The 12th Socratic Lectures International Symposium, held online on January 11, 2025, stood out as a vibrant crossroads of science, education, and the arts, exemplifying the full spirit of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics). Under the visionary leadership of Professor Veronika Kralj-Iglič-an accomplished physicist and prolific author with over 240 scientific works and supervision of more than 30 Ph.D. theses-the event brought together around 300 participants from across the globe.
Scientific and Educational Highlights
The symposium featured four plenary lectures, twelve scientific sessions, a poster session, and the innovative “Student Zone,” fostering active student engagement and international participation, including a notable group from Egypt. Key scientific topics included the latest research on extracellular vesicles, advances in liquid crystal studies, and interdisciplinary approaches to health and education. The peer-reviewed proceedings, published in three volumes, are available online and serve as a significant resource for ongoing research and collaboration. EASE also took part in the symposium by delivering a presentation on the integration of STEAM, AI, and education.
The symposium’s intellectual output is captured in two major publications:
- The main proceedings, “Socratic Lectures 12th International Symposium, Ljubljana, 11 January 2025”, compile peer-reviewed articles spanning medicine, natural and social sciences, and standard operating procedures for extracellular particle assessment.
- A companion volume offers additional scientific and educational insights, further cementing the event’s role as a hub for cross-disciplinary exchange.

Foto: Drago Videmšek
The Arts as the heartbeat of the Symposium
A defining feature of this edition was its robust artistic program, seamlessly integrated into the scientific agenda. Two concerts-one at the Betetto Hall of the University of Ljubljana’s Academy of Music and another organ recital at the Church of the Annunciation-provided inspiring moments that embodied the “A” in STEAM. These performances, featuring organizers, teachers, and speakers, included classical and contemporary works, poetry by Ifigenija Simonović, and visual art exhibitions. The concerts highlighted the essential role of the arts in fostering creativity and holistic understanding within scientific communities.
A special mention goes to Dr. Yelena Istileulova, EASE member, whose moving organ performance at the Betetto Hall (https://youtu.be/fDwhbuVGNhE?t=3964) captivated the audience. Her interpretation not only showcased technical mastery but also symbolized the harmonious integration of art and science- a central motif of the symposium.
Lasting Impact and Community Spirit
Beyond the formal program, the symposium fostered a strong sense of community, encouraging dialogue and collaboration across disciplines and borders. The inclusion of young researchers and students, the open-access publication of proceedings, and the celebration of artistic expression all contributed to an atmosphere of inclusivity and innovation. The event’s success was further amplified by the dissemination of its outcomes through various channels, ensuring a lasting impact on both the scientific and educational communities.
The 12th Socratic Lectures Symposium, through its dynamic blend of scientific rigor and artistic expression, set a new benchmark for interdisciplinary collaboration and inspiration. While giving equal stage to research and the arts, and through the dedicated efforts of leaders like Veronika Kralj-Iglič and Yelena Istileulova, the event offered a compelling vision of what STEAM can achieve.
More information:
- Recording of some parts of the concert at the Academy of Music at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDwhbuVGNhE&t=1467s
- More details on the concert can be found at: On the Music of the 12th Socratic Lectures. Z-STEAM and Nanostructurome activities at https://ebooks.uni-lj.si/ZalozbaUL/catalog/view/723/1104/11319
- News of the University of Ljubljana at https://www.uni-lj.si/novice/2025-03-18-izsel-je-zbornik-12-sokratskih-predavanj
- News on the homepage of the FarmEVs project at https://farmevs.eu/news/#top
- Links to the first two parts of the Proceedings of the 12th Socratic Lectures: