Find Academic Supervisors

• Botany
• Molecular Biosystematics
• Plant Genetics
• +7 more

Anna Maria Palermo is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences at the University of Calabria, where she specializes in General Botany (BIO/01). She has held this position since October 2022, following a long academic trajectory that includes serving as a confirmed researcher since 2004 and prior technical service from 1990 to 2004. She is actively involved in teaching, research, and academic governance, with no indication of retirement or departure. Education: Laurea in Scienze Biologiche, University of Naples (1986) Professional qualification as Biologist, University of Naples (1987) Her research interests lie at the intersection of molecular botany and cultural heritage conservation. She focuses on molecular biosystematics of Mediterranean flora, particularly rare and endemic species in Calabria, using techniques such as ISSR, RAPD, AFLP, microsatellites, DNA barcoding, and isoenzyme analysis. A second major research line involves the study of biodeteriogens —fungi, cyanobacteria, algae, and lichens—on both organic (paper, wood, parchment) and inorganic (stone, plastic) cultural artifacts. Her work includes developing green conservation methods, notably using titanium dioxide nanoparticles for biocidal and preventive treatments. Her recent publications highlight a strong engagement in orchid pollination biology , heritage biodeterioration , and molecular taxonomy . These works reflect interdisciplinary trends combining ecology, botany, and conservation science, often with applications to historical monuments in Southern Italy. Scientific Service and Recognition: Reviewer for international journals: Environmental Engineering and Management, Journal Plant Biology, Aerobiologia, Studies in Conservation, Journal of Fungi, Horticulture, International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, Botanical Studies Member of the Scientific Secretariat of the PhD Program in Life Science and Technology (2021) Member of the Italian Botanical Society since 2007 Active participant in research groups on plant biology and conservation Anna Maria Palermo has supervised numerous Master's and PhD theses in Biological Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Cultural Heritage Conservation. She has participated in research projects, organized workshops, and collaborated with various institutions. She is a key member of the Plant Biology Research Group at the University of Calabria, specifically contributing to the section on Biosystematics, Conservation, and Botany in Cultural Heritage led by Prof. Giuseppe Pellegrino.

Alfredo VizziniView profile

Associate Professor

• Mycology
• Fungal Taxonomy
• Systematic Botany
• +4 more

Alfredo Vizzini is an Associate Professor at the University of Turin , affiliated with the Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology . His work spans systematic botany, fungal taxonomy, and molecular phylogenetics, with a focus on Agaricales and Boletaceae families. He teaches courses such as Systematic Botany and Mycology , contributing to both academic and applied research. Research Interests : Vizzini specializes in fungal biodiversity, particularly ectomycorrhizal and saprotrophic species. His studies integrate morphological and molecular data (e.g., ITS-LSU sequences) to resolve phylogenetic relationships and describe novel taxa. Key areas include Basidiomycota systematics, adaptation to extreme environments, and invasive fungal species' impact on native ecosystems. Article Trends : His publications (2008–2017) emphasize fungal taxonomy, phylogenetics, and ecological interactions. Notable themes include the discovery of Alpova komoviana , revisions in Leucopaxillus , and investigations into mycobiomes using 454 pyrosequencing. Collaborative projects like DEFINE and CAVELAB highlight his interdisciplinary approach. Labs and Teams : Vizzini collaborates on projects such as DEFINE (exotic pathogens), CAVELAB (cave ecosystems), and DISCOVERING MARINE MYCOBIOTA (marine fungi), working with international teams in Europe and beyond. His lab focuses on fungal interactions in forests, seagrass, and extreme environments.

• Genomics
• Functional Genomics
• Structural Genomics
• +3 more

Massimo Delledonne is a Full Professor in the Department of Biotechnology at the University of Verona. His research focuses on clinical genomics, functional genomics, structural genomics, and metagenomics. He teaches modules such as Genetics and Human Genomics across undergraduate and graduate programs, including Molecular and Medical Biotechnology and Medical Bioinformatics. Affiliations: Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona Committees: Faculty Board of PhD in Biotechnology, Biotechnology Teaching Committee Spin-offs: EDIVITE s.r.l., Microbion S.r.l., Enerzyme s.r.l. (among others) His research interests include genome assembly, single nucleotide variant analysis, and applications of next-generation sequencing technologies. Projects span plant and human genomics, with a focus on crop improvement, disease diagnostics, and microbial interactions. Recent work includes studies on lupin diversity, common bean evolution, and grapevine genetics. Key projects include IBEARAD (Bioinformatics for Agricultural Resilience) and SYMPHONY (Phaseolus vulgaris genome analysis). He leads interdisciplinary efforts in genomic medicine, plant genomics, and environmental genomics.

