Federica Ottoni

Federica Ottoni is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Engineering and Architecture at the University of Parma, where she has been actively engaged in research and teaching since 2010. Her work focuses on the structural analysis, monitoring, and restoration of historical buildings, particularly domed structures. She is deeply involved in both national and international heritage conservation projects, including long-term collaborations with the Opera del Duomo di Firenze on the dome of Santa Maria del Fiore.

• Assistant Professor, Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Parma (2010–present)
• Member of Doctoral College of Civil Engineering and Architecture (since 2016)
• Scientific coordinator of multiple structural monitoring projects across Emilia-Romagna
• Collaborator with OPA (Opera del Duomo di Firenze), GINGER GROUP (Paris), and SIRA

Her educational background includes a Master’s in Civil Engineering (2005) and a PhD in Architecture (Restoration) from the University of Parma (2009), where her thesis won the Edoardo Benvenuto International Prize. She is also a registered engineer in Parma.

• Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering, University of Parma (2005)
• PhD in Architecture (Restoration), University of Parma (2009)
• National Academic Qualification as Associate Professor (ASN, 2017)
• Enrolled at the Order of Engineers of Parma (since 2006)

Federica Ottoni’s research centers on the diagnostic and static analysis of historical structures, particularly focusing on equilibrium theories applied to domes and the interpretation of monitoring data. She investigates the historical evolution of structural damage and applies proportional theory to understand architectural stability. Her recent work emphasizes digital innovation in conservation, especially through H-BIM and Digital Twin technologies, which integrate geometric, historical, and structural data for informed decision-making in restoration planning.

The most recent publications highlight a clear trend toward digital transformation in heritage conservation, with a focus on wooden structures and dynamic data integration. Her work bridges traditional structural engineering with cutting-edge digital modeling, enabling more accurate and sustainable conservation strategies. The recurring themes include structural monitoring, seismic resilience, and the application of advanced computational tools to historic buildings.

Her scientific awards and recognitions reflect her excellence in research and international collaboration:

• Edoardo Benvenuto International Prize (2009)
• SPRECOMAH Fellow (2008)
• Selected project at Venice Biennale (2006)
• FFABR National Research Grant (2018)
• Internal Department Prize for Scientific Papers (2017)
• Member, Monitoring Commission of Santa Maria del Fiore Dome (2018)

She has supervised over 50 Master’s theses in Architecture and one PhD thesis. Her research is supported by national grants, including FFABR, and she leads several ongoing projects on structural monitoring of historic churches and public buildings. She has also contributed to major restoration projects, such as the consolidation of Santa Maria del Quartiere in Parma, and has participated in seismic vulnerability assessments of hospitals and monuments.

• Supervisor of PhD student Federica Borghi
• Tutor of over 50 Master’s theses
• Principal Investigator on multiple research contracts (e.g., FFABR, structural monitoring projects)
• Collaborator on PRIN 2008 and Emilian Earthquake Documentation Center

Federica Ottoni is a key member of research teams involved in the long-term monitoring of significant monuments, including Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence), Santa Maria del Quartiere (Parma), and the Baptistery of San Giovanni. She collaborates with interdisciplinary groups such as the GINGER GROUP (Paris) and OPA, and is actively involved in the SIRA Scientific Society. Her lab activities focus on structural diagnostics, data interpretation, and the development of digital conservation protocols.