Giulia Piacente and Giulia Toscano, both graduates in Architecture, are the winners of the first edition of the ‘Fermeglia Prize’ for the best Master's thesis on the topics of energy, transport and the environment.

The €1,000 prize was presented by Professor Sabrina Pricl on behalf of the family of Maurizio Fermeglia, former Rector of the University of Trieste, who passed away prematurely in 2024.

The thesis ‘From Waterscape to Nautopia: Scenarios of Global Warming and Stories of Architecture, Spaces and Radical Habitats’ (Advisor prof. Thomas Bisiani) presents an imaginative and futuristic vision of cities on water.

Starting from a reflection on global warming and the consequent rise in sea levels, the two students conceived Nautopia, a floating village for 2,000 people. Partially submerged, it is designed to submerge further in bad weather and is surrounded by an artificial atoll to mitigate the impact of waves.

On the underwater level, a dedicated distribution grid allows for horizontal movement, is modular to expand or reduce spaces and includes a connection system linking the market, the commercial building and the cultural centre. The surface level is left open to allow navigation.

Movement between levels is made possible by lifting platforms, which enable vertical transport and the provision of energy, water and waste management systems.

Nautopia is self-sufficient in terms of food, water, energy and waste disposal, following a ‘zero waste’ approach in alignment with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda.

The ceremony was attended by Rector Roberto Di Lenarda and Alessandro Massi Pavan, Coordinator of the Giacomo Ciamician Interdepartmental Centre, which was involved in selecting the winning thesis project.

Preparations are already underway for Trieste Next – Festival of Scientific Research, whose fourteenth edition will take place from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th September.

The 2025 edition of the Festival will be dedicated to ‘Life Within: Dialogues Between Science and Technology.’

Since its first edition, Trieste Next has tackled key topics in scientific and cultural debate, from food and water to energy and the relationship between humans and technology, as well as the theme of sustainability. The 2025 edition will offer an opportunity to explore the scientific agenda for the coming years and to reflect on the new frontiers of research and innovation, along with their limitations, including ethical ones.

Trieste Next will feature three days of conferences, seminars and workshops, with over 100 events on the programme, 300 speakers and a distinguished lineup of guests. There will also be exhibition spaces in Piazza Unità d’Italia and activities dedicated to schools.

For the third consecutive year, the ‘Trieste Next Prize: Science Book of the Year’ will be awarded, celebrating the masters of scientific communication. Last year's winner was Piero Martin with ‘Storie di errori memorabili’ (Laterza).

https://www.triestenext.it/

Three years ago, Russia started its full-scale war on Ukraine, in blatant violation of international law.

 Among the countless acts of aggression and their consequences is the displacement of Mariupol State University (MSU), one of the universities forming the Transform4Europe alliance. 

Our friends and partners at MSU show, at great costs and personal risks, exceptional resilience, strength and courage in upholding and defending the European values and our common spirit of European transformation. 

Transform4Europe stands firm with our friends and colleagues at Mariupol State University.

Creating materials that behave like living tissue is an ever closer prospect thanks to a University of Trieste – Keio University (Japan) study just published in Advanced Science.

The international research team that conceived the paper consists of Pierangelo Gobbo, Professor of Organic Chemistry at the Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences at UniTS, Prof. Taisuke Banno and PhD student Tomoya Kojima from Keio University.  

The scientists have developed an innovative method for assembling ‘prototissue’ fibres from microscopic vesicles, demonstrating how it is possible to synthesise materials that mimic the behaviour of human body tissue from scratch. The process exploits the adhesion between two types of oppositely charged vesicles, which are joined by ‘salt bridges’ acting as a kind of natural glue. 

The innovation has multiple applications and is likely to revolutionise various fields from 3D bioprinting and the design of engineered tissues to the development of soft robotics for the creation of flexible and adaptable devices inspired by living organisms. 

In the clinical field, for example, it will be possible to graft such synthetic fibres tissues in vivo to support sick living tissues. Notably, some of the prototypes developed are able to detect the presence of glucose and produce a fluorescent ‘signalling’ molecule. In future, these fibres could be engineered to produce insulin in response to increased glucose, meaning it could be applied in interesting ways in the treatment of diabetes. 

The fibres could also be engineered to respond not only to chemical but also physical stimuli, such as temperature or light, and, by combining them in bundles, obtain new ‘smart’ biomimetic materials for muscle tissue repair.

The study was funded by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, the European Research Council (Starting Grant PROTOMAT) and the Next Generation EU programme (NRPP PRIN project 3D-L-INKED).
 

In the Picture: Prof. Pierangelo Gobbo, UniTS

From today, the University of Trieste and the University of Udine are connected by a quantum link running over fibre optics.