• Fungal Genetics
• Truffle Biology
• Mycorrhizal Symbiosis
• +5 more

Beatrice Belfiori serves as a Researcher at the National Research Council of Italy (CNR), specifically within the Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (IBBR) at the Perugia Division. With over 13 years of continuous service since August 2011, she maintains active research in fungal genetics and truffle biology. Her academic foundation includes a PhD in Plant Biology and Biotechnology from the University of Perugia (2010) and a Laurea in Agricultural Sciences with highest honors from the same institution (2004). Her research focuses on the molecular ecology and reproductive biology of truffles, particularly Tuber species including T. melanosporum, T. aestivum, and T. borchii. Through extensive publication records spanning over 15 years, she has established expertise in mating type characterization, population genetics, genetic diversity assessment, and mycorrhizal symbiosis. Her work frequently employs molecular markers including SSRs and ITS sequences to investigate truffle biodiversity, reproductive modes, and phylogeographic patterns across European and international contexts. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a strong trend toward applied research with significant ecological and commercial implications. Her studies address critical challenges in truffle cultivation, biodiversity conservation in natural habitats, monitoring of truffle sites, and quality assessment of truffle products. Recent work demonstrates expanding international collaboration, particularly with Argentinian researchers studying T. melanosporum cultivation outside its native range. Belfiori's scientific contributions include pivotal discoveries regarding the heterothallic nature of truffle reproduction, which fundamentally changed understanding of Tuber life cycles. Her research bridges fundamental molecular biology with practical applications for truffle cultivation and conservation, making significant contributions to both academic knowledge and the truffle industry. She actively participates in major research initiatives including the INTACT RISE-MSCA Project, which supports global truffle research collaboration. Her work spans field studies in Italian truffle grounds, molecular laboratory analyses, and international comparative studies examining truffle biodiversity across different geographical regions.

• Plant Genetics
• Genomics
• Plant Domestication
• +5 more

Dr. Gabriella Sonnante is a Research Director at Italy's National Research Council (CNR), leading research programs at the Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (IBBR) in Bari. With over 25 years at CNR, she has progressed from Researcher to Senior Researcher before assuming her current leadership role in 2021. She holds a Biology degree from the University of Bari and has conducted research internationally at institutions including UC Davis, John Innes Centre, and University of Frankfurt. Her research focuses on plant molecular evolution, domestication processes, and genetic resource characterization, utilizing molecular markers (SNP, SSR, AFLP), genomics, and transcriptomics. Key species in her studies include wheat, legumes, and globe artichoke, with emphasis on genes involved in polyphenol synthesis, nitrogen utilization, and abiotic stress responses. She manages the Cynara (artichoke) germplasm collection and studies genetic diversity conservation in agricultural systems. Her extensive publication record demonstrates consistent focus on crop genetics and genomics, with recent work emphasizing molecular characterization of traditional landraces, stress-responsive genes in wheat, and biodiversity conservation in Mediterranean crops. Research frequently integrates advanced techniques like NMR metabolomics, SNP genotyping, and whole-genome analysis. Dr. Sonnante serves on the PhD teaching faculty at the University of Bari (PhD program: 'Biodiversity, Agriculture and Environment') and represents CNR in the European Plant Science Organization. She leads multiple national and EU-funded projects including Agritech National Research Center (PNRR), BiodiverSO (Puglia region), and PON ALIFUN on functional foods.

Simona BonelliView profile

Associate Professor

• Biodiversity Conservation
• Butterfly Biology
• Host-Parasite Interaction
• +3 more

Simona Bonelli is an Associate Professor at the Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin. Since 2000, she has coordinated the Zoological Laboratory (ZooLab), focusing on biodiversity conservation and lepidoptera ecology. Specializes in butterfly biology, host-parasite communication, and sustainability Collaborated with the Italian Ministry of the Environment for butterfly red list assessments Contributed to international butterfly conservation projects (BC-Europe, EU-43/92/CEE) ZooLab under SB investigates chemical and acoustic signal exchange in ant-social parasite systems. Notable discoveries include the first evidence of acoustic mimicry in Maculinea butterflies (Science 2009) and ant inter-caste communication mechanisms (Current Biology 2013). Coordinated Italian butterfly DNA barcoding program Advisory role for sustainable phyto-pharmaceutical use in NATURA-2000 areas Co-leader of the FUSILLI urban food system sustainability project Active in academic governance as member of the Departmental Council and Teaching Commission.

