Giuseppe Cavallaro is an Associate Professor at the Department of Physics and Chemistry , University of Palermo. His research focuses on nanotechnology , biopolymer composites , and cultural heritage conservation . Key research themes include: Halloysite clay nanotubes for drug delivery and pollutant removal Hybrid materials integrating chitosan , cellulose , and metal oxides Applications in sustainable agriculture , art conservation , and environmental decontamination Recent publications highlight his work on thermoresponsive nanocarriers , antimicrobial composites , and green building materials . Contact: giuseppe.cavallaro@unipa.it
Dr. Emanuele Marino is a Researcher in the Department of Physics and Chemistry at the University of Palermo , affiliated with the School of Basic and Applied Sciences . His work bridges quantum physics and nanotechnology, focusing on nanocrystal superparticles, photonic materials, and fluctuation-driven assembly processes. Current research areas include quantum dot lasing, Casimir effects, and 3D nanoparticle superlattices Teaches courses like Modern Physics Laboratory (2024, School of Basic and Applied Sciences) and Physics II (Polytechnic School) Recent publications highlight trends in: Tunable photonic properties via nanocrystal emulsion systems Quantum-excitonic coupling in heterostructures Critical Casimir forces for nanoparticle control Dynamic phase transformations in colloidal superlattices Microlaser fabrication and chirality engineering Based in the Emilio Segrè Physics and Chemistry Department , he conducts experimental and theoretical studies from nanoscale fabrication to quantum optical phenomena.
Carlo Bianco is a Fixed-term Tenure-Track Assistant Professor at Politecnico di Torino within the Department of Environment, Land and Infrastructure Engineering (DIATI) . His work spans Sanitary and Environmental Engineering with a focus on Groundwater Remediation using Nanotechnologies and Colloid Transport mechanisms. Research Highlights: Developing Nanoremediation techniques for Contaminated Aquifers Investigating Non-Exhaust Traffic Emissions in Poros Media Designing Eco-Friendly Formulations to reduce Pesticide Volatility Advancing Adsorption Models for VOC Mixtures in water treatment Scientific Contributions: Co-inventor of Advanced Oxidation-Reduction Systems for water contaminant removal Pioneering Electrochemical Remediation via Subsurface Currents Patents on Zero-Valent Metal Synthesis and Colloid Deposition Control Teaching Roles: Course Instructor for Nanotechnologies in Remediation (PhD, Civil and Environmental Engineering) Collaborator in Groundwater Engineering courses across multiple academic years Lecturer in Life Cycle Assessment for Sustainable Industry
Alberto Tiraferri is a Full Professor at the Department of Environment, Land and Infrastructure Engineering (DIATI) at Politecnico di Torino , Italy. His research focuses on membrane technology for water desalination , wastewater treatment , and resource recovery , with expertise in advanced oxidation processes and environmental chemistry . He leads the en.sur.e water lab , which bridges separation technology , materials science , and colloid/surface science . Member, Interdepartmental Center CWC - CleanWaterCenter@PoliTo Full Member, ANDIS (2019–present), GITISA (2015–present) Associate Editor, Frontiers in Environmental Science (2018–2025) His research projects include MEloDIZER (EU-funded, 2022–2026) for sustainable membrane distillation and FLOWING (2017–2019) for produced water reuse in oil & gas. He has received prestigious awards such as the ACS Environmental Chemistry Graduate Student Award (2010), Membrane X-Prize (2010), and Marie Curie Intra European Fellowship (2012). His work aligns with UN SDG 6 (Clean Water), SDG 9 (Innovation), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities). Professor Tiraferri supervises 10 PhD students and has authored 15+ recent publications on membrane processes , chemical water treatment , and microfiber pollution . He holds multiple international patents , including Biomimetic membranes with water channels and Living water filtration membranes .