This connection marks the beginning of an infrastructure that is expected to grow rapidly, aiming to become a model for both Italy and Europe. The result of a five-year study, it is one of the key objectives of the Quantum FVG project, coordinated by the University of Trieste and funded by the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region.

The first milestone was the inauguration of the QCI Laboratory in 2024. Based at the CNR facility on the Basovizza campus within Area Science Park, the lab is dedicated to developing quantum solutions for the secure exchange of information.

The Rector of the University of Trieste, Roberto Di Lenarda, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating that those leading technological development, in which quantum research plays a fundamental role, have the power to shape economic processes and contribute to a safer and fairer society. Through the Quantum FVG project and its future developments, the university aims to play a central role in this transformation by excelling in teaching, research, and technological innovation within this strategic field.

Similarly, the Rector of the University of Udine, Roberto Pinton, emphasised that quantum physics represents an important frontier of knowledge. He noted that, with the activation of this quantum link between Udine and Trieste, the universities of the region are making a significant contribution to research in this field. The technical expertise and experience gained over decades, dating back to the early days of the internet, have now enabled the creation of a system based on sophisticated and innovative technologies, positioning the region at the forefront of quantum communication in Italy.

The Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia has committed further funding through the 2025 Stability Law for a project called EQUIP-FVG (Extended Quantum Infrastructure Project for Friuli Venezia Giulia). This initiative will establish a permanent fibre-optic infrastructure for secure communication using quantum technology, with applications in maritime, port, and logistics operations. This experimental phase is part of a broader strategy to enhance cybersecurity and technological competitiveness. In the future, it will be extended to other critical infrastructures and cross-border projects, strengthening the security of the region’s entire logistics network and reinforcing Friuli Venezia Giulia’s leadership in strategically significant areas for the country. Regional Councillor for Labour, Education, Research, Universities, and Families, Alessia Rosolen, explained that this initiative represents one step in a wider regional effort.

In addition, Councillor for Information Systems, Sebastiano Callari, noted that this achievement has been made possible above all thanks to investments by the Region, which has developed the Regional Public Network (RPR). This fibre-optic network spans 1,600 km as a backbone and includes over 500 km of access networks in urban and industrial areas, connecting more than 1,300 public offices. For years, the regional administration has been working to improve and expand digital infrastructure, and quantum communication will now allow these networks to support highly secure applications between key nodes, including universities.

The quantum link between the two universities guarantees both security and stability. It allows for the generation of ultra-secure cryptographic keys to encrypt document exchanges, and it is not simply a demonstration of the technology. Instead, it is a permanent and stable connection, intended to be integrated into future operational services.

The University of Trieste and the University of Udine will continue collaborating to enhance its performance and integrate it into classical infrastructure such as the internet.

To establish the connection, both the acquisition of quantum communication equipment and the securing of the necessary fibre-optic network were required. The purchase of equipment was made possible thanks to the Quantum FVG project, supported by the Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia’s Department for Labour, Education, Research, Universities, and Families. The fibre-optic infrastructure, on the other hand, was provided with the support of the Department for Public Assets, State Property, General Services, and Information Systems. 

A key role was played by LightNet, which will also be responsible for the technical management of the infrastructure.

This quantum link is part of a broader vision. The Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, through the QuFree project, has allocated additional funds to explore quantum communication via free-space optics, the equivalent of radio links, instead of using fibre optics. The goal is to secure communications for recipients who cannot be connected via fibre, such as ships.

Finally, preparations are underway for a European project that will extend the quantum network eastward to include Slovenia.

In the photo: a shot from the presentation of the conference at the University of Trieste

The University of Trieste is once again taking part in M’illumino di meno, the Italian National Day of Saving Energy and Sustainable Lifestyles, celebrated on 16th February. As a sign of its commitment, the LED lights illuminating the façade of Building A (Piazzale Europa 1) will be dimmed from sunset on Friday 14th February until dawn on Monday 17th February.

The initiative, launched by the popular Rai Radio2 programme Caterpillar in 2005, was officially recognised by the Italian Parliament in 2022. It has since become an opportunity to promote environmental sustainability and the responsible use of resources nationwide.

The 21st edition highlights the environmental impact of fast fashion, a sector that has been at the centre of growing debate in recent years due to its high resource consumption and the massive production of textile waste. In response to these issues, various sustainable alternatives are emerging, such as clothes swapping parties, upcycling, and the second-hand market.

‘The role of consumers is crucial in driving this change,’ says Chiara Marinelli, a PhD researcher in Circular Economy at DEAMS. ‘Initiatives like M’illumino di meno are essential for raising awareness of the impact of fast fashion and the importance of sustainable alternatives. Talking about the issue is not enough—we need to take action. Consumers must realise that their everyday choices have a direct impact on the environment, and real change requires collective commitment.’

