Mr. Philippe Funk is an interdisciplinary expert and researcher whose 17 years of professional experience have afforded him a unique ability to integrate diverse fields to tackle complex problems, thereby bridging the gap between theory and practice, from law to technology.

His work is characterized by a transdisciplinary approach, encompassing a wide range of academic disciplines, and draws from both the social and natural sciences to find innovative solutions. His linguistic proficiency encompasses English, French, German, and Luxembourgish, and his academic background is notable for its breadth and depth, including an MSc in Management and a Master of Cybersecurity, along with ongoing studies for a Doctor of Business Administration and Doctor of Philosophy in IT and Cybertech in Malta. His contributions have been recognized with multiple international awards in various fields, including computer programs, music composition and production, and the visual arts.

As an external international expert to the Ministry of Education, Science, Research, and Sports of the Republic of Slovakia, Mr. Funk is supporting research and development, further improving his skills in research management evaluation. He has also been selected among key experts to the Directorate General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology (DG CNECT) of the European Commission to study critical digital technologies and contribute to the EU’s strategic roadmap for investments in digital deployment, capacity building, and infrastructure development in the next decade. He is part of a focus group on quantum technologies and other emerging technologies. Serving as Trainer to the Digital Learning Hub Luxembourg, he teaches subjects such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to military personnel of the Luxembourgish Armed Forces, quantum computing, and other high-tech fields. He is a project manager and a state-accredited Information Technology Trainer by the Ministry of Education, Children and Youth for Adult Education. Mr. Philippe Funk is part of the Artificial Intelligence/ Machine learning for Life in Space (AI4LS) GeneLab’s Plant active working Group, MVP Founding Member MVP Founding Member Quantum Security and Defense Working Group, of the Luxembourgish Engineering and Scientific NGO, as well as an IEEE member.

Mr. Philippe Funk is strongly committed to promoting ethical technology use and sustainable solutions, and he strives to create a high-impact value through continuous training and knowledge sharing. His proactive out-of-the-box thinking approach aims to make significant advancements in our understanding of interdisciplinary research.

Maria Elena Belli, a distinguished Co-Founder of the Polytechnic Cyber Institute, is poised to be a transformative force in the realm of cyber environments and digital transformation. Leveraging her extensive experience as a sworn translator and interpreter, Maria Elena brings a unique perspective to the Institute, emphasizing the crucial importance of multilingual communication in cyber environments.

Maria Elena’s academic credentials include a degree in Conference Interpreting from the esteemed UNINT University of Rome. Her specialization in legal documents, international law, and administrative certificates provides a solid foundation for her leadership at the Institute.

What further sets Maria Elena apart is her role as a life coach. Her holistic approach to professional and personal development equips her with a unique ability to guide and mentor aspiring professionals in the cyber field, ensuring they not only excel in their careers but also achieve personal fulfilment.

Maria Elena’s forward-thinking approach to technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence, distinguishes her as a leader in the industry. She is committed to integrating cutting-edge AI technologies into the Institute’s curriculum and research, preparing students and professionals to adeptly navigate the dynamic digital landscape.

Under her visionary leadership, the Polytechnic Cyber Institute will emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together experts from various fields to mitigate cyber environmental threats and foster innovation. Maria Elena’s dedication to excellence, combined with her advocacy for the evolving role of translators and interpreters, will propel the Institute’s mission to create a more secure and interconnected world.

Residing in Luxembourg, Maria Elena is an active member of professional associations, reflecting her commitment to the broader community. Her vision and determination will ensure that the Polytechnic Cyber Institute emerges as a leading Centre for cyber environment education and innovation.