Giuseppe Rizzo is a Full Professor at the Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome. His academic career focuses on Maternal Fetal Medicine, with expertise in ultrasound applications, fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia, and congenital anomalies. Research Interests : Delivery optimization, prematurity prediction, ultrasound diagnostics, and placental anomalies. Recent Publications : Over 15 high-impact studies in 2024-2025 on topics like umbilical cord abnormalities, cerebroplacental ratios, and gestational diabetes complications. Clinical Expertise : Prenatal counseling, Doppler ultrasound, and labor management protocols. Collaborations : Active in multicenter trials across Italy and Europe, with a focus on fetal neurosonology and high-fidelity obstetric simulation.
Paola Venuti is a Full Professor at the Department of Psychology and Cognitive Sciences, University of Trento, and currently serves as Vice-Rector for Teaching. She holds academic roles in the Faculty of Cognitive Sciences and oversees the Interdepartmental Center for Medical Sciences (CISMED). Her research focuses on child development, autism spectrum disorders, and clinical psychology, with a particular emphasis on early diagnosis and intervention. She has led international projects, including the NIH-NICHD study on mother-infant relationships, and pioneered observational methods for assessing developmental disorders. Education: Laurea in Psychology (1980, University of Padua), PhD in Social and Developmental Psychology (1987), and postdoctoral research (1992–1994). She has held academic positions at the University of Padua and the Second University of Naples before joining the University of Trento in 2002. Research interests span developmental psychology, clinical interventions for neurodevelopmental disorders, and cross-cultural studies on parenting. She coordinates the Observation and Functional Diagnosis Laboratory and supervises clinical teams in rehabilitation and educational settings. Grants and Projects: Coordinated national and international projects, including the PRIN-funded study on early autism indicators and NIH-NICHD collaborations. She has authored numerous articles in journals like Developmental Psychology and Child Development , focusing on parent-child interaction, autism screening, and cognitive development. Labs/Teams: Leads the Observation and Functional Diagnosis Lab, collaborating with institutions like the Stella Maris Research Institute (Pisa) and rehabilitation centers in Trentino. Supervises postdocs, doctoral students, and researchers in cognitive and developmental studies.
Maria Chiara Passolunghi is a Full Professor in Developmental and Educational Psychology (MPSI/04) at the University of Trieste's Department of Life Sciences. She serves as a member of the Department's Board, Boards of Studies, and multiple Doctoral Studies Boards for the Neural and Cognitive Sciences program across various cycles (XXVIII-XXXIX). She leads the Evolutivamente LAB research group focused on typical and atypical development during the lifespan within the Psychology research area. Her primary research interests center on developmental mathematics and mathematics learning disabilities in children, with particular focus on working memory and mathematical cognition. Her work spans five main research lines: precursors of mathematical learning and their training, math-gender stereotypes, the Approximate Number System and its relationship with mathematics, math anxiety, and Executive Functions in both typical and atypical development. She investigates cognitive and emotional aspects involved in mathematical learning, with emphasis on early identification of risk factors and development of intervention programs. Analysis of her recent publications reveals consistent focus on mathematical cognition, with particular attention to the intersection of cognitive and emotional factors in mathematical learning. Her work demonstrates strong emphasis on practical applications, including development of training programs for math anxiety, executive function interventions, and assessment tools for early identification of mathematical learning disabilities. The research spans diverse populations including typically developing children, those with mathematical learning disabilities, and children in highly deprived contexts such as Yazidi genocide survivors. Professor Passolunghi has secured significant research funding from multiple sources including A.B.C. Associazione per i Bambini Chirurgicos del Burlo Onlus, Auxilia Onlus, AIPD Associazione Italiana Persone Down, and Fondazione Beneficientia Stiftung. She also collaborates with institutional partners including Trieste Town Hall, Region FVG, and I.R.C.C.S. Burlo Garofolo of Trieste on various projects related to cognitive development, math learning, and interventions for at-risk populations. She leads the Evolutivamente LAB research group which includes Researcher Sandra Pellizzoni and PhD students Chiara De Vita, Martina Fontana, and Marjia Zivkovic. The lab focuses on exploring domain-specific and domain-general abilities involved in learning, with particular emphasis on precursors of mathematical ability and disability, working memory and number sense training, and emotional-motivational factors influencing learning disabilities. Current projects include studies on math anxiety in early primary school and development of specific training programs.
