About ASEF

Who we are?

At ASEF, we are more than a program – we are a global family. We believe that true talent thrives when it is rooted in a supportive community. Through our 100 % funded, personalized research opportunities, we do not just connect highly motivated fellows with world-class Slovenian mentors – we welcome them into a lifelong network of peers, scholars, and leaders. From day one, you are supported every step of the way, building deep professional and personal bonds that last long after your research concludes. Together, our mentors and fellows form a vibrant, enduring bridge between Slovenia and the world – meaning that once you join us, you remain an ASEF family member for life.

Our values, building a global community with Slovenia at its heart.

Academic Excellence

We strive for the highest standards of excellence in research and learning across all academic disciplines. By connecting exceptional talents with world-class mentors, we foster academic growth that drives innovation and pushes the boundaries of global knowledge.

Character Formation

We believe in developing the whole person through intellectual rigor and moral integrity. Our programs empower individuals to become leaders with a strong sense of community, ethical judgment, and a lifelong commitment to the values of the ASEF family.

Dedicated Service

We prepare global citizens to contribute to the intellectual and cultural vitality of society. By bridging the gap between Slovenia and the world, our fellows use their expertise to foster progress, share knowledge, and empower the next generation of talents.

Board

The ASEF Foundation is the strategic and philanthropic heart of our organization, dedicated to securing the resources that empower Slovenian excellence on a global scale. ASEF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in San Francisco, CA, with branches across other states and countries. By managing high-impact endowment programs and 100 % funded fellowships, the Foundation ensures that the most talented students have direct access to elite mentorship and research opportunities at world-leading institutions. Our mission is to cultivate a self-sustaining global community that bridges the gap between Slovenia and the world, fostering a culture of giving back and ensuring that world-class knowledge continues to flow home to shape Slovenia’s future.

Jure Leskovec

Co-founder

Peter Rožič, S.J.

Co-founder

Thomas Brandi

Board of directors

Andrej Košmrlj

Executive committee at the ASEF Institute

Marinka Žitnik

Executive committee at the ASEF Institute

Jože Rožanec

Executive committee at the ASEF Institute

Nina Leskovec

Executive committee at the ASEF Institute

Board

Jure Leskovec

Co-founder

Peter Rožič, S.J.

Co-founder

Thomas Brandi

Board of directors

Andrej Košmrlj

Executive committee at the ASEF Institute

Marinka Žitnik

Executive committee at the ASEF Institute

Jože Rožanec

Executive committee at the ASEF Institute

Nina Leskovec

Executive committee at the ASEF Institute

Founded in 2016 by dr. Jure Leskovec, dr. Andrej Košmrlj, and dr. Marinka Žitnik, the ASEF Institute is an exclusive international organization dedicated to developing Slovenian talents and bridging the gap between Slovenia and the world's most prestigious academic environments. We offer a selective, mentor-driven research program that pairs highly motivated students with world-renowned Slovenian professors within our extensive global network. By fostering academic excellence and a lifelong community, ASEF drives the transfer of world-class knowledge back to Slovenia, empowering the next generation of leaders to shape the future of our society.

dr. Rok Sekirnik

Director

Kaja Cunk

Head of Programmes and Development

Iris Brili

Head of Fellowship Programs

Kaja Ravnak

Jernej Ule

Engineering, Physics

Andrej Košmrlj

Biology

Andrej Šali

Junior Fellows

Latest updates, fellowship news, and upcoming ASEF events – all in one place.

Global Fellowship Visit Slovenia Fellowship

Physics

Jakob Bratkovič

Mathematics and Computer Science

Jakob Fir

Medicine

Helena Godina

Pharmacy

Eva Ivić

Computer Science and Mathematics

Matej Jelenc

Law

Maja Kalin

Medicine

Matija Kiker

Computer Science

Tom Kitak

Physics and Mathematics

Maks Koncilja

Biochemistry

Žiga Koren

Computer Science and Philosophy

Sebastian Korenič Tratnik

Computer Science and Mathematics

Mark David Longar

Computer Science and Mathematics

Oliver Majer

Mathematics

Lana Prijon

Medicine

Aljoša Škorjanc

Biochemistry

Ivana Vukšinić

Molecular Science

Urša Zevnik

Computer Science

Gal Zmazek

Medicine

Cecilija Rowane

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Nora Withrow

Law

Geronimo Comba Trpin

Economics and Business

Ignacio Farah Bečaj

Physics

Jacob Tyler

Economics and Business

Kevyn O’Connell

Screenwriting and TV Development

Matija Šraj

Engineering

Nikolas Gestrich

What Our Fellows Say

The greatest value of the fellowship for me lies in the lasting bonds and friendships that were formed during the visit and continue to this day. Becoming a part of the ASEF community means getting to know people who, despite living and working around the world, maintain a strong connection to and genuine sense of belonging to Slovenia.

Domen Škerlep, ASEF Junior Fellow, Generation 2024

This experience has truly been one-of-a-kind, and I’m incredibly grateful for it. This program is one of the best things I’ve ever done because it encourages personal growth, lifelong friendships, and a deeper cultural connection. It’s a chance to visit your homeland, discover your roots, and grow as an individual. Who wouldn’t want that?

Miranda Kreinbrink-Gačnik, ASEF Junior Fellow 2025

If you’re considering applying for the program, you should definitely do it. It’s been an even greater experience than I could have imagined. I’ve gained so much from it, not only academically but also socially. Meeting other people of Slovenian descent who collectively value the culture and connecting with them here has truly been an amazing experience.

Elizabeth Stupica, ASEF Junior Fellow 2025

ASEF was one of the best experiences of my life, and I am incredibly grateful that I said yes to this opportunity. I would encourage anyone considering the program not to be afraid to step out of their comfort zone, meet new people, and try new things.

Matthew Matej Klepec, ASEF Junior Fellow, Generation 2025

You will return from the fellowship with a clearer vision for your future career, numerous professional and personal connections, and experiences that will help you contribute to professional development and the co-creation of the ASEF community.

Zala Perko, ASEF Junior Fellow, Generation 2024

Mission

Vision

To foster a lifelong global family of fellows and mentors by cultivating academic excellence, fostering an environment of mutual support, driving cross-border innovation, and inspiring future generations to continuously elevate the connection between Slovenia and the world.