Domenico Romano

Lead AI R&D Researcher at AVVALE

Member of the winter over crew at the Antarctic Italo/French base of Dome C (Concordia). Experienced Astrophysicist Doctoral Researcher with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry. Skilled in Mathematical Modeling, IDL, Python, PHP, Fortran, Javascript. Strong research professional with a Master of Science (MSc) focused in Physics, Astrophysics and Space Physics from Università degli Studi di Roma ‘La Sapienza’.

Martina Vivarelli

Operations Specialist at Tinexta Innovation Hub

MA in Philosophy with a specialization in Ethics and Gender Studies (University of Trento) and graduation at the International Master in European Project Planning and Management (Pixel – International education and training institution). She’s actually Operation Specialist in Tinexta Innovation Hub, in charge of the project management of several European projects, including AURORA project, in the framework of LIFE, HORIZON 2020 and HORIZON EUROPE funding programmes.

Chemical marker based on photoluminescent pigments

Abstract: As crimes involving cultural heritage objects continue to escalate globally, there is a growing demand for new technology-aided interventions. Tagging the objects with security inks can be crucial in crime deterrence and evidence-based validation. In this work, different security inks were specifically formulated by using zinc oxide quantum dots, carbon quantum-dots, and lanthanide-doped phosphors as the fluorescent agent for application on artwork surfaces. The more promising ink formulations in water, obtained by combining proper binders, demonstrated compatibility across several substrates (papers, stone, metal, and ceramic), workability with various application techniques (pen-writing, brushing, stamping), and strong resistance to degradation over different weathering tests.

Daniela Iacopino

Senior Researcher at Tyndall National Institute

Dr. Daniela Iacopino is a senior researcher at the Tyndall National Institute. Daniela has expertise on fabrication of functional nanoscale materials and their application health, agri-food and cultural heritage. Within these research themes, special focus is devoted to the development of green materials and fabrication techniques for sustainable electronics. Daniela has participated to 10 EU projects several national projects. Daniela has published over 100 scientific manuscripts, graduated seven PhDs and supervised/mentored over 20 master students and staff researchers. She is the chair of Empowering Women@Tyndall (EW@T), supporting female staff to build their confidence and increase their visibility.

Rodorico Giorgi

Associate Professor at the University of Florence

Associate Professor at the University of Florence (dept. of Chemistry), he is associated to the national consortium CSGI – Center for colloid and surface science. Msc in Chemistry and PhD in Science for Cultural Heritage, Giorgi’s research activity is focused on the application of nanotechnology to the conservation of artworks. Giorgi is author of 6 patents and more than 160 publications in such field.

Interdisciplinary by Nature: Conservators in Cultural Heritage Science

Abstract: Conservators of cultural heritage are increasingly seen as vital contributors to scientific research, bridging materials science, art history, and cultural understanding. This presentation explores their evolving role through the EU-funded AURORA project (Artwork Unique Recognition and tRacking through chemicAl encoded data). Within AURORA, conservators bring expertise in materials, artistic techniques, and degradation, helping to develop tools for authentication and preservation. Emphasizing ethics, minimal intervention, reversibility, documentation, they guide responsible innovation. Case studies from AURORA show how conservators align science with sustainability and cultural values. The talk positions them as core partners shaping heritage science and its impact on society.

Beyond restoration: the expanding role of the cultural heritage conservator

Abstract: This talk explores the evolving nature of conservation through Antonio Mirabile’s career, highlighting how the role of conservators now extends beyond restoration to include scientific research, sustainability, risk assessment, and international collaboration. With over 30 years of experience in paper and preventive conservation, Mirabile has worked across institutions and private collections, adapting to new materials and methods. The presentation will cover shifts toward preventive approaches, sustainable practices, and tailored treatments. Drawing on case studies from museums, UNESCO missions, and EU projects, it underscores the conservator’s role as researcher, educator, and cultural mediator, contributing to preservation, innovation, and cultural resilience. 

Antonio Mirabile

Conservator and preventive conservation consultant

Antonio Mirabile is a Paris-based paper conservator and preventive conservation consultant. Active since 1988 and accredited by the French Ministry of Culture, he works with museums and private collections worldwide. As UNESCO expert and EU project partner, he contributes through research, education, and the conservation of art and archives on paper.

Digital fingerprint and cultural heritage. A solution through XRF mapping

Abstract: In the field of Cultural Heritage there is a strong need to create a digital identity linked to a cultural good that simplifies and makes transparent a series of operations related to the management of cultural good, from museum cataloguing, to transport logistics, to contractual matters, to name but a few. The lecture illustrates how its non-invasiveness, the ability to obtain fast, sensitive and in-depth analyses, and the possibility of representing through images the chemical distribution of the constituent elements of a cultural good are the main features that make XRF mapping the ideal technique for obtaining a stable and durable Digital Identity.