• Genetics
• Developmental Biology
• Epigenetics
• +4 more

Riccardo PAPA is a Full Professor at the Department of Chemical, Life and Environmental Sustainability Sciences, University of Parma. He teaches Genetics (Bachelor's Degree in Natural and Environmental Sciences) and Developmental Genetics and Epigenetics (Master's Degree in Biomolecular, Genomic and Cellular Sciences) for multiple academic cohorts (2022/23 to 2025/26). His research focuses on evolutionary and developmental biology, with recent publications analyzing range expansion theory in Caribbean anoles, genome evolution in Heliconiini butterflies, molecular barcoding for seafood conservation, and WntA signaling in wing patterning. Recent publications highlight his work in molecular ecology and conservation genetics, particularly through ecological restoration projects and evolutionary developmental biology. His research integrates population genetics with environmental sustainability challenges. Contact: riccardo.papa@unipr.it

• Plant Genetics
• Bioinformatics
• Genetic Diversity
• +6 more

Francesco Mercati is a Senior Researcher at the Institute of Biosciences and BioResources (IBBR-CNR) in Palermo, Italy. His work focuses on plant genetics, bioinformatics, and biodiversity conservation, leveraging next-generation sequencing (NGS) and molecular markers to study species like grapevine, citrus, and asparagus. He has collaborated internationally, including work at the University of Georgia (USA), and contributed to advancements in nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and DNA barcoding. Education: PhD in Biology Applied to Agri-Food and Forest Systems (2012), University of Reggio Calabria Bachelor’s Degree in Cell Biology and Development (2003), University of Pisa Research Interests: NGS applications in plant genetics DNA barcoding for species identification Genetic diversity and population structure analysis Transcriptomics of stress responses NUE in crops like eggplant and durum wheat Somatic embryogenesis in citrus Collaborations and Projects: LIMSEED Asparagus project (sex determination genes) Italian wine database development European Community-funded genetic polymorphism studies Publications: Recent work spans grapevine domestication, caper genomics, and Citrus somatic regeneration Key themes: stress adaptation, symbiotic interactions, gene family evolution

Alex LainiView profile

Assistant Professor

• Ecology
• Environmental Biology
• Zoology
• +4 more

Alex Laini is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin. His research focuses on ecological modeling, biodiversity assessment, and invertebrate community dynamics, with particular emphasis on dung beetles, aquatic ecosystems, and climate change impacts. Department: Life Sciences and Systems Biology University: University of Turin Laini’s work integrates DNA metabarcoding, statistical ecology, and functional trait analysis to study ecosystem services, invasion biology, and conservation strategies. His recent publications explore topics such as n-dimensional hypervolume modeling, behavioral syndromes in insects, and climate-driven shifts in riverine communities. His research leverages advanced methodologies like environmental DNA analysis and ecohydrological modeling to address challenges in biodiversity monitoring and aquatic ecosystem health. Key collaborations span European rivers, hypersaline lakes, and Mediterranean valleys, reflecting a transnational approach to ecological studies.

• Microbial Biotechnology
• Yeast Genetics
• Fungal Biofilms
• +7 more

Gianluigi Cardinali is a faculty member at the University of Perugia, specifically within the Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, School of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences. He serves as Coordinator of the Doctoral Program in Biotechnology, indicating a leadership role in academic training and research supervision. His research spans microbial biotechnology, yeast genetics, fungal biofilms, DNA barcoding, and sustainable agriculture. Key interests include plant-microbe interactions, industrial and medical mycology, metabolomics, and environmental microbiology. His work bridges fundamental science with practical applications in agriculture, food safety, and biomedicine. The recent publications (2023–2025) highlight a strong focus on sustainable solutions using microbial life, including waste valorization from olive oil and hemp, salt stress mitigation in crops using plant growth-promoting yeasts, and antimicrobial strategies against Candida biofilms using natural extracts and novel biomaterials. There is a consistent emphasis on molecular identification techniques such as NGS, DNA barcoding, and multi-omics approaches (metabolomics, proteomics) to study microbial diversity and function. No scientific awards are explicitly mentioned in the provided text. Dr. Cardinali advises doctoral students as Coordinator of the Biotechnology PhD program and likely leads a research group focused on microbial biotechnology and fungal systems. His extensive publication record in high-impact areas suggests active grant funding, though specific grants are not listed. His research integrates laboratory experimentation with ecological and systems-level analysis, promoting interdisciplinary approaches. His laboratory appears to specialize in microbial identification using advanced spectroscopic (Raman, FT-IR), sequencing (NGS, MinION), and metabolomic techniques. The team investigates both environmental and clinical fungal strains, with applications spanning agriculture, food, and medicine. Research infrastructure likely includes facilities for yeast genetics, biofilm studies, and omics analysis.

