Hi and welcome! I am an Associate Professor of Petrology and Volcanology at the Department of Physics and Geology, University of Perugia (UNIPG). My research focuses on the petrological and geochemical characterization of volcanic products, emphasizing volcanic plumbing system dynamics and time scales of pre-eruptive events. To achieve this goal, I integrate classical petrological and geochemical techniques with computational and Machine Learning approaches. Since 2002, I have been deeply engaged in laboratory work, particularly in developing and leading the Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) facility at UNIPG. My overarching aim is to explore the potential of combining classical petrological methods and Artificial Intelligence techniques to support stakeholders and decision-makers in volcanic hazard assessment and risk mitigation. I also serve as an Associate Editor for American Mineralogist and Artificial Intelligence in Geosciences. I am a member of the Ph.D. board in Earth System and Global Changes, deputy for research in my department, and coordinator of the "Disaster and Complex Crises" Action at UNIPG. In 2021, I achieved the Italian National Habilitation for Full Professorship (I Fascia) from the Ministero dell'Università e della Ricerca (MUR). Over the past five years, I have published over 50 articles in high-ranking international journals, two books, and secured approximately 1 6 € milions in competitive research funding, either European and local. I am the proud coordinator of the MSCA REALISE Doctoral Network and REALI3SE Staff exchange projects. I have also been invited to speak at international conferences and leading academic institutions on topics such as Machine Learning in petrology and volcanology.
REALISE is a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network training 15 Doctoral Candidates to explore the potential of Artificial Intelligence in Igneous Petrology - read more about REALISE Doctoral Network
Are you an igneous petrologist with an ambitious research idea? We're inviting motivated researchers to explore hosting opportunities with our research group at the University of Perugia for a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowships.
We're looking for candidates with: A strong publication record and a well-defined project idea in quantitative petrology or AI applications volcanic systems
⚠️ Limited slots! We will support a maximum of 2 applications to ensure high-quality mentoring.
What we offer to support your MSCA PF 2026 application:
✅ Hands-on support in the proposal design & writing
✅ Structured internal review and iterative feedback
✅ Access to a broad international research network
✅ Integration within active MSCA Doctoral Network & Staff Exchange projects
Interested? Send your 1-page CV + 1-page concept note as soon as possible.