Biography

Giovanni has a keen interest in machine learning and Generative AI, fueled by his fascination with the ways in which these technologies can be harnessed to create intelligent systems capable of autonomous learning and adaptation. His Ph.D. research has explored diverse applications of these technologies within creative practices. In addition, he boasts technical proficiency across multiple programming languages and platforms, including Python, Javascript, Max/MSP, Arduino IDE, Docker, Linux and Windows system administration, SBC (RaspberryPi), Leap Motion, Muse (EEG), and openvibe. Giovanni has a passion for indie games and enjoys exploring the latest developments in the gaming industry. He also competes at an international level in Ultimate Frisbee, where he showcases his skills and leadership abilities. In his spare time, he loves spending time making music with his OP-Z portable sequencer and synthesizer to experiment with different sounds and beats to create unique compositions. As an enthusiastic learner, Giovanni is always eager to explore new ideas and concepts through attending conferences or reading academic papers on the latest advancements in AI and robotics.

Interests
  • Computational Creativity
  • Sound Design
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Robotics
  • Algorithmic composition
  • Sailing
  • Ultimate Frisbee
  • Indie games
Education
  • PhD Candidate, 2023

    The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

    School of Design

  • MSc in Multimedia & Entertainment Technologies, 2015

    The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

    School of Design

  • MSc in Organization Science and Information Systems, 2007

    Bocconi University

  • BSc in Economics, 2005

    Bocconi University

Experience

 
 
 
 
 
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, School of Design
Ph.D. - Part-time Visiting Lecturer
September 2019 – Present Hong Kong
  • Conducted research and published scholarly papers on the topic of Generative AI, resulting in invitations to present at international conferences.
  • Developed a real-time TensorRT accelerated img2img pipeline using webrtc, StableDiffusion and docker (Read more…).
  • Developed workshops and tutored students and professionals, helping them to better integrate Generative AI tools in their creative workflow (Read more…).
  • Taught elective courses in Sound Design, Interactive Multimedia Environment and Transformative Technologies.
  • Coordinated and facilitated group projects, teaching students how to work together and communicate effectively.
 
 
 
 
 
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, School of Design
Project Associate
September 2017 – August 2019 Hong Kong
  • Collaborated with school staff to develop and implement extracurricular activities and resources to support student learning.
  • Developed and taught innovative courses in the field of computer science and maker education, resulting in higher student engagement and improved learning outcomes.
  • Collaborated with other teachers to develop interdisciplinary projects that integrated computer science topics with other subjects.
 
 
 
 
 
Hanson Robotics
Robot Operator
December 2017 – June 2019 Hong Kong
  • Responsible for overseeing performance scripting, transportation, setup, and operation of Sophia, the world-renowned humanoid robot.
  • Worked on high-profile events, including a commercial shoot with Cristiano Ronaldo.
  • Showcased Sophia’s capabilities at the World Investment Forum 2018 at UN in Geneva.
 
 
 
 
 
Ambulatorio San Massimo
IT Manager
September 2018 – December 2022 Remote
  • Lead the design and implementation of the network architecture and RemoteApp services (database, VoIP, appointment booking API) of a medical clinic with two sites.
  • Automated backup and routine system administration tasks using docker to reduce manual effort.
  • Streamlined and automated system administration tasks, resulting in a 60% reduction in operational costs.
 
 
 
 
 
Hagao Studio
Founder CEO and Lead Programmer
Hagao Studio
February 2015 – May 2016 Hong Kong
  • Created Featherman, an innovative game aimed at raising awareness about migratory birds’ environmental issues.
  • Oversaw all aspects of mobile game development and management as team leader.
  • Partnered with WWF Mai Po Reservoir.
 
 
 
 
 
83bits
Founder CEO and Lead Programmer
83bits
September 2011 – September 2014 Hong Kong
  • Successfully established and managed the primary product, AllIn1Social, a web application for managing content and advertising campaigns on Facebook pages.
  • Developed front-end and back-end development using Ruby on Rails.
  • Worked with Facebook Advertising API.
 
 
 
 
 
Shi Cheng Trading
Founder CEO
Shi Cheng Trading
December 2009 – Present Hong Kong
  • Established and led Shi Cheng Trading Limited, a successful import company specializing in innovative gel material and foam pillows and mattresses for the Hong Kong and China markets.
  • Managed the end-to-end operations of the company, including procurement, sales, logistics, and customer service, to ensure smooth and efficient business processes.
  • Oversaw the company’s Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, utilizing OpenERP (now Odoo) and currently ERPNext, to maintain accurate records of sales, purchases, stock, and accounting.
 
 
 
 
 
77Agency
Social Media Specialist
September 2008 – August 2011 Milan
  • Responsible for developing and deploying Facebook applications for marketing purposes.
  • Worked with influential Italian companies including Lavazza, Repubblica, RCA, CondèNast, and Mondadori.
 
 
 
 
 
SDA Bocconi
Teaching Assistant
SDA Bocconi
February 2007 – June 2008 Milan
  • Teaching Assistant at SDA Bocconi, working for the TeD+ lab focused on e-learning platforms and remote teaching.
  • Actively participated in teaching the course 8340 “Organizational Dynamics and Technical Change” of EMIT Master of Science.
  • Honed skills as an educator through hands-on involvement in teaching activities and providing support to students.

Projects

Videosd
TensorRT accelerated diffusion pipeline, combined with webrtc frontend for camera input and speech recognition.
Videosd
Mediabots
Mediabots is a Discord server that provides access to the latest generative models to students and professionals, as integral component of my doctoral research. Read more…
Mediabots
Brainmusic
Brainmusic is an experiment in generative music driven by brain activity using the Muse headband.
Brainmusic
Working with Sophia
Working with Sophia the humanoid robot was an extraordinary experience that allowed me to gain valuable insights into the world of robotics and human-robot interaction. As a robot operator, I was responsible for animating scripts, setting up the robot for events, and puppeteering the robot during public appearances. Read more…
Working with Sophia
3DSND
3DSND is a system that is capable of low-latency ambisonic rendering. This platform is designed to provide an immersive sound experience to the users, enabling them to hear sound from all directions. Read more…
3DSND
Papinee world
Papinee World is a multi-sensory experience for children created through collaboration with Papinee, xhibited at Pearl Lam Galleries in Hong Kong. The installation comprises interactive stations that allow children to explore different characters and aspects of the magical world, including projection screens, narration and sound effects rendered in ambisonic sound.
Papinee world
Featherman
The Featherman game project is a mobile game designed to raise awareness of environmental issues, specifically the importance of wetlands for migratory birds. The team behind the project consists of international students in Hong Kong who are passionate about local environmental issues. Read more…
Featherman
Musical fruitstand
Musical Fruitstand is a unique and interactive installation that uses fruit as its interface for generative music. The installation provides a fun and engaging way for users to create their own music by simply touching the fruits on the table. Read more…
Musical fruitstand

Recent Publications

(2021). Co-creating Musical Compositions with an Artificial Agent. Artmachines 2.

PDF Cite

Contact

If you have any questions or would like to collaborate, please feel free to get in touch.