Lorenzo Bellucci

OTID S.r.l. Founder

The Future of Heritage Management: How AI and Blockchain Transform the Art World

Abstract: This lecture explores the integration of blockchain and AI technologies for enhancing cultural heritage management systems. Art counterfeiting and inefficiencies in traditional provenance methods highlight the need for robust solutions to ensure artifacts’ security, authenticity, and traceability. Blockchain’s immutability, transparency, and decentralized structure provide an innovative foundation for addressing these challenges. This framework enables efficient management of artifact records and ownership by incorporating tools such as invisible marking technologies, AI-driven authentication, and user-friendly decentralized applications.

Taras Maksymyuk 

Professor at Lviv Polytechnic National University

Taras Maksymyuk earned his Ph.D. in telecommunication systems and networks in 2015. He is currently a professor at the Department of Information and Communication Technologies at Lviv Polytechnic National University. His primary research interest lies in integrating advanced technologies, such as AI and blockchain, to address engineering and social challenges.

Blockchain and UWB-based Indoor Localization

Abstract: This presentation will offer a dual focus. Firstly, it delves into blockchain technology, covering core definitions, historical context, operational mechanics including block structure and various consensus algorithms, alongside an AURORA overview. A practical segment will guide attendees through Solidity smart contract development, from Remix IDE to deploying contracts and interacting via Etherscan. Secondly, the presentation explores UWB-based indoor localization, detailing its underlying technology, system architecture, specific Aurora hardware components, and methods for online data sharing using The Things Network, culminating in a live demonstration of a real-world indoor localization system in action.

Matias Torres Diaz

Blockchain consultant at Avvale

Matias Torres Diaz is a blockchain consultant at Avvale with a background in programming and distributed systems. He focuses on developing practical blockchain solutions for real-world business challenges. Technology enthusiast with experience in implementing innovative applications in the emerging digital ledger space.

Francesco Meloni

Advanced Analytics Professional at Avvale

Francesco Meloni works as an Advanced Analytics Professional for Avvale. He has worked in multiple projects covering both technical and Agile project management roles for the implementation of AI algorithms in different contexts. In Aurora, he has followed the development of the matching algorithm for determining artwork authenticity. 

Taras Maksymyuk 

Professor at Lviv Polytechnic National University

Taras Maksymyuk earned his Ph.D. in telecommunication systems and networks in 2015. He is currently a professor at the Department of Information and Communication Technologies at Lviv Polytechnic National University. His primary research interest lies in integrating advanced technologies, such as AI and blockchain, to address engineering and social challenges.

Development of a low power consumption embedded system for indoor precision tracking of cultural artifacts in museum environment

Abstract: A highly accurate and low-power Embedded Wireless Tracking (EWT) device has been developed for indoor artwork monitoring in museum environments. Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology was chosen for its precise localization accuracy. In addition to tracking, the device is equipped with environmental sensors that monitor temperature, relative humidity, and light, making it particularly suitable for monitoring sensitive artefacts in museum settings. The developed system achieved sub-20 cm localization accuracy, significantly exceeding the 50 cm threshold defined in the Aurora project’s user requirements. Furthermore, the system has been integrated with The Things Network (TTN) to enable cloud-based data transmission. Furthermore, payloads are decoded and visualized using the Datacake IoT dashboard, providing real-time data streaming, and automated email alerts, empowering museum staff to make informed decisions in dynamic environments

Martina Piletti

PhD in Engineering Science at the Tyndall National Institute

Martina Piletti received her B.Sc. degree in Chemistry and Materials Chemistry from Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna, and her M.Sc. in Clinical and Forensic Chemistry from the University of Turin (UniTo). Currently, she is pursuing a PhD in Engineering Science at the Tyndall National Institute in Cork, Ireland.  

Her research focuses on the development and application of nanomaterials and nanotechnologies for a wide range of purposes—from cultural heritage protection and anticounterfeiting to advanced sensing and diagnostics. Martina’s work bridges materials science, analytical chemistry, and engineering to tackle real-world challenges where innovation meets societal impact. 

Sanjeev Kumar 

PhD researcher at Tyndall National Institute

Sanjeev Kumar received his Ph.D. in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from University College Cork (UCC), Ireland, in 2021. Since February 2022, he has been working as a Postdoctoral Researcher with the Wireless Sensor Networks Group at the Tyndall National Institute, UCC. His research interests include the development of electrically small antennas, wearable and implantable antennas, RF energy harvesting, embedded hardware PCB design, and the exploration of nonconventional materials for the advancement of next–generation antennas & RF solutions and wirelsss sensing systems.

