The DIALECT network convened at the Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute for four highly productive days that combined strategic oversight, advanced scientific training and first-hand industry experience. The consortium meeting featured concise progress reports from every doctoral candidate, alignment on forthcoming deliverables and meticulous scheduling of the secondments each researcher will undertake at partner institutions.
Over the next two days, the Spring School delivered expert-led sessions on foot-and-ankle biomechanics, diabetic-foot prevention through footwear design, rigorous gait-analysis workflows and the fast-moving opportunities of artificial intelligence. Hands-on activities in Rizzoli’s Motion Analysis Laboratory enabled participants to collect, process and interpret multi-sensor data, reinforcing the theoretical content. Research updates highlighted progress on wearable shear-stress sensors, machine-learning risk-stratification models and modular mid-sole prototypes now entering testing, with several projects preparing manuscripts for submission later in 2025.
Networking proved equally valuable. Evening social events in Bologna’s historic centre fostered collaboration among clinical, engineering and industry partners, while informal breakout discussions in the cloisters inspired creative approaches to upcoming secondments.
The week concluded with an immersive visit to DIALECT partner PODartis in Montebelluna, where trainees traced the full path from clinical triage to custom shoe manufacturing and debated how to translate emerging DIALECT findings into market-ready solutions. Secondment itineraries are now confirmed across eight countries, and preparations have begun for the Autumn School in September 2025. Follow DIALECT on LinkedIn and here on the website for the latest developments.