PhD Summer School SSIE 2026

The PhD Summer School of Information Engineering – SSIE 2026 is organized by the Department of Information Engineering (DEI) at the University of Padova (Italy), and sponsored by IEEE Italy. SSIE will take place in the beautiful Bressanone/Brixen, Italy, on July 6-10, 2026, continuing on a 30-year long tradition.

*** PROGRAM ***

Track 1: New Frontiers of Beyond-5G Networks (Telecommunications)

We have designed an exciting program on the new frontiers of beyond-5G telecommunication networks, with 8 technical talks given by leading experts from both academia and industry. The topics include Integrated Sensing and Communications (ISAC), advanced MIMO antenna systems, quantum and semantic communications, as well as Agentic and Explainable AI, with a focus on how machine learning can be used to improve cybersecurity. In addition, we are planning a hands-on session with OpenAirInterface (OAI), where participants can experiment with a real 5G system and better understand how modern wireless networks actually work.
The program is available here: https://ssie.dei.unipd.it/technical-program-ssie-2026-track-1/

Track 2: GaN and Related Materials (Electronics)

This track focuses on an innovative material for next-generation power conversion: gallium nitride. This track provides a comprehensive overview of the entire technology chain, from material growth and characterization to device design, fabrication, testing, and real-world applications. Leading experts from academia and industry will present the fundamental principles behind GaN materials, the challenges of high-performance device processing, and the latest advances enabling more efficient, compact, and reliable power electronics. The program offers participants the opportunity to deepen their understanding through focused discussions and practical insights into device technologies and application-driven design. This track is designed to provide both a solid scientific foundation and a clear perspective on the future of power conversion technologies.
The program is available here: https://ssie.dei.unipd.it/technical-program-ssie-2026-track-2/


*** REGISTRATION ***

Registration is open until June 15th, 2026: https://ssie.dei.unipd.it/registration/
The registration fee includes coffee breaks and lunches throughout the week, and participation to all technical sessions and social activities.

*** LOGISTICS ***

We have an agreement with the Grüner Baum Hotels in Bressanone, which will provide accommodation opportunities for the Summer School participants at discount prices. For additional information, see here: https://ssie.dei.unipd.it/logistics-accommodation/


*** STUDENT WORKSHOP AWARD ***

SSIE will feature a half-day student workshop, where students can present their research, receive feedback, and compete for the Best Presentation Award, presented by the Department of Information Engineering (DEI) at the University of Padova.

*** NETWORKING EVENTS ***

We are planning many exciting social activities to promote networking among students, speakers, and professors. In particular, we highlight our traditional Networking Hiking with lunch in a mountain chalet on July 8, combined with a Soft Skills training session directly in the Alps.