Cuauhtli Campos Mijangos, assistant researcher

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

I was born in Mexico City but I have been living must of my life in Oaxaca (a southern state of Mexico). I moved to Slovenia almost 5 years ago and I live in Koper.

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

I have been always attracted to technology and the power that the we humans acquire if we master/learn how to use it. In this sense, my career path has followed the intersection between humanities and technology.

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

As live-action RPG video game. Every day, there is a new challenge that needs to be addressed.

• What does your typical working day look like?

I wake up early, if time, I work out; otherwise, I start my day straightforward dealing whatever task I’m assigned to do. In general, my tasks are related with teaching, developing and writing. It might sound boring, but for me is something very fun to do.

• What makes you excited about your work?

That there is space for learning something new every day.

• And what is the biggest challenge at your work?

Time.

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

After some thought, I’ve narrowed down my answer to three scientists: Luis Miramontes, the inventor of the oral contraceptive pill; Ynes Mexia, who collected over 150,000 plant species for botanical research; and Guillermo González Camarena, the inventor of colour television. Although each of these scientists made significant contributions to their respective fields, I particularly admire them because they are Mexican. To me, their accomplishments demonstrate that Mexicans can make major discoveries, are hardworking individuals, and are capable of significant innovations.

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

The Labyrinth of Solitude from Octavio Paz, especially the essay named, “The day of the Dead”.

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

For leisure reading, I must confess I like to read manga and One piece is the one I consume the most.

• Describe your very first impression of Slovenia.

Very clean country.

• What do you like about Slovenia and what do you miss most from your homeland?

From Slovenia, I love the rivers and lakes, they are very clear. Some years ago, I’d say that I miss the food from my country but the truth is that I got use to Slovenia so much that I cannot tell something special that I miss.

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

Mesečev zaliv.

• What makes you enthusiastic?

Life.

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

Be whoever you want to be, do whatever you want to do but don’t try to make others to be like you.

• What does the charm of wood mean to you?

For me, the charm of wood is given by its versatility, it can be used for a wide range of applications (e.g. buildings, furniture, paper) and also because it is a renewable material that can replenished if good management of forest.