Tommaso Feraco is an Assistant Professor at the University of Padova , focusing on the intersection of education , psychology , and behavioral science . His work examines how social, emotional, and behavioral skills (SEBS) influence academic performance, well-being, and developmental outcomes across diverse populations, including adolescents, adults, and individuals with specific learning disabilities. Research trends highlight his contributions to character strengths , self-regulated learning , and adaptability in educational contexts. He has also developed methodological tools to address clustering analysis limitations in data science. His recent publications investigate SEBS applications in career readiness , pro-environmental behavior , and mental health resilience .
Andrea Bonarini is a Professor at the Department of Electronics, Information, and Bioengineering (DEIB) within the School of Industrial and Information Engineering at Politecnico di Milano. His research focuses on Artificial Intelligence , Robotics , and Human-Robot Interaction , particularly in assistive technologies for children with disabilities and autism therapy. Key Research Areas: Reinforcement Learning, Social Robotics, Affective Computing, Accessibility in Robot Design Notable Projects: Development of frameworks like Mushroomrl and datasets like POLIMI-ITW-S for robotics research His recent publications highlight advancements in playful robotics for neurodevelopmental disorders, emotion projection in non-bio-inspired robots, and safety experiments for small social robots interacting with children. He also contributes to ethical, social, and psychological challenges in robotics applications.
Giovanni Mento is an Associate Professor at the Department of General Psychology, University of Padova. His research focuses on cognitive neuroscience, developmental psychology, and clinical neurology, with a particular emphasis on neural mechanisms underlying cognitive control, emotional processing, and neurodevelopmental disorders. He employs advanced neuroimaging techniques like high-density EEG to investigate topics such as temporal prediction, decision-making in children, and the impact of preterm birth on brain development. His work integrates interdisciplinary approaches, combining machine learning with electrophysiological data analysis to address challenges in epilepsy forecasting and predictive brain activity. Key research areas include implicit learning, motivational contexts influencing cognition, and the application of EEG to study socio-emotional and behavioral disorders in clinical populations. Recent studies explore the effects of yoga-mindfulness interventions on cognitive control in children, dynamic brain states in preschoolers, and methodological rigor in EEG-based machine learning models. His contributions span both theoretical frameworks (e.g., re-examining top-down control models) and applied clinical research (e.g., neonatal intensive care practices). Mento’s articles highlight trends in understanding developmental trajectories, predictive neural mechanisms, and translational applications of neuroscientific findings to real-world contexts like education and healthcare.
ERIKA BORELLA is a Full Professor at the University of Padua, specializing in cognitive aging, working memory, and interventions for dementia. Her research focuses on understanding cognitive changes across the lifespan, including the effects of music, sleep, personality, and environmental design on mental health and cognition. She leads studies on cognitive stimulation therapy, therapeutic gardens for dementia care, and the development of assessment tools like the Padua PM task. Her work emphasizes practical applications, such as memory training programs and strategies to enhance quality of life in older adults. Research Interests: Cognitive Aging and Lifespan Development Executive Functioning and Attention Emotion Regulation and Mental Health Neuropsychological Assessment and Intervention Therapeutic Environments for Dementia Cognitive Reserve and Lifelong Learning Key Contributions: Dr. Borella has pioneered studies on cognitive stimulation therapy efficacy, music-based interventions, and the role of soft skills in aging populations. Her work bridges theoretical research and practical solutions, such as designing dementia-friendly spaces and evaluating the impact of outdoor activities on cognitive function in older adults. Recent Trends in Publications: Her recent work explores how emotions influence sleep quality, the psychological impacts of the pandemic on older adults, and the development of questionnaires for injury prevention. She emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating neuroscience, psychology, and environmental design to address complex aging-related challenges. Labs and Teams: Dr. Borella collaborates on initiatives like Cognitive Stimulation Therapy and Therapeutic Garden Programs , promoting active aging through evidence-based interventions. These projects involve interdisciplinary teams focused on improving mental health, cognitive function, and quality of life for older adults.
