Maria Chiara Carrozza
Professor at the University of Milano-Bicocca and formerly President of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR) and Minister for Education, Universities and Research
Opening Ceremony of the 1st Semester 2025-26
Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 4 pm
Aula Magna
Opening Remarks
Prof. Carmelo Marabello, Dean of Venice International University
Venice International University is honored to welcome Prof. Maria Chiara Carrozza as the distinguished speaker for the Opening Ceremony of the First Semester.
Lectio Magistralis
Robotics and AI: Shaping the Future of Humanity and Global Science Diplomacy
The convergence of robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and nature represents one of the most profound and complex transformations of our time. Advances in computational, mechanical, and biological domains are reshaping the role of humans within an interconnected ecosystem where machines not only execute tasks but also learn, interact, and adapt. This presentation explores the evolution of robotics from industrial automation to collaborative systems, wearable technologies, and humanoid platforms, highlighting their applications in healthcare, education, and assistive contexts. It also addresses the ethical challenges posed by autonomous systems, particularly in security and defence. As robotics and AI become deeply embedded in everyday life while moving toward increasingly advanced motor and cognitive capabilities, the urgency of science diplomacy and international cooperation cannot be overstated. Global dialogue, harmonized ethical frameworks, and collaborative research are essential to ensure that innovation serves humanity responsibly, mitigating risks while fostering a sustainable and inclusive future.
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The Globalization Program this semester offers students of the member universities the opportunity to take courses on intercultural communication, health and science communication, and critical aspects of globalization, which will provide insights into the complexities of cultural exchange and identity in a globalized world. Specialization tracks focus on Economics, Management and Digital Technologies for Cultural Heritage, Science and Society and History and Memory, covering topics such as AI and creativity, international law, social and personal relationships, scientific communication and disinformation in the globalized era. This dynamic curriculum equips students with a global perspective, critical analytical skills, and a deeper understanding of pressing contemporary issues. Every semester of the program there is a core course offering through which students can study Venice’s history, architecture, and artistic heritage, and examine Italian contemporary history through film, while language learners can enhance their proficiency in Italian at various levels.
Prof. Maria Chiara Carrozza is Full Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Biorobotics at University of Milan-Bicocca, Department of Psychology. Former President of the National Research Council (CNR), she served as Chair of the European Science Advisors Forum (ESAF) and of the G6 Research Network in 2024. As a member of the European Commission's High-Level Expert Group for FP10, she contributed to the report "Act, align, accelerate." From 2007 to 2013, she was Rector of the Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies, and from 2013 to 2018, she was a member of the Italian Parliament and a member of the European and Foreign Affairs Committee. She was Minister of Education, University, and Research from 2013 to 2014. From 2018 to 2021, she was Scientific Director of the IRCCS Don C. Gnocchi.
