The research conducted within the department focuses on a critically important area: the study of human movement. This investigation extends to all its manifestations, both in natural and sporting contexts, embracing a wide range of scientific disciplines. This commitment is reflected in the research activities conducted within the Department, in the Laboratories and in the Doctorate in Human Movement and Sport Sciences.. These activities involve numerous groups of scholars, working in different disciplinary fields: biomedical, psychological, educational, socioeconomic, legal and many others.

The department has also activated the Center for the Study of Law and Ethics and edits the open-access journals Rivista Italiana di Pedagogia dello Sport and Amministrativ@mente.

Despite being deeply rooted in the local socio-economic context, the department demonstrates a strong openness to Europe and the international scene. This is evidenced by the presence of numerous research collaborations at various levels, which enrich the perspective and potential of the research conducted.

A distinctive feature of the Department’s approach to research isinterdisciplinarity. Scholars from different disciplines collaborate synergistically to address complex and interrelated questions, with the goal of raising the level of research expertise and promoting high-quality scientific output. This goal is concretely translated into support for a wide range of projects and investments in talent development, innovation and support for researchers.

The University, through the department, actively supports the participation of its researchers in research projects both nationally and internationally. In addition, through external evaluation methods and incentives, research resources are allocated to further enhance the quality and quantity of project activity.

In addition to the promotion of basic scientific research, the Department gives special attention to applied research. This effort aims to improve the technological transferability of research results, thereby contributing to innovation and progress in society. Ultimately, the Department stands as a place where advanced research is promoted, supported and applied to contribute to the welfare of the community and the advancement of scientific knowledge.

University Committee on Scientific Research (CRSA)

The University Scientific Research Commission (CRSA) plays a crucial role in the promotion, evaluation and coordination of research activities within the University. This committee, composed of experienced faculty and researchers in different disciplinary scientific fields/groups, is responsible for fostering the development of scientific research and supporting researchers by promoting innovative initiatives and high-impact projects. Through efficient management of resources, rigorous evaluation of projects and support for researchers, the CRSA contributes to the development of a stimulating and competitive environment, fostering innovation and progress in the field of exercise and wellness sciences.

1. Scientific Research Planning and Strategy
   The CRSA is responsible for the development of strategic guidelines for research, consistent with the University’s priorities and ministerial and international guidelines. This includes:
   –define priority research topics on which to focus resources;
   –promote interdisciplinary collaboration among the various disciplinary scientific groups in the University.
2. Evaluation of Scientific Research Projects
   One of the main functions of the CRSA is the evaluation of research projects proposed by the University’s researchers. This evaluation process aims to ensure that the funded projects are of high quality and aligned with the university’s strategic goals. Evaluations are based on criteria such as:
   – theoriginality and innovativeness of the project;
   –the feasibility and sustainability over time;
   –the potential academic, social and practical impact.
3. Allocation of Funds for Scientific Research
   CRSA manages the allocation of internal funds for research. Through internal competitive calls for proposals, the committee distributes economic resources to:
   – support emerging research or pilot projects;
   – fund the purchase of scientific equipment and necessary resources for research laboratories.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation of Scientific Research
   Another essential function of the CRSA is the continuous monitoring of research activities within the University. This includes:
   – the evaluation of scientific results through publications and patents;
   – the monitoring of the application effects of research, especially in areas such as health, wellness and sports, which represent leading areas for the University of Rome “ Foro Italico.“
5. Innovation and Technology Transfer
   Finally, the committee promotes innovation and technology transfer initiatives, aiming to transform scientific discoveries into practical applications. This goal is realized through:
   -encouragement of the creation of academic start-ups and spin-offs, especially in areas where the University’s research is most likely to translate into applied innovation;
   -protection of researchers’ intellectual property, through financial support for the creation of patents and other forms of legal protection of scientific results.

Departmental Research Committee (CRD)

The CRD plays a key role in monitoring the implementation of the Departmental Strategic Plan (DSP) and offering analysis, opinions and proposals to the Departmental Council regarding research. It evaluates and monitors the department’s research activity and quality, including coordinating scientific initiatives aimed at the Research Quality Assessment (VQR).

The CRD collaborates closely with the Research Office and the University Research Commission, discussing issues of particular relevance to the University with the Rectoral Delegate for Research. In addition, it takes into account the guidance on research activities from the University Quality Presidium (PQA) and incorporates the indications of the University Evaluation Board (NVA) for aspects related to the Department. Finally, it interacts with the Doctoral Course Leader to monitor scientific output.

University Research Committee (CAR)

CAR was first established in 2019 by decree of the Rector. It aims to consolidate and develop the principles of ethics in University research. It consists of 5 members, tenured professors and researchers from different disciplinary fields, who serve for two years.

The CAR’s duties and responsibilities are:

1. Evaluate and express opinions, autonomously and independently, on research projects, including those of doctoral students and research fellows;
2. Issue permits to start research activities;
3. Suggest changes to be made to research projects;
4. To carry out support and advisory activities regarding the formulation of research projects, including using external expertise and professionalism, without providing legal services.

The Rector appointed – by Decree No. 357 dated 12/07/2024 – the following members of the University Research Committee for the two-year period 2024-2026:

• prof. Paolo Borrione, chair, SSD MEDS-09/B
• prof.ssa Laura Capranica – SSD MEDF-01/B
• prof.ssa Ilenia Bazzucchi – SSD BIOS-06/A
• prof. Luca Mallia – SSD PSYCH-01/A
• Prof. Maria Pia Pignalosa – SSD GIUR-01/A