Dr Osvaldo Zarivi works at the University of L'Aquila as a technician and researcher in genetics and environmental mutagenesis. His current research includes: cell detoxification systems in eukaryotes, technology for the production of carriers of drugs, and genetics applied to ascomycetes. His research fields also include: applications of atomic force microscopy (AFM) for the study of chromosomal instability in in vitro and in vivo systems; mutagenicity and genotoxicity of heavy metals; particulates and nanoparticles/nanomaterials; and DNA damages.