The OSCE-led Heritage Crime Task Force: Coordinated Global Law Enforcement Responses to Combat Trafficking of the World’s Cultural Heritage

Abstract: In his presentation, “The OSCE-led Heritage Crime Task Force: Coordinated Global Law Enforcement Responses to Combat Trafficking of the World’s Cultural Heritage,” Cameron will discuss the unique position that border management agencies and frontline officers play in the fight against this growing area of transnational crime and its linkages to organized crime, money laundering and terrorism financing. Focusing on the work of the OSCE-led Heritage Crime Task Force – a unique in the world joint international team of border officers, customs, police, forensic, financial, cyber investigators, military, archaeologists and museums experts, international organizations and state prosecutors – he will show the real-world impact of their work in disrupting trafficking networks in real time through cross-border, cross-agency coordination.

Cameron Walter

Head of Heritage Crime Task Force and Programme to Combat Trafficking of Cultural Property

ORGANIZATION FOR SECURITY AND COOPERATION IN EUROPE (OSCE)

Cameron Walter has been leading the OSCE Heritage Crime Task Force and serving as Customs Advisor since 2020. He transformed a pilot project into a full program against cultural property trafficking, linked to organized crime and terrorism financing. He expanded the team from 10 to 78 experts from 46 countries and international organizations. The Task Force has worked with 49 of the 57 OSCE participating States and other partners, offering training and rapid response. Before joining the OSCE, Cameron worked for the Canada Border Services Agency and the Department of Canadian Heritage, participating in international operations against cultural heritage trafficking.

Building a Network to Fight Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Artefacts in Hungary

Abstract: As heritage crime and disasters caused by natural hazards are complex threats involving multiple factors and actors, cultural institutions cannot address them alone. To strengthen its resilience, the Hungarian National Museum (HNM) has, in recent years, pursued several interconnected strategies. It redefined its approach to emerging threats, launched a specialized project to enhance preparedness and response, prioritized capacity building, and engaged in national and international research and pilot initiatives. An interdisciplinary dialogue was also initiated to comprehensively redesign the museum’s disaster risk management (DRM) plans. Key first steps included studying best practices, advancing capacity building and awareness efforts, and remapping stakeholders — all in parallel and reinforcing one another. Additionally, an HNM colleague was invited to join the OSCE-led Heritage Crime Task Force, a multi-faceted initiative targeting the looting of archaeological and cultural sites, the illicit trafficking of cultural property, and its links to organized crime and terrorism financing. Through these efforts, HNM has promoted dialogue and fostered cross-sectoral cooperation to protect endangered cultural heritage. This pioneering initiative has created a new collaborative environment, linking diverse sectors and inspiring a broader network of actors committed to cultural heritage protection.

Lujza Varga

Lead of cultural property protection at the Hungarian National Museum

Dr. Lujza Varga, a museum professional with 13+ years of experience, leads project cooperation and cultural property protection at the Hungarian National Museum. A PhD in History, she is Hungary’s Blue Shield representative and a Heritage Crime Task Force member, specializing in crisis management and heritage protection. 

ENIGMA project

Abstract: Cultural heritage around the globe suffers from wars, natural disasters and human negligence. Cultural goods (CGs) are put at risk through several anthropogenic actions: theft, smuggling and illicit trade, looting and demolition of archaeological sites, or simply neglect of heritage sites. Illicit trade has expanded dramatically, especially in areas affected by armed conflicts and natural disasters. Innovative efforts to protect and preserve cultural heritage are needed. The EU-funded ENIGMA project will work to protect cultural heritage and artefacts. It will focus on technologies enhancing identification, traceability and provenance research of CGs, and safeguarding and monitoring endangered heritage sites. ENIGMA will also collaborate with stakeholders to enhance their role in the preservation and improvement of databases, as well as the introduction of preventive measures.

Charalampos Georgiadis

Professor at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

ENIGMA Project Coordinator

Charalampos Georgiadis is Associate Professor at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, specializing in photogrammetry, remote sensing, and GIS. He coordinates the EU-funded ENIGMA project, focusing on cultural heritage protection through advanced 3D data analysis, digital ontologies, and secure platforms for artifact tracking and preservation.

ANCHISE project: innovative and interdisciplinary solutions for the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural goods 

Abstract: The ANCHISE presentation will focus primarily on two key elements in the fight against the illicit trafficking of cultural goods: the importance of developing technological solutions — including the related ANCHISE toolbox — and the centrality of an interdisciplinary approach that brings together different communities with the shared goal of protecting cultural heritage. The presentation will then focus on how, at a Policy level, the EU can address these two areas. 

