Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- The 31st European Symposium on Research in Computer Security (ESORICS) will be held in Rome from 14 to 18 September 2026.
- ESORICS is a leading academic conference in cybersecurity, drawing global experts, researchers, and policymakers.
- The event will focus on system security, applied cryptography, privacy-preserving technologies, and emerging topics such as AI security and post-quantum cryptography.
- Sapienza Università di Roma, a major European research institution, will host the conference, underscoring its commitment to digital security research.
- Specialized workshops and opportunities for early-career researchers will be central to the program.
The European Symposium on Research in Computer Security (ESORICS) returns for its 31st edition in Rome, continuing a tradition that has shaped the landscape of cybersecurity research for over three decades. Scheduled for mid-September 2026, the event is set to convene a diverse international community of scholars, practitioners, and policymakers at a time when digital security challenges are more complex and urgent than ever.
A Pillar in Cybersecurity Research
Since its inception, ESORICS has established itself as a central venue for presenting high-quality research in computer security and privacy. The conference’s reputation is built on rigorous peer review, influential keynote speakers, and a program that consistently addresses both foundational and emerging issues. Topics span system and network security, applied cryptography, secure software and hardware design, and privacy-preserving technologies. In recent years, the agenda has expanded to include artificial intelligence security, post-quantum cryptography, and the protection of data in large-scale distributed systems—reflecting the evolving threat landscape and technological advancements.
Host Institution: Sapienza Università di Roma
The 2026 symposium will be hosted by Sapienza Università di Roma, one of Europe’s largest and most historic universities. With a legacy spanning over seven centuries, Sapienza has become a hub for scientific innovation and interdisciplinary research. Its Dipartimento di Informatica plays a pivotal role in advancing cybersecurity, theoretical computer science, and data-driven security systems. The department’s involvement in ESORICS 2026 highlights Sapienza’s strategic focus on digital security and its active participation in European and international research initiatives.
Conference Themes and Program Highlights
ESORICS 2026 will feature a blend of peer-reviewed research presentations, invited talks from internationally recognized experts, and specialized workshops. These sessions are designed to foster dialogue on both established and emerging topics, including the operational challenges of securing modern digital infrastructures and the practical implications of new cryptographic techniques. The program is expected to attract a broad spectrum of participants, from senior academics to early-career researchers and doctoral students.
Rome: A Dynamic Backdrop for Innovation
Set against the backdrop of Rome’s rich historical and cultural heritage, the symposium offers more than just academic exchange. The city’s vibrant academic and technological ecosystem provides a unique context for exploring the intersection of tradition and innovation in cybersecurity. Hosting ESORICS in Rome underscores the city’s role as a crossroads for scientific collaboration and forward-looking research.
Opportunities for Emerging Researchers
One of the defining features of ESORICS is its commitment to supporting the next generation of cybersecurity experts. The 2026 edition will provide a platform for young researchers and doctoral students to present their work, engage with leading figures in the field, and build international networks. These opportunities are vital for fostering innovation and ensuring the continued advancement of secure computing in an era of rapid technological change.

