The Third Mission of the Department consists of enhancing the transfer of results and skills gained in teaching and university research activities into useful and necessary knowledge for the world of production, professions, public administrations, or for civil and social purposes.

Thanks to the multiple and cross-cutting skills of professors, researchers, and technical staff, the Department develops numerous services and collaboration activities with public and private institutions, businesses, and professionals that collectively represent the socio-economic context of reference.

Also active as a service center, the Department of Environmental and Earth Sciences offers analytical, measurement, and characterization services to companies and individuals (third-party activities). Other activities that the Department carries out in this context include commissioned research and consulting services. Additionally, the Department has filed several patents and launched some spin-offs.

Equally important is the department's activity in the so-called Public Engagement, which involves ongoing training for businesses, administrations, schools, and scientific dissemination in society through participation in scientific festivals, television and radio broadcasts, and public outreach activities.

Email: c.eck@campus.unimib.it  

Thesis Title: The Maritime Spaces in a Globalized World: Economics and Environment  

Tutor: Giulio Mellinato  

Short Description:  

My research focuses on the intersection of ecology and social sciences, especially the role people play in the social-ecological systems of coastlines and marine areas. I’m particularly interested in the management of marine resources and marine protected areas. Besides research, I have a deep passion for music.

Email: m.facchinelli@campus.unimib.it  

Thesis Title: Extraction of Natural Polymers and Chemicals from Marine Sources  

Tutor: Athanassia Athanassiou  

Short Description:  

I studied Marine Sciences at the University of MilanoBicocca and have a strong interest in corals, particularly coral diseases and zooxanthellae cultures. My passion has taken me around the world, from the Maldives to Hawaii, where I completed my master’s thesis. I am currently developing biodegradable materials for underwater delivery systems in the Smart Materials group at the Italian Institute of Technology in Genova. My favorite hobby is scuba diving.

Email: e.gabrielli1@campus.unimib.it  

Thesis Title: Restoration of Native Oyster Beds (Ostrea edulis) in the Gulf of La Spezia  

Tutor: Davide Seveso  

Short Description:  

I'm a marine biologist with a bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Florence and a master's degree in Marine Sciences from the University of Milano-Bicocca. I am currently working on my PhD in collaboration with the ENEA Research Centre and the University of Milano-Bicocca. I am studying the physiological and morphological responses of native oysters in the Gulf of La Spezia in order to help them recover and restore their habitat. Some of my non-academic interests include fantasy novels, Japanese manga, cinema, travelling and scuba diving.

Email: f.hemmateenejad@campus.unimib.it   

Thesis Title: The Application of 3D Photogrammetry and Geospatial Modelling Techniques for ColdSeeps Habitat Classification in the Arctic Ocean  

Tutor: Alessandra Savini  

Short Description:  

I am a marine geologist with a BSc in Geology from Shiraz University (Iran) and an MSc in Marine Sciences from the University of Milano Bicocca. I have developed expertise in ROV video analysis through various research fellowships. My PhD focuses on using advanced technology to classify Arctic Ocean cold seep habitats. I’m passionate about understanding marine environments through geospatial and video data analysis.

Email: l.marino27@campus.unimib.it  

Thesis Title: Geospatial Modeling for Evaluating Restoration Suitability of Marine Ecosystems of the Mediterranean Seas and Tropical Regions  

Tutor: Alessandra Savini  

Short Description:  

I’m Luca, a PhD student in the Marine Science, Technology, and Management program. With a Bachelor’s in Natural Sciences and a Master’s in Marine Sciences from the University of Milano Bicocca, my PhD research focuses on geospatial modeling and object-based image analysis for marine restoration projects. In my free time I enjoy playing my guitar and going for free diving and scuba diving whenever I get the chance!

Email: r.nicolai1@campus.unimib.it  

Thesis Title: Investigating the Molecular Diversity and Chemical Adaptations of MangroveAssociated Algae from the Republic of the Maldives  

Tutor: Paolo Galli  

Short Description:  

With a Master’s in Ecology from Victoria University of Wellington (New Zealand), I have worked in the field of algal cultivation for commercial purposes. My PhD focuses on the molecular diversity and physiological adaptations of benthic algae in Maldivian mangroves, particularly those related to osmolytes and UV protecting molecules. My work has potential commercial applications.

