Creating something of my own

Simon Troha, Lab technician; Main area(s) of research/activities: genetic analysis of microorganisms

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

I spent my childhood in Koper and after my university years in Ljubljana, I returned to Slovenia’s coast.

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

I studied Food Technology for my bachelor’s degree and Biotechnology for my master’s. I chose Food Technology because of my interest in culinary arts, gastronomy, winemaking and enology — I wanted to deepen my knowledge and gain a scientific perspective in this field. I then pursued Biotechnology as it offered a stronger toolset for gaining a deeper understanding of the biological world.

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

Identifying different types of fungi by analysing their genetic material.

What does your typical working day look like?

I usually start my day by checking work-related messages, before heading to the lab to begin my tasks.

What makes you excited about your work?

What I enjoy most about my work is being able to come up with my own ideas and solutions and test them to see if they work. I also like that my work is always changing and that every day is different.

And what is the biggest challenge at your work?

The biggest challenge at work is accepting my mistakes and learning from them. Realizing that failure is simply a natural step in the process of discovery.

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

I’m inspired by Frederick Sanger’s work. His discoveries have had a significant impact on genetics and science in general.

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

I’m really fascinated by films and culture from the 1980s and 1990s and their unique aesthetic. They give me a feeling of nostalgia for a time before I was even born.

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

Lately, I’ve been reading a book by Stephen King, who is one of my favorite authors. I enjoy mystery, thriller and detective genres, both in books and films, as they share similarities with scientific research—both involve careful investigation, solving puzzles, and uncovering hidden truths.

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

My favorite place on the Slovene coast is the beach at Pacug, where I often go swimming and snorkelling. The seabed there is very rich in marine life, which I enjoy exploring.

What makes you enthusiastic?

I really enjoy being able to create something of my own—something where my decisions lead to a final product that I’m proud of.

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

What helps me in life is not taking it too seriously and not expecting it to owe me anything. This way, I appreciate the smaller things, and in those moments, life often surprises me in unexpected ways.