Francesco Stellacci

Francesco Stellacci is a Full Professor at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), where he holds the Alcan EP Chair and leads the Supramolecular Nanomaterials and Interfaces Laboratory (SUNMIL). He is affiliated with the School of Engineering (STI) and the Institute of Materials (IMX), with additional appointments in the Institute of Bioengineering (IBI-STI). Stellacci also serves on the EPFL Academic Strategic Committee and the Research Awards Commission, and is a committee member for the Doctoral Program in Materials Science and Engineering.

Stellacci's research focuses on the complex interactions between supramolecular assemblies and their molecular surroundings, with particular emphasis on:

• Nanomaterials and Nanoparticles
• Soft Materials and Supramolecular Interactions
• Solid-Liquid Interfaces
• Nanomedicine and Antiviral Applications

His recent work demonstrates a strong trend toward biomedical applications of nanomaterials, particularly in antiviral therapies, drug delivery systems, and diagnostic tools. Stellacci's laboratory has pioneered research on supramolecular interfaces with nanoscale domains, leading to innovative approaches in viral inhibition, protein delivery, and sustainable materials. His publications reveal a consistent focus on the physical and chemical properties of nanomaterials and their interactions with biological systems, with increasing emphasis on practical applications in healthcare and sustainability.

Among his notable scientific achievements are:

• Technology Review TR35 "35 Innovators under 35" award (2005)
• Popular Science Magazine "Brilliant 10" award (2007)
• Packard Fellowship (2005)

Stellacci has been instrumental in developing novel methodologies for nanoparticle characterization and application, with particular expertise in supramolecular nanostructures. His work bridges fundamental materials science with practical biomedical applications, as evidenced by numerous patents and translational research projects. He has supervised multiple doctoral students whose theses reflect the interdisciplinary nature of his research program, spanning from fundamental nanoscience to applied biomedical engineering.

Stellacci's laboratory (SUNMIL) serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research, bringing together expertise from materials science, chemistry, biology, and engineering to address challenges in nanomedicine and sustainable technologies.