.


69

Student Office

Head: Renata Kop

The Student Office of the University of Nova Gorica

was established in 2002 and it serves both under-

graduate and postgraduate students as well as

those seeking information regarding the studies at

our institution.

Here, the students are issued confirmations of

enrolment, confirmations of passed exams, and

exam grades.

The Student Office offers information regarding

enrolment, conditions for enrolment and aca-

demic programmes, as well as other information

concerning studies at the University of Nova

Gorica.

We also work with candidates who have a foreign

certificate of academic achievements and wish to

continue their education in the Republic of Slove-

nia. . The Student Office carries out a decision of

acknowledging their right for further education

at university or higher education specialist study

programmes.


70

International Offi ce

Head: Sabina Zelinšček

The main purpose of the International Offi ce is to

organise and manage international activities and

international projects at the University of Nova

Gorica.

The International Offi ce cooperates with the Uni-

versity’s schools, laboratories and centres and

provides them administrative support during the

process of preparing project proposals, as well as

during the process of project implementation. At

the same time, it is responsible for the establish-

ment and strengthening of some cooperation ties

with foreign institutions and fostering integration

into various international networks.

The International Offi ce promotes and facilitates

international cooperation for students, teachers

and other staff by coordinating exchange pro-

grammes, and provides information on a variety

of possibilities. The Offi ce also off ers support to

the international students at the University of

Nova Gorica.

Information: Phone: +386 5 3315 257 | E-mail: international.offi [email protected] | http://www.ung.si/en/

71

Career Centre

Head: Mag. Jasmina Jakomin

The Career Centre of the University of Nova Gorica

was established in the academic year 2010/2011.

It is a novelty in the field of career counselling for

prospective and current students, as well as alum-

ni. One of the main tasks of the Career Centre is

to raise awareness among the students about the

importance of early and accurate career planning

and lifelong learning. It also aims to strengthen

ties between the University and the labour market,

and encourages the promotion of graduate pro-

grammes of the University of Nova Gorica.

The Career Centre offers advice to prospective

students by guiding them through the selection

of study programmes. One of the most important

segments of our work is to help direct the profes-

sional interest of the current students and graduates

through consultations on study, career develop-

ment and career planning, and other job search-

related activities (CV and cover letter reviews, tuto-

rials, etc.). Another important activity is informing

the students about the possibilities of formal and

informal acquisition of competences, scholarships

and job opportunities at home and abroad.

As part of the activities of the Career Centre, we

organise courses and workshops, with the purpose

of strengthening employment skills and compe-

tences of our students and graduates to prepare

them for a successful entry into the labour mar-

ket. Another important part of the Career Centre’s

activities is working with employees by assisting

them in the process of practical training and pub-

lishing information about vacancies on the Career

Centre’s webpage, as well as helping employers

in the recruitment process, etc. We also prepare

events where young job seekers can directly con-

tact employers.


72

Alumni Club

Head: Nives Štefančič

The Alumni Club of the University of Nova Gorica

was established in 2004. It brings together gradu-

ates of all generations of undergraduate and

graduate programmes and all individuals who

contributed to the development of the University

of Nova Gorica.

We are aware that successful graduates are the

best promoters of the University of Nova Gorica.

Therefore, through its Alumni Club, the University

offers support and useful information in building

their careers. The Alumni Club conducts various

activities to maintain links between graduates

and their links with the University. We wish that

the graduates stay in touch with our faculties and

schools, tutors, lecturers and classmates. Once a

year we organise an Alumni reunion as an oppor-

tunity for them to come back to the University,


acquire new knowledge through lifelong learn-

ing, as well as maintain the existing and build

new social and business relationships.

Our next task is to set up an Alumni Club website

and database that will enable graduates to find

their classmates, acquaintances from the years

of study and all other members of the Alumni

Club of the University of Nova Gorica. The main

purpose is to create the conditions to look for

common interests, participate in projects and

facilitate new business and career opportunities.

Membership in the Alumni Club is voluntary and

non-binding, but is often very pleasant and help-

ful. If you want to become more active in the

Alumni Club, do not hesitate to contact us and

become involved in the events today.

73

Industrial Liaison Office

Head: Uroš Ferjančič

The University of Nova Gorica established ILO – In-

dustrial Liaison Office in January 2013 to manage

the Technology Transfer and promote the use of

the University’s capacities in industrial applica-

tions and researches. ILO seeks to facilitate the

transfer of knowledge in the regional and inter-

national environment. Transfer can be achieved

with the exchange of knowledge and expertise,

establishment of business networks, as well as by

participating in international activities, primarily in

the industrial sector.

At the University of Nova Gorica there are currently

six operating professional laboratories and five

centres. In all these years of research, the Univer-

sity of Nova Gorica created a significant amount

of Intellectual Property in the form of knowledge,

services, patents and products, which have already

been realised or will be realised in the future. The

already formed Intellectual Property is ready to be

verified, assessed, evaluated and offered to appro-

priate business partners interested in its purchase

or presented to potential partners seeking oppor-

tunities for cooperation.

ILO can offer to innovative companies from Slove-

nia and abroad support for the majority of research

and services in the areas of nanomaterials, environ-

mental materials, winemaking and biomedicine.

An important area of cooperation between the

University of Nova Gorica and the businesses sector

is a joint participation in national and international

development-oriented tenders and research in the

fields of high technology. Cooperation between

the academic and business sector significantly

raises the possibility to win tender funds.


74

Scientific Evenings

Throughout the academic year, the University of

Nova Gorica invites distinguished scientists from

Slovenia and abroad to present their scientific

achievements at the so called Scientific Evenings.

