At a glance
A data visualization school tailored for science communication and dissemination
The aim of the Summer School in Data Visualization is to equip participants with both fundamental and cutting-edge skills in creating impactful data visualizations for science dissemination, combining traditional design principles with modern AI capabilities.
The aim of the Summer School in Data Visualization is to equip participants with both fundamental and cutting-edge skills in creating impactful data visualizations, combining traditional design principles with modern AI capabilities.
The school is aimed at PhD students of all disciplines as well as master’s thesis students and professionals who want to master data visualization principles and leverage AI tools to create more impactful and innovative visual storytelling.Through hands-on experience with real-world data and tools, participants will learn to craft compelling visual narratives while understanding how AI can enhance their visualization workflow.
Some familiarity with programming (e.g., Python, R, or similar) is welcome but not mandatory.
Logistics
The course will take place at MaLGa Center and the Department of Design. For more details, check the Programme and the Venue sections.
The course will take place on Monday, Tuesday and Friday at MaLGa Center, hosted within the DIBRIS/DIMA building at the University of Genoa: Via Dodecaneso 35, 16146 Genoa, Italy. Indications to the classroom will be visible at the entrance.
On Wednesday and Thursday the school will take place at the Department of Architecture and Design (DAD), in Stradone di Sant’Agostino 37.
For more details check the Programme section.By Air: Fly into Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport and take a taxi or local bus to the city center. The next best option is to arrive in Milan Malpensa or Milan Linate and take a direct train to Genova from Milan Central Station.
By Train: Direct trains from major Italian and European cities are available and will get you to Genova in no time.
By Bus: Regular intercity bus services connect Genova with other Italian and European cities.Participants will need to arrange their own accommodation.
During the days of the school you will have to arrange your own lunches.
On Wednesday 9th, we plan to organise a social dinner. More details to follow soon, we advise you to check the Programme section regularly.
Speakers
Classes will be held by Prof. Enrico Bertini and Prof. Paolo Ciuccarelli from Northeastern University (Boston, MA, USA) and by UniGe faculty members from MaLGa and UniGe’s DAD Department, with the support of MaLGa and PLUS researchers.
Programme
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, our program offers a unique blend of theoretical insights and hands-on experience. Dive into interactive practical sessions, collaborate on a challenging group project, and then unwind with an unforgettable outdoor team-building activity in a beautiful Ligurian sea town.
Monday, July 7, 2025
Welcome
09:00 - 09:30 - Welcome and Accreditation
Room 710, 7th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
Welcome
09:30 - 10:00 - Greetings and School Introduction
Room 710, 7th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
Institutional greetings and introduction of the School held by Prof. Puppo.
Class
10:00 - 12:30 - Introduction to Data Visualization
Room 710, 7th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
Prof. Barla and Prof. Vian will offer a comprehensive introduction to modern challenges in Data Visualization. From presenting scientific results to the importance of engaging scientific communication, they will explore key principles, tools, and best practices for creating effective visual representations, highlighting common pitfalls and emerging trends in the field.
Lunch
12:30 - 14:00 - Lunch
Class
14:00 - 16:00 - Introduction to Data Visualization Tools and Resources
Room 710, 7th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
Prof. Barla will give an introduction how to handle data in different dimensions.
Interlude
16:00 - 17:00 - Info Session
Room 710, 7th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
You will receive detailed information about the next days of the school. Attendance to this session is highly recommended.
Tuesday, July 8, 2025
Welcome
09:00 - 09:30 - Welcome
Room 710, 7th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
Class
09:30 - 11:00 - Lecture
Room 710, 7th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
Prof. Ciuccarelli presents the historical fundations of Data Visualization and gives us a unique perspective on the evolution of the field throughout the years.