Email: g.senna@campus.unimib.it  

Thesis Title: IdentiFISH: Tools for Characterization of Mangrove Fish Communities  

Tutor: Davide Seveso  

Short Description:  

I am a marine biologist who graduated from the University of Groningen, Netherlands. Previously, I worked on metabolomics of freshwater fish and the physiology of sea slugs. My PhD focuses on using new DNA technologies for extracting and sequencing eDNA from water samples in tropical mangrove habitats.

Email: g.sinesi@campus.unimib.it  

Thesis Title: Synthesis of New Materials for Sustainable Cosmetics  

Tutor: Miriam Colombo  

Short Description:  

I hold a Master’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Insubria. My PhD research involves developing sustainable materials for cosmetics. Outside of my academic life, I’m passionate about makeup, reading, sports (including running, gym, and freediving), and volunteering with Apwoyo ONLUS and Amnesty International.

Email: d.yesuraj@campus.unimib.it  

Thesis Title: Exploring the Cosmeceutical Potential of Native Seaweeds from the Arabian Gulf: Formulation and Evaluation of Seaweed Extracts in Skincare Products  

Tutor: Paolo Galli  

Short Description:  

I’m Daina Yesuraj, a lecturer at the University of Dubai with a Master’s in Biology and a Post Graduate Diploma in Bioinformatics. My expertise lies in seaweed technology and molecular biology, which I integrate into my teaching and research. I enjoy singing, dancing, and taking care of pets in my free time.

Email: a.becchi1@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: Towards Marine Sustainability in Luxury Packaging and Textiles: Insights into Polymer Photodegradation by Advanced Mass Spectrometry Techniques

Tutor: Marina Lasagni

Short Description:

I graduated with a Master’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Milano-Bicocca. My research focuses on the sustainability of luxury packaging using advanced mass spectrometry techniques to study polymer photodegradation. In my free time, I enjoy sports, photography, and travel to explore new cultures and nature.

Email: c.bises@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: Effects of Coral Diseases on the Performance of Large-Scale Coral Restoration Projects

Tutor: Simone Montano

Short Description:

After earning my bachelor’s degree in Biology, I discovered a deep passion for marine life and a true love for corals, the foundation of one of the most amazing ecosystems. To further this passion, I earned my MSc from the University of Milano-Bicocca and began pursuing a PhD in Marine Sciences, Technologies, and Management. My research focuses on studying coral diseases in the Maldives, with a particular emphasis on coral tumors.

All my passion for underwater life wouldn’t be the same without scuba diving. As a dive guide, I strive to help people discover their own connection to the ocean, just as I have found mine.

Email: c.canella@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: The Legal Basis for Representative Networks of Marine Protected Areas and the Implementation of Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures in the Maldives and the Wider Indian Ocean Region

Tutor: Ilaria Tani

Short Description:

As a graduate in Marine Sciences with expertise in International Law of the Sea and marine policies, complemented by a Bachelor’s in Environmental Sciences, I am well-prepared to address multidisciplinary challenges. My diverse background cultivates critical thinking and fuels my passion for exploring innovative marine conservation, sustainable exploitation of natural resources, and climate-smart measures. I enjoy deepening my knowledge of Indigenous Traditions, foraging for wild berries and herbs in the forest, and practicing Vinyasa and Ashtanga yoga.

Email: f.cerri@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: Ocean Bioprospecting: Exploring the Pharmaceutical Potential of Tropical Marine Organisms

Tutor: Paolo Galli

Short Description:

I obtained my Master’s degree in Biology at the University of Milano-Bicocca. Starting with my thesis project, I worked in the field of marine bioprospecting, which is now my research field. My PhD project focuses on the bioprospecting of mangroves, assessing their phytochemistry and potential therapeutic uses, with the aim of finding new promising drug candidates from these natural sources. Moreover, my research studies the mangrove ecosystems in the Maldives, assessing the habitats and identifying the species.

I enjoy doing research, working in the field, teaching, and supervising students. These are the reasons I started the PhD programme in Marine Sciences, Technology, and Management. The subject of my work, mangroves, allows me to enjoy my two passions: plants and the sea!