Fabio Lucidi is a Full Professor of Psychometrics at Sapienza University of Rome, serving as Pro-Rector responsible for the Fourth Mission and Student Community Relations. He leads the Department of Psychology of Developmental and Socialization Processes within the Faculty of Medicine and Psychology. Previously, he was Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Psychology until 2022. His academic roles include Adjunct Professor at Temple University and Director of the Laboratory of Sport and Well-being. He holds leadership positions in organizations like the Italian Society of Health Psychology and the National Anti-Doping Organization. Education: PhD in Psychology (Sapienza University of Rome), Postdoctoral Research Fellowship (Sapienza University of Rome). Research Interests: Psychometrics, health psychology, sport psychology, with a focus on risk behaviors, health promotion, and cognitive neuroscience. His research explores psychological mechanisms underlying health-related behaviors, doping prevention, and cognitive processes. He has authored over 250 publications in high-impact journals and serves on editorial boards of journals like PLOS ONE and Frontiers in Psychology . Key Awards: Listed as a Top Italian Scientist, President of the Italian Society of Health Psychology, Past President of the Italian Psychological Association. Lucidi’s work integrates academic leadership with community engagement, emphasizing the Fourth Mission of universities. His research projects include EU-funded initiatives on doping prevention and aging, alongside collaborations in Australia, the U.S., and Europe.
Barbara Penolazzi is an Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Trieste's Department of Life Sciences. She serves as a member of the Department's Board, coordinates Course of Study Advice for Psychological Sciences and Techniques, and participates in multiple Doctoral Colleges for Neuroscience and Cognitive Sciences across numerous academic cycles. As the leader of the Clinical Psychology research group, her work focuses on "Typical and atypical development during lifespan" within the Psychology research area. Department Council - Member Course of Study Advice - Coordinator (Psychological Sciences and Techniques) Boards of Studies - Member (Clinical Psychology, Developmental Psychology and Neuropsychology) Doctoral Studies Boards - Member (Neural and Cognitive Sciences across multiple cycles) Professor Penolazzi's research spans clinical psychology, neuropsychology, and psychological well-being with emphasis on emotional intelligence, cognitive processes in various disorders, and brain mechanisms. Her work integrates experimental psychology with clinical applications, particularly using transcranial direct current stimulation to investigate neural mechanisms underlying decision-making, moral cognition, and memory processes. She has made significant contributions to understanding psychological mechanisms in eating disorders, schizophrenia, and addiction through a transdiagnostic lens. Her extensive publication record demonstrates consistent focus on the intersection of cognitive neuroscience and clinical psychology. Recent work examines neural underpinnings of voluntary action, environmental sensitivity as a personality trait, and interventions for fostering emotional intelligence in preadolescence. Her research employs diverse methodologies including neurostimulation techniques, psychometric validation studies, and experimental paradigms to investigate cognitive control mechanisms across various clinical populations. Professor Penolazzi currently serves as Scientific Manager for two significant research projects funded by the Ministry of University and Research: "PROBEN_0000008 - Promotion of the Well-Being of the University Community - PRO-BENE-COMUNE" and "10% Trentin Silvia - 100% MUR". These projects reflect her commitment to applying psychological science to address contemporary mental health challenges within academic communities and beyond. Within the Department of Life Sciences, Professor Penolazzi leads the Clinical Psychology research group that investigates typical and atypical developmental trajectories across the lifespan. Her team employs a multidisciplinary approach combining cognitive neuroscience methods with clinical assessment to understand the mechanisms underlying various psychological conditions and to develop evidence-based interventions.
