The course boasts a team of highly qualified international tutor, with academic and professional backgrounds from leading institutions
Summer School
AI for Life Sciences and Agri-Food Research
Piacenza - online
July 20.2026 - July 24.2026
Formazione continua
Lifelong Learning
Agrifood & Environment
The Summer School AI for Life Science and Agri-Food Research is a 5-day intensive program providing advanced training in the application of Artificial Intelligence to biological and agro-food research. The course combines theory and hands-on activities on machine learning, deep learning, omics and environmental big data analysis, AI agents for experimental design and data interpretation, with a strong focus on reproducibility, data integrity, and ethical implications of AI in science
Objectives
The course is aimed at Master of Science and PhD students, post-docs and young researchers, with the aim of providing a solid theoretical and practical foundation in the application of Artificial Intelligence in Life and Agri-Food Sciences. Using an interdisciplinary approach, participants will develop skills in the use of AI and machine learning tools for data analysis, which are fundamental for the study of large-scale biological and agri-food systems. A central aspect of the course will be the development of data interpretation and modelling skills, enabling participants to integrate different sources of information to gain a deeper understanding of biological and production systems, as well as to support the writing of scientific articles. The programme will promote the interaction between young researchers and experienced scientists in the field, creating an environment for discussion and collaboration that will stimulate new ideas and innovative research approaches.
Program
The Summer School explores the application of Artificial Intelligence in Life Sciences and Agri-Food, integrating biology, agronomy, and data science to enhance research and experimentation. Participants will gain practical knowledge of machine learning, deep learning, meta-analysis, experimental design, and data agents, acquiring the tools to optimize workflows, interpret complex data, and communicate scientific results effectively.
The advanced training course will take place at the Residenza Gasparini (Strada dell’Anselma 9, Piacenza) from July 20 to July 24, 2026, for a total of 40 hours, including lectures and practical sessions.
The program combines in-person lectures, covering core theoretical concepts in the classroom, with practical sessions that provide hands-on experience using bioinformatics tools. Online morning sessions, dedicated exclusively to theoretical content, are also available for remote participation, with a dedicated registration option (see registration fees for details).
The course will be delivered in English.
Key features
The course combines lectures with practical exercises using bioinformatics tools, under the guidance of experienced instructors
The in-person format allows for active interaction between the experts and students
Info point
Participant profile
PhD students in Italy and abroad
Postdoctoral researchers from Italy and abroad.
Master’s students
Where and when
Residenza Gasparini, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Piacenza, Italy
July 20 - July 24 2026
Early Registration by May 31, 2026
Registration by July 06, 2026
Registration fees
See the website for registration options and fees
Faculty
Paolo Ajmone Marsan
Full Professor of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore and Director of PhD School AGRYSISTEM
John Lewis Williams
Research Fellow of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Riccardo Negrini
Associate Professor of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Licia Colli
Associate Professor of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Maria Antonietta Palumbo
PhD Student of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Marco Milanesi
Researcher of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Fabrizio Capocasale
Contract Professor of Artificial Intelligence of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Partner
For further information
Dott.ssa Maria Antonietta Palumbo
mariaantonietta.palumbo@unicatt.it
OR
Dr. Claudia Vacchelli
Continuing & Executive Education
Ph. (+39) 0523 599 393
claudia.vacchelli@unicatt.it