Significant progress is being made in tackling issues related to sustainability, environmental impact, and transparency. On one hand, institutions are introducing new regulations to promote and incentivise more sustainable practices. On the other, technological advancements continue to pave the way for innovative solutions that could transform how we produce, consume, and recycle textiles.

‘At a regulatory level, the European Union is developing its textile strategy, introducing a “European passport” for each garment. This initiative aims to increase transparency regarding the origin and sustainability of clothing, helping consumers make more informed choices. In terms of technological innovation, many companies are developing promising solutions. One example is Bio Fashion Tech, a start-up I had the opportunity to collaborate with. It has developed a biomechanical technology capable of breaking down the polymers in garments and converting them into sugars that can be used in other industries, such as pharmaceuticals,’ Marinelli concludes.

As part of this initiative, UniTS highlights the importance of local projects like Sartoria Lister, a social cooperative that has been upcycling discarded clothing and materials since 2009, transforming them into unique accessories such as bags and backpacks. Sartoria Lister has collaborated with UniTS on an initiative sparked by a simple question: what should be done with the PVC banners printed for various editions of the Researchers’ Night and Trieste Next, which had been stored in university warehouses awaiting disposal? This led to the creation of the Mis-Mas line of bags, each one a unique and sustainable piece. These bags are available for purchase at the National Museum of Antarctica, at the San Giovanni Park (on Via Weiss 21, near the church).

A study has just been published in the international scientific journal Science of the Total Environment, which involved measuring mercury levels in the hair of fisherman and people working in the fishing industry in the Marano and Grado lagoon, one of the largest in Europe. 

The study was conducted by Luca Cegolon (UCO of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine of UniTS) in collaboration with Giuseppe Mastrangelo (University of Padua), the MercuRILab research group of the University of Trieste (directed by Stefano Covelli) and UniTS’s Occupational Medicine Department (directed by Francesca Larese Filon). 

The Marano and Grado lagoon was identified as a Site of National Interest (SNI) due to contamination from centuries-old mercury ore (cinnabar) from the Soča/Isonzo river draining into the Idria mining district in Slovenia (the second largest natural deposit in the world after Almaden in Spain). Inorganic forms of mercury were also present in the contamination, and came from uncontrolled industrial discharge. 

In the eastern sector of the lagoon, at the mouth of the Isonzo river, previous studies detected mercury concentrations of up to 11 mg/kg in sediments, gradually decreasing to 5 mg/kg in the central area and 0.7 mg/kg in the western sector. 

While the contamination of the eastern sector of the Lagoon was mainly attributable to mercury of mineral origin (cinnabar or mercury sulphide) from the Isonzo river, the mercury detected near the mouth of the Aussa-Corno river had an inorganic component, of industrial origin. 

The investigation by the University of Trieste, carried out in early 2024 in Marano Lagunare, compared the concentration of mercury in the hair of 73 fishermen (32 from the open sea, 30 from the lagoon and 11 mixed) and 83 local residents working in the fishing industry, with 93 residents from the Belluno area (mainly farmers). The survey focused on this group of people as they inevitably have greater access and availability to fish consumption than the general population. Residents from a mountainous area were chosen as the comparison category for the opposite reason. 

The average level of mercury detected in fishermen (2.56 mg/kg) and workers of the industry (2.31 mg/kg) was significantly higher than that of farmers in the Dolomites (0.58 mg/kg) and increased with the consumption of local fish, particularly fresh fish. An increase was also detected in categories such as fishermen, fish sellers or restaurateurs.

Although these values are slightly above the limit (2 mg/kg) recommended by the World Health Organisation, these concentrations are still well below 11.5 mg/kg, the limit below which no adverse effects on human health have been observed to date. The current situation, therefore, can be considered balanced, and does not contraindicate the consumption of fish from the lagoon. This is also true since fish carries selenium, a chemical element which offsets the effects of mercury. However, it is recommended that pregnant women and growing children limit their consumption of fresh fish to no more than one meal per week.

Trieste once again takes centre stage as hub of science communication, with the local selections of FameLab 2025 taking place. The competition, which challenges students, researchers and research fellows to introduce a scientific topic in their field of study in just three minutes, will take place on Friday 4th April 2025, from 9:00 to 13:00, in Sala Luttazzi (Warehouse 26, Trieste Old Port). 

