Researcher

Tel: +39 095 6139951

e-mail CNR ISAFOM; e-mail CNR

Education

• Degree in Chemistry with a grade of 110/110 from the University of Messina
• PhD in 'Geological, Biological and Environmental Sciences' from the University of Catania
• Qualification as a chemist and registration with the Order of Chemists of the Province of Messina

Main research interests

• Chemical characterisation of plants typical of the Mediterranean environment for the constitution of clones with high health value and germplasm conservation;
• Development of preservation techniques, including the use of pectin-based edible films, for the production of IV gamma agri-food products in order to improve the shelf life;
• Chemical characterisation of citrus juices and creation of blends of bioactive molecules for use in formulations with immunostimulant activity;
• Search for molecules of nutraceutical interest in plants typical of the Mediterranean environment;
• Characterisation of biomass for the 'third generation biorefinery' and by-products that can also be used for animal feed;
• "Phytoremediation of soils contaminated with heavy metals and metalloids;
• Study of abiotic stresses to increase the synthesis of substances with antioxidant action;
• Analyses of Sicilian honeys produced by Apis mellifera sicula e ligustica and evaluation of the influence of botanical origin and bee genotype on the main honey quality parameters.

Laboratory activities

• Laboratory equipment used: UV/vis spectrophotometer, potentiometric stripping, GC/FID-ECD-FPD, GC/MS, HPLC-UV/vis, LC/MS, IC, HPAE/PAD, FAA/GFAA, ICP/MS, FT-IR.
• Extraction techniques used: Soxhlet, Randall, ASE, Microwave, Ultrasound.
• Main matrices analysed Water (potable, surface, groundwater, waste, industrial), food, soil, waste, plant material, drugs.
• Experience in the classification (EWC codes) and management of waste.
• Main chemical analyses carried out: carbohydrates, inorganic cations and anions, heavy metals, phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, pesticides, PAHs, PCBs, VOCs, drugs.

Research support activities

• He collaborated in the activities of 11 external research projects and 3 agreements with companies and universities.
• He assisted in the preparation, submission and management of research projects on national and international calls.
• He has carried out tutoring and academic services as co-rapporteur for experimental degree theses in collaboration with the University of Catania.
• He has served on the scientific and organisational committees of several conferences. 

Publications on the PEOPLE CNR platform
                                           

Curriculum vitae