Gerardo Canfora

Gerardo Canfora is a Professor at the University of Sannio, holding his position in the Department of Engineering (DING). He currently serves as Rector of the University of Sannio, having assumed this leadership role as evidenced by his position in December 2024. His academic journey began with a degree in Electronic Engineering from the University of Naples 'Federico II' in 1989, followed by research positions at CNR and the University of Durham before joining academia.

Professor Canfora's research focuses primarily on software engineering, with specializations in software evolution and secure software development. His work spans mobile computing, particularly Android applications, and the application of NLP techniques to software requirements. He has maintained a consistent research output for over two decades, with recent publications addressing contemporary challenges in AI security and software behavior analysis.

His recent publications demonstrate a clear trajectory from foundational work in database security and software maintenance toward cutting-edge research in AI security, mobile application analysis, and social media manipulation detection. This evolution reflects the changing landscape of software engineering challenges, with Canfora maintaining relevance through adaptation to new technological paradigms while building on his core expertise in software quality and security.

Professor Canfora has held significant leadership positions beyond his university role, including membership on the Executive Boards of multiple research consortia (ASI, ICT-SUD, CINI, CeR-ICT) and service on ANVUR's expert panel for research evaluation. His editorial work as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Software - Evolution and Process since 2011 further demonstrates his standing in the academic community.

As Rector of University of Sannio, he has championed initiatives promoting gender equality, including the implementation of gender-sensitive language guidelines, the 'alias career' protocol for student identity recognition, and signing the 'No Women No Panel' memorandum with RAI. His leadership extends to community engagement through events like CO-SCIENZE and educational initiatives focused on software engineering.