Nicola Cellini is an Associate Professor at the Department of General Psychology of the University of Padova. His research focuses on cognitive neuroscience, sleep science, and psychological mechanisms underlying memory, emotion, and decision-making. He has conducted extensive studies on sleep deprivation effects, emotional memory consolidation, and the application of wearable health technology for sleep monitoring. His work bridges clinical psychology, neurophysiology, and behavioral science, often involving interdisciplinary collaborations. Key research areas include: Neurophysiological correlates of time perception Cognitive and emotional consequences of sleep fragmentation Role of REM sleep in emotional processing Technology validation for sleep tracking (e.g., Xiaomi Mi Band 5) Psychosocial factors in pandemic mental health (e.g., time perspective theory) His recent publications highlight trends in: Clinical applications of rTMS for addiction treatment Impact of biophilic environments on psychophysiological recovery Interplay between sleep quality and false memory formation Age-related differences in sleep patterns during pandemics Notable contributions include methodological advancements in sleep monitoring technology validation and cross-cultural analyses of psychological resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Giorgia Cona is an Associate Professor at the Department of General Psychology, University of Padova. Her research focuses on cognitive psychology, neuropsychology, and neuroimaging, with particular emphasis on prospective memory, aging-related cognitive changes, and neural mechanisms underlying temporal and spatial cognition. She investigates the effects of neurodegenerative diseases, sensory modalities, and environmental factors on cognitive processes. Her work integrates behavioral experiments with advanced neuroimaging techniques like MEG and EEG. Her research interests include the architecture of cognitive dimensions using network analysis, the impact of indirect trauma and media exposure, and the application of virtual reality in cognitive rehabilitation. She has explored the effects of transcranial stimulation (tACS/tRNS) on neural activity and cognitive performance. Her studies often address gender differences in decision-making and the interplay between emotion and cognition. Key research themes include: prospective memory mechanisms, neural correlates of temporal and spatial processing, cognitive changes in aging/Parkinson’s disease, and the role of cortical gradients in cognitive functions. She has also contributed to methodological advancements like the PECANS statement for cognitive/neuropsychological research quality. Giorgia Cona collaborates on interdisciplinary projects including Brainhack initiatives promoting open neuroscience practices. Her work frequently examines pandemic-related cognitive impacts and mental health vulnerability factors, as seen in studies on 2020 lockdown effects and 2023 Turkey earthquake trauma exposure.
Cinzia Novara is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychological, Pedagogical, Physical Exercise and Training Sciences at the University of Palermo. She is actively engaged in teaching and research, focusing on community psychology, family dynamics, intercultural education, and youth mental health. Her teaching includes courses such as Family Psychology, Marginality and Deviance, and Network Interventions in Community Work. Her research interests center on community wellbeing, migration, school inclusion, and the psychological impact of digital technologies. She explores how social support, school climate, and intercultural dynamics influence the lives of adolescents, migrants, adopted children, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Her work often integrates participatory methods and service learning to foster social transformation. Her recent publications (2023–2025) show a strong focus on emotional intelligence, vulnerable narcissism, social media use, and the psychological effects of the pandemic on university students. The research consistently emphasizes community resilience, inclusion, and the role of educational environments in shaping psychological outcomes. Themes such as sense of community, coping strategies, and identity in multicultural families recur across her work. Scientific Projects: PRIN 2022 - CURA: Children as vulnerable users of IoT and AI-based technologies T@les at home - Multilingual Families Erasmus K2 Project “CARE” CORI 2017 & 2019: Civic engagement and migrant acculturation Micropolis: Community welfare model Prevention of pathological addictions among university students Work Addiction and Community Psychology Family Space and Service Learning She supervises internships and thesis work, advising students through direct engagement and institutional portals. She leads initiatives under the Third Mission of Unipa, including the UNIPA Parents' Service and Family Space, promoting community-based learning and social inclusion. Her projects often involve cross-cultural collaboration, particularly with Spain, and focus on building inclusive educational cultures.
