ASEF Podcast (SLO): Theory, Research, and Creativity: The Interplay of Ideas with Nikiša Plešec [Episode #51]

In the latest episode of the ASEF Podcast, host Gal Gantar talks with Nikiša Plešec, a young researcher at the Jožef Stefan Institute and ASEF Fellow (generation 2025). Nikiša comes from the world of theoretical physics; she studied at the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, University of Ljubljana, and further developed her research experience with an international stay at the University of Cincinnati.

In the conversation, Nikiša shares how her passion for physics intertwines with creativity and artistic approaches, explaining the differences between theoretical models and experimental verification. She touches on the basics of quantum mechanics, challenges of the Standard Model of particles, the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy, and the significance of the Higgs boson in understanding mass.

The episode follows her research journey—from undergraduate and doctoral studies to involvement in international research networks—and explores the role of particle accelerators, computational simulations, and experiments such as Belle II in advancing modern physics.

The discussion also covers personal insights: international experiences, the importance of researcher mobility, her hobby of aquaristics, and practical advice for young scientists. The key theme of the conversation is the interplay between theoretical thinking and experimental practice, which drives contemporary particle physics and opens the way to new discoveries.