Four grants are available:

(*) 1 grants funded by Università degli Studi di Genova

For the  grant funded by Università degli Studi di Genova, possible research topics are described in the following. Interested Candidates are invited to contact the proposers listed below or other members of the Internal Curriculum Committee for agreeing on other possible topics (the complete list of members is available here).

Possible research topics for the two grants funded by the University of Genova

Research topic B

Title: The accuracy of precipitation measurement in windy conditions and its role in the assessment of flood risk in urban areas 

Proposers: Arianna Cauteruccio , Luca G. Lanza.

Curriculum: Risk and Resilience Engineering for the Natural, Industrialized and Built Environments

Description:  Flood risk assessment and mitigation in urban areas relies on the accurate quantification of the flood hazard, deriving from the knowledge and understanding of the space-time evolution of intense precipitation events. This is obtained from measurements based on in-situ instruments and remote sensors. While traditional catching-type instruments measure the integral properties of rainfall (i.e., rainfall intensity and cumulative rainfall), more recently developed non-catching instruments (including disdrometers) can also measure the microphysical properties of rainfall including the drop size distribution (DSD). The research aims to fill knowledge gaps in precipitation measurements and their use in flood risk assessment. It focuses on assessing the accuracy of disdrometer measurements with respect to wind effects and instrumental biases and developing a suitable disdrometer correction method (DCM).  Results will assess the impact of using corrected rainfall intensity and DSD data on estimating measurement biases due to environmental conditions, evaluating weather radar estimates, improving statistical analysis of rainfall time series at climatological scales, investigating joint rain/wind climatology features at selected test sites, deriving extreme rainfall event statistics and trends aimed at enhancing the resilience of the urban environment to the risk of flooding.

For more information please contact: Arianna Cauteruccio, arianna.cauteruccio@edu.unige.it Luca G. Lanzaluca.lanza@unige.it  

Link to the group or personal webpage: https://rubrica.unige.it/personale/VUZDXV9u

https://rubrica.unige.it/personale/VkZGW15q

References: 

o   Cauteruccio, A., Chinchella, E., and Lanza, L. G. (2024). The overall collection efficiency of catching type precipitation gauges in windy conditions. Water Resour. Res., 60, e2023WR035098. https://doi.org/10.1029/2023WR035098 

o   Chinchella E., Cauteruccio A. and L.G. Lanza (2024). The impact of wind on precipitation measurements from a compact piezoelectric sensor, J. of Hydromet., 25 (2), 339 – 352, https://doi.org/10.1175/JHM-D-23-0180.1

o   Cauteruccio, A., Stagnaro, M., Lanza, L. G., and Chan, P.W. (2023). Adjustment of 1 min rain gauge time series using co-located drop size distribution and wind speed measurements, Atmos. Meas. Tech., 16, 4155–4163. https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-16-4155-2023      

o   Cauteruccio, A., Brambilla, E., Stagnaro, M., Lanza, L.G. and D. Rocchi (2021). Wind tunnel validation of a particle tracking model to evaluate the wind-induced bias of precipitation measurements. Water Resour. Res., 57(7), e2020WR028766. https://doi.org/10.1029/2020WR028766

o   Cauteruccio, A., Brambilla, E., Stagnaro, M., Lanza, L.G. and D. Rocchi (2021). Experimental evidence of the wind-induced bias of precipitation gauges using Particle Image Velocimetry and particle tracking in the wind tunnel. J. of Hydrol., 600, 126690. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhydrol.2021.126690

o   Chinchella, E., Cauteruccio, A., Stagnaro, M. and L.G. Lanza (2021). Investigation of the Wind-Induced Airflow Pattern Near the Thies LPM Precipitation Gauge. Sensors, 21(14), 4880. https://doi.org/10.3390/s21144880

Research topic C

Title: Fragility analysis of roof structures in low-rise buildings subjected to non-synoptic outflows

Proposers: Luisa Pagnini, Giuseppe Piccardo and Maria Pia Repetto 

Curriculum: Risk and Resilience Engineering for the Natural, Industrialized and Built Environments

Description:  Recent catastrophic events in Italy and Europe have highlighted the vulnerability of roof structures to extreme wind induced uplift, often resulting in large economic losses and disruption for those assets. The most destructive events are frequently associated to non-synoptic winds, such as tornadoes and downbursts. The present proposal is addressed to investigate the vulnerability of roof structures to extreme wind actions by means of fragility curves. Fragility curves are extensively adopted in seismic field (e.g. [1]). The same procedure can be reformulated to consider wind loadings and its inherent random nature in speed and direction (e.g. [2]). Specifically, the transient aerodynamic effects caused by downburst accelerated flows will be analyzed through experimental tests in the Giovanni Solari Wind Tunnel, using an innovative active grid capable of replicating the main characteristics of non-synoptic outflows. The results of the proposed project, combined with hazard characterization, will facilitate the study of risk analysis of existing buildings and historical heritage sites against downburst extreme events. Moreover, it will be helpful for determining retrofit options to strengthen existing buildings against this type of extreme meteorological phenomena. 

