Departments
Agrochemistry, Environmental Microbiology and Soil and Water Protection
Description
The research activity of the Department of Agrochemistry, Environmental Microbiology and Protection of the Soil and Water focuses on the study of the dynamics of substances of agrochemical interest, with particular emphasis on pesticides, both synthetic and natural (biopesticides), potentially toxic elements, and organic pollutants (persistent and emerging) in the soil-water system; and Environmental Microbiology in diverse environments, such as air, water, soil, and subsurface, including underground environments (caves, mines, catacombs, and tombs) and built environments (monuments, museums, homes, kindergartens, schools, and hospitals). Research also focuses on the design and testing of appropriate materials and techniques to achieve sustainable soil use, designing efficient technologies for water purification from different sources, taxonomy and description of new genera and species of microorganisms, their involvement in the biogeochemical cycle of elements and their impact on health, as well as the search for bioactive compounds of interest.
These studies aim to gain knowledge of the chemical, physical, and biological processes occurring in the soil-water system, both at the laboratory level and in situ experiments. Furthermore, the Department’s activity aims to assist both the private and public sectors in pesticide management for a more complete and rational use of soils and waters. The Department’s research also has significant environmental applications, such as the development of new materials and techniques to reduce and prevent the environmental impact of contaminants reaching both soils and waters, including microbiological treatments for their bioremediation. In general, the focus is on the possible restoration or recovery of damaged systems and on diagnosing and overcoming threats to the conservation of Cultural Heritage, including monuments, cave paintings, and other heritage elements.