As part of its 80th anniversary celebrations, the National Institute of Chemistry is presenting its work to the public beyond the walls of its laboratories. Through an open-air exhibition along Ljubljana’s Krakovski nasip embankment, visitors are invited into the world of contemporary research and scientific breakthroughs, while also meeting the people behind them.

The exhibition, titled Creating for the Challenges of the Future, offers insight into the research fields through which the Institute addresses some of today’s most pressing global challenges. It guides visitors through areas where researchers develop new knowledge and technologies for the future — from chemistry, biochemistry and biotechnology to materials science, medicine, energy, digital solutions and environmental protection. The exhibition presents nine research departments and two centres of the National Institute of Chemistry, all of which contribute significantly to the development of modern science and the international research landscape.

Special attention is also given to the people behind the scientific achievements. Through portraits and personal reflections, the exhibition introduces ten researchers from the National Institute of Chemistry who, each in their own field, contribute to understanding and solving important challenges of modern science.

The exhibition aims to show that science is not only about laboratories and technologies, but above all about people — their curiosity, creativity, perseverance and commitment to finding answers to the complex challenges of contemporary society. It offers visitors insight into research areas that will significantly shape quality of life in the future, while also encouraging reflection on the role of science in society and on the future we can build together through knowledge, research and collaboration.

Based on the themes presented in the exhibition, the Institute will publish a special publication at the end of the year featuring stories about the research efforts of individual departments over the past decade. The publication will highlight key scientific achievements, the development of individual research fields, and the broader societal impact of research and science.

The exhibition will be on display until 24 June 2026.

Exhibition pictures

Photo highlights:

_{The exhibition was made possible by Ljubljana Tourism.}