Gioacchino Garofalo holds roles as Adjunct Professor in the Department of the Arts and Research Fellow/Teaching Tutor in the Department of Philosophy at the University of Bologna. His research focuses on sensorimotor integration, neurorehabilitation, and embodied cognition. Key interests include the neural mechanisms underlying language processing, motor control in developmental disorders, and the intersection of perception and action. Garofalo employs methods like MEG neuroimaging and behavioral studies to explore topics such as action verb semantics, affordance perception, and color influence on motor representation. Recent work (2022-2025) highlights studies on autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, and the role of color in motor representation. He collaborates on neurorehabilitation interventions involving hand-mouth motor synergies for facial palsy patients. Garofalo's publications reflect a multidisciplinary approach blending linguistics, neuroscience, and clinical applications. His academic contributions span 15+ peer-reviewed articles since 2017, emphasizing experimental paradigms like action observation and virtual perspective-taking. No specific grants or awards are mentioned in the provided materials.
Alessandro Toni is a Research Professor at the Department of Social and Economic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome. He teaches courses such as Psychology in Social Services and Social Psychology , coordinating exams and student advising. His office hours and course schedules are regularly updated via institutional platforms like Google Classroom. His research spans social and developmental psychology, with emphases on: Attachment theory and early-life experiences, including child abuse impacts Cognitive and attributional processes in moral development Emotional regulation, alexithymia, and mindfulness Leadership styles and interpersonal communication He employs quantitative methods to study psychosocial disorders, parenting dynamics, and trauma outcomes. Publications (2019–2025) focus on moral disengagement, emotional skills mediation, and psychosocial distress. Trends include longitudinal analyses of attachment styles, intergenerational trauma transmission, and pandemic-related mental health crises. No awards or funded grants are documented.
Orsola Rosa Salva is an Assistant Professor (RTDa) at the Interdepartmental Center for Mind/Brain Sciences (CIMEC) at the University of Trento since November 2020. Her research focuses on comparative cognitive neuroscience using domestic chickens as a model system to investigate innate social predispositions, cerebral asymmetry, and cognitive development. She has maintained continuous academic appointments at the University of Trento since 2010, initially as a post-doctoral researcher under Prof. Giorgio Vallortigara. Her primary research interests include: Animal cognition and comparative psychology Neuropsychology and cognitive neuroscience Cerebral asymmetry and lateralization Statistical learning mechanisms Autism spectrum disorder research through comparative models Ethology and neuroethology of social behavior Analysis of her recent publications (2022-2024) reveals a consistent focus on innate social cognition in visually naive domestic chicks. Her work demonstrates chicks' spontaneous preferences for animate motion patterns, non-predictable reciprocal movements, and agent interactions. These studies bridge comparative psychology, developmental neuroscience, and social cognition, establishing chicks as valuable models for understanding the evolutionary foundations of social perception. Her methodological approach integrates behavioral observation with neural correlates analysis. Scientific recognition includes: Best Poster Prize at the 2018 Avian Cognitive Neuroscience Forum Dr. Salva has extensive teaching experience across multiple Italian universities including Padova, Trieste, and Trento. Her instructional contributions span courses in Animal Cognition, Comparative Psychology, Neuroscience, and Psychobiology. While specific grant information isn't detailed in the provided text, her research trajectory demonstrates sustained funding through post-doctoral positions and research contracts since 2006. She actively participates in international conferences on cognitive development, neuroethology, and comparative psychology. Her work is conducted primarily through the Interdepartmental Center for Mind/Brain Sciences (CIMEC) at the University of Trento, where she collaborates with Prof. Giorgio Vallortigara's research group. This center provides the interdisciplinary environment necessary for her comparative cognitive neuroscience research, combining psychological, neurological, and ethological approaches to study fundamental cognitive processes across species.
