RAISE renews its partnership with SMARTcup Liguria for 2025

SMARTcup Liguria returns as the regional competition that supports the creation of high-tech startups, fostering innovation and the enhancement of research across the region.

From September 15 to 30, 2025, the SMARTcup Academy will take place: a free training program for aspiring entrepreneurs, featuring webinars, workshops, mentorship, and collaborative sessions focused on innovative business creation. To participate, registration is required by September 11, at this link.

Project proposals can be submitted until October 6, 2025, in one of the four focus sectors identified by the National Innovation Award (PNI): ICT, Life Sciences & Med Tech, Clean Tech & Energy e Industrial.

A panel of experts will select the 12 most promising projects, which will then enter an 8-hour personalized mentoring program to develop a Business Plan, to be submitted by October 20, 2025.

The regional final will take place on October 29, at the BIC Incubator in Genoa, where the top 4 entrepreneurial ideas will be chosen to participate in the National Innovation Award (PNI 2025), scheduled for December 4–5 in Ferrara, with full coverage of participation costs and organizational support.

Winners will also receive six months of free incubation within FI.L.S.E.’s regional incubator network, along with access to mentoring, tutoring, training, marketing services, and other benefits provided by project partners.

For the 2025 edition, RAISE confirms its role as a project partner, further strengthening the connection between research and entrepreneurship and supporting the transformation of innovative ideas into viable businesses.

All details and updates are available on the official SMARTcup Liguria website.

Launch of the second edition of the RAISE P1 – KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER & ENTREPRENEURSHIP ACADEMY, within the Training Program, Spoke 5

Starting from July 14, 2025, the second edition of the RAISE P1 | KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER & ENTREPRENEURSHIP ACADEMY will be available. This training initiative is aimed at all RAISE researchers and interested PhD students who wish to expand their knowledge on topics such as technology transfer, protection and enhancement of research results, and entrepreneurship in the deep-tech sector.

The training program is designed to strengthen skills needed to develop entrepreneurial ideas based on research carried out within the vertical Spokes. Participants will acquire essential knowledge on how to protect and enhance intellectual property, and how to start, manage, and grow a high-tech startup.

Training
The course consists of three modules, totaling 30 hours of training.
Each module includes offline access to video microlearning sessions, each lasting approximately 20 minutes.
Module 1 – Knowledge transfer, intellectual property protection, and valorization
Module 2 – Professional training for entrepreneurship in the advanced technology sector
Module 3 – Cross-cutting skills for innovation and knowledge transfer management

Registration
It is possible to register for the full course or for individual modules using UniGe credentials (pass/CIE/SPID).
This will allow access to our online training community.
Module 1 – Knowledge transfer, intellectual property protection, and valorization: register at this link, using the enrollment key: M1ACADEMY
Module 2 – Professional training for entrepreneurship in the advanced technology sector: register at this link, using the enrollment key: M2ACADEMY
Module 3 – Cross-cutting skills for innovation and knowledge transfer: register at this link, using the enrollment key: M3ACADEMY

Workshops
Each training module will be complemented by in-person thematic workshops to promote interactivity and support the growth of the RAISE community.
In the coming weeks, the dates and locations of the in-person workshops will be announced, along with the deadlines for completing the offline streaming modules—prerequisites for participation in the events. Participants will have approximately one month to complete the training content.

Benefits
At the end of each module, participants will receive an open badge – one for the online platform training and one for the in-person workshop.
For more information, visit the page dedicated to the first edition of the program.
For assistance or additional information, please contact our support service at formazione.raise@unige.it.

Engineering Group presented RAISE projects at the IAS 19 conference in Genoa

On the occasion of the 19th edition of the International Conference on Intelligent Autonomous Systems (IAS), currently taking place in Genoa, Engineering Group – as an affiliate of the RAISE ecosystem – presented its contribution to several strategic projects in the fields of digital healthcare and advanced port logistics.

