Fieldwork Diaries: Investigating Regional Biodiversity

Franc Fritz Murgelj

Content and Technical Editor Franc Fritz Murgelj serves as the Content and Technical Editor for the Institute of Palaeobiology & Evolution (IPE) website. His unique background in the geosciences provides a strong foundation for managing the Institute’s scientific and digital presence. Franc studied Geology, and his early career was marked by a deep commitment to the field under the mentorship of the legendary Dr. Stanko Buser and Dr. Uroš Herlec. During his time at the Association of Friends of Youth (ZPM), he was responsible for coordinating activities for the association of young geologists and historians across Slovenia, fostering a passion for natural history in the next generation. Today, Franc is a specialist in strategic brand communication, offering consultancy and co-managing marketing communications and public relations for diverse clients. He is also a dedicated educator, conducting specialized workshops for young communicators and sales teams. At the Institute, Franc bridges the gap between complex research and public understanding. His expertise supports the Institute’s mission of public outreach and scientific communication. He plays a key role in ensuring that groundbreaking research—ranging from microCT imaging to stratigraphic discoveries—is disseminated effectively through the Institute's scientific journal platform and digital archives. His background in youth mentorship is particularly valuable as the Institute develops the Museum of Evolution in Kamnik, a project designed to engage diverse audiences and inspire future scientists. By applying his communication skills to the Institute’s digital resources, he ensures that the history of life on Earth is accessible, following FAIR data principles to support open and reproducible science.