Title “Advancing Cloud-Network Slicing: Insights from LANCE's Testbed and ML-Driven Load Balancing” Abstract This talk will provide a comprehensive overview of the LANCE facility, a state-of-the-art ecosystem of cutting-edge technologies designed for innovations and experimentations atop a 5G standalone open-source and O-RAN-enabled network system. The presentation will delve into the innovative concept of Cloud-Network Slicing, exploring how this approach enables the creation of multiple virtualized and isolated end-to-end network partitions on a shared physical infrastructure towards affording slicing as a service at unprecedented flexibility and efficiency. Furthermore, a Machine Learning-based inter-slice predictive load-balancing endeavor, which aims to tackle the optimization of resource distribution across network slices, seeking to ensure optimal performance and QoS/QoE. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the capabilities and potential applications of the LANCE testbed facility, the principles and benefits of Cloud-Network Slicing, and how ML-driven 5G control-plane can enhance network efficiency and performance. Short bio Dr. Augusto Neto is an Associate Professor at the Department of Informatics and Applied Mathematics (DIMAp) of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), specializing in Computer Networks and Distributed Systems. He is an IEEE Senior Member and is an IEEE ComSoc Distinguished Lecturer for the term 2023-2024. With three research scholars, namely at UCF/USA (2023/2024), University of Aveiro/PT (2015/2016), and Instituto de Telecomunicações/PT (2008/2009), and experience as a visiting professor at various esteemed institutions such as the University of Bern (Switzerland, 2016), Université Evry Val d’Essonne (France, 2015), and the Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra (Portugal, 2009), Dr. Augusto Neto brings a wealth of international experience to his work.He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Coimbra (UC), Portugal, in the Department of Informatics Engineering (DEI). Dr. Augusto Neto has authored and co-authored over 200+ papers published in leading conference proceedings and journals, including 4 patents, focusing on networking and telecommunications. He is a regular reviewer for prominent journals and serves on organizing committees of flagship networking conferences. He coordinates and participates in research projects funded by national and international development agencies. His research interests encompass a broad spectrum, including 5G networks and beyond, Open RAN, cloud computing, IoT, SDN, mobile computing, spatial computing, and smart spaces. Locations December 17, 13:00 University of Valladolid, Valladolid More information: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/451867 December 18, 13:30 University of Salamanca, Salamanca More information: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/451865 December 19, 13:00 IMDEA Networks, Madrid More information: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/451863