An analysis based on the Research Quality Evaluation (VQR) 2020–2024

ACN characterises cybersecurity research starting from the shared knowledge base defined in the Research and Innovation Agenda, outlining an overall picture of the cybersecurity research ecosystem in Italy that connects thematic areas and emerging technologies relevant to cybersecurity with the outputs of the Italian scientific community.

An initial analysis of the state of cybersecurity research was conducted within the framework of the collaboration between ACN and the National Agency for the Evaluation of Universities and Research Institutes (ANVUR). The analysis, carried out using the Research and Innovation Agenda as the interpretative framework, is mainly based on evidence relating to research outputs submitted to ANVUR by national research institutions within the framework of the Research Quality Evaluation (VQR) 2020–2024 exercise. The mapping of Italian cybersecurity research presented in this report has made it possible to outline an initial overall picture of the cybersecurity topics addressed by research institutions operating in Italy. The results are addressed to the entire public and private research ecosystem, as well as to Italian public administrations and organisations involved in the definition of research policies.

On the sidelines of the presentation event of the Report, Bruno Frattasi, Director General of ACN, stated: “The analytical document, which stems from a structured collaboration between ACN and ANVUR, represents an important first step towards a more refined understanding of the current state of research on cybersecurity topics and, at the same time, serves to stimulate targeted growth in research activities in areas of greatest relevance to our institutional mission. I would like to thank ANVUR for the quality, methodology and rigour with which it contributed to the drafting of the document that we are presenting today and offering for reflection to the entire national cybersecurity ecosystem, as well as to institutional stakeholders concerned with the country’s competitiveness from a perspective of great strategic value and interest.”

Prof. Antonio Felice Uricchio (President of ANVUR, whose mandate ended a few days ago) and Prof. Alessandra Celletti, member of the ANVUR Governing Board and contact person for activities related to research evaluation, highlighted the importance of this first report resulting from the collaboration between ACN and ANVUR.

Prof. Antonio Felice Uricchio commented: “This Report represents a highly significant step towards a deeper understanding of our country’s position in the field of cybersecurity, offering a broad and accurate knowledge framework. It is the result of an intense and fruitful collaboration between ACN and ANVUR, made possible thanks to the commitment of a distinguished working group, to whom I extend my sincere thanks. The analysis, conducted with dedication and a strong sense of institutional responsibility, highlights a widespread wealth of knowledge and capabilities, reflecting a vibrant and generous scientific community. The document clearly emphasises the role of research as an essential element in ensuring the security of digital infrastructures and the protection of fundamental individual rights.”

Prof. Alessandra Celletti stated: “The evidence emerging from this Report is, in many respects, surprising, especially considering that the data collection was not specifically focused on cybersecurity, but is based on the analysis of outputs submitted within the broader VQR framework. From this perspective, it is by no means negligible that a share equal to 4% of research outputs in fields most closely related to cybersecurity concerns this topic. This is an important signal — continued Prof. Celletti — demonstrating an already significant and widespread presence in areas of great relevance and constant evolution. This result portrays a research system that is attentive, responsive and capable of capturing emerging challenges. At the same time, it provides a solid basis on which to build further developments, strengthening strategic directions and growth opportunities.”