My research focuses on coastal and marine ecology, with an emphasis on field experimentation and coupled human-natural systems. I work in a highly multidisciplinary context, addressing the consequences of multiple anthropogenic impacts - emphasizing coastal urbanization, habitat loss, enhanced loads of sediments and nutrients, microplastics and climate change - finalized to the sustainable management, conservation and restoration of coastal and marine ecosystems. I am particularly interested in human-induced seascape use and cover change, due to the recognition that the transformation of seascapes is the greatest driver of biodiversity loss. In this context, I apply ecological knowledge to design conservation and restoration strategies in increasingly urbanized marine systems. I work in a variety of marine coastal environments, including rocky shores, submarine caves, marine urban habitats, artificial coastal and offshore structures, shallow sedimentary environments and salt marshes. I also have a strong background in the design and analysis of ecological experiments and monitoring programs. My current research interests are very cross-disciplinary and focus on:
• Marine urban ecology, emphasis on tools, strategies and guidelines to mitigate the environmental effects of coastal urbanization - including biodiversity loss, the spread of alien species and the growing impacts of microplastics
• Ecosystem based design of sustainable shoreline protection strategies, ports and waterfronts, and offshore platforms, and applications for nature-based solutions
• Conservation and restoration of marine ecosystems - focus on predicting changes in biodiversity, ecosystem functions and services as a consequence of multiple stressors, and on developing knowledge and guidelines for their continuation and/or rehabilitation

The theses are written in English, working in an international context. Some of the topics proposed are:
Analysis of the structure and functioning of restored saltmarshes and other vegetated habitats
Experimental tests of restoration techniques in coastal lagoons
Development of bioinspired and biomimetic materials, surfaces and approaches for marine restoration
Monitoring of marine ecosystem services in coastal lagoons
Distribution of native and invasive species of Spartina in North Adriatic lagoons