Paolo Guagliardo

Paolo Guagliardo serves as a Reader in Databases at the School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh, and is affiliated with the Laboratory for Foundations of Computer Science. His work bridges theoretical computer science with practical database system implementation, focusing on real-world applicability of theoretical results.

His academic credentials include a PhD in Computer Science from the Free-University of Bozen-Bolzano, a joint MSc in Computational Logic from the Vienna University of Technology and Free-University of Bozen-Bolzano, and a BSc in Computer Engineering from the University of Palermo.

Research interests span core database theory and applied systems, with emphasis on incomplete information handling in relational databases and graph database query languages. His work with Neo Technology on Cypher semantics demonstrates practical industry collaboration. Key focus areas include formal SQL semantics, null value resolution, and principled approaches to data uncertainty.

As co-Investigator for the EPSRC Programme Grant VADA (Value Added Data Systems), he drives significant research in data system foundations. Professional service includes extensive program committee roles at ICDE, EDBT, IJCAI, AAAI, and ICDT conferences, plus Proceedings Chair for PODS 2021 and Publicity Chair for PODS 2017.

He maintains active engagement through invited tutorials at EDBT Summer School 2017 and specialized talks at institutions including SAP Walldorf, Université Paris-Est, and KRDB Research Centre, focusing on SQL correctness and graph database semantics.