Ivan Franceschini is a Research Fellow at the Department of Asian and North African Studies, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, and a Postdoctoral Fellow at The Australian National University's Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs. His work focuses on Chinese labor movements, civil society, and political transformations. University: Ca' Foscari University of Venice Department: Department of Asian and North African Studies Email: ivan.franceschini@unive.it Franceschini's research spans labor activism, NGO strategies, and historical narratives in China. His publications in journals like The China Quarterly and Pacific Affairs analyze state-labor relations, digital activism, and garment industry exploitation. He co-edits the Made in China Journal , exploring labor and civil society dynamics. Key article trends include comparative labor studies across China and Cambodia, legal mobilization by workers, and historical reinterpretations such as the Taiping Rebellion. His 2019 work on collective bargaining and 2018 comparative analysis of garment workers highlight systemic labor challenges.
Federica CICCI is a Contract Lecturer in the Department of Asian and North African Studies at Ca' Foscari University of Venice and has recently taken on an adjunct professorship in 'History of Asia and Southeast Asia' at Roma Tre University. Her academic work is deeply rooted in gender history, Chinese studies, and transnational humanitarianism, particularly focusing on women's roles during wartime China (1937–1945). Education: Ph.D. (Magna Cum Laude, 2024): Double Degree, Ca' Foscari University of Venice and Heidelberg University. Research: 'Caring Women: Transnational Activism and Humanitarian Relief Efforts during Wartime China (1937-1945).' M.A. in Languages, Economies and Institutions of Asia and North Africa (110/110 con lode, 2018), Ca' Foscari University of Venice. B.A. in Languages, Culture and Societies of Asia and Mediterranean Africa (110/110 con lode, 2016), Ca' Foscari University of Venice. Classical High School Degree (96/100, 2013), Liceo G. Mazzatinti, Gubbio. She also completed multiple exchange programs in China at Renmin University, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, and Capital Normal University. Her research interests center on gender, humanitarianism, women's transnational activism, and modern Chinese history . She explores how women navigated war, care, and political ideologies through institutions like the Red Cross and missionary networks. Her work bridges history, gender studies, and international relations, often highlighting silenced female voices in 20th-century China. The analysis of her publications reveals a strong thematic consistency: all recent works examine women’s humanitarian roles during wartime China, with sub-themes including gendered discourse, medical missions, Sino-Vatican relations, and the ideological framing of care. She frequently publishes in Italian and international journals such as DEP. Deportate, Esuli e Profughe and Asia Maior , and presents at major conferences like EACS and AISC. Scientific Awards and Scholarships: 3-year Ph.D. full scholarship from Italian Ministry of University and Ca' Foscari (2019) Erasmus+ funding for research at Heidelberg University (2020–2021) Third prize in 'Chinese Speech Contest' and scholarship at ECNU (2018) Multiple 'Overseas' Program awards from Ca' Foscari for study in China Confucius-Hanban Institute Scholarship Federica CICCI has served as a Teaching Assistant and Faculty Tutor at Ca' Foscari, supporting courses in Chinese history and law. She has not advised any students yet. She has received research grants through Erasmus+ and participated in summer schools and workshops on area studies and gender history. She is an active member of several academic associations and serves on the editorial board of DEP. Deportate, Esuli e Profughe . She is involved in academic communities such as the Associazione Italiana per gli Studi Cinesi (AISC) , European Association of Chinese Studies (EACS) , and Società Italiane delle Storiche (SIS) . She has organized and reported on international conferences, particularly those focusing on women’s transnational activism.
