The University of Florence is one of the most important Italian public universities with a strong international vocation. In the sphere of international research, the University of Florence has a consolidated tradition in participating and coordinating European Union-funded projects, especially within the Framework Programmes for Research and Technological Development and ERC. Many projects are currently active in the Horizon 2020 and in the new Horizon Europe programmes.

Regarding its activities in the area of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, the Department of Chemistry (DICUS) and the Department of Industrial Engineering (DIEF) are hugely involved in the following research lines: processes for hydrogen production; fuel cells; gas turbines and propulsion systems; blockchain technology as a means to greatly accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. Long-lasting research partnerships are active with leading gas turbines and aeroengines manufacturers (Nuovo Pignone Tecnologie (Baker Hughes), AvioAero), hydrogen production and distribution companies (McPhy) and fuel cells.