Coffee break
11:00 - 11:15 - Coffee break
Group project
11:15 - 13:00 - Introduction to the Group Project
Room 710, 7th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
Introduction to the Group Project and group formation
Lunch
13:00 - 14:00 - Lunch
Class
14:00 - 15:00 - Lecture
Room 710, 7th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
Prof. Bertini will give a lecture on the relation of Data Visualization and misleading communication.
Coffee break
15:00 - 15:30 - Coffee break
Class
15:30 - 17:30 - Lecture
Room 710, 7th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
Prof. Ciuccarelli will explore principles like multiplication, integration, non-autonomy, and the non-neutrality/rhetoric of data, concluding with the concept of data visualization as a “translational” paradigm
Dinner
17:30 - 19:00 - Welcome Aperitivo
5th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
After the class don’t run away. We have prepared an aperitivo to relax after a day of lectures and to get to know eachother.
Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Group project
9:30 - 11:00 - Group project
Room 5B/C, 5th Floor, DAD, Stradone di Sant'Agostino, 37
During the group project sessions rooms and resources will be available for you and your team to carry out the work.
Group project
11:00 - 13:00 - Group project
Room 5B/C, 5th Floor, DAD, Stradone di Sant'Agostino, 37
Lunch
13:00 - 14:00 - Lunch
Leisure activity
14:00 - 15:30 - Transfer to Activity Location
The Activity is not mandatory and on a voluntary base only. More info on how to join will be sent by email.
Leisure activity
15:30 - 19:30 - Outdoor Activity
The Activity trip is not mandatory and on a voluntary base only. More info on how to join will be sent by email.
Leisure activity
19:30 - 23:00 - Dinner
Social Dinner in Camogli
Leisure activity
23:00 - 23:30 - Return to Genova
Thursday, July 10, 2025
Group project
9:30 - 11:00 - Group project
Room 5B/C, 5th Floor, DAD, Stradone di Sant'Agostino, 37
Thursday is entirly dedicated to the group project. You and your team will be able to use the spaces we provide to work. During this time it will be possible to ask for a revision or help from one of the instructors.
Group project
11:00 - 13:00 - Group project
Room 5B/C, 5th Floor, DAD, Stradone di Sant'Agostino, 37
Lunch
13:00 - 14:00 - Lunch
Group project
14:00 - 15:30 - Group project
Room 5B/C, 5th Floor, DAD, Stradone di Sant'Agostino, 37
Group project
15:30 - 17:00 - Group project
Room 5B/C, 5th Floor, DAD, Stradone di Sant'Agostino, 37
Friday, July 11, 2025
Poster session
09:30 - 11:30 - Presentation of the Results
Room 710, 7th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
Each group will present the results of their work.
Goodbye
11:30 - 12:00 - Reflections & Goodbyes
Room 710, 7th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
Final Reflections & Institutional Goodbyes from Prof. Delzanno and organizers
Coffee break
12:00 - 13:00 - Refreshments
5th Floor, DIBRIS, Via Dodecaneso 35
A farewell refreshment for the attendees
How to apply
Applications will be accepted until midnight on May 18th, and notifications of acceptance will be sent by May 30th.
Apply Now
Deadline on Sunday, May 18, 2025
Acceptance notification Friday, May 30, 2025
Registration Fees
Upon acceptance of your application, you will be requested to pay a registration fee, depending on your role and affiliation.
| role | fee |
|---|---|
| UniGe and Northeastern Students | waived |
| Non-Unige Students and Postdocs | €100,00 |
| Non-UniGe faculty | €200,00 |
| Professionals | €400,00 |
Organization
The Steering Committee is composed of Enrico Bertini, Annalisa Barla, and Andrea Vian, overseeing the overall vision and direction. The Scientific Committee includes Prof. Enrico Bertini (Northeastern University), Prof. Enrico Puppo (UniGe), and Prof. Giuseppe Jurman (FBK & Humanitas) contributing their expertise to shape the academic content. The Logistics Committee, led by Giulia Casu, manages organizational aspects to ensure a smooth experience for participants.