The presentation, delivered by Senior Researcher Domenico Presenza, highlighted the group’s commitment to developing innovative solutions based on artificial intelligence, robotics, and distributed technologies.

As part of Spoke 2, Personal and Remote Healthcare, Engineering showcased the SARA project, focused on robotic-assisted cognitive training for individuals with multiple sclerosis. The solution leverages Social Assistive Robotics techniques and aims to personalize interaction based on the patient’s cognitive conditions, using Federated Reinforcement Learning and Active Inference approaches to optimize engagement and effectiveness. Concurrently, the FLO project introduced a graphical environment for designing and executing hierarchically distributed dataflows.

In the scope of Spoke 4, Smart and Sustainable Ports, Engineering presented three complementary projects: the first (Project 3 / Port data acquisition, processing and distribution) defined a federated IoT platform for acquiring and sharing port data via microservices; the second (Project 5 / Robotics and AI for safety and risk assessment) proposed a framework based on drones, robots, and monitoring systems for operational risk assessment; the third (Project 7 / AI- and ML-based detection systems) developed AI- and machine learning-driven hardware and software solutions for advanced threat detection, including underwater identification technologies and monitoring of illicit trafficking.

At the close of his presentation, Dr. Domenico Presenza commented: “Engineering creates value by integrating domain expertise and technology, leveraging a portfolio of more than eight proprietary platforms and partnerships with strategic players like Microsoft and Google. Participating in research projects and events like IAS 19 is a tangible opportunity for us to keep our solutions aligned with future challenges. As we like to say in the company, we want our technologies to remain future-proof. That is why collaboration with academia and research institutions such as the CNR is essential to us. This approach has made us one of the most active Italian companies in both European and national innovation programs.”

The IAS 19 conference, which will conclude on July 4th, has once again proven to be a global benchmark for discussions on intelligent and autonomous systems, with a strong focus on ethics, responsibility, and inclusiveness in the development of robotic technologies.

RAISE at EXPO Osaka: Innovation through Robotics and Artificial Intelligence as an Expression of Ligurian Know-How

Inside the Italian Pavilion, designed by architect Mario Cucinella – who studied at the University of Genoa – RAISE is featured in several ways and at various moments.

Throughout the week, during which Liguria takes center stage in the space dedicated to Italian regions, the four themes of the RAISE ecosystem will be presented to the public through a video titled EXPOsing RAISE, Present and future of Italian Robotics and AI.

The video is a multimedia summary that showcases the best innovations produced so far by RAISE, presented as a dialogue between two robots – one Italian-made, R1, and one Japanese, Pepper – symbolizing the encounter and exchange between Italian and Japanese culture and design.

These two humanoid robots are involved in several RAISE projects. In Osaka, they guide visitors through the Italian Pavilion on a journey through the activities and current results of the four scientific Spokes.

The theme of the inclusive smart city, developed by Spoke 1, is illustrated not only with 3D models of the Brignole and San Martino neighborhoods (CNR-IMATI), but also with video clips from the RAISE Village at the 2024 Science Festival, particularly showing visitors—children and seniors—interacting with technology (interactive tables, robots, etc.) as well as with RAISE researchers (UniGe).

The video also includes interfaces of innovative digital services and data management platforms for a smart, inclusive city, developed by ETT and UniGe, both for citizens and decision-makers.

Spoke 2 is represented with 3D models of organs, particularly the brain and kidney, which are already being used to enhance surgical procedures in hospitals that are part of the ecosystem. It also features advanced heart diagnostics (Esaote) and 3D-printed reproductions of the spine. Smart environments are also showcased, including FISM‘s smart kitchen, as well as the AIMOKA project’s sensorized glasses and insoles.

An iconic hug between Pepper and a UniGe researcher who programs the robot symbolizes the theme of robotics applied to personalized care—both at home and in hospital settings. R1 also features as a guide throughout the experience, and appears at the end, displaying a heart on its face.

