University of Primorska
Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies
The American Slovenian Education Foundation (ASEF) has opened applications for the ASEF Research Abroad scholarship programme, designed for Slovenian students who wish to strengthen their research experience and academic exchange with international partners. Applications for the 2026 cohort are open until 29 October 2026.
The programme offers a two-year opportunity for talented students to connect with the global Slovenian academic network. Selected scholarship recipients will have the opportunity to undertake a 10-week research visit at one of the world’s leading universities or research institutions, including Stanford, Harvard and Princeton. They will work under the mentorship of distinguished Slovenian professors based in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, selected European countries and Australia.
In addition to research activities, the programme offers extensive opportunities to become part of the broader ASEF community. Scholarship recipients will participate in various research projects and workshops, actively develop their careers, attend public lectures and other events, and gain opportunities for comprehensive personal and professional development.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to take part in a research visit through the ASEF programme, which gave me an insight into the dynamic research environment on the other side of the Atlantic. I would recommend the programme not only because of the research experience, but also because of the people, the ASEF community, new connections and opportunities that arise along the way.” – Maks Koncilja, ASEF Research Abroad Scholar 2026
“The Research Abroad programme enabled me to undertake a nine-week research visit at the Roslin Institute at the University of Edinburgh under the mentorship of Dr Gregor Gorjanc and Dr Daniel Tolhurst. In addition to deepening my knowledge in statistics and genetics, I gained valuable insight into the work of a leading international research group and established collaborations that continue beyond the completion of my visit. I would recommend the programme to all young researchers, as it offers a unique opportunity to work with leading experts, develop new research ideas and expand your international research network.” – Tina Košuta, ASEF Research Abroad Scholar 2025
“The scientific research visit to Ames, Iowa, USA, which I undertook with the support of the ASEF programme, was one of the experiences that significantly shaped my professional and personal development. The visit allowed me to temporarily move my research work to a new environment, collaborate with researchers at the host institution and gain new knowledge and perspectives that I could not have acquired in the same way at home. What I value most about the programme is that it is not merely financial support, but an opportunity for young researchers to connect with an international environment, expand their network, make new friends and gain a fresh perspective on their research journey. At the same time, living and conducting research abroad provides an opportunity for personal growth, greater independence and confidence, as well as the possibility of establishing long-term professional collaborations. I would therefore recommend ASEF especially to those who want to step outside their familiar environment, experience life abroad, learn from others and look at their work from a new perspective. If you are considering applying, I would say: apply. An opportunity like this does not come around every day, while the experiences and connections you gain stay with you long after you return home.” – Marko Fišer, ASEF Research Abroad Scholar 2025
ASEF invites highly qualified and motivated Slovenian students enrolled at accredited higher education institutions to take advantage of this unique opportunity and become part of the ASEF story.
For more information and to apply, visit the ASEF website.
