Printable versionDetails about funded positions - 40th Cycle - Curriculum 4
(4A) Biotechnological Applications of Microalgae for Long-Duration Space Missions (CUP E66E24000210006)
Funding institution: University of Cagliari
Doctoral site: University of Cagliari
Contact: Prof. Giacomo Cao [giacomo.cao [at] unica.it]
Funds: NRRP, M4C1 Inv. 4.1, Public Administration scholarships
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: compulsory, minimum 6 months
The project, which is aligned with the PNRR objectives for ecological transition and technological innovation technology, aims to develop innovative microalgae-based technologies to support long-duration space missions. Microalgae used to produce oxygen, water and food, reduce dependence on terrestrial resources, thus meeting the PNRR guidelines for technological innovation and environmental sustainability. Furthermore, the use of microalgae for the synthesis of bioactive molecules and nanoparticles represents a significant advance in space biotechnology, with applications also in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and agro-industrial sectors. The project promotes multidisciplinary research multidisciplinary research and international cooperation, stimulating the excellence and competitiveness of Italian research. The development of sustainable technologies for space exploration contributes to the advancement of the space economy, in line with the PNRR objectives for high-value-added and technologically advanced sector.
The training will be oriented towards acquiring advanced and specialised skills in line with the needs of contemporary scientific and technological research. The program will include advanced courses in research methodology, thematic seminars, and experimental laboratory activities. Students will participate in interdisciplinary research projects, collaborating with academic institutions, research centres, and industrial partners at both national and international levels. The objective is to develop analytical and critical skills, promoting the publication of scientific articles and the presentation of results at international conferences. The training program will also include transversal activities such as communication skills, project management, and professional development, preparing doctoral students for careers in both academia and industry, and ensuring comprehensive and multifunctional preparation in line with the expectations of the international scientific community.
(4B) Molecular modifications induced by altered gravity in epithelial barrier integrity and evaluation of innovative countermeasures to mitigate its dysfunction (CUP E66E24000200005)
Funding institution: University of Pisa
Doctoral site: University of Pisa
Contact: Prof. Enrica Laura Santarcangelo [enrica.santarcangelo [at] unipi.it]
Funds: NRRP, M4C1 inv. 4.1, NRRP research
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
Analysis of the effects of altered gravity on the integrity of the epithelial barrier: study of the vitamin D/VDR pathway in the presence and absence of natural antioxidants and nanoparticles.
(4C) Human Life Science and Space Medicine - Physiological and biological bases of space adaptations: quantitative approaches
Funding institution: University of Rome Tor Vergata
Doctoral site: University of Rome Tor Vergata
Contact: Prof. Myrka Zago [myrka.zago [at] uniroma2.it]
Funds: Project Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
Future human space exploration programs represent extraordinary milestones for the sustainable development of our civilization, contributing to our social and economic well-being. However, these programs also pose significant challenges to human health. The main objective of the research is to study the physiological and biological bases of space adaptations, sensory deconditioning, and the internal model of gravity.
Understanding these aspects is crucial for developing effective countermeasures to protect astronauts' health during long-duration space missions. This research will provide insights into how the human body adapts to the microgravity environment of space and the implications for long-term human presence beyond Earth.
The PhD program in Space Sciences and Technology, offered by the University of Rome Tor Vergata, focuses on Human Life Science and Space Medicine. This program specifically addresses the physiological and biological bases of space adaptations, aiming to equip researchers with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle these complex challenges and contribute to the future of human space exploration.
(4D) Space Farming in microgravity (CUP E66E24000000001)
Funding institution: Thales Alenia Space Italia s.p.a.
Doctoral site: Thales Alenia Space Italia s.p.a. & University of Turin
Contact: Prof. Silvana Nicola [silvana.nicola [at] unito.it]
Funds: NRRP, M4C2 Inv. 3.3, Innovative PhDs
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: compulsory, minimum 6 months
The behavior of multiphase fluids in microgravity has significant implications for space farming (e.g. irrigation systems, plant growth and development, thermal control systems, life-support devices). The project pursues the development and validation of innovative models on the behavior of multiphase fluids in the various components necessary in a space greenhouse operating in microgravity. The additional technical-scientific skills developed will complement the typical engineering know-how of companies in the sector.
(4E) Astro-Pharmacology: the cure beyond Earth (and better on Earth)
Funding institution: University of Turin
Doctoral site: University of Turin
Contact: Prof. Silvia De Francia [silvia.defrancia [at] unito.it]
Funds: Own Funds
Mobility abroad: compulsory, minimum 6 months
Periods in companies/research centres/public administrations: optional
A journey into space can lead to various manifestations for the human body that deserve attention from a clinical-therapeutic point of view. From osteoporosis to diabetes, from nausea to loss of muscle mass, from blindness to heart problems. The immune system's defence collapses, possible drug resistance develops, and, due to microgravity, body fluids redistribute to the upper body with ocular oedema and difficulty breathing. The drugs used today in space missions are administered on the assumption that they act as they do on Earth. Nothing could be further from the truth. The alterations that the human body undergoes in orbit can modify the kinetics and dynamics of the substances administered, inducing a potential change in terms of efficacy and toxicity. The main objective of the project is, therefore, to evaluate in vitro the impact of spatial environmental stressors in relation to the kinetics of different drugs.