Participants will have to capture the attention of a non-expert audience without the aid of projections or videos, relying solely on their own talent and perhaps with the addition of supporting objects that do not require complex set-ups. Each contestant will present two speeches of a three-minute duration: one during the pre-selection phase and, if they qualify, one during the final selection. At the end of the day, the jury will elect the two winners who will go on to the next stage of the competition.

The initiative also includes a free seminar, held on 24th March in the Polo Giovani Toti (Via del Castello 1, Trieste), where science communicator Donato Ramani and actress Daniela Gattorno will offer advice on narrative structure and stage performance. 

Next steps

The winners of the local selection will be invited to Perugia from 13th to 15th June 2025 to take part in the FameLab Masterclass, an intensive workshop where international experts will guide them in refining their communication skills. Afterwards, the two contestants will take part in the national final, also in Perugia, and scheduled for 27th September 2025. Finally, the winner of FameLab Italia 2025 will represent the country in the international final at the end of November, where they will compete against talents from all over the world.

Requirements

The competition is open to researchers, research assistants, research and development professionals (with a master's degree) or post-graduate students born after 1st January 1990. 

Applicants must come from a STEM field, medical or humanities background (e.g., anthropology, archaeology, economics, philosophy, geography, law, linguistics, literature, psychology, political science, sociology, history and art history). 

In addition, people who have already participated in the national final or masterclass in previous editions or who have worked professionally in the field of science communication are not permitted to enter.

Prizes

The winner of the local selection will be awarded a cash prize of € 400 and will have the opportunity to participate in the national final and masterclass. In addition, they will be able to attend a course of the Master in Science Communication ‘Franco Prattico’ at SISSA in Trieste. 

The runner-up will also receive a cash prize of € 200 and attend both the national final and the masterclass.

Registration

Registration is done through an online form, and is open until Thursday 27th March 2025. 

Info on www.immaginarioscientifico.it; info@immaginarioscientifico.it. 

The local selection is organised by Immaginario Scientifico Science Museum, the University of Trieste, the University of Udine, SISSA – International School of Advanced Studies and the Municipality of Trieste, within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding ‘Trieste City of Knowledge’.

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, established by the United Nations in 2015 and observed on 11 th February, recognises the crucial role women play in the global scientific community.

The aim of this day is to promote full and equal participation of women in science, overcoming historical and cultural barriers that have often hindered their access to STEM careers.

According to recent UNESCO data, only 33% of researchers worldwide are women, with even lower figures in key fields such as artificial intelligence and robotics. Furthermore, women are less likely to receive research funding or hold leadership positions in scientific institutions.

The European Commission’s "SHE Figures" report reveals that women make up just 24% of senior positions in universities and research centres across Europe. This gap is even wider in the private sector and industry, where women in leadership roles related to science and innovation remain a minority.

Promoting gender equality in science is not just a matter of social justice; it means valuing diverse talents and perspectives, fostering a more inclusive and innovative scientific community, and improving our ability to tackle global challenges effectively.

UniTS in numbers (Source: Italian Ministry of Universities and Research - MUR)
The majority of students at our university are women, accounting for 60% of enrolments.
In the field of Engineering, Manufacturing and Construction, women make up 28%, while in Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics, they account for nearly 50%.
In both areas, the presence of women has increased significantly compared to a decade ago.

 

‘Remembering the massacres of the foibe and the tragedy of the Istrian, Fiuman, and Dalmatian exodus encourages critical reflection on nationalism and exclusionary, violent ideologies that tore Europe apart in the last century,’ says Patrick Karlsen, Associate Professor of Contemporary History at the University of Trieste, on the occasion of the National Memorial Day of the Exiles and Foibe. ‘The history of the Adriatic border is inherently transnational and serves as a kind of laboratory of modernity. Understanding it helps to reinforce democratic citizenship and a sense of belonging to our common European home—ties that are essential to keeping our societies cohesive and united in solidarity.’

On the evening of 10th February, the façade of the University main building will be illuminated in the colours of the Italian flag to raise awareness in the city about these events, which so profoundly marked this territory.

The National Memorial Day of the Exiles and Foibe was established by Law No. 92 of 30th March 2004 with the following statement:

‘The Republic recognises 10th February as the National Memorial Day of the Exiles and Foibe in order to preserve and renew the memory of the tragedy of Italians and all victims of the Foibe massacres, the exodus of Istrians, Fiumans, and Dalmatians from their homeland in the aftermath of World War II, and the broader, complex history of the Italian eastern border.’

The same law also established the Museum of Istrian, Fiuman, and Dalmatian Civilisation in Trieste and the Historical Museum-Archive of Fiume in Rome.

Each year, during the official commemorations, descendants of the victims who apply receive a metal insignia bearing the inscription ‘The Italian Republic Remembers’ along with a diploma signed by the President of the Republic.