Project Objectives
This PhD project is carried out under a higher apprenticeship contract, within the framework of an agreement between the University of Milano-Bicocca and M3R – Monitoring and Management of Microbial Resources, a company specialized in the design of bioremediation strategies and biomolecular approaches for contaminated sites restoration. The research aims to develop innovative biological and molecular tools for the monitoring of contaminated groundwater, one of the most critical environmental issue due to the persistence of pollutants and the complexity of aquifer systems.
General description
The project is articulated in two main objectives:
- Sequencing-based quantification – Development of a method that combines Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) with DNA-based internal standard genes (ISGs) to achieve absolute quantification of microbial markers, providing a more accurate characterization of microbial communities relevant for bioremediation.
- DNA-based tracers – Design of synthetic DNA sequences encapsulated in silica particles to be used as safe, flexible, and sensitive tracers for groundwater flow and solute transport studies, supporting the optimization of remediation strategies.
By leveraging the synergy between the university and the private company, the project links methodological innovation with applied bioremediation, ensuring both scientific advancement and practical relevance for environmental sustainability.
Collaborators
M3R – Monitoring and Management of Microbial Resources https://www.m3r.it/
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