Discover your path in Energy Technologies
The FBK Pioneers in Research Summer School is an innovative program designed to immerse students in the rapidly evolving world of sustainable energy technologies. The 2026 edition will focus on advanced materials, batteries, and hydrogen technologies and emerging solutions for the sustainable energy transition.
Taking place from September 7th to 11th, 2026, the program offers a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and gain practical experience in a dynamic, non-traditional academic environment.
Participants will explore state-of-the-art laboratories dedicated to advanced materials, electrochemistry and energy systems guided by researchers and experts.
Through lectures, laboratory sessions and site visits, students will follow the development, characterization and testing of innovative materials, discover next-generation battery and hydrogen technologies, and investigate the role of sustainability, decarbonisation and AI in the future energy landscape.
The experienceis designed to inspire future researchers and stimulate their curiosity and interest in issues related to the energy transition. Bridging the gap between theory and practice, the Summer School will provide students with concrete examples and hands-on sessions, allowing them to become pioneers in these research fields. This experience not only enhances technical skills but also fosters critical thinking and innovation strategies.
Program Structure
Our 5-day program, from September 7th to 11th, is meticulously structured to offer a comprehensive understanding of technologies of th energy sector, blending theoretical learning with practical sessions. The schedule will run mostly from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, leaving evenings free for participants to explore the city of Trento or gather informally with fellow pioneers for discussion, networking, and relaxation.
Day 1
Introduction and Orientation
The first day is designed to introduce participants to the Summer School environment, provide an overview of the Sustainable Energy Center activities and laboratories, and prepare teams for the final collaborative challenge. The facility tour and safety introduction will ensure that participants can confidently access and work in the laboratories during the following days.
Day 2
One day dive into advanced innovative materials research
Participants will explore how innovative advanced materials are designed, produced and tested for energy applications. The day combines theoretical understanding with practical experiences in advanced deposition and characterization techniques to develop nanoengineered materials.
Day 3
Batteries and Hydrogen Technologies
The third day focuses on the key pillars of the energy transition: battery technologies and renewable hydrogen and energy vectors. Participants will gain both a strategic overview and direct practical experience with the processes behind next-generation energy storage and conversion systems.
Day 4
Sustainability, Decarbonisation and Emerging Technologies
This day broadens the perspective from technologies to their role in a sustainable and decarbonised future. Moreover, a focused look will be given at emerging technologies and the role of AI to drive- transition toward net-zero. Through site visits, participants will connect research and innovation with real industrial applications
Day 5
Pioneers’ Challenge: Road to Net Zero
The final day is dedicated to teamwork, creativity and the application of the concepts explored during the week. Participants will work together to propose innovative solutions for the energy transition and present their ideas to the group.
Hands-On Laboratory Activities
Our laboratories and testing facilities are at the core of our research and innovation in energy technologies.
Battery Laboratory
Explore the electro-chemical testing of next-generation battery prototypes, gaining hands-on insight into the technologies shaping future energy storage.
Hydrogen Laboratory
Discover innovative electrolysis cells for hydrogen production and how their performances are assessed through advanced electro-chemical and mechanical tests.
Advanced Materials Laboratory
Delve into the development of thin films, nanostructured materials, and novel synthesis and characterization techniques processes driving tomorrow’s technologies.
Sustainable energy team @FBK
Students will work side by side with some of FBK’s most skilled researchers, gaining insight, mentorship, and hands-on experience at the forefront of scientific innovation.
Ilaria Alberti
Ruben Bartali
Matteo Bordin
Luigi Crema
Elena Crespi
Emanuele De Bona
Mattia Duranti
Matteo Gandolfo
Gloria Gottardi
Edoardo Gino Macchi
Victor Micheli
Manuel Rezza
Sara Stembergher
Matteo Testi
Diego Viesi