Marco Fiore

Policy and Project Manager at Michael Culture Association

ANCHISE Project Coordinator

Marco Fiore is Policy and Project Manager at Michael Culture Association, a trans-sectoral European network for the preservation, the promotion and the valorisation of heritage and digital cultural content. With a specialization in digital cultural heritage and its societal impact, he is in charge of the Communication and the Policy development in the ANCHISE project (www.anchise.eu).  

Equipping Museums to Fight Illicit Trafficking

Abstract: The presentation explores how museums can be equipped to combat illicit trafficking, highlighting the role of the Balkan Museum Network (BMN) as a capacity-building and exchange platform. It introduces BMN’s involvement in the AURORA project, emphasizing guidance from a museum perspective with input from two member institutions. Key barriers to adopting new technologies, including weak ICT infrastructure and inadequate legal frameworks, are discussed. A conservator’s perspective from the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina illustrates early testing of AURORA’s invisible marking technology in a challenging environment.

Aida Vežić

Secretary General and Director

Balkan Museum Network

Aida Vežić is Secretary General of the Balkan Museum Network, and Director of BMN Association based in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. She completed the Faculty of Economics at the University of Sarajevo and Master Program “Cultural Projects for Development“. Aida has been developing civil society organisations in the last 25 years and working as consultant, facilitator, researcher, evaluator and trainer. Her work has mostly been cross-border focusing on culture, heritage, peace building and philanthropy.

Jove Pargovski

Documentation and Digitization of cultural heritage

National Institution Institute and Museum Bitola

MSc works at the National Institution Institute and Museum Bitola in North Macedonia, where he leads initiatives in the digitization and documentation of cultural heritage. His projects emphasize digitization and inclusivity, aiming to broaden public access to museum collections. He is a published author and an active member of regional heritage networks, advancing cultural preservation across the Balkans.

Azra Bečević Šarenkapa

Museum Adviser

National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Azra Bečević Šarenkapa, museum adviser, has worked at the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina as conservator since 1997. Her expertise spans a wide selection of areas, from preserving objects made of textiles, wood, and metal to conducting environmental monitoring, pest control, reorganization and organization of storages. She earned an engineering degree in  textile technology, at Textile Technology Faculty, University of Zagreb, Croatia and M.A. in Conservation of Historic Objects, Department of Archaeology, University of Durham, UK.

Themis Krasoudaki

Researcher at CSGI

Having graduated as a chemical engineer from the National Technical University of Athens and holding an MSc in architectural conservation from the University of Edinburgh, I am currently working on developing chemical markers to help prevent the illicit trafficking of cultural heritage in AURORA.

Andrea Louise Matulac

Researcher at CSGI

Andrea Louise works at the intersection of science and heritage. Leveraging her background in chemistry and materials science, she aims to develop innovative materials and methods to help protect cultural heritage. She is currently part of a team developing security inks to combat illicit trade and trafficking of artworks. 

Francesca Battaglia

Researcher at CSGI

Bachelor’s in Diagnostics for Cultural Heritage from the University of Milan and a Master’s in Science and Materials for Conservation from the University of Florence. She’s currently involved in the AURORA project, researching innovative nanotechnology-based chemical markers for anticounterfeiting and cultural heritage protection. 

Martina Piletti

PhD in Engineering Science at the Tyndall National Institute

Martina Piletti received her B.Sc. degree in Chemistry and Materials Chemistry from Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna, and her M.Sc. in Clinical and Forensic Chemistry from the University of Turin (UniTo). Currently, she is pursuing a PhD in Engineering Science at the Tyndall National Institute in Cork, Ireland.  

Her research focuses on the development and application of nanomaterials and nanotechnologies for a wide range of purposes—from cultural heritage protection and anticounterfeiting to advanced sensing and diagnostics. Martina’s work bridges materials science, analytical chemistry, and engineering to tackle real-world challenges where innovation meets societal impact. 

Sanjeev Kumar 

PhD researcher at Tyndall National Institute

Sanjeev Kumar received his Ph.D. in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from University College Cork (UCC), Ireland, in 2021. Since February 2022, he has been working as a Postdoctoral Researcher with the Wireless Sensor Networks Group at the Tyndall National Institute, UCC. His research interests include the development of electrically small antennas, wearable and implantable antennas, RF energy harvesting, embedded hardware PCB design, and the exploration of nonconventional materials for the advancement of next–generation antennas & RF solutions and wirelsss sensing systems.

Zahra Soltani

PhD researcher at Tyndall National Institute

Zahra Soltani hold a master’s degree in biomedical engineering. Currently, she’s pursuing her second master’s degree in electrical engineering, with a focus on smart localization using Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology. She’s conducting this research as part of the AURORA team at Tyndall National Institute