Today, the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Ljubljana successfully concluded the fourth edition of its Summer Research Camp “Explore and Drive the Future”, where high school students from across Slovenia spent five days experiencing life as young researchers. Working alongside mentors in state-of-the-art laboratories, they explored scientific challenges, conducted experiments, developed ideas, and discovered how technologies that shape our future are created.
From 29 June to 3 July, participants worked under the guidance of the Faculty’s researchers on real engineering and scientific challenges while gaining first-hand insight into research work. The programme combined practical laboratory activities, experimental research, advanced technologies, computer simulations, and presentations of the results prepared by the participants at the end of the camp.
Throughout the week, students explored bubble dynamics in water and compared experimental observations with computer simulations, analysed aircraft aerodynamics, learned about robotic manufacturing and smart modular factories, built model aircraft and composite components, investigated green urban environments, experimented with environmentally friendly water hydraulics, discovered laser technologies, explored polymer injection moulding, determined the mechanical properties of materials through tensile testing, and investigated multifunctional surfaces inspired by nature.
In addition to laboratory work, participants became familiar with the Faculty’s cutting-edge research infrastructure, attended lectures by researchers, and gained insight into technologies that contribute to sustainable mobility, advanced manufacturing, energy systems, novel materials, and other key areas of modern mechanical engineering.
At the closing event, the students presented the outcomes of their work, demonstrating that curiosity, creativity, and excellent mentorship can quickly develop a research mindset and enable young people to tackle demanding engineering challenges.
Prof. Jernej Klemenc, Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ljubljana, said at the closing ceremony: “Modern engineering is no longer just about developing new products or technologies. It is about connecting knowledge from different fields, thinking creatively, and having the courage to develop solutions for the challenges facing society today. At the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, we want young people to see that even the boldest ideas can take shape through research, collaboration, and perseverance. It is inspiring to see so many curious and motivated students joining us again this year. I truly believe this experience will encourage many of them to continue their engineering journey with us.”
The Explore and Drive the Future Summer Research Camp is part of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering’s commitment to promoting science and engineering among young people. By opening its laboratories to high school students, the Faculty provides direct contact with research, encourages creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork, and helps participants make informed decisions about their future studies and careers.
This year’s edition once again confirmed that young people are full of curiosity, creativity, and a genuine passion for discovery. Experiences like these often inspire the next generation of researchers and engineers who will develop the technologies of tomorrow.
See you next year!
Explore. Create. Drive the Future.
Photo: Anže Krže