Sabatino Cuomo is an Associate Professor of Geotechnics at the Department of Civil Engineering, University of Salerno, Italy. He has been actively involved in teaching and research since completing his PhD in Civil Environmental Engineering at the same university in 2006. His academic career includes numerous international collaborations and leadership roles in research projects focused on landslide mechanics and soil behavior. His educational background includes: PhD in Civil Environmental Engineering (2006), University of Salerno Master in Civil Engineering with honors and special mention (2002), University of Salerno Cuomo's research focuses on geotechnical aspects of natural hazards, particularly landslides and soil erosion. His work spans multiple scales from grain-level soil mechanics to regional landslide susceptibility analysis. He specializes in numerical modeling of flow-type landslides, unsaturated soil mechanics, and the development of constitutive models for predicting soil behavior under extreme conditions. His research integrates laboratory testing with advanced computational methods to address complex geotechnical challenges related to natural disasters. Analysis of his publication record reveals a consistent focus on landslide dynamics, with particular emphasis on numerical simulation techniques (FEM, SPH, MPM) for modeling post-failure behavior. His work shows increasing sophistication in handling unsaturated soil conditions and multi-scale approaches from grain to specimen level. The research demonstrates strong interdisciplinary connections between geomechanics, hydrology, and natural hazard assessment. His notable scientific achievements include: Editor Choice Best Paper 2013 in Canadian Geotechnical Journal European Representative of YMPG of ISSMGE (2012) 5th Sapio Prize by Italian Geotechnical Society for best M.Sc. Thesis (2004) Prize for excellence of undergraduate studies (2004) Cuomo has served as coordinator for multiple international research projects, including collaborations with institutions in France, Spain, Switzerland, Norway, and China. He has been actively involved in teaching both at his home institution and as a visiting professor at several international universities. His institutional service includes board membership in the Engineering Faculty and Department of Civil Engineering at University of Salerno since 2015, and significant involvement in PhD programs. He has also contributed to international standardization efforts through membership in technical committees of ISO and UNI. Most of his research activities have been developed within the International LARAM School (LAndslide Risk Assessment and Mitigation) for PhD students, which he has helped organize and lead since 2006, fostering international collaboration in landslide research.
Tiziana Lioi is an Associate Professor of Chinese Language and Translation at the University of International Studies of Rome (UNINT). She holds leadership roles, including President of the Languages for Interpreting and Translation degree program and coordinator of the international PhD in Global Studies and Innovation. She also serves as Erasmus coordinator for China. Education: She earned a degree in Foreign Languages and Literatures from the University of Rome 'Sapienza' and a PhD in Civilizations, Cultures, and Societies of Asia and Africa from Sapienza and Beijing University. Research Interests: Focus on cultural and literary relations between China and Italy, Qian Xue studies, and teaching methods for modern Chinese. Her work explores figures like Qian Zhongshu and Giovanni Vacca, emphasizing historical and comparative analyses. Publications: Over 40 works, including monographs, articles, and teaching manuals. Recent highlights include Chinese for Work (2023) and studies on China-Italy political-cultural dynamics (2024). She contributes to journals like Leukanikà and international conferences. Awards: None explicitly mentioned in the provided texts. Active in academic governance and international collaborations.
Ken Endo is Professor of International Politics at the School of Law and Dean of the Graduate School of Public Policy at Hokkaido University, Sapporo. He also serves as an Adjunct Fellow at the Japan Institute for International Affairs, Tokyo. His educational qualifications include: MA (cum laude) in European Studies, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium D.Phil in Politics, St Antony’s College, University of Oxford (1996) Professor Endo's research centers on International Relations with specialized expertise in European Union integration , global governance structures , and East Asian security policy . His work critically examines sovereignty in contemporary international systems, European institutional dynamics, and Japan's diplomatic strategies. He maintains a distinctive focus on bridging theoretical political science with practical foreign policy applications, particularly regarding trilateral relations in Northeast Asia. His publication pattern reveals a consistent trajectory from European integration studies toward contemporary global governance challenges. Recent works analyze sovereignty erosion in crisis contexts and evolving regional security frameworks, demonstrating increasing emphasis on Asia-Europe comparative perspectives while maintaining rigorous historical analysis of European institutional development. Scientific recognition includes: Yomiuri-Chuo Koron Yoshino Sakuzo prize (2014) for "The End of Integration – The realities and implications of the European Union" Professor Endo actively contributes to Japanese foreign policy formulation through sustained engagement with governmental bodies. His policy advisory work encompasses membership in MOFA's policy planning unit (2012-14), leadership of JIIA's Europe project (2017-present), and chairing MOFA's policy evaluation committee (2015-present). He pioneered track 1.5 diplomacy initiatives including the Japan-Korea policy dialogue (2012-present) and Sino-Japanese forums. He founded the Hokkaido Dialogue platform that convenes civic leaders across Japan, China, South Korea, and Taiwan to address regional security challenges through sustained multilateral engagement, demonstrating commitment to practical conflict resolution beyond traditional academic boundaries.
