Una Vuletić, assistant and part of Information Processing research group at InnoRenew CoE, UP IAM

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

I grew up in one multicultural city in north of Serbia, with a lot of history and widely known athletes. Currently I live in Koper, the city I fell in love with during my Erasmus.

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

My education path may seem unconventional, but it reflects my curiosity and desire to connect multiple fields. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in Business Informatics at University of Novi Sad, followed by a Master’s degree in Data Science at the University of Primorska. Wanting to apply and further expand this knowledge in a meaningful context, global climate change felt like a natural direction. As a result I am currently enrolled in a PhD program Renewable Materials for Healthy Built Environments at the University of Primorska.

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

I would say that my work is about collecting the data, and using it to understand how things work and how they could work better. I analyze information, look for patterns, and use those insights to support more sustainable decisions.

• What does your typical working day look like?

There is rarely a typical working day. Some days are focused on reading and developing ideas, others on collecting, analyzing, and visualizing data. Most often, it is a combination of all of these, shaped by the questions I’m working on at the time.

• What makes you excited about your work?

The possibility of discovering new findings, learning continuously and contributing to the well-being of both people and the planet through my work.

• And what is the biggest challenge at your work?

The biggest challenge for me at the moment is navigating both a PhD and work. I believe that the experience I gained during my Master’s studies, particularly as part of the GDI UP project, will help me through this new adventure, together with the support of my mentor and colleagues.

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

Something we often take for granted, but that still fascinates me, are the scientific achievements that allow us to see and talk to the people we love, wherever we are. Being far away from family is hard, and having the possibility to hear their voices and see their faces makes distance feel smaller. Still, I think somebody needs to invent the teleportation machine, because hugs are irreplaceable.

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

As an artistic person I find it hard to single out pieces of art, but let’s say that one of my all-time favorites, and a guaranteed tear-causer, is the movie “Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron”. It is emotional, full of beautiful animations, music and life lessons. Although the horses never speak, their thoughts, emotions and intentions are conveyed so clearly that words feel unnecessary.

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

Just a week ago, I went home for the holidays and attended a concert by our hometown Philharmonic Orchestra with my mother. It is always amazing to see so many people on stage, working together, sharing their talent and hard work, and creating a truly magical atmosphere.

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

Koper, most definitely. I love the smell of the sea and listening to the waves while sitting on the beach, enjoying coffee and a donut.

• What makes you enthusiastic?

Discovering new things, whether places, movies, board games, or ideas for research, while also having a safe space to return to, share experiences and recharge for new adventures.

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

My parents taught me that you never know why something that happens might turn out to be a good thing, even if it feels unfortunate at the time. That perspective helps me to push forward, look for the positive, and never give up.

• What does the charm of wood mean to you?

Wood gives me a sense of comfort, serenity and peace of mind. It feels soft and smells like home and family.