Marine eco-robotics from Spoke 3 is illustrated through 4D and 5D models from the NEPTUNE™ project, including footage from the February “mission” in the Portofino Marine Protected Area, using ROVs and MYWAI’s platform. Other video segments show not only the beauty of the Ligurian sea and coastline, but also the famous Christ of the Abyss.

Eco-robotics applied to soil and the protection of cultural heritage is featured through 3D models of churches and video footage of field experiments with a tracked robot and drone in Aggio (Genoa), developed by UniGe in collaboration with IIT, ETT, and Info Solution. The latter also showcases another robot in a vineyard, performing pruning tasks with a robotic arm developed by the IIT team.

Environmental monitoring is represented with interfaces from ETT’s data management platform, used for marine and coastal data. Finally, 3D models of the Port of Genoa are used as elements in a serious game.

Spoke 4 contributes content focused on smart logistics at the port, safety (including the use of quadruped robots), and tourist engagement through social robots—Pepper and Alter Ego—deployed both at the port and in other locations such as the Genoa Aquarium, thanks to researchers from CNR, IIT, and UniGe. One futuristic image of a robot “camallo”(dockworker) was co-created with AI during the RAISE The Future project, in collaboration between ITD and IAS.

The video was made possible thanks to the collective effort of over 100 people from the RAISE ecosystem, and features underwater robots, quadrupeds, humanoids, and drones.

Spoke 5 coordinated the production of the video, including scriptwriting, filming, and editing (in particular with CNR and ETT).

RAISE all’EXPO di Osaka: l’innovazione con la robotica e l’intelligenza artificiale come espressione del saper fare ligure
The presentation of the NEPTUNE™ project (Spoke 3) during the Blue Tech Revolution event | Author: NEPTUNE™ (Spoke 3) | Credits: NEPTUNE™ and RAISE

The Ligurian company MYWAI, lead partner of the NEPTUNE™ project and winner of a cascade funding call from Spoke 5, contributed not only to the video’s content but also presented its progress and results within Spoke 3, in collaboration with IIS – Italian Institute of Welding, during the Blue Tech Revolution event.

On July 1, the RAISE ecosystem was officially presented by Renata Paola Dameri (UniGe, Spokes 1 and 5) and Laura Gaggero (UniGe, Spoke 5) in the Auditorium of the Pavilion, during a day dedicated to the University of Genoa, research excellence, and academic exchange with Japanese universities.

RAISE all’EXPO di Osaka: l’innovazione con la robotica e l’intelligenza artificiale come espressione del saper fare ligure
Renata Paola Dameri (UniGe, Spoke 1 and 5) introduces the day dedicated to university and research | Author: Regione Liguria | Credits: Regione Liguria

Thus, innovation through robotics and AI becomes an expression of Ligurian know-how, in dialogue with other forms of expertise, through multimedia presentations and in-person events inside the Italian Pavilion.

RAISE Expo Osaka 2025
Pro-rector for Internationalization Paola Dameri (Spoke 1 and 5, UniGe) and Pro-rector for Research Laura Gaggero (Spoke 5, UniGe) present RAISE in Osaka | Author: Marco Frascio (UniGe) | Credits: UniGe and RAISE

Cover Image
Davide Giglio (UniGe, Spoke 4) next to the monitor playing the video about RAISE
Author: UniGe and RAISE
Credits: UniGe and RAISE

Liguria Region’s program for Expo 2025 Osaka presented: spotlight on innovation with the RAISE ecosystem

The official presentation of the Liguria Region’s program for its dedicated week at the Universal Exposition in Osaka, Japan- scheduled from June 29 to July 5 – took place on Friday, June 20, 2025, at the Sala Trasparenza in Genoa.

The event was attended by Toshiaki Kobayashi, Consul General of Japan in Milan, further underscoring the importance of institutional and cultural ties between Liguria and Japan.

The theme guiding Liguria’s participation at the Expo will be “Ligurian artist of living”, a concept designed to highlight the Ligurian ability to transform beauty, tradition, and culture into opportunities for work, entrepreneurship, and innovation, while maintaining a balance with the natural environment. The narrative intends to focus on people and their skills, showcasing the value of craftsmanship, quality of life, and harmonious coexistence with a land that is both complex and rich in potential.

