Matic Sašek, assistant researcher at InnoRenew CoE; main area of research: kinesiology

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

I grew up in Črnomelj in Bela krajina, and I currently live in Cerknica.

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

I graduated with a master’s degree in kinesiology from the Faculty of Sports, University of Ljubljana. I am currently a doctoral student in the Prevention for Health at the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Primorska. The choice of undergraduate studies was influenced to the greatest extent by sympathy for sport and movement in general. Later, the desire to research in the field of kinesiology and interconnecting science with practice was most likely the reason for the present study.

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

In the Human Health research group at InnoRenew CoE, I support, help with research activities and participate in project work.

• What does your typical working day look like?

It starts with a cup of coffee, followed by work, whether pedagogical or research, then I try to incorporate some form of sports activity into my daily life, and I finish the day reading articles or watching a good documentary.

• What makes you excited about your work?

Learning new things, innovation and seeing that your work can contribute to a better quality of life.

• And what is the biggest challenge at your work?

Using a theory in practice.

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

Paavo Komi and Roger Enoka, but I believe that we also have first-class researchers in Slovenia in the field of kinesiology.

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

I’m not exactly an artistic soul; however, I like the artwork done by the people close to me.

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

David Attenborough, “A Life on Our Planet”.

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

I enjoy Piran the most.

• What makes you enthusiastic?

Confirmation of good and conscientious work either in the form of praise/reward or as a good result/product.

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

“It is the time you have wasted for your rose that makes your rose so important.”

• What does the charm of wood mean to you?

It gives a sense of coexistence with nature.