The Universitat Pompeu Fabra has actively participated in the 17th European Graduate Network (EGN) Conference, held in Florence between 25th and 27th of March 2026. This interuniversity forum brings together eight of the most prestigious academic institutions in Europe to promote the exchange of cutting-edge research in political and social sciences (+info). 

The inaugural day in Florence began with welcoming remarks from Professor Guglielmo Meardi, Dean of the Faculty of the Scuola Normale Superiore, and the organising committee. This was followed by a keynote speech by Professor Chiara Milan entitled "Ethics for Whom? The Ethical Review Process and its Discontents". This session critically analysed the ethical review processes in research and the dissatisfaction they create in the academic field, leading to a space for debate and questions about the responsibility of the researcher in the social sciences.

During the two days of intense academic debate, held in emblematic spaces such as Palazzo Vegni and Palazzo Strozzi, the network offered a strategic platform for collaboration between researchers from elite centres such as the SNS, EUI, LSE, and Sciences Po.
The UPF delegation was represented by five doctoral students who presented their thesis projects in various thematic panels. The participation began with Otis Johnson, who analysed algorithmic inequality in global vector control, and Marina Carré Molina, who presented on feminism as a public philosophy in the city of Barcelona. On the last day, Brady Allardice explored the electoral effects of technological change, Irene Rodríguez López presented her research on the digital advertising strategies of political parties and, finally, Jacqueline Schwellensattel addressed the reunification of queer families within the framework of the asylum processes of the European Union. This prominent presence reaffirms the UPF's commitment to the pursuit of excellence and its integration into the most influential academic networks on the continent.

As a closing event for the meeting in Florence, a fundamental working session was held on Friday 27 March, where senior and junior representatives from the eight institutions in the network were convened to critically assess the conference and define its future strategic lines. Representing UPF were Toni Rodon (Sr Rep), Otis Johnson (Jr Rep) and Marina Carré Molina, who provided support, being the main organiser of the 2025 edition.
The space was key to sharing feedback and discussing possible organisational improvements, with the aim of continuing to strengthen academic collaboration between member centres in future editions.