LIPOR hosts the first mobility under the LETSGROW project

LIPOR welcomed the first international mobility under the LETSGROW project, hosting Michael Mrissa, Professor of Computer Science and Vice‑Rector for Internationalisation at the University of Primorska in Slovenia.

During his stay, Michael joined the LIPOR team to collaborate on research and development activities related to monitoring home composting through sensor networks, contributing to improved composting conditions and the production of higher‑quality compost.

We wanted to learn more about his experience and understand the impact this mobility had, both personally and professionally.

For Michael, the opportunity emerged through a work theme aligned with his area of expertise. After several years dedicated mainly to university management, this mobility represented a chance to return to applied research in an international context.

His choice of LIPOR was motivated by its strong commitment to sustainability and the relevance of the work carried out in waste management and the circular economy. During the visit, one of the aspects that impressed him most was the technology used by LIPOR to recover bottom ash resulting from the energy recovery of waste. In his view, solutions such as this should be more widely implemented, helping to reduce landfill disposal and promote greater material circularity.

Beyond the technical dimension, Michael also highlighted the organisation good practices he observed during the mobility, noting that the experience offered him new perspectives on team management and communication within organisations.

Asked about his overall assessment of the mobility, he described it as a highly enriching experience, both professionally and personally, recommending participation in initiatives of this kind to all professionals who wish to challenge themselves, discover new realities and develop skills through international cooperation. The impact of this experience does not end with his return to the University of Primorska. Michael believes that this collaboration may open new opportunities for applying his research in new domains, and confirms that the joint work with LIPOR will continue through the BioTrack project, where he will remain involved with the team.

He concluded by leaving a message on the importance of programmes such as LETSGROW:
"Programmes like LETSGROW are very important because they have a real impact on people’s professional paths and, at the same time, strengthen institutions through mobility and the sharing of knowledge among their staff."

Michael Mrissa’s mobility marks the beginning of the LETSGROW project’s exchange activities at LIPOR, reinforcing our commitment to international cooperation, innovation and knowledge sharing for the development of more sustainable solutions.

We thank Michael Mrissa for his collaboration, contribution and enthusiasm throughout this mobility, which greatly enriched this international exchange experience.