For more information please contact: Luisa Pagnini (pagnini@dicca.unige.it ), Giuseppe Piccardo (giuseppe.piccardo@unige.it)  Maria Pia Repetto (repetto@dicca.unige.it)

Link to the group or personal webpage:  www.gs-windyn.it

References: 

[1] Tomassetti, U, Correia, A.A., Graziotti, F., Penna, A. (2019). Seismic vulnerability of roof systems combining URM gable walls and timber diaphragms. Earthquake Engineering & Structural Dynamics, 48, 1297-1318. DOI: 10.1002/eqe.3187

[2] Gavanski, E., Kopp, G.A. (2017). Fragility Assessment of Roof-to-Wall Connection Failures for Wood-Frame Houses in High Winds. ASCE-ASME J. Risk Uncertainty Eng. Syst., Part A: Civ. Eng., 2017, 3(4): 04017013

Research topic E

Title: Participatory Approach to Planning Urban Resilience to Climate Change

Proposers: Francesca Pirlone, Anna Palla, Fabrizio Bracco

Curriculum: Risk and Resilience Engineering for the Natural, Industrialized and Built Environments

Description:  

The planning of urban resilience to climate change is addressed with particular attention to the pluvial flooding risk. The adoption of the methodologies typical of participatory processes capable of involving different stakeholders with different techniques (quantitative and qualitative), both in person and online are here foreseen in order to define effective strategies at the levels. The main objective of the present research is to develop a participatory/experiential georeferenced mapping (in GIS) for the planning of urban resilience to climate change. The participatory/experiential georeferenced mapping will be implemented in the city of Genoa for specific case study areas. This research stands out for the important inter-disciplinarity approach of the methodology and subsequent application; the involved interdisciplinary sectors (represented by proposers) are: urban planning, hydrology, and psychology/training science.

For more information please contact: francesca.pirlone@unige.it, anna.palla@unige.it, fabrizio.bracco@unige.it

Link to the group or personal webpage: 

https://rubrica.unige.it/personale/UkNGWllr

https://rubrica.unige.it/personale/UkNHWlph

https://rubrica.unige.it/personale/UkNGWVht

References: 

o   Gnecco, I. Pirlone, F., Spadaro, I.; Bruno, F.; Lobascio, M.C.; Sposito, S.; Pezzagno, M.; Palla, A. Participatory Mapping for Enhancing Flood Risk Resilient and Sustainable Urban Drainage: A Collaborative Approach for the Genoa Case Study. Sustainability, 2024, 16(5), 1936

o   Palla, A., Pezzagno, M., Spadaro, I., Ermini, R. Participatory Approach to Planning Urban Resilience to Climate Change: Brescia, Genoa, and Matera—Three Case Studies from Italy Compared. Sustainability (Switzerland), 2024, 16(5), 2170.

o   Coppola I., Fiscone C., Bracco F., Rania N. Participative and conscious learning: an active teaching experience with university students. ICERI2023 Proceedings, 2023

Research topic F

Title: Structural Stability, Risks, Consolidation, and Utilization of Archaeological Sites

Proposers: Stefano Podestà and Chiara Calderini 

Curriculum: Risk and Resilience Engineering for the Natural, Industrialized and Built Environments

Description:  Archaeological sites are invaluable cultural heritage assets that provide insights into past civilizations and human history. However, these sites are often vulnerable to various risks that threaten their structural stability. Factors such as natural decay, environmental conditions, and human activities can cause significant deterioration. This research project aims to investigate the structural stability of archaeological sites, identify the associated risks, develop consolidation methods, and enhance their utilization for educational and tourism purposes. 

Objectives:

·      Assess the Structural Stability: To evaluate the current structural stability of selected archaeological sites using advanced techniques such as laser scanning, ground-penetrating radar, and photogrammetry.

·      Identify Risks: To identify the primary risks affecting these sites, including environmental factors (weathering, erosion, seismic activity), biological factors (vegetation growth, animal activities), and human factors (vandalism, tourism impact).

·      Develop Consolidation Methods: To explore and develop effective consolidation and conservation techniques that can enhance the structural integrity of archaeological sites without compromising their historical value.

·      Promote Utilization: To propose sustainable strategies for the utilization of these sites, balancing conservation needs with public access and educational opportunities.

Expected Outcomes:

·      A set of recommendations for effective consolidation techniques tailored to each site.

·      Sustainable utilization plans that can be implemented by site managers and local authorities.

·      Increased awareness and engagement from the public regarding the preservation of archaeological heritage.