Silvia Holler is a Researcher (RTD-A) at the Department of Cellular, Computational, and Integrative Biology (CIBIO) at the University of Trento. She specializes in biochemistry, biotechnology, and synthetic biology with a focus on enzymology, catalysis, and structural biology. Her work spans experimental and computational studies of protocells, droplet-based systems, and self-organizing soft matter. Teaching responsibilities include co-teaching the Biochemistry course at CIBIO, where she collaborates with scholars like Giovanni Piccoli and Martin Michael Hanczyc. The course covers foundational topics in biochemistry, enzymology, and molecular structures with practical skills in chromatography and enzymatic kinetics. Research interests emphasize artificial life systems, droplet engineering, and the physics of biological organization. Key themes include protocell formation, compartmentalized biochemistry, and ethical implications of synthetic biology innovations. Recent work explores self-organized patterns in soft matter, active matter dynamics, and computational modeling of multi-phase systems. Publications focus on droplet microfluidics, vesicle interactions, and agglomeration phenomena across scales. Collaborative efforts include editorial roles for artificial life conference proceedings and interdisciplinary projects combining biophysics with materials science. No scientific awards were explicitly mentioned in the provided materials. Her research lab activities are embedded within CIBIO's facilities, focusing on experimental setups for droplet-based synthetic biology and computational simulations of complex systems.
Alice Sciortino is a Researcher at the Department of Physics and Chemistry - Emilio Segrè within the School of Science at the University of Palermo. Her position code PHYS-03/A indicates a research-focused academic track in the Italian university system. She maintains regular office hours on Tuesdays from 11:30 to 12:30 through the university's student portal system. Her research centers on advanced photonic nanomaterials with particular expertise in carbon nanodots , quantum dot superstructures , and metal-organic frameworks . Key research themes include: Nanoscale light emission and lasing phenomena Design of optical sensors for environmental and biomedical applications Photocatalytic systems for environmental remediation Hybrid nanomaterial interfaces for energy transfer Ultrafast photophysical characterization of nanomaterials Analysis of her recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong trajectory toward multifunctional nanoplatforms combining optical, magnetic, and catalytic properties. Her work increasingly bridges fundamental photophysics with practical applications in environmental monitoring and biomedicine, particularly in heavy metal detection (Hg²⁺, Ni²⁺) and tissue engineering. The publication record shows consistent high-output research with frequent collaborations across Italian institutions. While no formal scientific awards are documented in the provided materials, her extensive publication record in high-impact journals demonstrates significant scholarly contributions to nanophotonics and materials science. Dr. Sciortino's research program appears to focus on experimental nanomaterials development with strong emphasis on optical characterization techniques. Her work on carbon dot-MOF hybrids and quantum dot superparticles suggests leadership in designing next-generation photonic nanomaterials with tunable properties. The consistent funding evident from her publication output likely supports laboratory infrastructure for nanomaterials synthesis and advanced optical spectroscopy.
Roberto Menichetti is a theoretical physicist at the University of Trento , affiliated with the Department of Physics and the VARIAMOLS research group . His work integrates computational physics, statistical mechanics, and machine learning to model biomolecules and soft matter systems. Prior roles include postdoctoral research at the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research (2016-2018) and academic training at the University of Rome 'La Sapienza'. PhD in Physics (La Sapienza, 2016) BSc/MSc in Physics (La Sapienza, 2012) His research spans: Coarse-Graining Methods for polymers, colloids, and biomolecules High-throughput Molecular Dynamics Simulations in drug-membrane permeability studies Integration of Machine Learning with physical models for multi-scale analysis Applications in Biophysics (e.g., chromatin condensates, protein dynamics) Article trends highlight his focus on computational frameworks like EXCOGITO and theoretical investigations of non-equilibrium systems and allosteric regulation . He actively develops tools for systematic model reduction and conformational sampling in biomolecular systems. Contact: roberto.menichetti@unitn.it
Leonardo PUPPULIN is a Researcher at the Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca' Foscari University of Venice. He specializes in Physical Chemistry, with a focus on nanoscale material characterization, biomaterials, and sustainable chemistry. His work includes advanced microscopy techniques such as high-speed atomic force microscopy (HS-AFM) to study biological systems, molecular dynamics, and material degradation mechanisms. He oversees laboratory safety and teaching activities, including courses in Physical Chemistry, Colloids and Interfaces, and Electron Microscopy techniques at both undergraduate and doctoral levels. Research interests span diverse areas: Dynamic imaging of proteins and channels (e.g., TRPV1, TMEM16F) using HS-AFM Development of protective silica-based coatings for cultural heritage artifacts Upcycling chitin into catalytic materials for green chemistry applications Biomedical materials analysis, particularly polyethylene and ceramic implants Optical properties of nanomaterials like NaBiF4 for photonics applications Teaching responsibilities include laboratory supervision and theoretical modules for Chemistry and Nanomaterials programs. He collaborates on interdisciplinary projects combining physical chemistry with biomedical and environmental applications. His 15 most recent articles (2023–2025) highlight advancements in HS-AFM imaging, nanomaterial synthesis, and biomaterial degradation studies, reflecting a strong emphasis on experimental techniques and interdisciplinary applications.
