Operating since 1989, the J.T. Schwartz International School for Scientific Research (commonly known as the "Lipari School") serves as a premier organizing committee for doctoral schools and international workshops.
Founded with the mission to bridge the gap between established academic wisdom and the breaking waves of new scientific discovery, the school has become an unmissable annual appointment for PhD students, post-docs, and professors from around the globe.
Every summer, the island of Lipari transforms into an "open-air laboratory" where the most urgent and complex topics in Computer Science, Life Sciences, and Computational Social Science are debated and developed.
The school is named in memory of Jacob "Jack" T. Schwartz (1930–2009), the visionary mathematician and computer scientist from the Courant Institute (NYU). His eclectic, multidisciplinary approach continues to guide our philosophy today.
We believe that true scientific breakthroughs are not just the result of individual study, but of direct confrontation and dialogue. Our mission is to create an environment where the "giants" of science can transfer knowledge, methodology, and vision to the next generation of researchers.
What sets the Lipari School apart from standard academic conferences is its unique, immersive format designed to break down formal barriers:
We regularly host Turing Award winners, Fields Medalists, and globally renowned scientists as Keynote Speakers and lecturers.
Participants and speakers live and work in close proximity for the entire duration of the school.
Scientific discussion does not end in the lecture hall. It continues during coffee breaks, social dinners, and the iconic boat excursions around the Aeolian archipelago. This informal setting fosters genuine connections and often leads to long-lasting international collaborations.
The Lipari School organizes thematic sessions that evolve annually to reflect the state of the art, typically focusing on:
Located in the Aeolian archipelago (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Lipari provides a breathtaking backdrop that stimulates both creativity and reflection. The stunning volcanic landscape, combined with the island's rich history, creates the perfect atmosphere to disconnect from the daily academic routine and focus purely on science and innovation.
Founded and directed by Prof. Alfredo Ferro, the school boasts a history spanning over three decades. Guided by an international scientific committee, the Lipari School maintains the highest standards of academic excellence, having trained many young researchers who have gone on to lead successful careers in academia and industry.