GeoZS marks the summer of 2026 with a significant international recognition—our hydrogeological laboratory has been accepted into the IAEA network of water analysis laboratories, known as GloWAL (Global Water Analysis Laboratory Network).

Since 2015, the laboratory of the Groundwater and Hydrogeology Department at GeoZS has been conducting analyses of the isotopic composition of oxygen and hydrogen (δ²H, δ¹⁸O) in water molecules. ARIS funding enabled us at that time to purchase a Picarro L2130-I laser isotope analyzer, which remains the only one of its kind in Slovenia. The volume of work has increased significantly since then: the number of samples analyzed has risen sharply since 2018 (407 samples) and reached 1,250 samples per year in 2024.

Over the years, we have also built up our expertise with the help of colleagues from Europe and beyond. Since 2020, we have been actively participating in projects of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and in 2024, we expressed interest in joining the then-emerging network of global water analysis laboratories of the International Atomic Energy Agency, known as GloWAL (Global Water Analysis Laboratory). The GloWAL network enables laboratories around the world to collaborate and exchange knowledge at all stages of development: from strengthening equipment capabilities to supporting staff training. The network’s goal is to help each laboratory reach its full potential, while also enabling independent data collection in developing countries, reducing technical gaps between developed and developing countries, support the implementation of intercomparisons, and pool financial investments and scientific innovations in the field of water analysis—all with the aim of more sustainable water resource management. Our laboratory, led by Katja Koren Pepelnik, has been accepted into the GloWAL network with the status of a “Growth Node.” This means that our operational laboratory can conduct and receive training for laboratory staff and continue to develop with new, advanced equipment.

In 2026, we will receive a new laser isotope analyzer from the IAEA—an upgrade to our existing system with additional modules that will enable us to perform analyses even on highly complex water samples. Our acceptance into the GloWAL network is an important recognition of our laboratory’s work to date and an excellent opportunity for the further development of hydrogeological research in Slovenia.

More information about the GloWAL network is available here.