Email: g.corigliano2@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: Bioinspired robots for marine biodiversity

Tutor: Athanassia Athanassiou

Short Description:

I graduated in Biomedical Engineering at the Politecnico di Milano University and I’m currently a PhD student at the University of Milan-Bicocca and the Italian Institute of Technology in Marine Sciences. I am working on intelligent materials for coral restoration and soft underwater robotics.

In my free time I enjoy being outdoors and doing sports.

Email: b.desantes@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: Search of Natural Alternatives for the Development of Solid and Semisolid Cosmetic Formulations

Tutor: Miriam Colombo

Short Description:

I graduated in Biology in the University of Milano-Bicocca. I have expertise in drug-delivery nanoformulations and I am currently a PhD student in a sustainable cosmetics project funded by the European Union (MUSA), focused on researching new natural molecules and developing solid and semisolid formulations.

Email: a.delgreco1@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: Making Luxury Sustainable: An Exploration of Consumers’ Needs, Perceptions and Behaviours

Tutor: Maria Grazia Strepparava

Short Description:

I am a psychologist with a specialization in sustainability. I am particularly interested in behavioral economics, nudges, and communication. Currently, I am a PhD student at the University of Milano-Bicocca. My research is mainly about luxury and consumer behavior, with the specific aim of exploring how to make sustainable luxury products accepted and valued by consumers.

My other interests include human-animal interactions and veterinarians’ well-being.

Email: m.fanto1@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: Invasive Alien Species from a Sociocultural Perspective: Ethnographic Research on Human-Animal Interactions in the Mediterranean Area

Tutor: Marcella Schmidt di Friedberg

Short Description:

I graduated in Anthropological and Ethnological Sciences (MA) at the University of Milano-Bicocca, after completing a BA in Intercultural Communication (with a focus on Arabic cultures and language) at the same university. My main research interests are human-animal studies and ethnographic methods. I also investigate thanatopolitics in relation to animal species eradication projects, biological invasions, and companion animals. My ethnographic and historical research explores the cultural, social, and political implications of the spread of an alien invasive marine species in the Kerkennah Islands, Tunisia.

Email: g.ferrari63@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: Effects of Plastic Pollution on Sea Microfauna and Corals

Tutor: Athanassia Athanassiou

Short Description:

I have a bachelor’s degree in Biological Science and a master’s degree in Marine Sciences, both obtained at the University of Milano-Bicocca. I did my master thesis about coral diseases at Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean.

Email: a.madaschi1@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: Merging Thermal and Chemical Preconditioning as a Possible Technique to Enhance Coral’s Thermal Tolerance Against Coral Bleaching

Tutor: Davide Seveso

Short Description:

I have a Master’s in Marine Science and a Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences from the University of Milano-Bicocca. My research focuses on the cellular response of corals to coral bleaching and investigates preconditioning as a potential bleaching mitigation technique in tropical stony corals, in collaboration with the MaRHE research center and Acquario di Genova. In my free time, I enjoy rolling for initiative.

Email: a.mazumdar@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: Ecological assessment of mangrove stands in al-zorah protected area United Arab Emirates

Tutor: Marina Lasagni

Short Description:

I am a PhD student working on the ecological assessment of mangrove stands in the Al Zorah protected area, UAE. I obtained my MSc in Marine Science from UNIMIB. I am particularly interested in ocean chemistry and am currently working on analyzing pigments, metabolites, and other bio-volatiles within marine organisms such as mangroves, algae, and coral. I use advanced chemistry techniques like GC-MS and HPLC. My main hobby is music, and I enjoy playing the guitar.

Email: c.rinaldi6@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: Advanced Sustainable Materials to Protect and Heal Reefs from Coral Bleaching Events

Tutor: Despina Fraguli

Short Description:

After earning my bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, I continued my studies in Marine Sciences, conducting my thesis research in Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean. I am now working at the Italian Institute of Technology on the project Advanced Sustainable Materials to Protect and Heal Reefs from Coral Bleaching Events. Sporty and passionate about communication, I divide my life between the laboratory, aerial silk, climbing, and scientific dissemination.

Email: a.rota58@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: Using Marine Environmental DNA for Biodiversity Monitoring and Conservation Planning

Tutor: Andrea Galimberti

Short Description:

After graduating in Experimental and Applied Biology at the University of Pavia, where my interest in genetics first started, I decided to specialize in molecular ecology. My current research focuses on studying marine megafauna using non-invasive molecular tools for conservation purposes. During my academic formation, the many experiences abroad were pivotal in developing a multidisciplinary mindset and approach for smarter conservation-headed research.

