Francesco Caridi

Francesco Caridi is a Researcher (RTD-B) in Physics for Life Sciences, the Environment and Cultural Heritage at the Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Physical Sciences and Earth Sciences of the University of Messina. He holds a PhD in Physics from the University of Messina (2007) and has been with the university since 2007, progressing from research fellow to his current position since 2023.

His research spans multiple interdisciplinary fields with a strong focus on physics applications to cultural heritage, environmental science, and medical contexts. Key research areas include laser-matter interaction, plasma diagnostics, environmental radioactivity assessment, gamma spectrometry, and radiation protection. His work frequently employs advanced spectroscopic techniques to analyze archaeological materials and assess environmental radiation risks.

His recent publications reveal a consistent pattern of applied physics research focused on cultural heritage preservation and environmental monitoring. The majority of his work involves analyzing archaeological sites and artifacts using spectroscopic methods, assessing radioactivity in building materials and natural environments, and developing analytical techniques for environmental monitoring. His research demonstrates strong interdisciplinary connections between physics, archaeology, environmental science, and public health.

• Premio ANASSILAOS Giovani (2010)
• Premio Giovane Ricercatore (2008)
• First Prize for the best oral presentation (2006)

Caridi maintains active engagement with educational institutions through numerous outreach activities, including laboratory demonstrations for students and public forums on environmental quality and health risks. His teaching portfolio includes courses on applied physics for cultural heritage, environmental radiation protection, and experimental physics applications in biology and medicine. He has authored 172 publications with 1,822 citations and an h-index of 32 (Scopus, May 2025).