Istituto Superiore Mario Boella (ISMB)

The Istituto Superiore Mario Boella (ISMB) is a centre for applied research and innovation focused on Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). The institute was founded in 2000 by Compagnia di San Paolo and the Polytechnic University of Turin, and now includes the technology and process skills of around 150 researchers, who work in close collaboration with businesses, academic institutes and public administration.

The Institute operates on a knowledge management basis, involving itself not only in the creation of innovation, but also assisting with its implementation and subsequent evolution. ISMB is organised into Research Areas geared towards some of the main fields of ICT: computing infrastructures based on cloud computing and electromagnetic simulation (Advanced Computing & Electromagnetics), optical telecommunications and optoelectronics (Applied Photonics), the use of information and communications technology to support sustainable development (Innovation Development), applications for mobile devices and data management (Mobile Solutions), wireless systems for the provision of new services on mobile channels (Multi-Layer Wireless Solutions), satellite navigation technologies and applications (Navigation Technologies) and wireless sensors and enabling systems for the Internet of Things (Pervasive Technologies).

In 2011, the Institute extended its field of activity to process innovation, with particular attention to the priority topics on the European agenda. This development is aimed at enhancing the technological excellence and results achieved by the research areas under the Strategic Programmes (Smart Energy, Smart City and Smart Health), which, by nature, require trans-sectoral skills. Also with regard to process innovation, ISMB has developed considerable expertise in the analysis of new business models, which are critical for ensuring the sustainability of innovative solutions. The Institute is also involved in various industrial partnerships with large and small-to-medium companies, as well as in international higher education initiatives organised in close cooperation with academic institutes.

In July 2013, the ISMB organisational structure underwent further updating to achieve three main objectives: consolidation of the activities of the Research Areas through the combination and focusing of skills; the continued development of the Strategic Programmes; and improvement and development of relations with stakeholders, both within and outside of the Institute, through the various departments. These are engaged in support activities for the Research Areas and Strategic Programmes, taking care of the monitoring of emerging trends and research opportunities, the development of innovative post-graduate and professional training modules capable of enhancing the technical skills of ISMB (Higher & Professional Education), the management of the relationship with companies and public administrations (Partners & Front End), the administration of the Institute and the coordination of institutional processes (Research & Support Secretariat).