Technological innovation is redesigning the boundaries of scientific research, but the engine of this revolution – the massive use of personal data – requires a stringent reflection on the safeguards to be guaranteed at every stage of the process. This is the core around which the conference titled “Scientific research and artificial intelligence: what future for personal data protection?”, held on May 28th in Rome, at the “Giulio Marinozzi” Council Chamber of the “Foro Italico” University of Rome, and watched by a large audience, also via live streaming.
The event, organised by UC Group and the “Foro Italico” University Foundation, has secured highly significant patronage: the Personal Data Protection Authority, the hosting University, and ASSO DPO (the Data Protection Officer Association representing Italy within the European confederation CEDPO).
The context: the new European guidelines
The debate has tapped into a crucial regulatory moment. The European Data Protection Board (EDPB) has indeed recently published its Guidelines 1/2023 on the processing of personal data for scientific research purposes for public consultation.
The increasing availability of information and the development of advanced digital technologies are radically transforming research, particularly in the university, healthcare, and biomedical sectors. For this reason, the speakers highlighted the need for constant and cross-cutting dialogue between institutions, universities, research centres, and the private sector.
Between present and future: AI, synthetic data and quantum
Throughout the presentations and the round table, experts in innovation and digital rights discussed issues of responsibility, risks, and opportunities. The focus broadened towards future scenarios that are, in reality, already part of the present: the advent of quantum computing, the use of synthetic data and the pervasive employment of artificial intelligence. The clear objective that emerged is to guide technological evolution so that it remains desirable and, above all, sustainable for both individuals and the community.
Personal data as the linchpin of balance
The value derived from personal data has been the true heart of the debate. Their use in scientific research constantly oscillates between the opportunity for development and the risk of violating privacy. A dynamic balance widely called for by recent and complex European digital legislation – from the GDPR to the AI Act, through to the DSA and the DMA.
The final message emerging from the Foro Italico conference issues a long-term challenge: innovation must not be held back, but must be governed responsibly, with technology always at the service of humanity and in full respect of fundamental rights and freedoms.