Outside the lab, I enjoy diving, surfing, hiking, and climbing.

Email: federica.siena@unimib.it

Thesis Title: Outreach and Citizen Science for Marine Conservation and Restoration

Tutor: Simone Montano

Short Description:

As a PhD student in the Marine Sciences, Technologies, and Management course at the University of Milano-Bicocca, I am deeply interested in collaborating with citizens to protect and restore marine ecosystems. My primary focus is on using ocean literacy and citizen science as tools to promote positive conservation behaviors and restoration practices across oceans and communities. I am currently working on two incredible projects: Map the Giants and Playing with Corals. The first project aims to locate, study, and protect the largest and oldest coral colonies on the planet, while the second uses football as a tool to engage with young Maldivians and foster marine conservation principles.

I earned my MSc from the University of Milano-Bicocca after spending several years in the tourism industry, working on dissemination, corporate social responsibility, and sustainability. I am also a passionate diver and diving instructor, dedicating as much time as possible to teaching and engaging with people about ocean creatures, particularly my beloved corals.

Email: f.spena2@campus.unimib.it

Thesis Title: Search for Novel Sustainable Materials from Marine Sources for Replacing Synthetic Substances in Cosmetics

Tutor: Miriam Colombo

Short Description:

Graduated in Biology at the University of Milano-Bicocca, currently a second-year PhD student in Marine Sciences, Technologies, and Management. My research focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and cytotoxic evaluation of polymeric nanoparticles, extraction of molecules from plant sources, and the synthesis and characterization of green microparticles for cosmetic use. I am also developing sustainable formulations for cosmetic products, such as creams and lotions. 

Membri interni

GALIMBERTI Andrea, University of Milano-Bicocca

GALLI Paolo, University of Milano-Bicocca

LASAGNI Marina, University of Milano-Bicocca

MELLINATO Giulio, University of Milano-Bicocca

MONTANO Simone, University of Milano-Bicocca

SAVINI Alessandra, University of Milano-Bicocca

SCHMIDT MULLER DI FRIEDBERG Marcella, University of Milano-Bicocca

SEVESO Davide, University of Milano-Bicocca

STREPPARAVA Maria Grazia, University of Milano-Bicocca

TANI Ilaria, University of Milano-Bicocca

Membri esterni

ATHANASIOU Athanassia, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT  

BALDACCHINO Godfrey, Università ta' Malta (Malta)

CIRRINCIONE Maurizio, University of the South Pacific (Fiji)

FRAGOULI Despoina, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia – IIT

SPEICH Sabrina,  Ecole Normale Supérieure (Francia)

STRONA Giovanni, University of Helsinki (Finlandia)

The Doctorate course in Marine Sciences, Technology and Management focuses on a wide range of interdisciplinary topics, all aimed at advancing knowledge in the broad field of marine sciences and the management of marine-related projects. The research topics currently being investigated by our PhD students encompass:

• Marine Conservation and Sustainability: Research on marine protected areas, sustainable exploitation of natural resources, and the restoration of ecosystems such as coral reefs and oyster beds. This line of research includes the use of advanced materials, ecological and biotechnological approaches for conservation, and cutting-edge techniques like DNA sequencing for biodiversity monitoring.
• Coral Health and Restoration: Several projects focus on coral resilience, restoration techniques, and the impact of diseases and climate change on coral ecosystems. From exploring preconditioning techniques to enhance coral thermal tolerance to studying coral diseases and coral bleaching mitigation strategies, these projects aim to advance our knowledge with the final aim of safeguarding coral reef ecosystems.
• Marine Geomodelling and Habitat Mapping: The PhD students working on this research line, related to the field of marine geology, use state of the art technologies and techniques to model and characterize the seafloor from geomorphological, ecological and sedimentological perspectives. The product of such research have the potential to aid marine spatial planning and management for several purposes like geo-hazard, climate change, marine protected areas and restoration projects.
• Marine Bioprospecting and Cosmeceutical Development: This line investigates the potential of organisms proper of the marine environment, such as mangroves and algae, for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. PhD students explore the bioactive compounds produced by marine species, aiming to discover sustainable alternatives to synthetic materials and to develop new therapeutic and cosmetic products.
• Sustainable Luxury and Consumer Behavior: Research in this field examines how to integrate sustainability into luxury goods, focusing on consumer perceptions, behavior, and acceptance of eco-friendly products. This includes an exploration of marine polymers for luxury packaging and textiles.
• Human-Animal and Sociocultural Interactions: PhD students involved in ethnographic research investigate the sociocultural dimensions of invasive species management, as well as the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems and wildlife.
• Advanced Materials for Marine Applications: PhD students are developing sustainable materials for applications such as underwater robotics, reef protection, and cosmetics. This includes exploring biodegradable materials and intelligent polymers that can support marine restoration efforts.

