Global changes and their impact, nanoscience for energy and the conservation of cultural heritage are just a few of the subjects covered by a new research and training agreement between the Italian National Research Council (CNR) and ICTP. The agreement was signed at CNR headquarters in Rome by its President, Luciano Maiani, and by ICTP Director Fernando Quevedo.

The two research institutions will develop joint scientific projects in various disciplines and will promote the training and mobility of scientists, including from developing and transition countries.

For its part, ICTP brings to the agreement world-class research in areas of interest to CNR. Its Earth System Physics section has developed regional climate models that are internationally renowned. Its Condensed Matter section collaborates with CNR's Istituto Officina dei Materiali on the development of computational methods for the study of nanostructures. Additionally, ICTP is planning collaboration with CNR on the use of advanced physics tools that can contribute to non-destructive studies of cultural heritage.

"We are pleased to form this collaboration with CNR. They have co-sponsored many of ICTP's workshops and conferences in the past and have been active participants in our Training and Research in Italian Laboratories programme, which offers excellent opportunities for scientists from developing countries to work alongside Italian researchers," said ICTP Director Quevedo.

"The CNR network, which covers the whole country and is characterized by multidisciplinarity, is both an ideal partner to develop projects of shared interest, and for the training and collaboration among scientists from all over the world. We are therefore proud of contributing to the advancement and dissemination of knowledge, including in developing countries—countries with which ICTP has had closer ties," concluded CNR President Maiani.