Bringing Research to the World Stage: A VUB Student at the International Conference of Undergraduate Research

Each year, the International Conference of Undergraduate Research (ICUR) offers students from around the world a unique chance to present their research in a truly global academic setting. Co-founded by the University of Warwick and Monash University in 2013, ICUR has grown into a vibrant, interdisciplinary platform that now connects up to thirteen institutions across six continents. Coordinated by the University of Warwick’s Institute for Advanced Teaching and Learning, the conference has welcomed nearly 4,000 students from almost 40 institutions since its inception.

ICUR is an immersive programme of academic development, offering training and mentoring from the moment students submit their abstracts through to their final presentations. Participants gain international exposure, improve their communication and presentation skills, and connect with fellow researchers around the world in a hybrid format.

On the 18^th and 19^th of June 2025, the conference was hosted jointly by the University of Warwick and partner institutions through a series of interconnected sessions. The keynote, “Interdisciplinary Ways of Knowing Through Sustainable Practice”, was delivered by academics from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and explored how design, chemistry, and English studies can come together to advance sustainability.

Among this year’s presenters was Isidora Popovic, a master’s student in Biomedical Engineering at the VUB. Isidora's academic journey began in Serbia, where she completed her undergraduate studies in Electrical Engineering. Now specialising in radiation physics, she found herself intrigued by the opportunity to engage with an international academic audience through ICUR. Her presentation focused on Parkinson’s disease detection through voice recordings.

Isidora’s participation was enabled through VUB’s membership in the EUTOPIA. Warwick, one of the alliance’s founding members, plays a central role in the ICUR network, and EUTOPIA students benefit from direct access to these kinds of global opportunities.

“I actually came across ICUR while browsing the EUTOPIA website,” Isidora explained. “A friend of mine had mentioned an event in Paris through EUTOPIA, so I started exploring what opportunities might exist for me. I hadn’t seen any direct emails about it, but once I found it online, I knew I wanted to apply. It felt like a great fit, especially since I’m moving more toward academic research.”

Despite the excitement, Isidora acknowledged that the timing wasn’t ideal: “The only downside was that the conference dates fell right in the middle of the exam period. I would have loved to attend in person. Being onsite gives you the chance to engage more deeply with other presenters.”

Still, the virtual experience was rewarding. “You really get a taste of what the academic world is like. You’re sharing your work, something you’re proud of, and that builds confidence. It doesn’t have to be something groundbreaking, just something meaningful to you.”

Reflecting on her experience, Isidora feels that ICUR deserves more attention at VUB. “It’s such a great way for students to present their work and explore academic careers. I’d love to help promote it next year so more people know about it.”

Her advice to future applicants? “Don’t hesitate. It’s a really welcoming environment. You’ll learn, you’ll grow, and you’ll meet amazing people along the way.”