Ljubljana, 9 July 2026 – The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Ljubljana is today hosting the PhD Conference in Mechanical Engineering, bringing together 48 doctoral students from three faculties: the Faculties of Mechanical Engineering in Ljubljana and Maribor, and the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture at the University of Zagreb.
Participants were welcomed with opening addresses by Prof. Dr. Jernej Klemenc, Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Ljubljana; Prof. Dr. Igor Karšaj, Vice Dean for Science and Industry Cooperation at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Zagreb; and Prof. Dr. Matej Vesenjak, Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Maribor.
In their addresses, they emphasized that young researchers represent the future of the profession, and that gatherings like this play an important role in their professional and personal growth. The conference gives them the opportunity to present their research to the wider academic community, exchange experiences, gain new perspectives on their work, and build professional connections that often grow into joint projects.
Following last year’s event in Zagreb, this year’s host is the Ljubljana faculty, while next year the conference will be hosted by the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Maribor. Rotating the event among all three faculties reflects the close cooperation between the institutions and their shared commitment to advancing research excellence and supporting the next generation of researchers.
Doctoral students are presenting their research across three thematic sessions covering advanced materials, manufacturing technologies, energy, mechatronics, robotics, artificial intelligence, and sustainable engineering solutions. Each presentation is allotted eight minutes, followed by two minutes of questions and discussion. This format encourages open exchange of knowledge, critical thinking, and lively professional debate.
The PhD Conference is much more than a presentation of research results — it is an opportunity for connecting the new generation of researchers who will help shape the future of mechanical engineering. The organizers hope the event will become a traditional gathering that continues to strengthen research excellence, international cooperation, and the development of innovative solutions to the technological challenges of the future.