Laura Baccaglini is a Full Professor at the Faculty of Law, University of Trento, with extensive academic and professional engagement in civil procedural law, insolvency, and international dispute resolution. She holds a PhD from the University of Urbino and has taught at institutions including the University of Innsbruck, Sapienza University of Rome, and the University of Milan. Her institutional roles include membership in the Court of Appeal of Trento and leadership in national orientation and tutoring programs. PhD in General Theory of Trial and Procedural Appearances, University of Urbino (2005) Law Degree (110/110 cum laude), University of Trento (2000) Scientific High School Diploma, Liceo AM Roveggio (1995) Her research centers on complex civil procedures, transnational insolvency, arbitration, and tax litigation. She investigates joinder of parties, enforcement of foreign judgments, and procedural aspects of solidary obligations. Her work bridges doctrinal analysis with European regulatory frameworks, particularly the EU Insolvency Regulation (848/2015). Her recent publications focus on jurisdiction in corporate crisis, cross-border enforcement of insolvency decisions, and the interplay between arbitration and bankruptcy. She examines COMI (Center of Main Interests), opposition to enforcement, and revocatory actions, reflecting a consistent trajectory in procedural complexity and international harmonization. Member, Editorial Board, Rivista di diritto processuale (2019–present) Member, Scientific Committee, Rivista dell'esecuzione forzata (2019–present) Member, AISPC (Italian Association of Civil Procedure Scholars) (2017–present) Member, SISCO (Italian Society of Insolvency Studies) (2018–present) Baccaglini has advised PhD candidates at the University of Trento and served as referee for doctoral theses at Milan and Milan-Bicocca. She has evaluated research projects for the University of Florence, Verona, Insubria, and Charles University, Prague. Her institutional service includes roles in doctoral programs, research evaluation, and legal education for judges and practitioners. She leads research initiatives on transnational insolvency, judicial precedent, and integration laws for immigrant care workers. She contributed to the China Guiding Cases Project and the Lexis Nexis Cross-border Insolvency Report for Italy, demonstrating international scholarly impact.
Giulia Baccini is an Associate Professor in the Department of Asian and North African Studies at Ca' Foscari University of Venice. She specializes in the Languages and Literatures of China and Southeast Asia, with a strong focus on pre-modern Chinese literature, classical Chinese, literary theory, and humor studies. She also serves as President of the Council of the Linguistic Area Library (BALI), contributing to academic infrastructure and resource development. Education: PhD in co-supervision, Graduate School in Languages, Civilizations and Societies – East Asian Studies, Ca' Foscari University / Charles University, Prague (2011) M.A. in East Asian Studies, Ca' Foscari University, Venice (2004, summa cum laude) Research Interests: Her work centers on classical Chinese literature, textual culture, literary history, and criticism, with a unique emphasis on humor and jestbooks in pre-modern China. She investigates literary genres, translation studies, and intercultural education, particularly through projects aimed at developing Chinese literature curricula for secondary education. Publication Trends: Her recent scholarly output reveals a consistent focus on early Chinese literary humor, anecdotal collections like the Xiaolin , poetic anthologies under the Liang dynasty, and critical concepts such as yin li (excessive beauty). Her publications span journals and edited volumes, reflecting interdisciplinary engagement with literary theory, historiography, and cultural studies. Scientific Awards & Recognition: National Scientific Qualification for Associate Professor (competitive sector 10/N3 — Cultures of Central and Eastern Asia), obtained 2018 Advising and Grants: While no formal advisees are listed, she has served as a teaching assistant and is actively involved in research mentoring. She has received multiple grants, including a Ca' Foscari University grant for developing a Chinese literature textbook and funding for overseas research mobility at Peking University. She led a PRIN-funded project on interculturality and literary genres. Labs and Research Groups: Member, Laboratory on the Translation of Oriental Languages, Ca' Foscari University Member, Humours of the Past Research Group Member, editorial board of Sinica Venetiana , Edizioni Ca'Foscari Member, Early Medieval China Group (EMCG) Member, Italian Association of Chinese Studies (AISC) Member, European Association of Chinese Studies (EACS)