During the press conference, the presence of the RAISE ecosystem was also outlined – a Ligurian initiative dedicated to research and the development of innovative technological solutions in the fields of robotics and artificial intelligence. As part of Liguria’s Expo week, RAISE will contribute with the experiential video “EXPOsing RAISE – Present and future of Italian Robotics and AI”, a multimedia feature that will showcase the main applications and projects developed by the organizations and companies belonging to the ecosystem.

The video is one of several audiovisual materials that visitors will be able to view within the Liguria Region’s dedicated area inside the Italian Pavilion. The production, coordinated by Spoke 5 – RAISE Communication Team with technical support from ETT Dedagroup, involved more than one hundred researchers, developers, and professionals from the sector.

The journey proposed in the video will allow Expo visitors to explore twelve three-dimensional and interactive models illustrating RAISE’s main research areas: inclusive smart cities, personalized healthcare, eco-robotics for environmental protection, and intelligent port logistics. The showcased solutions will include ground robots, drones, underwater ROVs, and humanoids operating in real-life contexts across the Ligurian region, such as ports, historic centers, healthcare facilities, and the marine environment.

“We are honored to take part in this major event and we thank the Liguria Region for the tremendous work done,” commented Cristina Battaglia, RAISE Project Manager. “Expo Osaka represents a global showcase and we are proud to present some of our projects related to robotics and artificial intelligence. RAISE is growing significantly in terms of projects and applications, and having the opportunity to display even a part of our work is unique”.

The press conference also highlighted other key aspects of Liguria’s presence in Osaka: six artisan companies selected through a dedicated regional call; cultural initiatives such as the Chiossone Museum; the launch of the new edition of the Genoa International Boat Show; and the strengthening of relations between Ligurian universities and Japanese educational institutions. References were also made to successful entrepreneurial stories born from the meeting between Liguria and Japan, as well as to the promotion of tourism and local skills.

The entire program has been designed to strengthen existing ties with Japan and to create new opportunities for economic and cultural cooperation within a global showcase like the Universal Expo in Osaka.

For further details, see the Liguria Region’s official press release.

RAISE ecosystem participates in conference on AI and robotics

The sixth stage of the “Fabbrica della Realtà” Roadshow took place in Genoa on June 16th at the Galata Museo del Mare, dedicated to the theme “Embodied AI, Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for the Future of the Planet”.

The event, promoted by ANSA in collaboration with the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), represented an important opportunity for discussion among institutions, research centers, companies, and startups engaged in the development of artificial intelligence solutions applied to robotics, with particular attention to the excellence present in the Ligurian region.

RAISE actively participated in the event with two contributions highlighting the strategic value of emerging technologies for environmental sustainability and industrial innovation.

Marco Faimali, Director of the Institute for the Study of Anthropogenic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment (IAS-CNR) and leader of Spoke 3, opened RAISE’s contribution by illustrating the opportunities offered by ecobotronics, a rapidly expanding field that integrates robotics and artificial intelligence for environmental protection and monitoring. During his presentation, Faimali shared application cases and research projects that demonstrate how autonomous robotic solutions can monitor, analyze, and intervene in the environment effectively and non-invasively. He also emphasized the potential of these technologies to support environmental remediation, pollution control, and biodiversity protection, contributing concretely to environmental sustainability goals set at European and international levels. On this occasion, Faimali also described RAISE’s broader contribution to robotics and sustainability, highlighting the value that the ecosystem is bringing to the Ligurian region and its future development prospects, with the aim of ensuring continuity of activities even beyond the conclusion of the NRRP, in order to consolidate technologies and solutions for the benefit of society and the environment.

