The Italian Research Day in the World – a particularly important event for the dissemination of Italian scientific and technological expertise – was established in 2018 by the Ministry of University and Research, jointly with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Ministry of Health. Its aim is to highlight the contribution of Italian researchers to international science and promote the dissemination of their research results. The Foreign Ministry, through its diplomatic offices around the world and in coordination with the Ministry of Education, Universities and Research (MUR), supports the initiative and promotes the image of Italy as a producer of high-quality science and innovation.
Since its first edition in 2018, the Italian Research Day in the World has been celebrated on April 15, the birth anniversary of the Italian genius Leonardo Da Vinci. Since 2024, the Day has been celebrated annually on April 22, the birth anniversary of Professor Rita Levi-Montalcini, winner of the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine in 1986 and the first Italian woman to receive this recognition in the scientific field.
Over the years, the Italian Research Day in the World has seen many events organized by the diplomatic and consular network. The activities promoted have included conferences, meetings, and exhibitions dedicated to the fields of scientific research and technology innovation, such as quantum computing, artificial intelligence, physics, space, environmental protection, and women’s role in science. The initiatives have also involved associations of Italian researchers abroad, thus contributing to strengthening ties with the Italian scientific community operating worldwide.