Marco MECCARELLI is a researcher in East Asian archaeology, art history, and philosophies at the Department of Humanities, University of Catania. He has previously taught at institutions including Sapienza University of Rome, Macerata, and Urbino, and remains an active academic with national and international collaborations. PhD in East Asian History and Civilisation (2010), University of Rome “La Sapienza” Post-Graduate Specialisation Diploma in Oriental Archaeology (2005), Second School of Specialisation, University of Rome “La Sapienza” His research centers on the historical and cultural dynamics of East Asia, particularly China. Key interests include the evolution of Chinese photography, the iconography of the Chinese dragon, semiological analysis of erotic imagery, and cross-cultural artistic interactions. His work bridges archaeology, art, literature, and philosophy, offering interdisciplinary insights into East Asian civilizations. The most recent publications reflect a strong focus on visual culture, material history, and symbolic systems in China and Japan. Trends include the reinterpretation of traditional symbols in modern contexts, the role of photography in cultural transformation, and the global diffusion of East Asian artistic practices. Scientific recognition includes: Invitation to the Visiting Program for Young Sinologists (2016) by the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Chinese Academy of Social Sciences Citations in Time Magazine and BBC for research on the Chinese dragon Participation in national PRIN research projects He has supervised master’s theses, including one on the Taiwan issue, and is involved in research grants such as the University of Catania’s Body-Mind Images in East Asian Cultures project under the ATLAS programme. He collaborates with institutions like the Japan Foundation and various embassies to promote cultural dialogue. Marco MECCARELLI founded the VersOriente Cultural Association (2003–2011) and co-founded VersOriente srl , organizing exhibitions such as Exotic and Bizarre: the Fantastic World of Banko Ceramics (2009–2010). He has led initiatives supported by Italian regional governments and foreign cultural institutions, contributing significantly to public humanities.
Federico Brusadelli is a researcher at the University of Naples 'L'Orientale' since 2020, where he teaches History of China and Global History of East Asia. His academic journey began with a degree in Oriental Languages and Civilizations from Sapienza University of Rome, followed by a PhD in Asian Studies from the University of Naples 'L'Orientale' with a thesis on the thought of the late imperial Chinese philosopher Kang Youwei. Prior to his current position, he taught at the universities of Pescara and Bologna, and from 2017 to 2020 at the Institute of Sinology at Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg in Germany as a 'Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter'. His educational background includes: Laurea (Bachelor's degree) in Oriental Languages and Civilizations from Sapienza University of Rome PhD in Asian Studies from the University of Naples 'L'Orientale' Brusadelli's research focuses on the intellectual and political history of late imperial and republican China, with particular interest in the circulation, adaptation, and translation of foreign political concepts and institutional models. His work often examines how Chinese intellectuals engaged with Western political ideas and systems. In spring 2024, he was a Fulbright Visiting Scholar at the University of Chicago, where he studied how Chinese intellectuals of the 'long twentieth century' described and judged the American federal system. He has also been a visiting researcher at the European Institute for Chinese Studies in Paris (2021), the Polish Institute of Advanced Studies (2022), and the Centre for Advanced Studies in Sofia (2023). His scholarly output demonstrates a consistent focus on conceptual history, particularly examining federalism, utopian thought, and political reform in Chinese context. His publications span from studies on Kang Youwei's political philosophy to analyses of contemporary Chinese political thought, revealing a trajectory that bridges historical and contemporary perspectives on Chinese intellectual engagement with global ideas. Brusadelli has received several academic honors: Fulbright Visiting Scholar at the University of Chicago (2024) Fellow of the Royal Historical Society (since 2022) Member of the Board of the European Association for Chinese Philosophy (2021-2025) Managing editor of the journal Ming Qing Yanjiu He is actively involved in teaching across multiple degree programs including Ancient Cultures and Archaeology: Asia, Africa and Mediterranean; Languages and Cultures of Asia and Africa; and Relations and Institutions of Asia and Africa. His teaching schedule for October 2025 shows regular instruction in History of China and Global History of East Asia courses, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to academic instruction. Brusadelli maintains an active research agenda, frequently collaborating with international institutions and scholars. His work positions him at the intersection of Chinese history, political theory, and global intellectual exchange, making significant contributions to understanding how political concepts travel and transform across cultural boundaries.
