Young Researcher and ASEF Fellow Maša Karčovnik Receives the University of Ljubljana Rector’s Award for Best Innovation 2026

We are proud to announce that Maša Karčovnik, an ASEF fellow 2025 and exceptional young researcher, has been awarded the prestigious Rector’s Award for Best Innovation of the University of Ljubljana for 2026.

The award, presented by the University of Ljubljana in cooperation with the Ljubljana University Incubator (LUI), promotes the transfer of scientific knowledge into practical solutions and supports the development of innovations with high economic and social impact.

The team led by Maša Karčovnik convinced the expert committee with an outstanding breakthrough project that combines top-tier scientific excellence with a clear vision for solving contemporary challenges. This recognition underscores the indispensable role of young researchers in co-creating an innovative future and confirms that Slovenian scientific knowledge meets the highest standards.

At the ASEF Academy, we are dedicated to connecting young talents with top mentors worldwide and providing an environment where they can reach their full potential. Maša Karčovnik’s success is a tremendous inspiration to the entire ASEF community and a clear testament to the importance of investing in knowledge, curiosity, and international collaboration.

Sincere congratulations to Maša and her entire team on this remarkable achievement! We wish them continued success in developing their innovation and bringing it to the market.

Read more about this year’s recipients of the Rector’s Award and the winning innovations in the official announcement by the University of Ljubljana.

Photo Credits: Siniša Kanižaj/STA