Author: Leo Ferres, PhD Professor of Computer Science IDS UDD/Telefónica/ISI Foundation

As a computer science professor, I had the incredible opportunity to embark on a 7-week visit to the National Research Council (CNR) in Pisa. I was filled with excitement and curiosity as I delved into the world of mobility research, an area holding great potential for shaping the future of transportation and human mobility. In this blog post, I’ll recount my remarkable experience at CNR, where I engaged in fruitful discussions, initiated new projects, explored intriguing datasets, and had a blast discovering Pisa’s culture and cuisine.

Setting the Stage: The CNR Pisa Encounter

Arriving at CNR Pisa, I was warmly welcomed by a group of talented researchers, including the renowned Dr. Luca Pappalardo, whose expertise in mobility research is widely acknowledged. It was evident from the start that this visit would be an intellectually stimulating journey that could lead to valuable contributions in this field.

Exploring Mobility: Meetings that Sparked Innovation

Throughout my visit, I had numerous meetings with experts from various disciplines, all centered around the theme of mobility. The discussions were inspiring, and witnessing how each researcher brought their unique perspective to the table was fascinating. These meetings acted as catalysts, giving rise to two novel projects addressing real-world mobility challenges.

Project 1: Improving Urban Mobility Through Data-Driven Solutions

One of the projects sought to tackle urban mobility issues in densely populated areas. The idea was to leverage a combination of public transportation data, GPS traces from ride-sharing services, and anonymized mobile phone data to gain insights into traffic patterns and optimize transit routes. The potential impact of this project on reducing traffic congestion and improving public transportation efficiency was genuinely promising.

Project 2: Unraveling the Nexus between Traffic and Human Mobility

The second project stemmed from my interest in exploring the correlation between traffic conditions and human mobility behavior. By mining the extensive mobile phone dataset available at CNR, we could analyze user movement patterns and gain valuable insights into how traffic conditions impact daily routines. This knowledge could inform the development of smarter traffic management strategies and enhance the overall quality of life in urban areas.

Data Goldmine: The Mobile Phone Dataset

Working with the mobile phone dataset was a thrilling experience. It provided a wealth of information on users’ movements, habits, and interactions with their surroundings. Analyzing this data allowed us to uncover trends, identify traffic hotspots, and grasp the dynamics of human mobility. The potential implications of this research for urban planning, emergency response, and transportation optimization were truly exciting.

Collaboration in Action: The Mobility Workshop

As the visit progressed, I had the honor of participating in a workshop that brought together researchers from various ongoing mobility projects under the guidance of Dr. Luca Pappalardo. This forum fostered an environment of collaboration and exchange of ideas. We shared our findings, debated methodologies, and identified areas where our projects could complement each other. It was truly an enriching experience to be part of this vibrant research community.

Discovering Pisa’s Delights: Music and Cuisine

Beyond the realm of research and academia, my time in Pisa was filled with delightful moments of exploration and cultural immersion. Discovering the city and its delectable cuisine was an experience to cherish.

1. Exploring Pisa’s Architecture and Gastronomy

The iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa was a sight to behold. I couldn’t resist joining the throngs of tourists to capture that perfect picture, even though it felt like the tower might topple over at any moment. Wandering through the historic streets, I marveled at the rich architecture and the fascinating blend of modernity and tradition.

Of course, no trip to Italy would be complete without savoring the local delicacies. Pisa’s culinary scene did not disappoint. I ventured into the charming trattorias, sampling mouthwatering pasta dishes, authentic pizzas, and (of course) indulging in delightful gelato. The flavors of Italy danced on my taste buds, leaving me with an enduring appreciation for Italian cuisine.

2. Unleashing the Musician in Me: Jamming at Gusto Giusto and at the Park

As an avid music enthusiast, I was thrilled to stumble upon Gusto Giusto, a lively venue that not only served excellent food but also provided a stage for musicians to showcase their talents. Emboldened by the inviting ambiance, I decided to pick up my instrument and join in on the musical festivities. Collaborating with local musicians and even some of the researchers and graduate students, we created a fusion of melodies that resonated with the diverse crowd, fostering a sense of camaraderie that transcended cultural boundaries.

The collaborative spirit didn’t end at Gusto Giusto. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that some of the researchers and graduate students shared my passion for music. So, we organized impromptu jam sessions in the beautiful parks of Pisa. Under the canopy of trees and the clear blue skies, we played music, exchanged stories, and celebrated the universal language that is music. These moments brought us closer together as friends, transcending the boundaries of our research projects.

Conclusion: A Wholesome Experience

My journey to CNR Pisa was not just an academic endeavor; it was a holistic experience that encompassed both professional growth and personal joy. The city of Pisa, with its historical charm, welcoming people, and mouthwatering cuisine, will always hold a special place in my heart.         
As I look back on those seven weeks of exploration, collaboration, and celebration, I am grateful for the memories and friendships forged. My time in Pisa truly exemplified the beauty of combining work and pleasure, and I return home with a heart full of gratitude and a passion for future endeavors.

Arrivederci, Pisa! Until we meet again!