Paolo Wulzer is a Full Professor of History of International Relations at the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Naples "L'Orientale", a position he has held since December 30, 2021. Previously, he served as an Associate Professor at the same institution from April 1, 2019 to December 29, 2021, and as a Fixed-Term Researcher from December 31, 2011 to March 31, 2019. Since 2024, he has served as Director of the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, having previously served as Deputy Director since 2020. He has also been the President of the CeSEC (Center for Studies on Contemporary Europe) since 2019 and has led multiple research projects including "Europe as a Civilian Power? Rethinking the International Actorness of the EEC/EU from the Cold War to the Crisis of the Liberal Order (1970-2020)" (2021-2023). Wulzer earned his PhD in History of International Relations from the University of Rome "La Sapienza" (2003-2006), a Postgraduate Diploma in History and Multimedia Historiography from the University of Rome "Roma Tre" (2002), and a Bachelor's Degree in Literature (History - Contemporary) from the University of Rome "La Sapienza" (1999), where he graduated with honors (110/110). His research focuses on History of International Relations, International History, Mediterranean Studies, Middle Eastern Studies, European Union Studies, Transatlantic Relations, Cold War Studies, and Latin American Studies. His scholarly work examines the dynamics of international relations with particular attention to the Mediterranean region, the Middle East, and transatlantic relations during and after the Cold War period. His recent publications analyze Chinese foreign policy under Xi Jinping, EU-Middle East relations, US foreign policy shifts in the Middle East, and Italian foreign policy over the past fifteen years. Wulzer's research output shows a clear evolution toward analyzing shifting power dynamics in international relations, with particular focus on the evolving roles of the United States, European Union, China, and regional powers in the Mediterranean and Middle East. His work consistently bridges historical analysis with contemporary policy implications, examining how historical patterns influence current geopolitical challenges while maintaining rigorous scholarly methodology. Achievement of the National Scientific Qualification for the functions of University Professor of First Level (2018) Achievement of the National Scientific Qualification for the role of Associate University Professor (2014) Scholarship Award for Best Final Thesis awarded by the Italian Helsinki Committee (2002) As an academic advisor, Wulzer has supervised 4 doctoral theses and approximately 200 undergraduate and graduate theses between 2012 and 2021. He has been actively involved in PhD programs, delivering lectures on International History and International Relations methodology. His research leadership includes directing the PRIN project "Revolutionary Genealogies: Historical Discourses, Construction of Experience, and Political Choices in Modern Revolutions" and heading multiple university-funded research groups. Wulzer is deeply engaged with academic communities through his membership in the Italian Society of International History (SISI), Transatlantic Studies Association (TSA), British Society for Middle Eastern Studies (BRISMES), and his participation in the international research network Political ATLAS (Agency, Transfers, Links, Latin America/Southern Europe). He has organized numerous academic conferences including the X Conference of the SISI in 2023 and regularly presents at international venues across Europe and the Americas.