The Call for Applications, the Online application guide, and the FAQs on how to take the admission test are available at the links below. Please read the Call for Applications, the Description sheets for each PhD program, the list of Project-based scholarships, the Online application guide, and the FAQs carefully.

Here are some additional suggestions relevant to your application.

Selection procedure 

The selection procedure consists of two phases: 

1. Assessment of qualifications, research project, and publications.
2. oral test (videoconference)

Assessment of qualifications

Qualifications are assessed by the Selection Board before the oral examination. To access the oral examination no minimum score in the assessment of qualifications is requested. The Selection Board will evaluate:

1) Grade of bachelor’s degree: max 3 points 

2) Grade of master's degree (second cycle): max 7 points 

2bis) Grade of old system degree or single-cycle second level degree: max 10 points

3) Publications in extenso (already published or accepted by the publishers) and conference papers, of the last two years: max 4 points

4) Participations in post-degree masters, training courses, advanced courses, specialization schools, or any other second degrees: max 2 points

5) Certification of joint research and analysis max 2 points

6) Certification of training periods and/or research periods abroad of at least two months: max 2 points 

The Selection Board reserves the right to evaluate periods of less than 2 months if such for early return due to documented force majeure limited to COVID-19'. 

For those students who have not obtained their degree yet, the score of points 2 or 2bis will be replaced with the assessment of the average mark of the examinations: 

- Students with master's Degree: max 7 points

- Students of old system degree (obtained under the laws in force prior to Ministerial Decree no. 509/1999) or single-cycle second level degree: max 10 points

Research project: during the competition registration procedure, the candidate must upload, in addition to the titles, also a research project, in Italian or English. The research project must be consistent in terms of topics and disciplinary areas with the lines of research present in the PhD Program and with the proposals for the scholarships. It should be noted that the research project is the first hypothesis of the candidate, it will not necessarily coincide with the PhD research that will see the fundamental contribution provided by the comparison with the faculty and the host institution.

Proposal characteristics: length 8,000-10,000 characters (spaces included, bibliography excluded), consisting of the following parts: 

- Title, abstract (about 400 characters), theoretical background and state of the art, objectives/hypotheses or research questions, methodology, expected results.

- Bibliography. 

Candidates will need to show methodological rigor, expository clarity, argumentation, critical assessment, and deepening of problems.

Information about the oral examination

Oral test interview language: During the oral exam, knowledge of the English language will be assessed. The examination may be taken in Italian or English at the choice of the candidate. 

Oral exam: the oral exam involves a discussion of the research project proposed by the candidate and its relevance to the field of study identified by the doctorate.

Scholarship

The amount of the PhD scholarship is €16,243.00 per year, gross of social security contributions to be paid by the scholarship holder. The amount of the scholarship is increased by 50% for the period of stay abroad. The scholarship does not include any accommodation arrangements.

Students who are selected for the research project without the scholarship can apply for the “DSU: Diritto allo Studio”. For further information see the link below:

https://www.unimib.it/servizi/studenti-e-laureati/diritto-allo-studio-tasse-150-ore/benefici-diritto-allo-studio

Additional Information

For any questions on administrative and technical issues relating to registration for the call, please contact: dottorati@unimib.it 

For any questions on scientific issues, please contact the prospective supervisor, the Responsible for the chosen curriculum, or the Coordinator of the PhD Course.

IT: https://www.disat.unimib.it/it/didattica/dottorato-scienze-marine-tecnologie-e-gestione

EN: https://www.disat.unimib.it/en/study/phd-marine-sciences-technologies-and-management