About us
The Department of Statistics, Computer Science, Applications "Giuseppe Parenti"(DISIA) at the University of Florence is a leading national and international centre for research, education and knowledge transfer in statistics, computer science, data science, and the quantitative analysis of economic, demographic, social, health and environmental phenomena.
Recognised as a Department of Excellence by the Italian Ministry of University and Research for two consecutive five-year periods (2018–2022 and 2023–2027), DISIA stands out for its strongly interdisciplinary approach, combining statistical methods, information technologies and artificial intelligence to transform data into knowledge and support evidence-based decision-making.
Research at DISIA spans a wide range of scientific fields, including statistical methodology, data science, artificial intelligence and machine learning, computer science and cybersecurity, demography, and economic, social and medical statistics. Its research activities are highly interdisciplinary and are conducted in collaboration with numerous national and international partners. They address strategic topics such as complex data analysis, causal inference, digital transformation, health and population ageing, sustainability, innovation and decision support.
The Department hosts several research centers (listed at the bottom of this page) and participates in numerous competitive national and European research projects.
DISIA offers comprehensive education and training in statistics, computer science and data science through one bachelor’s degree programme, four master’s degree programmes—two of which are taught entirely in English—a PhD programme, and a range of advanced training opportunities, including a second-level professional master’s programme. Teaching combines a solid theoretical foundation with laboratory and project-based activities, preparing professionals and researchers to address the challenges of the digital society. The Department’s expertise also contributes to numerous degree programmes offered across all Schools of the University.
DISIA promotes dialogue between academia, public institutions, businesses and civil society through technology transfer, public engagement with science, continuing education and collaboration with local and regional stakeholders.
The Department’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in the development of statistical and computational methods supporting public policy, health, digital innovation, social inclusion and the green transition. DISIA’s activities make a tangible contribution to several Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda, confirming the Department’s role in building a society founded on knowledge, the responsible use of data and innovation.
Internationalisation is one of DISIA’s strategic priorities. The Department develops research partnerships with leading universities and research centres, participates in international networks and projects, and promotes the mobility of students, doctoral candidates and researchers, thereby contributing to the growth of an open and global academic community.
Last update
11.09.2026