Filippo Menga is Associate Professor of Geography at the University of Bergamo, Italy, with a strong international academic presence, including a current role as Visiting Research Fellow at the University of Reading, UK. He teaches in the Department of Foreign Languages, Literatures and Cultures, offering graduate courses on environment, tourism, and intercultural geography. Since 2024, he has served as Editor-in-Chief of the leading journal Political Geography . University: University of Bergamo Department: Department of Foreign Languages, Literatures and Cultures Academic Rank: Associate Professor Email: filippo.menga@unibg.it His research lies at the intersection of geography, political ecology, and hydropolitics, focusing on transboundary water conflicts, the geopolitics of dams, and the socio-environmental impacts of water infrastructure. He has conducted extensive work on Central Asia and South Asia, particularly India-Bangladesh and Indus Basin dynamics. Recently, his work has expanded to include the political ecology of artificial intelligence and the materiality of water. The thematic trends in his recent publications (2025) emphasize the urgent global water crisis, the limitations of international water law, the role of AI in urban metabolism, and the need for pluralistic understandings of water’s agency. His work bridges theoretical depth with policy relevance, addressing climate change, environmental justice, and governance failures. Scientific Leadership and Editorial Role: Editor-in-Chief, Political Geography (2024–present) Funded Research Projects: Strengthening Higher Education in the Water Sector for Climate Resilience and Security in Central Asia (Erasmus+, Scientific Director, 2023–2026) Water Decision Making tools for informed hydro politics in Italy (Horizon Europe CTC, Scientific Director, 2023–2025) He advises graduate students and contributes to public discourse through interviews and commentary in media outlets such as Renewable Matter. He is involved in academic mentorship and public engagement on water issues, with no indication of retirement or part-time status. Laboratories and Research Teams: While specific lab names are not mentioned, Menga leads research initiatives under Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe, suggesting leadership in collaborative, interdisciplinary research teams focused on water governance, climate resilience, and policy innovation. His affiliations with the University of Bergamo and University of Reading indicate participation in broader research networks in political geography and environmental studies.
Giulia Falato is an Associate Professor at the University of Parma, Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Enterprises. She specializes in Chinese and Southeast Asian languages and literatures, teaching courses such as Introduction to Chinese Language and Civilization and Languages and Literatures of China and South East Asia at both the 2nd and 3rd year levels for the First Cycle Degree program in Modern Foreign Languages and Civilisations. Research Focus : Her work bridges Chinese literary traditions Confucian philosophical concepts Jesuit missionary translation practices Historical youth education frameworks Family dynamics across Sino-European contexts Recent Publications examine cross-cultural ethical systems, Jesuit linguistic strategies, and domestic education structures in Tang and Ming China. Notable themes include wulun (Five Relationships) transmission and comparative family governance models. Office Location : Plesso San Michele, Viale San Michele, 9, 43121 Parma
Alberto De Marco is a Full Professor in the Department of Management and Production Engineering (DIGEP) at Politecnico di Torino, Italy, where he serves as a Time&Cost Program Management Advisor and is a component of the SISCON Interdepartmental Center - Safety of Infrastructures and Constructions. His academic career spans multiple prestigious institutions including Tongji University in China and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he served as a visiting lecturer. Professor De Marco's research focuses on four main interconnected areas: Project Management (particularly Project Risk Management, Construction Management, Cost Control, and System Dynamics modeling), Facility Management and maintenance of industrial buildings, Supply Chain Management and Procurement Management, and Smart City business models and financing systems. His work integrates economic-financial modeling with technological innovation for infrastructure development, with significant contributions to public-private partnership frameworks and data-driven project management methodologies. His recent publications demonstrate a strong evolution toward integrating artificial intelligence tools and advanced analytics into traditional project management frameworks, with increasing emphasis on sustainability metrics and smart urban infrastructure. The research shows a clear progression from basic project management techniques to complex systems modeling for smart city applications, reflecting the growing importance of digital transformation in infrastructure development. Founding Member of System Dynamics Society Italian Chapter (2017-present) Full Member of Project Management Institute, USA (2015-present) Professor De Marco has supervised 15 doctoral students and research fellows throughout his career, including Timur Narbaev, Giulio Mangano, and Jamalludin Thaheem. His research portfolio includes numerous commercial contracts through 2025 with entities like the Piedmont Region, Compagnia di San Paolo, and Confindustria Piemonte. He leads the "Time&Cost Program Management Advisor" initiative and coordinates the "Smart City Finance&Technology Program" at Politecnico di Torino, with significant involvement in European projects like Erasmus+ Strategic Partnerships. His work extends to practical applications through various executive education programs, including the Executive Master in Project Management for Business Performance and Innovation, and he serves as academic coordinator for ANCI's School for Young Municipal Administrators, demonstrating strong connections between academic research and practical implementation in public administration.
