Francesca Leonelli

Francesca Leonelli is Associate Professor in the Chemistry Department at University of Rome La Sapienza, Faculty of Mathematical, Physical and Natural Sciences. Her research focuses on sustainable organic synthesis methodologies, including asymmetric catalysis and carbon quantum dot applications. She leads projects on bioactive compound design and cultural heritage conservation materials.

Leonelli develops enantioselective synthesis routes for bioactive natural products and designs covalent adaptable networks for smart materials. Her group pioneers carbon quantum dots for antifungal applications and nucleic acid sensing platforms.

She teaches Organic Chemistry for cultural heritage preservation and directs the Organic Synthesis with Laboratory course. Current research includes microalgae-derived polysaccharides for art conservation and dynamic polymer networks based on oxime metathesis.

Her work contributes to green chemistry through oleochemical derivatives and sustainable materials design. She collaborates with heritage science institutions on novel conservation methods.