Italian Researchers Abroad Highlight Global Contributions at 20th Conference in Rome

The XX Conferenza dei Ricercatori Italiani nel Mondo opened today in Rome, bringing together scientists and scholars from across the globe to discuss the role of Italy’s scientific diaspora in fostering innovation and international collaboration, according to the Texas Scientific Italian Community (TSIC). The event, now in its 20th edition, marks two decades of efforts to connect Italian researchers with their homeland and the global scientific community.

Key Figures Emphasize Value of Italian Scientists Abroad

Viceministro delle Imprese e del Made in Italy Valentino Valentini addressed the conference, stating, “The science has no homeland, but the scientist has one. And you have chosen to carry this homeland wherever you go.” He highlighted the importance of the diaspora in strengthening Italy’s global presence, calling researchers “our most credible ambassadors.”

Antonella Polimeni, Rettrice of Sapienza University, praised the conference as a “straordinaria iniziativa” that underscores the role of Italian researchers in advancing the nation’s scientific and cultural influence. She emphasized the need for policies to support “mobility and the return of talents,” noting that universities play a critical role in driving innovation.

Conference Focuses on Collaboration and Global Networks

The event featured messages from high-profile figures, including Minister of University and Research Anna Maria Bernini, who called researchers “a strategic resource for the country.” She stressed the growing importance of scientific cooperation, particularly with the U.S., and urged participants to “continue to look ahead with your work.”

Vincenzo Arcobelli, chairman of TSIC, reflected on the conference’s 20-year journey, stating, “You have built invisible but solid bridges between Italy and the world.” He credited the diaspora with transforming geographical distance into “a wealth of perspectives,” describing the network as a “web of excellence.”

Challenges and Opportunities for Italian Scientists

Valentini acknowledged the reasons some researchers leave Italy, including “necessity or choice,” but called for “synergy and recognition” to retain talent. He urged participants to share “what you need and what you can continue to give to Italy.”

Polimeni also suggested expanding the conference’s reach, advocating for greater “socialization” of the network to amplify its impact. She noted that attracting and retaining talent is “fundamental for the country’s development,” with universities serving as “a key differentiator” in innovation.

Legacy of the Conference and Future Goals

Arcobelli closed the opening session by thanking researchers for “holding high the flag of Italian science abroad.” He emphasized their role in “building a better future for Italy and the world,” envisioning the next 20 years as “luminous, rich in challenges, and collaborative.”

The conference, hosted at the Presidenza del Consiglio’s Sala Polifunzionale, includes discussions on scientific policy, international partnerships, and strategies to strengthen Italy’s global research footprint.

Texas Scientific Italian Community and Italian Ministry of Economic Development provided details for this report.