Overview Loretta Dell’Aguzzo is a Fixed-term Researcher at Link Campus University in Rome. She holds a PhD in Political Science from the Italian Institute of Human Sciences (2013). Previously, she held adjunct professorships in International Relations at the University of Florence’s School of Political Science 'Cesare Alfieri', and taught Strategic Geopolitics at Unicollege Specialization School for Language Mediators. Her academic career includes teaching roles at Vanderbilt University’s Florence branch and the Istituto di Scienze Militari Aeronautiche. She has conducted research at the University of Essex and delivered seminars at the Universities of Sibiu (Romania) and Wrocław (Poland). Research Focus Her research centers on authoritarian regimes, democratization processes, separatist conflicts, and geopolitical dynamics in East Europe, the Caucasus, Middle East, and North Africa. Key themes include patron-client state relations, civil wars, and the interplay between internal and international political forces. Recent work examines Saudi Arabia’s influence in Yemen, Russian narratives in the Ukraine conflict, and the BRI’s impact on Eastern Europe. Publications Trends Her publications (2020–2025) reflect a focus on geopolitical competition, authoritarian survival strategies, and conflict resolution. Notable works include analyses of MENA regimes, post-Soviet separatist conflicts, and EU-China strategic dynamics. Methodologically, she employs fuzzy-set QCA for causal complexity analysis in conflict studies. Awards & Grants No scientific awards explicitly mentioned. Secured six research grants at the University of Florence’s Department of Social and Political Science. Advising & Labs No advisee list provided. Active in multidisciplinary research groups focusing on geopolitical analysis and authoritarianism. Engages in policy-oriented research through university collaborations and international seminars.
Maddalena Barenghi is an Associate Professor in the Department of Asian and North African Studies at Ca' Foscari University of Venice, where she specializes in the History of East and Southeast Asia. Her academic work bridges historical, anthropological, and environmental perspectives on premodern China and its frontiers. Her research interests include: Medieval Chinese history, particularly the Tang-Song transition The Shatuo Turks and military patronage on the empire's margins Chinese historiography, especially the Zizhi tongjian and Shiji Environmental history in the Ordos region Political legitimacy and genealogical narratives in medieval China Barenghi is currently developing a book on mercenaries and state formation among the Shatuo during the 9th–10th centuries, contracted with Amsterdam University Press, and contributing to the translation of the Shiji (Grand Scribe's Records) under the editorial direction of William Nienhauser Jr. Her scholarly activities are reflected in frequent participation in international workshops and conferences, including events at Princeton’s IAS, the AAS, EACS, and Tang Studies Society. She teaches a range of courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels, including: History of China I (for surnames A–Z) Premodern Empires and States of East Asia History and Historiography of Imperial China Barenghi has previously held academic positions as Assistant Professor at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich and the University of Salzburg, and as a Postdoctoral Fellow supported by the Chiang Ching-kuo Foundation. Her educational background includes a co-supervised Ph.D. from Ca' Foscari University and LMU Munich, and an MA in Sinology from SOAS, University of London.
