I am an environmental microbiologist investigating how microbial communities and plant-microbe interactions can be harnessed for the remediation and restoration of contaminated environments. My training bridge a BSc in Biology, an MSc in Molecular and Cellular Biology, and a PhD in Environmental Microbiology at the University of Cagliari. Research interests and expertise. - Bioremediation: isolation and characterization of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH)-degrading bacteria from port sediments. - Phytoremediation: assessment of plant-based strategies, including the use of bulking agents, for the treatment of polluted soils. - Microbial biotechnology: study of S-layer proteins and carotenoids from environmental prokaryotes, with a focus on their potential industrial applications. - Plant-microbe interactions: characterization of microbial communities associated with plants growing on mine tailings.