Marco Cannas is a Full Professor at the Department of Physics and Chemistry of the University of Palermo. His research focuses on advanced materials science, including 2D materials (MoS₂), metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), optical fibers, and nanocomposites. He investigates optoelectronic properties, defect engineering, and applications in photonics, environmental sensing, and energy materials. His work spans synthesis techniques like sulfurization, thermal treatments, and colloidal approaches. Cannas' studies often employ advanced characterization methods such as Raman spectroscopy, transient absorption, and atomic resolution microscopy. Education & Affiliations: University of Palermo - Department of Physics and Chemistry Active roles in materials physics research groups Research Interests: Nanomaterials synthesis and characterization (e.g., carbon dots, quantum dots) Radiation effects on semiconductor materials (SiC, optical fibers) MOF-based sensors and photocatalytic systems 2D material heterojunctions for optoelectronics Key Contributions: Developed tunable luminescent materials for sensing and optoelectronics Advanced understanding of MoS₂ doping and strain effects Studied radiation-induced defects in optical fibers for aerospace applications Labs/Teams: Active in the University's Materials Physics and Photonics laboratories, collaborating on EU-funded projects.
Giorgio Pastore is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Trieste. He serves as a member of the Department's Board and Boards of Studies for both SM20 and SM23 Physics programs. His research focuses on theoretical and computational aspects of condensed matter physics, with particular expertise in liquid state physics, colloids, and glass transition phenomena. Pastore's research interests span Condensed Matter Physics, Theoretical Physics, Computational Physics, Liquid State Physics, Colloids, and Glass Transition. His work involves theoretical and computational research on liquid states and disordered systems, with special attention to colloids. Recent projects include extension of classical liquid theory approaches (RHNC-type integral equations) to colloidal systems with short-range and anisotropic interactions, studies of self-assembling colloids including Janus systems, ab-initio (DFT) studies of molten salts and ionic liquids, and investigations of the glass transition using Random First Order Transition theory. His publication record shows significant contributions to understanding the physics of liquids and colloids, with recent work focusing on liquid-liquid phase transitions in supercooled water, arrested states in colloidal fluids, electronic structure of liquids, and theoretical aspects of the glass transition. His research employs a combination of analytical methods, integral equation theory, numerical simulations, and computational techniques. Pastore is actively involved in physics education, having contributed to professional development programs for physics teachers and interdisciplinary educational initiatives. His work bridges theoretical physics with practical educational applications, demonstrating commitment to both research excellence and pedagogical innovation. He maintains active research collaborations with colleagues from various institutions including A. Giacometti from Venice, F. Lado from NC State University, and F. Sciortino from Rome, as well as international researchers in Montpellier and Paris.
