Lucia Battistini

Lucia Battistini is an Associate Professor in the Department of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Parma's Faculty of Pharmacy. Her academic career spans over two decades with continuous contributions to organic chemistry research and teaching. She teaches multiple courses including Organic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry I, and Fundamental Chemistry across various degree programs in Animal Sciences, Pharmaceutical Technology, and Cheese Enterprise Management.

Education:

• Graduated with honors in Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology from the University of Parma (1995)
• Qualification to practice as a pharmacist (1996)
• Doctor of Research in Protein Chemistry (University of Turin, 1999)

Professor Battistini's research focuses on two primary areas: the synthesis and characterization of novel multifunctional peptidomimetics as integrin receptor ligands, and the development of new asymmetric synthesis methodologies for selective molecular diversity. Her work on cyclic peptidomimetics containing the RGD sequence has demonstrated high affinity for various integrin subtypes with low nanomolar IC50 values. She has also pioneered vinylogous approaches in asymmetric synthesis to access diverse molecular scaffolds including carbasugars, alkaloids, and nucleosides.

Her recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate a strong focus on medicinal chemistry applications, particularly in antiviral research against SARS-CoV-2 and cancer therapeutics targeting integrin receptors. The research spans organic synthesis methodology development, molecular design of peptidomimetics, and biological evaluation of compounds with therapeutic potential.

Scientific Awards:

• Scientific Citation of Excellence (2011)
• Scientific Citation of Excellence (2012)

Professor Battistini provides daily tutoring for students working on experimental degree theses and has supervised or co-supervised 15 degree theses. She has participated as a member of the Operational Unit in multiple funded PRIN Programs (PRIN2000 through PRIN2015). As a member of the Doctoral School Committee for 'Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomolecules and Health Products' since 2013, she contributes significantly to graduate education. She also serves as the Departmental Representative for 'La Notte Europea dei Ricercatori' (European Researchers' Night) activities.