Giacinta Jean

Giacinta Jean is a Full Professor of History and Techniques of Conservation and Restoration at the Department of Environment Constructions and Design (DACD) at the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI). She has been responsible for the Bachelor's and Master's degree programs in Conservation-Restoration since 2005 and holds significant leadership roles in conservation education and research.

Her academic background includes an Architecture degree from the Polytechnic of Milan (1991), a Docteur ès sciences from EPFL (1997), and a Ph.D. in History of Architecture and Urban Planning from the Polytechnic of Turin (1999). Prior to joining SUPSI, she worked as an assistant at the University of Geneva (1991-1995) and as an invited lecturer at the Polytechnic of Milan (1998-2004).

Dr. Jean's research focuses on the intersection of historical preservation, architectural heritage, and modern conservation techniques. Her work spans several key areas:

• History and archaeology of the built heritage
• History of construction techniques
• Conservation and restoration of historic monuments
• Stucco decoration techniques and analysis
• Ethical considerations in conservation practices
• Preservation of intangible cultural heritage

Her publications reveal a strong emphasis on practical conservation challenges at UNESCO World Heritage sites including Sacro Monte di Varallo and Sacro Monte di Ossuccio. She employs interdisciplinary approaches combining art history, scientific analysis (PLM, SEM-EDS, FTIR), and practical conservation techniques to address complex preservation issues.

Among her notable recognitions is the Premio Credit Suisse Award for Best Teaching (2013-2014). She leads multiple significant research projects including 'Arches of Light' (focused on Mendrisio's Holy Week Processions, inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2019), 'Ticino Artists in Europe,' and 'Be amazed - Discovering the masters of stucco in Ticino.'

Dr. Jean's work bridges theoretical research and practical application, with projects spanning Switzerland, Italy, and Lebanon. She has developed guidelines for conservation practices and contributes significantly to international conservation discourse through conferences, publications, and collaborative research initiatives.