Fulvio Bisi is a Full Professor in the Department of Mathematics at the University of Pavia, specializing in mathematical modeling of condensed matter systems. His primary research group focuses on Mathematical Models for Condensed Matter , with significant contributions to liquid crystal theory and geometric modeling. His research spans Condensed Matter Physics and Mathematical Physics , with emphasis on nematic liquid crystals, biaxial phase transitions, and steric interactions in molecular systems. Key areas include: Biaxial-uniaxial phase transitions Steric effects in polar nematics Excluded-volume potentials for complex molecular symmetries Geometric modeling of orientational order Tricritical phenomena in ordered phases His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on mathematical frameworks for liquid crystal behavior, particularly analyzing molecular symmetry effects and phase diagram topologies. Professor Bisi teaches courses in Geometry and Algebra, Physics and Mathematics, and Euclidean Plane Geometry. His teaching materials include downloadable resources for MOOC students and corrected exam materials. Office hours are held Tuesday 4-5 PM and Wednesday 2-3 PM via Zoom or in person at office C6 (Dip Mate). Contact information: Email: fulvio.bisi@unipv.it Telephone: +39.0382.985618 Website: http://smmm.unipv.it/teaching.html
Prof. Cristiana Di Valentin is a Full Professor of General and Inorganic Chemistry at the Department of Materials Science , University of Milano Bicocca, and serves as Group Leader at NanoQlab and the Centro di Nanomedicina . Her research focuses on nanomedicine, photocatalysis, and computational chemistry, with notable contributions to graphene-based materials and surface reactivity. She leads major grants, including an ERC Consolidator Grant (2016-2021) and Cariplo Foundation projects. Education: She holds a B.S. and M.S. in Chemistry from the University of Pavia (1997, 110/110 cum laude), a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Pavia & TU Munich (2000), and an IUSS Graduate Diploma (2000). Research Interests: Her work integrates theoretical and computational methods to study nanomaterials for energy, catalysis, and biomedical applications. Key themes include functionalized TiO₂ surfaces, graphene interfaces, and nanoparticle-biomolecule interactions. Recent studies explore photocatalytic oxidation pathways, ligand-mediated targeting, and stealth nanodiamond design. Publications: Over 147 peer-reviewed articles (Scopus H-index 46), with recent work emphasizing graphene-Pc heterostructures for gas sensing, Pd-cyclometalated catalysts, and molecular dynamics simulations of drug-nanoparticle interactions. Awards: Nasini Medal (Italian Chemical Society, 2011) , ERC Consolidator Grant, and prizes for student research mentorship (IUSS, 1998-2000). Grants & Labs: PI of the Smart bioinorganic hybrids for nanomedicine (ERC) and Beyond graphene (Futuro in Ricerca). Active in collaborations for computational modeling (CINECA grants) and experimental validation of nanodevices.
Massimo Sgarzi is an Associate Professor in the Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems at Ca' Foscari University of Venice. His laboratories are located at the Scientific Campus (via Torino) in Study 609 (ALFA building) and Laboratories 4 & 8 (BETA building). His research focuses on sustainable materials chemistry with emphasis on: Lignin valorization for functional nanomaterials and biofuels Photocatalytic systems for environmental remediation and pollutant degradation Biobased nanocomposites for water treatment applications Green synthesis of nanoparticles and smart materials Sustainable chemical processes at ambient conditions His recent publications demonstrate strong trends in developing lignin-derived nanoarchitectures for environmental applications, with particular focus on synergistic adsorption-photocatalysis systems. Research frequently incorporates waste valorization (rice husk silica, kraft lignin) and emphasizes circular economy principles through recyclable catalysts and biomass conversion.
Vittorio Scardaci is a Lecturer in Physical Chemistry at the Department of Chemistry, University of Catania. With a PhD in Engineering from the University of Cambridge (2009), his career spans academic research and industrial R&D at Hewlett-Packard Ireland (2008-2013) before returning to academia in 2018. His work focuses on carbon nanomaterials , plasmonic nanoparticles , and photonic composites , with over 50 peer-reviewed publications (h-index 27) and 2 patents. His recent research includes graphene oxide reduction , metallic nanowire networks , and ultrafast laser applications . Publications highlight plasmonic sensing , nanoparticle aggregation , and photonic device integration of nanomaterials. He is co-inventor of transparent conductive films and optical saturable absorbers . Scardaci's work intersects material synthesis , optical characterization , and applied device fabrication . He collaborates with international institutions and contributes to projects in nanostructured materials for sensors and photonic systems . His expertise spans chemical processing , nanotube-polymer composites , and laser-materials interaction .
Achille GIACOMETTI is a Full Professor at Ca' Foscari University of Venice, affiliated with the Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems and the European Center for Living Technology (ECLT) , where he serves as Director. His research focuses on theoretical physics, soft matter, and biophysics, with a strong emphasis on polymer physics, protein structures, and self-assembly processes. Key roles include leadership at ECLT, a multidisciplinary research center exploring living technology and complex systems. His work bridges physics and biology, addressing topics like phase transitions in colloids, solvent effects on polymers, and computational modeling of protein interactions. Recent projects include studies on crystalline order in charged rods, embodied intelligence in soft materials, and solvent-driven oligomer folding. Publications highlight contributions to understanding polymeric systems, phase behavior, and nanoscale self-assembly. Collaborative efforts span international partners, reflecting his commitment to interdisciplinary research. No awards explicitly listed, but his extensive publication record underscores academic impact.
