The research activity is focused on the following topics:
- morpho-functional characterization of hemocytes from marine invertebrates (in particular bivalves, crustaceans and sipunculids);
- in vitro and in vivo studies of the effects of emerging environmental contaminants (e.g. drugs and personal care products, nanoparticles, herbicides) in marine invertebrates;
- measurement of different biomarkers in bivalve molluscs and crustaceans for the biomonitoring of coastal marine environments;
- study of immunomodulation phenomena induced by different types of stressors (bacteria, anoxia, mechanical stress, temperature, salinity, pH, fasting) in bivalves and crustaceans.

The theses concern the research areas of Prof. V. Matozzo. For more details, contact him.