Conclusion

By focusing on the structural stability, risks, consolidation, and utilization of archaeological sites, this research project aims to contribute to the long-term preservation and appreciation of our shared cultural heritage. The findings and recommendations will provide valuable insights for archaeologists, conservationists, and policymakers, ensuring that these irreplaceable sites can be enjoyed by future generations.

For more information please contact: Stefano Podesta, stefano.podesta@unige.it

Link to the group or personal webpage: https://rubrica.unige.it/personale/UkNHX1Nr

References: 

Petrović, I, Ilic I, Sokolovic N., Šekularac N., (2021). Design of Protective Structures for Active Archeological Sites, Conference: 12th International Conference on Structural Analysis of Historical Constructions, DOI:10.23967/sahc.2021.074

C. Modena, F. da Porto, M.R. Valluzzi, M. Munari, Criteria and technologies for the structural repair and strengthening of architectural heritage. Int J 3R (Rep Rest Renew Built Env) (2013) 4 (3): 606-621. 

Charter of Venice, International charter for the conservation and restoration of monuments and sites. Decision and resolutions. ICOMOS, Paris, 1964. 

Research topic G

Title: 3D-printed artificial rocks for coastal ecosystem restoration

Proposers: Antonio Caggiano (DICCA) and Valentina Asnagni (DISTAV)

Curriculum: Risk and Resilience Engineering for the Natural, Industrialized and Built Environments

Description:  This PhD offer aims to develop 3D-printed artificial rocks using sustainable, cement-based materials and/or geopolymers to restore coastal ecosystems. Coastal regions (i.e., those of Ligurian region) are vulnerable to erosion, habitat degradation, climatic change, extreme weather events and rising sea levels. By designing environmental-friendly artificial rocks that mimic natural formations, this PhD offer can be dedicated to creating durable structures that support the growth of ecologically relevant macroalgae, contributing to ecosystem restoration and enhancing marine biodiversity and ecosystem services provided to human populations.

The project focuses on "green concrete" technologies, emphasizing sustainable materials like geopolymers, which exhibit lower carbon footprints than traditional concrete. At the same time, alternative binders can offer a lower alkalinity in comparison to very high pH values of Portland-based concrete, which range from 13 to 14. 3D printing enables precise control over rock geometry, allowing us to optimize fracture mechanics properties and underwater fatigue resistance to ensure the structures stand for harsh marine environments. By fostering macroalgae colonization, these artificial rocks also contribute to carbon sequestration and the overall health of coastal ecosystems.

Key areas of study will include chemical (ph, composition, TGA, SEM) and mechanical characterization (fracture and fatigue behavior) of the 3D-printed materials under submerged conditions and their interaction with marine flora and fauna. The project will pull forward the capabilities of 3D printing of artificial designs to enhance both mechanical resilience and ecological function of coastal ecosystem restoration.

For more information please contact: Antonio Caggiano, antonio.caggiano@unige.it

Research topic H

Title: Decision making support systems enhancing overall port safety and resilience within the energy transition landscape

Proposers: Bruno Fabiano (DICCA) 

Curriculum: Risk and Resilience Engineering for the Natural, Industrialized and Built Environments

Description:  The project aims at developing decision support systems, e-g. based on machine learning (ML) algorithms, to analyze and determine the safety and economic factors liable to impact energy transition planning in port areas and related safety challenges. Moreover, the project aims to optimize the overall infrastructure utilization by recommending hybrid energy systems, load-balancing strategies, and resource allocation techniques tailored to the operational needs of the port, thereby maximizing the use of existing vital infrastructure. Emphasis is placed on data-driven modeling integrated with knowledge-based models implementing system behavior (faults, risks, malfunctions, errors) in order to operate effectively and safely, attaining dynamic risk assessment for storage and handling of hazardous chemicals and novel energy carriers. The expected outcomes from pilot application aim at opening possibilities for more robust and environmentally friendly maritime operations, e.g. by combining cutting-edge machine learning techniques enhancing both occupational and process safety, with sustainable energy carrier solutions.

For more information please contact: Bruno Fabiano, brown@unige.it

Link to the group or personal webpage: https://rubrica.unige.it/personale/VUZCWV9r

References: 

• Pasman H., Sripaul E., Khan F., Fabiano B., 2023. Energy transition technology comes with new process safety challenges and risks, Process Safety and Environmental

Protection, 177, 765-794. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psep.2023.07.036

• Damman S., Steen M., 2021. A socio-technical perspective on the scope for ports to enable energy transition, Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trd.2020.102691

• Vairo T., Pettinato M., Reverberi A.P., Milazzo M.F., Fabiano B., 2023. An approach towards the implementation of a reliable resilience model based on machine learning,

Process Safety and Environmental Protection 172, 632-641. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psep.2023.02.058