Department Overview

Overview

The Department of Industrial Engineering (DIEF), established in 2013, was created through the merger of the two industrial engineering departments of the University of Florence: the “Sergio Stecco” Department of Energy Engineering and the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Technologies. DIEF is the University’s reference department for Industrial Engineering, within which it carries out teaching, research and outreach activities.

The Department’s activities cover a broad spectrum of topics in industrial engineering. From turbomachinery to positive-displacement machines, from aircraft and internal combustion engines to wind turbines, research also extends to renewable energy and environmentally friendly refrigeration systems. Particular attention is devoted to the design and construction of machines, road and railway vehicles, innovative materials and nanotechnologies. The Department is also active in the fields of bioengineering, robotics (rehabilitation, assistive and underwater robotics) and the development of technologies for Industry 4.0, including 3D printing. Its expertise also extends to technologies for the fashion industry and the enhancement of cultural heritage, as well as to operations, supply chain and innovation management. The picture is completed by research into industrial logistics, reliability, safety and the environmental sustainability of products and processes.

All DIEF activities are carried out in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations 2030 Agenda, promoting research, education and innovation in the service of society.

 

DIEF’s educational offer covers the main areas of Industrial Engineering, combining a solid scientific approach with extensive project-based and laboratory activities. The study programmes are designed to provide rigorous, multidisciplinary and constantly updated training, in line with developments in research, technological innovation and the needs of the labour market.

The Department’s Educational Offer includes 2 first cycle (bachelor's) degree programmes and 4 second cycle (master's) degree programmes, designed to provide students with comprehensive preparation by integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

DIEF offers the most outstanding students enrolled in its second cycle (master's) degree programmes the opportunity to participate in Honours Programmes, advanced educational programmes developed in collaboration with leading companies in the sector.

Student Teams are also active, enabling students to apply their knowledge through concrete projects, developing technical and transferable skills while fostering collaboration and engagement within the student community.

DIEF is also involved in Higher Technical Education and Training (IFTS) programmes and in the activities of ITS Academy Foundations, in collaboration with the production system.

 

DIEF researchers carry out research activities spanning the various fields of industrial engineering, addressing its main cultural, scientific and professional aspects. Their shared objective is to transform ideas into original and concrete solutions, promoting genuine technological innovation for the benefit of society and the production system.

Participation in research and technology transfer projects at regional, national and international level, in synergy with companies and R&D centres, is one of the pillars of DIEF’s activities.

The Department hosts numerous Research Units and Joint Laboratories with public and private partners, strengthening its ability to attract private investment. It also actively participates in Interdepartmental and Interuniversity Centres and Consortia, thereby consolidating its role as a technological and innovation hub. DIEF is also home to CESPRO - the University Service Centre for Training in Occupational Health and Safety.

 

Through its Outreach activities, DIEF strengthens its role in society by leveraging the expertise developed through research and education and promoting dialogue with companies, institutions, scientific communities and the local area. The collaborations and initiatives developed contribute to the dissemination of knowledge, innovation and the growth of the economic and social context.

 

 

To learn more about the history and development of DIEF: https://www.fupress.com/it/news/ingegneria-industriale--ingegneria-dellinformazione-per-il-territorio-fiorentino/10580