معرفی
Fabio Sonvico, Associate Professor at the University of Parma, Department of Food and Drug Sciences, is an internationally recognised expert in pharmaceutical nanotechnology and drug-delivery science. Since 2014 he leads a research group that bridges materials chemistry, biopharmaceutics and regulatory affairs to develop inhalable, nasal and oral nano-enabled medicines. Additional appointments include Senior Lecturer at University of Technology Sydney (2012) and visiting professorships at Lyon 1 and Cordoba.
Education
- Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Technology & Physico-chemistry, Université Paris-Sud (France) & Ph.D. in Biopharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics, University of Parma – co-tutelle thesis (2004)
- Laurea (M.Sc.) in Chemistry & Pharmaceutical Technologies, University of Pavia (1999)
- Qualified Pharmacist, Italy (2000)
Research focus
Sonvico’s laboratory designs nanoparticles, microparticles and polymeric films for targeted delivery of anti-cancer, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective drugs via inhalation, nasal, oral and loco-regional routes. Key platforms include lecithin/chitosan self-assembled nanoparticles, Dome Matrix® modular gastro-retentive systems, hyaluronic acid-based powders and cyclodextrin nanoemulsions. Translational projects cover orphan drug design (cisplatin films for mesothelioma), paediatric-friendly formulations and vaccine adjuvants against HPV, SARS-CoV-2 and TB. Advanced characterisation tools (neutron scattering, micro-CT, in vitro mucosal models) underpin rational formulation and regulatory Quality-by-Design.
Grant portfolio
- Italian Association for Cancer Research (AIRC) – “Targeting Cancer Stem Cells niche” (€502 k, 2020-2025)
- EU Horizon 2020 MSCA-RISE Micro4Nano (2021-2025)
- CNPq-Brazil “Science without Borders” – nasal nano-capsules for neurodegeneration (2014-2018)
- MIUR-PRIN – tamoxifen nano/microparticles for breast cancer (2007-2009)
- Industrial contracts & consultancies (> €250 k in last 3 years with Chiesi, Menarini, Aptar, Nanopharm, etc.)
Scientific awards & honours
- 2nd Prix de Thèse, Université Paris-Sud (2004)
- Best Poster Prize, 15th Int. Symposium on Microencapsulation (2005)
- UTS Early Career Researcher Grant (2012)
- Visiting Professorships funded by Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Argentina 2006, France 2008-2012)
- Scientific advisory roles: EUFEPS Treasurer (2016-), TEFARCO Innova Vice-Director (2016-2019), Polyrizon Scientific Advisory Board (2021-)
International service & outreach
Sonvico serves as expert evaluator for ANR (France), FNRS (Belgium), GAČR (Czech), HRZZ (Croatia) and Hong Kong Jockey Club. He has delivered >50 invited keynotes and chaired workshops on nanomedicine, inhalation technology and regulatory harmonisation across Europe, Asia and Latin America.