In the following panel, Cristina Battaglia, RAISE Programme Manager, explored the topic of technology transfer, focusing on the dynamics of enhancing scientific research through industrialization processes and dissemination in various production sectors. Battaglia illustrated the operational methods adopted by RAISE to foster dialogue between academia, the entrepreneurial system, and public administration, underlining the importance of creating an innovation chain capable of transforming scientific and technological skills into concrete application solutions. Her speech also highlighted RAISE’s strategic role as a facilitator of systemic and integrated innovation processes, with particular attention to the need to ensure continuity of the results achieved and the technologies developed, even after the end of the NRRP, in order to support over time the impact of the initiatives undertaken on the local economy and the production system.

RAISE partecipa al convegno su AI e robotica – Ansa e IIT

The event offered an overview of the most advanced applications of “Embodied AI”, or artificial intelligence embodied in robotic systems capable of learning through interaction with the physical environment. This approach paves the way for new models of automation and functional autonomy for robots, with direct implications in strategic areas such as industrial production, logistics, precision agriculture, healthcare, space industry, and environmental protection.
Many experts took part during the day, including representatives from the Italian Institute of Technology, the University of Genoa, Deloitte Consulting, and innovative companies specializing in AI-based solutions.

The event hosted the official greetings from the President of the Liguria Region, Marco Bucci, and from City Councilor Vittoria Cerchi Canessa, representing the Mayor of Genoa, Silvia Salis.

Among the speakers, Giorgio Metta, Scientific Director of the Italian Institute of Technology, stood out by presenting the latest research developed in IIT laboratories; Federico Cardone, Director at Deloitte Consulting, focused on the opportunities of artificial intelligence in business processes; Antonio Sgorbissa, Professor at the University of Genoa, explored the theme of collaborative robotics; Jacopo Zenzeri, CEO of ReWing, provided a testimony on technological entrepreneurship; Francesca Negrello, Technology Manager at JOiiNT LAB, presented technology transfer projects in the industrial field; Emilio Alacevich, Chiara Bartolozzi, and Daniele Pucci from IIT demonstrated the application potential of “Embodied AI” systems in various sectors. Finally, Eleonora Servodio, Coordinator of the H4E incubator for startups, described initiatives supporting young innovative enterprises.

The conference was moderated by Alessio Jacona, curator of the ANSA.it Artificial Intelligence Observatory, and journalist Massimo Sebastiani.
ANSA’s CEO, Stefano De Alessandri, concluded the meeting by emphasizing the crucial role of information in fostering understanding of ongoing technological transformations and in promoting a widespread culture of innovation.

Strategic agreement between AMT and RAISE

A new strategic agreement between AMT Genova (Azienda Mobilità e Trasporti) and RAISE (Robotics and AI for Socio-economic Empowerment) paves the way for a collaboration aimed at testing innovative technologies in the areas of urban mobility, accessibility to services, and environmental monitoring.

The recently signed memorandum of understanding lays the groundwork for joint activities that promote the integration of public transportation and technological innovation, with a direct impact on citizens’ quality of life.

AMT’s fleet plays a central role in the project, becoming a mobile platform for real-world testing of technologies developed within the Ligurian innovation ecosystem.

The initiative focuses on two main operational areas, developed in synergy with the “E. Magenes” Institute for Applied Mathematics and Information Technologies (IMATI) and the Institute for Anthropic Impacts and Sustainability in the Marine Environment (IAS), both part of the National Research Council (CNR).

The scientific and technological partnership also includes the University of Genoa, the CIMA Foundation, and ETT S.p.A., thus strengthening a collaborative network launched within the RAISE program.

The first line of action involves the development of intelligent solutions for increasingly accessible, sustainable, and inclusive mobility. The installation of sensors on vehicles and at stops enables real-time data collection on the use of public services and accessibility conditions. The collected data allows for the creation of digital tools for route planning, travel assistance, and service adaptation to users’ specific needs, with particular attention to people with motor or visual impairments. The technologies being tested provide up-to-date information on vehicle occupancy, crowding levels, and stop accessibility.

