Expert in benthic biology and ecology, both in coastal and deep environments. The research activities are focused on biodiversity distribution, relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, in relation to natural and anthropogenic pressures. Research activities fall within the scope of national and international projects dedicated to exploration (EU HERMES), anthropogenic impact analysis (EU HERMIONE, FIRB HI-BEF), repercussions on the Marine Strategy (EU DEVOTES and IDEM), protection and restoration of marine ecosystems (EU MERCES and AFRIMED).