How do you secure an internship with the European Space Agency? How can you join an international space project? How do you turn a research idea into a technology that works in microgravity? These questions will be at the heart of an event hosted by the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, as part of Slovenian Space Days 2026.
On Tuesday, 3 March 2026, at 8:30 a.m., a dedicated session will take place in Lecture Hall V/8 for students, researchers, and anyone interested in building a future in the space sector. Participants will gain insight into ESA Academy programmes – including training courses, internships, summer schools, student projects, and co-funding opportunities for doctoral studies. The presentation will offer practical guidance on how to get involved in European space programmes already during your studies.
The event will open with remarks from representatives of the European Space Agency and the Slovenian Space Office. The ESA Academy programme will be presented by Joost Vanreusel, Head of the Programme, and Jai Grover, Scientific Coordinator at ESI (joining via video link), who will explain the application process, what ESA looks for in candidates, and how to improve your chances of selection.
Special focus will be given to research projects at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, demonstrating that cutting-edge space technologies are also being developed in Slovenia:
- Assoc. Prof. Rok Vrabič, PhD – development of an intelligent multi-robot system for exploring the lunar surface
- Assist. Prof. Janez Urevc, PhD – development of a system for early detection of thrombosis in astronauts in microgravity
- Žan Boček – Project Cave 0g: analysis of fluid dynamics and cavitation in microgravity
These are not just ideas – they are active projects involving both researchers and students. Space is becoming a platform for scientific advancement, international collaboration, and technological innovation, shaping a new generation of engineers.
The Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Prof. Jernej Klemenc, PhD, emphasises: “At our faculty, space is no longer the future – it is our development environment. We design solutions for operation in microgravity and extreme conditions, transforming knowledge into technologies that position Slovenia as a recognised partner in the European space sector.”
If you are considering an international career, research work, or involvement in advanced technological projects, this is your opportunity to take the first step.
Participation is free of charge; registration is mandatory. The programme will be partially conducted in English.
Registration HERE