The second operational focus is on environmental monitoring. AMT buses are equipped with advanced sensors capable of detecting atmospheric and climatic parameters in real time, such as particulate matter concentration, heatwaves, and other extreme weather events. The collected data complements existing databases and helps improve the ability to predict and respond to critical events, enhancing urban adaptation strategies to climate change.

The agreement is a concrete example of technology transfer from research centers to society, in line with the objectives of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), which supports RAISE through Mission 4, Component 2.

The initiative confirms AMT’s commitment to promoting cutting-edge solutions for urban mobility and fits within a broader vision of social and environmental sustainability.

The collaboration between AMT Genova and RAISE Ecosystem lays the foundation for an increasingly intelligent public mobility system, attentive to people’s needs and capable of actively contributing to environmental protection.

Spokes 3 and Spoke 4 present three marine demos at the Blue Festival

On June 4, during the “Expo of Innovative and Sustainable Solutions” at the Genova Blue District, Spoke 3 and Spoke 4 of RAISE took part in the Blue Festival with three demonstrations focused on marine environmental monitoring.

The initiative is part of the Blue Festival, a city-wide event dedicated to climate, oceans, and biodiversity, held from June 3 to 14. The festival features exhibitions, workshops, talks, performances, screenings, gaming, and a showcase of innovative solutions.

During the event, three prototypes were presented by CNR-IAS and ETT: OpenCTD, @lgawarning, and an ROV equipped with biofouling analysis technology.

OpenCTD is a tool for measuring marine temperature and salinity. Compact and easy to handle, it enables fast and reliable collection of physico-chemical data in water. The process involves a simple manual start, immersion to stabilize the sensors, and subsequent data retrieval via SD card. Ease of use is combined with good precision in environmental data collection.

@lgawarning is an integrated system for monitoring algal blooms, based on a sampling kit and a mobile app with GPS functionality. Users can collect and analyze water samples, take microscopic images using a smartphone, and generate georeferenced reports. The interface also helps visually identify the algae through an educational quiz, encouraging active participation from citizens and professionals. Within the RAISE project, an AI model is being trained on a photo database of toxic algae samples (e.g., Ostreopsis cf. ovata) to enable recognition of such species in environmental samples.

The third device is an ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) equipped with software for assessing biofouling — the accumulation of organisms on surfaces exposed to seawater, such as ship hulls. This system employs deep learning techniques for visual analysis of submerged surfaces and has been developed as part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. Neural networks enable image segmentation to distinguish between clean surfaces, hard fouling, and soft fouling. Integration with the remotely operated vehicle allows for real-time analysis, with potential applications for sustainable management of marine infrastructure in accordance with IMO guidelines.

As part of efforts to monitor the health of marine ecosystems, “early warning systems” are being developed, combining environmental research and AI to analyze swimming movements and appendages of marine zooplankton organisms (such as crustaceans and cnidarians).

Spoke 3 contributes to the development of ecorobotics, an emerging field that combines robotics and artificial intelligence for environmental protection. Its contribution to the Blue Festival highlighted the strategic role of innovation in building a sustainable future.

Spoke 4 focuses on the development of smart and sustainable ports through the integration of robotics and AI systems. Its main goal is to make port operations safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable, including the implementation of tools to reduce environmental impact.

All events are free of charge. The full program is available on the official website.

COFFEETECH Genova: Cristina Battaglia presents the results of the RAISE Ecosystem

On Friday, May 30, 2025, the 246th edition of the weekly “Coffeetech” series took place at the Confindustria Genova headquarters.

The featured guest was Cristina Battaglia, Programme Manager of the RAISE Innovation Ecosystem, who – three years after the launch of the program – provided an update on the “Results and Outlook of the RAISE Ecosystem”.

During her presentation, Cristina Battaglia gave an overview of the main achievements and showcased a selection of technology demonstrators developed within the program’s four strategic areas:
– Urban technologies for inclusive engagement;
– Personal and remote healthcare;
– Environmental protection and care;
– Smart and sustainable ports.

