From the Classroom to the International Stage: EFI at IAFS 2026

The European Forensic Institute successfully participated in the International Association of Forensic Sciences (IAFS) 2026 Conference, held in Sofia, Bulgaria, at the end of May 2026.

As previously shared with our community, EFI was selected to present research at the IAFS 2026 Conference. Representing the Institute, our students Ledio Zeneli, Clara Pisano and Gaia Gervasi , together with the Head of the European Forensic Institute, Andreas Melinato, presented their research to an international audience of forensic science professionals, researchers, and academics.

This achievement reflects EFI’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence, research, and the active involvement of students in international scientific events.

To learn more about the research presented at the conference, please read our previous article: EFI at the International Association of Forensic Sciences (IAFS) 2026 Conference.

Here is a testimonial from our student, Gaia Gervasi, sharing her experience of transforming a classroom activity into a research project and presenting it on an international stage at IAFS 2026.

Participating in this research project has been one of the most valuable experiences of my Master’s programme in Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics and Crime Analysis. And that is also why I chose to undertake this research, at the same time, as my final Master’s dissertation. 

Through this opportunity, I was able to move beyond the theoretical concepts discussed during lectures and apply forensic methodologies to a real-world research project. Working on the large-scale mapping of wireless network infrastructures in Malta allowed me to gain practical experience in cellular network analysis, radio frequency data collection and digital evidence interpretation.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the project was the opportunity to collaborate with professionals and researchers from different backgrounds. The experience provided insight into how academic research, forensic practice and technological innovation can work together to address real investigative challenges. It also allowed me to develop new skills in scientific writing, data analysis and research presentation, culminating in the opportunity to present the project internationally during the IASF 2026 Conference. 

The support provided throughout the project was exceptional. The guidance, availability and encouragement I received enabled me to approach complex topics with confidence and significantly enhanced my learning experience. The project challenged me to think critically and apply forensic principles in a structured and evidence-based manner.

Most importantly, this experience reinforced my interest in digital forensics and demonstrated how research can contribute to the development of tools and methodologies that may support investigators, legal professionals and law enforcement authorities in future cases.

I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity and for all the support received throughout this journey from both organizations, European Forensic Institute and Securcube.

It has been an important milestone in both my academic and professional development.