These events are aimed at the general public and

their goal is to promote science and help the audi-

ence understand scientific thought. Lectures, given

by prominent Slovene or foreign scientists or entre-

preneurs, are followed by a guided discussion. In an

effort to promote science in a most effective man-

ner, Scientific Evenings, which take place at the Lan-

thieri Mansion in Vipava, six to eight times a year, are

also broadcast by a television company. The lectures

cover various topics in the fields of natural sciences,

engineering, environmental sciences, medicine, as

well as the humanities and social sciences. As such,

they attract a wide range of audiences – from stu-

dents, scholars of the University of Nova Gorica and

other professionals to general public.

Further information on the lectures can be found in

daily print media or on online at:

http:// www.ung.si/en/research/.


75

Founder and Co-Founder

University of Nova Gorica FoundationPrimorska Technology Park

76

University of Nova Gorica Foundation

President of the Managing Board: Prof. Dr. Danilo Zavrtanik

The University of Nova Gorica Foundation is a

non-profi t organisation whose principal aim is to

provide fi nancial means and other types of sup-

port to help carry out the ongoing activities and

to ensure the further development of the Univer-

sity of Nova Gorica.

In accordance with the purpose of its establish-

ment, the Foundation sees to the acquisition and

upgrading of research equipment and infrastruc-

ture, to the provision of high-quality training of

higher education teachers and mentors, as well

as to the development of new study and research

programmes that are indispensable for achieving

social, economic, technological, scientifi c and cul-

tural progress.

The Foundation builds and strengthens the links be-

tween the University of Nova Gorica and the econ-

omy. To this end, it provides the means necessary

for the development of innovative activities and

technology centres, as well as the transfer of the ac-

quired knowledge, experience and latest technolo-

gies into practice. Part of the Foundation’s funds are

intended to support promising undergraduate and

graduate students with scholarships and promote

the University’s publishing activities that enable

the students to gain academic knowledge and the

University’s faculty to perform their everyday work.

Finally, the Foundation also sees to the promotion

and international recognition of the University of

Nova Gorica both in Slovenia and abroad.

To meet the set objectives, the Foundation collects

fi nancial and material funds, works of art, shares,

property and material rights, as well as any other

tangible assets that may be of great value. The

Foundation’s capital is not expended; in accord-

ance with its professional guidelines and purposes,

the scholarship, grant and investment funds are al-

located exclusively from the returns on the accu-

mulated assets.

(Podpis zavezanca)

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CM

MY

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CMY

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FUNG_dohodnina_curv.pdf 1 12/21/12 8:18 AM

77

The funds of the University of Nova Gorica

Foundation: Fund for Talented Students “Edvard Rusjan” Fund for Development of New Study Pro-

grammes Fund for Research Financing Fund for Infrastructure Development Fund for Cancer Research “Zavrtanik” Golden

and silver donors may create and name their

own earmarked funds.

Activities of the Foundation in 2012

In this year F:UNG was professionalised with an ex-

ecutive director whose tasks include fundraising,

popularisation of UNG, dissemination of the aware-

ness of the need for philanthropy in higher educa-

tion and searching for an international partner will-

ing to support the University of Nova Gorica.

The Foundation’s activities in 2012 included raising

scholarships for the School of Applied Sciences, a

new corporate identity and communication strat-

egy development, income tax donations project,

media and advertising sponsorships and dona-

tions, searching for businesses with a need of UNG

services, establishing cooperation with the Cham-

ber of Crafts of Slovenia


Donations to the University of Nova Gorica Foun-

dation may be deposited to the account no. 0510-

0801-0752-054 (IBAN: SI56-0510-0801-0752-054,

SWIFT: ABANSI2X) at Abanka Vipa d. d., Slovenska

cesta 58, 1517 Ljubljana, Slovenia.

78

Primorska Technology

Head: Tanja Kožuh, acting as the head manager

The objective of the Primorska Technology Park is to

provide support to small and medium-sized tech-

nology-oriented enterprises and thus contribute

to their competitive edge at the forefront of new

scientific discoveries and technological innovations.

The Park’s support is intended to satisfy the needs of

enterprises that feature state-of-the-art technology,

innovation and market orientation of research pro-

jects, as well as the readiness to cooperate in R&D.

Members of the Primorska Technology Park can

freely benefit from its services, which include: assis-

tance in launching technologically innovative ideas,

marketing development products, project planning

and management, financial operations, informa-

tion acquisition, as well as business and technical

training. Another crucial factor that contributes to

successful R&D performance of enterprises is the

development of the Primorska Technology Park’s

infrastructure.

The Primorska Technology Park builds network

connections with other technology parks, tech-

nology-oriented enterprises, business support or-

ganisations, educational and financial institutions,

independent experts and industry. Within the

framework of cooperation at regional, national and

international levels, the Primorska Technology Park

conducts innovation projects to promote and facili-

tate the establishment of new technological enter-

prises, the employment of highly-qualified person-

nel, the transfer of knowledge and technologies, as

well as to create a synergy among technologically-

oriented enterprises in the entire Primorska region.

Founders

Elektro Primorska d.d. | Iskra Avtoelektrika d.d. | Mestna občina Nova Gorica | Občina Šempeter-Vrtojba |

Univerza v Novi Gorici

79

80


Vipavska 13

Rožna Dolina

SI-5000 Nova Gorica

Slovenia

Phone: +386 5 3315 223

Fax: +386 5 3315 224

E-mail: [email protected]

www.ung.si

Documents

University of Nova Gorica · 2015. 7. 9. · University of Nova Gorica »Operation part-financed by the European Union, the European Social Fund and the Ministry of Education, Science