• Ecotoxicology
• Marine Ecology
• Environmental Pollution
• +6 more

Elisa BERGAMI is an Associate Professor at the Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy, specializing in Ecotoxicology and Marine Pollution research. She teaches courses such as Anthropogenic alterations of ecosystems , Coding in R for data analysis , and Management of bioresources and ecosystem services , with a focus on Nanoparticle Toxicity , Marine Biodiversity , and Data Analysis in ecological contexts. Her work addresses environmental challenges through the lens of the UN Sustainable Development Goals . Teaches Ecotoxicology with case studies on plastic pollution, heavy metals, and climate change Directs Experimental Biology Laboratory modules on marine organism analysis and nanoparticle interactions Her research interests include: Environmental impacts of nanoplastics and engineered nanomaterials Ecotoxicological effects on marine invertebrates Development of bioindicators for pollution Ecological risk assessment methodologies Antarctic ecosystem contamination Recent publications highlight her work on: Nanoplastic interactions with marine immune systems Toxicity mechanisms in polar and Mediterranean species Plastic colonization by microbial communities Combined chemical-nanoparticle stressors She leads the SCAR Plastic in polar environment Action Group and emphasizes hands-on laboratory training in courses covering DNA barcoding, microbiological testing, and biochemical analysis using marine models like Mytilus galloprovincialis and Paracentrotus lividus.

• Molecular typing
• Population genetics
• Reproductive biology of Tuber spp.
• +8 more

Andrea Rubini is a Senior Researcher at the Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources (IBBR), part of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR), based in Perugia. With a PhD in Biological Sciences from the University of Perugia (1999), he has dedicated his career to fungal research, particularly focusing on truffles and related species. His academic journey began with a postdoctoral fellowship at CNR from 1999-2001, followed by a Researcher position from 2001-2020, and promotion to Senior Researcher since 2020. Rubini's research spans molecular typing, population genetics, and reproductive biology of Tuber species, with particular expertise in mycorrhizal fungi and mycorrhization methods. His work extends to structural and comparative genomics of fungi (including Tuber spp. and Pezizomycetes) and plant species, as well as biodiversity assessment and molecular taxonomy of economically important fungi. His recent publications demonstrate continued focus on truffle genetics, hop cultivation, and plant-fungal interactions. His research output shows consistent productivity with numerous publications spanning from the early 2000s to 2025, with recent work focusing on truffle biodiversity, fungal genomics, and applications in sustainable agriculture. The publications reveal increasing international collaboration and expansion into new research areas including biocontrol methods and antibiofilm properties of plant compounds. Rubini has contributed significantly to understanding Tuber species genetics, particularly Tuber magnatum and Tuber melanosporum, as evidenced by multiple high-impact publications. His work on the reproductive biology of truffles has helped clarify previously uncertain aspects of their life cycles. As a senior researcher at IBBR, Rubini leads or contributes to multiple research projects focusing on fungal biodiversity, truffle cultivation, and sustainable agricultural practices. His work bridges fundamental mycological research with practical applications in agriculture and food production.

• Plant Genetics
• Plant Biotechnology
• Molecular Markers
• +12 more

Francesco Carimi is a Research Director and Head of the Palermo Division at the Institute of Biosciences and BioResources (IBBR-CNR), part of the National Research Council of Italy. He is a leading expert in plant biotechnology, genetic improvement, and conservation of Mediterranean crops such as citrus, grapevine, and olive. He has coordinated numerous national and international research projects and training programs, contributing significantly to agri-food traceability, germplasm conservation, and sustainable agriculture. Education: Master of Science in Plant Science, University of Palermo (1987) National Scientific Qualification for Full Professor in 'Arboriculture and Forest Systems' (2018) National Scientific Qualification for Full Professor in 'Botany' (2020) Research Interests: His work focuses on plant genetics, molecular markers, somatic embryogenesis, and biotechnological tools for crop improvement. He has pioneered research in genetic certification, traceability using blockchain and IoT, and the conservation of endangered plant species like Calendula maritima and Zelkova sicula . His research integrates laboratory and field applications to enhance agri-food quality and safety. Publication Trends: The most recent articles reflect a strong emphasis on molecular diagnostics, genetic traceability in agri-food chains, conservation biotechnology, and sustainable cultivation systems. The integration of biotechnology with digital tools (e.g., blockchain) for food authenticity is a key emerging theme. Scientific Awards: Two-year fellowship from CNR for DNA analysis in Citrus at Max-Planck-Institut, Germany (1990) One-year fellowship from Angelo e Salvatore Lima Mancuso Foundation for Plant Genetic Resources (1989) Advising and Grants: Carimi has supervised numerous PhD, Master’s, and postdoctoral researchers from institutions in Italy, Tunisia, Iran, Algeria, and Egypt. He has served as Scientific Coordinator or CNR Unit Coordinator for 29 national and international projects, managing over €29 million in funding. Notable projects include ENOBIT (blockchain for wine traceability), LIFE CALMARSI (conservation of Calendula maritima ), and SicilySeeds (valorization of spontaneous edible plants). Labs and Collaborations: He leads a research team at IBBR-CNR in Palermo focused on molecular and cell biology of woody plants. He collaborates extensively with institutions across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, including CIHEAM, FAO, and universities in Tunisia, Algeria, Iran, and Turkey.

