Spending a month and a half in Pisa was a truly unforgettable experience. I was lucky enough
to join the KDD Lab at the CNR, working alongside the incredible team led by Prof. Luca
Pappalardo. As someone who shares their passion for human mobility research, this visit
wasn’t just professionally enriching—it was personally inspiring too.

First Impressions: Warm Welcome, Warmer Weather

From the moment I arrived, I felt at home. The team was warm, welcoming, and always happy
to help. They didn’t just offer guidance on my research; they also made sure I got to experience
the best of Pisa. Whether it was a spontaneous coffee break, a casual dinner, or a walk through
the city’s historic streets, they showed me the heart and soul of their town.
And let’s not forget the weather! Coming from colder climates, November in Pisa felt like a
dream. With sunny days and mild evenings, it was the perfect setting for running alongside the
Arno River.

Tuesday Meetings: The Heart of Collaboration

One of the things that struck me most about the KDD Lab was their Tuesday meetings. Every week, the entire team would come together to share updates on their research. It wasn’t just a check-in; it was a true brainstorming session. Each person had the chance to present their progress, receive feedback, and hear new ideas.
The atmosphere was incredible—respectful but full of energy. Constructive criticism flowed freely, but it was always delivered in a way that encouraged growth. No one held back, but no one tore anyone down either. This balance of honesty and support created a space where creativity could thrive.
It reminded me a lot of their music band. Just like in their research, the group came together to make something bigger than the sum of its parts. Everyone brought their unique "instrument" to the table—whether it was coding expertise, a knack for visualization, or fresh perspectives on a mobility challenge. And just like in music, the result was harmonious. 

Playing Hard, Working Harder
 

Speaking of their music band—what a surprise that was! I hadn’t expected to find a research group that also jammed together in their free time. They invited me to one of their rehearsals, and it was such a joy to see them in action. It wasn’t just about playing instruments; it was about connection, rhythm, and mutual understanding. I couldn’t help but draw parallels between their music sessions and their approach to research. In both, they blended discipline with creativity, structure with improvisation. It’s no wonder they’re so successful as a team—they’ve mastered the art of working together, whether they’re analyzing mobility data or performing a catchy tune.

The European Symposium on Human Mobility
 

https://ems2024pisa.github.io/europeanmobilitysymposium/

Another highlight of my time in Pisa was co-organizing the European Symposium on Human Mobility with Prof. Pappalardo and the KDD Lab team. It was a whirlwind of planning, but it all paid off when we welcomed over 25 researchers from across Europe. The symposium was a melting pot of ideas, with discussions ranging from data-driven urban planning to ethical considerations in mobility analysis. It was incredible to see so many brilliant minds in one room, exchanging perspectives and imagining the future of our field. 

Reflections

So, if you ever get the chance to visit Pisa, don’t hesitate. Whether you’re a researcher, a runner, or just someone looking for a little inspiration, you’ll find it there. And if you’re lucky enough to spend time with the KDD Lab, you’ll see firsthand why the soul of human mobility truly beats in Pisa.