Nežka Sajinčič, assistant researcher at InnoRenew CoE; main area of research: lifelong learning for scientific literacy in materials

• Where were you living in childhood and where do you live now?

On the Slovenian coast. During my studies, I lived in Ljubljana, but I was happy to return to the sunnier side of Slovenia.

• What have you studied and what were the motives for your decision?            

I studied psychology at the Faculty of Arts in Ljubljana. I have always been interested in people and ways we can make our lives fuller and more enjoyable. I am currently continuing my studies at the Faculty of Education in Koper.

• How would you describe your work to someone outside your field?

I am interested in innovative approaches to promote learning and knowledge transfer in the field of materials.

• What does your typical working day look like?                     

There is a lot of reading, thinking, writing, meetings and drinking coffee.

• What makes you excited about your work?

My co-workers, colleagues and mentors with their diverse knowledge, openness and curiosity.

• And what is the biggest challenge at your work?

Maintaining concentration throughout the day.

• Which scientist or scientific achievement are you fascinated by and why?

I find it difficult to single out a particular person or scientific achievement as science is a collection of many discoveries made by different people. However, I certainly appreciate critical thinking, asking interesting and useful questions and – given the number of articles read – clear writing.

• Tell us about the work of art (books, music, movies, theatre, dance, visual arts) that has a special place in your life.

The Harry Potter books, as I grew up with them, and they helped me discover my love of reading.

• What have you read, listened to, or watched lately?

I have recently read The Lord of the Rings trilogy for the first time, and now I am planning to watch (probably for the tenth time) the film adaptations (extended versions, of course).

• Which place on the Slovene coast do you like the most?

Every corner can be beautiful, the most important is our mindset and the company we share.

• What makes you enthusiastic?

Coffee and chocolate.

• Characterize your life’s guidance or an important realization (or epiphany) you have experienced.

It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.

• What does the charm of wood mean to you?

Its feeling of homeliness, warmth and relaxation.