• Genetics
• Genome organization and evolution
• Chromatin architecture and gene regulation
• +4 more

Salvatore Saccone is a Full Professor of Genetics at the University of Catania, Italy, where he serves as Director of the Animal Biology section 'M. La Greca' and Director of both the Genetic Laboratory and Confocal Microscopy Laboratory. He holds leadership positions including President of the Biological Sciences degree course and President of the College of Italian University Biologists (CBUI). His academic career spans over three decades with previous appointments as Associate Professor at both University of Bologna and University of Catania. Graduate in Biological Sciences, University of Catania (1989) PhD in Genetic Sciences, University of Pavia (1993) Post-doctoral research at Institute J. Monod, Paris (1993-1994) Researcher of Genetics, University of Catania (1995-1998) Professor Saccone's research focuses on genome organization and evolution, chromatin architecture, and genetic diseases related to epigenetic modifications. His work particularly examines nuclear Tau protein involvement in aging and Alzheimer's disease, environmental mutagenesis, and forensic genetics. His laboratory conducts cutting-edge research on chromatin organization during cell differentiation and bio-molecular investigations of parasite genomes. His extensive publication record includes over 50 articles in the last five years with an h-index of 36 (26 for the last decade). His work appears prominently in journals such as International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Genomics, Gene, Chromosome Research, and PNAS USA, reflecting his interdisciplinary approach spanning molecular genetics, environmental health, and forensic applications. A. Marzullo Award from University of Trieste (1989) Degree Award from Consorzio Catania Ricerche (1990) ERASMUS and EMBO Fellowships (1992) PhD Award from Italian Association of Genetics (1994) President of State Exams Commission for Biologist qualification (2016, 2018, 2021, 2024) Member of ASN national committee for Genetics (2018-2021) Professor Saccone has supervised 12 PhD theses and over 80 master's theses, demonstrating significant commitment to academic mentorship. His research group includes Associated Professor Concetta Federico, Researcher Francesca Bruno, post-doctoral researchers Desiree Brancato and Valentina Sturiale, and PhD student Elvira Coniglio. His laboratory maintains active collaborations with institutions including University of Enna Kore and utilizes advanced techniques in confocal microscopy and genomic analysis. The Genetic Laboratory and Confocal Microscopy Laboratory under his direction focus on multiple research streams including genome organization in chromosomal bands, chromatin dynamics during differentiation, environmental mutagenesis assays, and forensic genetic identification methods. Current projects investigate Tau protein in Alzheimer's disease, HLXB9/MNX1 gene in cancer, and molecular identification of forensic entomology specimens.

Stefano MartellosView profile

Associate Professor

• Biodiversity Informatics
• Lichenology
• Taxonomy
• +6 more

Stefano Martellos is Associate Professor of Systematic Botany (SSD BIO/02) at the University of Trieste's Department of Life Sciences since 2019. He holds a PhD in Biomonitoring of Environmental Change from the University of Trieste. His research spans Biodiversity Informatics , Lichenology , and Citizen Science , with particular emphasis on Digital identification systems (FRIDA software, 600+ keys) Species distribution modeling for climate change impact DNA barcoding applications Italian lichen checklists European LIFE+ projects Recent publications focus on Alpine lichen diversity ( MycoKeys 2018), climate change impacts ( Community Ecology 2018), and citizen science validation ( Plant Biosystems 2019). His team has developed ITALIC database for Italian lichens and JellyWeb for marine species. Scientific recognition includes O.P.T.I.M.A. medal (1993) Ferrari-Soave Prize (2009) Acharius medal (2014) Currently coordinates the Biological Sciences and Technologies degree program and participates in European research initiatives like KeyToNature. Collaborates with ISPRA, UNEP/MAP, and National Biodiversity Network.