From May 29th to 31st, at the University of Brescia, technology, academic and research experts will gather to share experiences on digital infrastructures and skills, artificial intelligence, big data and cybersecurity.

The University of Brescia is hosting the annual GARR Conference, the Italian research and education network: an opportunity to share experiences on the use of digital infrastructures and services in different disciplines and contexts, alongside technology, academic and research experts. This year's highly topical theme is "Navigating complexity: digital infrastructures and skills for research". The event takes place from 29th to 31st May at the Aula Magna of the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery on Viale Europa, 11 in Brescia.

"GARR Conference is a unique opportunity on the national scene to bring together high-level professionals from diverse disciplinary sectors," declares Prof. Maurizio Tira, GARR President. "Gathering so many experts to discuss emerging challenges and opportunities in digital innovation is essential for the Italian community of universities and research to address these issues synergistically and collectively, placing itself at the forefront of international competition."

Each of the three days is dedicated to exploring the latest innovations and their impact on scientific research and education.

Wednesday, May 29th 

Opening the 2024 edition of the conference are the institutional greetings from the Rector of the University of Brescia, Francesco Castelli, and the GARR President, Maurizio Tira. This is followed by an in-depth analysis by Massimo Carboni, GARR's Chief Technical Officer, on how digital technology brings incredible opportunities to address the complexity of the present, but also raises questions on how to maintain control and preserve the ability to make informed decisions.

The first day's programme also includes a round table - dedicated to digital infrastructures and skills for universities and research - which brings together representatives from institutions, universities and research bodies such as Giovanna Iannantuoni, President of CRUI - Conference of Italian University Rectors and Rector of the University of Milano-Bicocca, Giuseppe Gervasi, an official from the Ministry of Health, Giorgio Graditi, Director General of ENEA, Luca Dell'Agnello, Director of INFN-CNAF, Paolo Giuseppe Ravazzani Director of CNR-IEIIT, Mario Locati, Head of the Data Management Office at INGV, Andrea Possenti, an official from INAF, Maurizio Tira, GARR President.

In the afternoon, attention shifts to the new frontiers of artificial intelligence, exploring the progress, implications and risks of this technology in the Italian landscape. Particular focus will be on creating a Large Language Model that is closer to the needs of our community.

Thursday, May 30th
The second day is dedicated to discussing strategies for addressing rapid changes in the current digital context, with sessions on the new opportunities offered by big data, digital twins, and advanced research infrastructures with applications that leverage supercomputing and quantum communications.

The day closes with a discussion on the latest news and directives on cybersecurity and their impact in the academic and research fields, with experts such as Gianluca Galasso and Roberto Caramia (National Cybersecurity Agency) and representatives from various universities.

Friday, May 31st 

Finally, the third day is dedicated to reflecting on the theme of open science and its relationship with digital autonomy. An opportunity to examine the importance of sharing and the role of digital platforms in promoting independence and transparency. This is followed by an in-depth look at digital rights, privacy and data protection, and the importance of adequate training to prevent the risks of misusing our personal data.

It is possible to attend the event in person or remotely (live streaming on GARR TV, on Youtube and Facebook).

Find out the full programme Register