We present a short review of the work we have performed over the last decade in the framework of a scientific program dedicated to characterizing the structure, formation and functionalization of graphene layers grown on Ni surfaces. To this aim, several surface science experimental tools were complemented by numerical simulations mainly based on ab initio methods. In a step-by-step process, both the details and the general trends characterizing the investigated systems became progressively clearer, delineating a unique and consistent story.
All together the outcome of this intense effort can be regarded as a good example of the level of understanding of a complex problem it is possible to reach through a persistent and systematic approach in which state-of-the-art methods are employed.