Among the topics discussed were also the future perspectives for the ecosystem’s consolidation and expansion: “We are working together with all partners and HUB members on defining a strategic plan, which will outline the activity lines and priority programs for the future of the ecosystem. The contribution of Confindustria Genoa will be crucial in aligning objectives and tools to enhance RAISE’s results in service of the business system,” commented Cristina Battaglia, with an eye toward the technologies and skills considered most promising for regional competitiveness.

The event provided an important opportunity to reflect on the state of technological innovation in Liguria, with particular attention to the fields of robotics and artificial intelligence – areas where RAISE is making a significant contribution to the region’s economic and social development.

A recording of the Coffeetech event is available on the Confindustria Genova Facebook page.

FameLab Genova 2025: local selection concluded

Once again this year, the FameLab Genova initiative saw the active participation of RAISE among the organizations that contributed to the organization of the local selection of the renowned international science communication competition. The Genoese edition confirmed its status as a significant and eagerly awaited event in the field of science communication, offering an opportunity to highlight the talent and communication skills of young researchers.

The final event took place on Wednesday, May 7, at the LaClaque theatre in the historic center of the city. Numerous participants took to the stage, each tasked with presenting a scientific topic in just three minutes, clearly, engagingly, and effectively—without the aid of images or videos. Only small props were allowed, with the main tools being creativity and passion for science storytelling.

Carlotta Spattini and Anna Shabalova, both researchers at the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), stood out among the contestants, winning first and second place respectively. The jury, composed of experts from both the scientific and cultural sectors, awarded first prize to Spattini for her talk “Molecular Harmony: Precision Tuning”, while Shabalova earned second place with “The Other Part of Love Hormone”.

FameLab Genova 2025 chiusa la selezione locale - Ecosistema RAISE
Le finaliste. Da sinistra a destra Carlotta Spattini (prima classificata) e Anna Shabalova (seconda classificata) | Credits: Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia – © IIT, all rights reserved

The jury was made up of Alessio Caminata (INFN – Genova Section), Roberta De Donatis (CNR-IMATI and member of the RAISE Innovation Ecosystem), Eleonora D’Urso (actress and director), Teresa Pellegrino (Head of the Nanomaterials for Biomedical Applications lab at IIT) and Walter Riva (Director of the Righi Astronomical Observatory).

FameLab Genova 2025 chiusa la selezione locale - Ecosistema RAISE
La giuria. Da sinistra a destra Roberta De Donatis, Alessio Caminata, Teresa Pellegrino, Eleonora D’Urso e Walter Riva | Credits: Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia – © IIT, all rights reserved

At the same time, the audience had the opportunity to vote for the Audience Award, which was given to Hazem Ahmed – also a researcher at IIT – for his presentation “The Future of Memory”.

The overall quality of the presentations made the jury’s task especially difficult, highlighting the high level of preparation and the growing importance of science communication as a tool for societal engagement.

The two Genoese winners will participate in an intensive science communication masterclass to be held in Perugia from June 13 to 15, led by Wendy Sadler of Science Made Simple. They will then go on to represent Genoa at the national final, scheduled for September 27 in Perugia, where they will compete against the winners from seven other Italian cities: Ancona, Bari, Camerino, Catania, Cosenza, Ferrara, and Trieste.

The national winner will ultimately take part in the international final, representing Italy alongside winners from other countries, in a global competition dedicated to science and the art of sharing it.

The 2025 edition of FameLab Genova was promoted as a pre-event of the SHARPER European Researchers’ Night and was coordinated by IIT, in collaboration with numerous institutional and cultural partners: CNR, University of Genoa, INFN – Genova Section, Festival della Scienza, RAISE, Genoa Aquarium, The City of Children and Youth, Giacomo Doria Natural History Museum, Associazione Didattica Museale, the Genoa branch of ADI – Italian Association of PhD Candidates and PhDs, with media support from Scientificast.

Finaziato dall'Unione Europea Ministero dell'Università e della Ricerca Italia Domani Raise