by InTrieste
The International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA) opened its 47th academic year on Friday, November 7, announcing significant scientific achievements in quantum physics and neuroscience that underscore the institution’s expanding global profile.
During the ceremony, physicist Pasquale Calabrese was awarded €2.4 million for research into quantum entanglement, a phenomenon central to quantum mechanics with far-reaching implications for quantum computing and theoretical physics, including the study of black holes. The funding represents one of the highest international recognitions in the field of computational physics.
In parallel, neuro-genetics researcher Alessia Soldano secured €1.6 million in national funding to support her work on epigenetic modifications of RNA, a rapidly growing area of study that could deepen understanding of brain function and neurodevelopmental disorders.
SISSA director Andrea Romanino emphasized the institute’s international reach, noting more than 100 co-authored scientific publications with U.S. institutions in the past year alone, including collaborations with leading universities. “These recognitions and partnerships confirm the global role of SISSA,” he said.
The event also marked two institutional anniversaries: 20 years of SISSA MediaLab, which promotes scientific education and publishing, and 15 years of MathLab, focused on applied mathematics research.
Student representative Salvatore Di Marco called for stronger protections for early-career researchers to address Italy’s persistent “brain drain” and highlighted ongoing challenges faced by international students. He also expressed solidarity with researchers in Gaza. Romanino reaffirmed SISSA’s support for scholars at risk and emphasized that scientific cooperation should serve as a tool for peace and progress.
The ceremony concluded with a keynote lecture on quantum technologies, reflecting the global spotlight on advances in quantum science during the International Year of Quantum Science.
