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February- April 2027 |
8 hours |
1 CFU |
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Total of 8h (4 lectures of 2h each) - online webinar
Course Description Sometimes you just need to go with the flow. Over the course of the last decades, flow chemistry has emerged not only as a powerful reactor configuration, but also as a chemical escamotage to steer the reaction course. Therefore, the objective of this course is dual: firstly, delve into the chemical-physical and engineering fundamental of Flow chemistry, providing the attenders of a comprehensive set of information of the topic. Secondarily, the course will provide the attendees of an equally comprehensive practical example of application of Flow chemistry, namely: flow chemistry for sustainable and green chemistry, flow chemistry for pharmaceuticals and fine chemical production, photo-flow chemistry, and electro-flow chemistry.
Evaluation: The course attendees will be evaluated with a flash oral presentation related to one of the topics.
For further information please contact the lecturer: Dr. Francesco Brandi - francesco.brandi@cnr.it |
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June-July 2027 16 hours 2 CFU
Course Description
This course explores emerging concepts in epigenetics with a particular focus on the interplay between nutrition, epigenetic regulation, and human health. A central component of the course is the design and development of epigenetic modulators using pharmaceutical and medicinal chemistry approaches, aimed at targeting epigenetic mechanisms involved in human diseases. Special attention is given to the role of epigenetic dysregulation in rare diseases, cancer, retinal disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. In parallel, the course examines the epigenetic effects of food-derived bioactive compounds and dietary patterns in the prevention and progression of cardiovascular diseases. By integrating molecular biology, medicinal chemistry, translational medicine, and nutritional science, the course provides a multidisciplinary perspective on epigenetic modulation as both a therapeutic and preventive strategy.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
Understand the fundamental mechanisms of epigenetic regulation (DNA methylation, histone modifiations, non-coding RNAs).
Critically evaluate the role of epigenetic dysregulation in rare and complex human diseases.
Analyze the development and therapeutic potential of epigenetic modulators.
Discuss the epigenetic impact of specific dietary components on gene expression and disease risk.
Integrate epigenetic knowledge into personalized medicine and nutritional strategies.
Lecturer contact: gabriele.carullo@unisi.it
June-July 2027 8 hours 1 CFU
Course Description
The research and development of functional materials for efficient and stable solar energy conversion devices is essential for the transition to renewable energy. This process involves a multidisciplinary approach where molecular design, data-driven methods, synthesis, characterization, and device engineering must work together, implying the integration of several expertise. In this context, this course aims to introduce how computational chemistry and data-driven methods act as the third and fourth paradigms of material science research, respectively, alongside theory and experiments. In particular, it will highlight how state-of-the art Density Functional Theory (DFT) methods complemented by machine learning (ML) techniques enable the rational design of functional materials for solar energy conversion devices, accelerating the screening of large chemical spaces, providing structure-property relationships, and supporting the transition from trial-and-error procedures to predictive material design. To this end, this course will provide a basic understanding of photovoltaic technologies, with a focus on innovative photovoltaics, such as perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), where functional materials play a crucial role. Hence, it will illustrate case studies where DFT methods and ML effectively guided, and in some cases accelerated, the development of new functional materials for the aforementioned technologies.
To register for the course, please contact Dr. Carmen Coppola at carmen.coppola2@unisi.it
February 2027 8 hours 1 CFU
Module 1 (2-3 h)
- Introduction to Metabolomics
- Metabolomics workflow
- 1H NMR experiments: 1H NOESY; 1H CPMG; 1H diffusion-edited. 2D J-RES; 2D TOCSY
- Heteronuclear experiments 13C NMR: 13C-1H HSQC; 13C-1H HSQC-TOCSY
- Spectral processing
Module 2 (2-3 h)
- Metabolite assignment
- Spectral databases
- Fingerprinting and Profiling
- Pathway analysis
- Preanalytical SOPs
Module 3 (2-3 h)
- Application of metabolomics in drug discovery
- Examples of metabolic phenotyping in biofluids
- Examples of drug’s induced metabolic effects in cells
Lecturer contact: veronica.ghini@unifi.it
May 2027 8 hours 1CFU
Course Schedule: 4 remote sessions (2 hours each)
Course Description
The course aims to present the sustainability challenges associated with the materials used in the energy transition, starting from the definitions provided by the European Commission and the current geopolitical context. The topics will include the circularity of the resource market, with particular focus on the 3R approach (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), and the evaluation of process sustainability (LCA) from environmental, economic, and social perspectives.
The course will also address the specific issues related to the main critical materials used in lithium batteries, permanent magnets, and electrocatalysis—considered essential for enabling the energy transition—along with examples of how the 3R approach is applied in these three sectors.
As an assessment of the students’ understanding of the course topics, each student will select and discuss a case study based on an in-depth review of scientific and patent literature. Finally, participants will have the opportunity to join a guided tour of the CNR research laboratories where studies on lithium-battery recycling methods are carried out.
Keywords: Circular Economy, Critical Materials, Energy Transition, LCA, Recycling
Learning Objectives
•Understand the concept of critical materials and their strategic relevance.
•Analyze supply chains, geopolitical risks, and international policies.
•Deepen knowledge of the properties, applications, and extraction/recycling technologies.
•Evaluate environmental impacts and sustainability strategies.
•Encourage research and innovation in the sector.
Lecturer contact: andrea.marchionni@iccom.cnr.it
April-May 2027 8 hours 1 CFU
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Keywords: hydrogen, energy carrier, electrolyzers, biomass, fuel cells, nanomaterials, electrochemistry.
Abstract: The course provides a comprehensive overview of the central role of hydrogen as an energy carrier in the transition toward low-carbon energy systems. After an introduction to the advantages related to hydrogen’s properties, the main production methods, applications, and associated technological challenges, the course will focus on green hydrogen. The most sustainable technologies for its production and conversion will be presented, including water electrolysis, electrochemical conversion of biomass, and energy production through fuel cells. Particular attention will be devoted to nanostructured materials used as electrocatalysts in electrochemical devices for hydrogen production and utilization. The course will conclude with an in-depth discussion of electrochemical, morphological, and structural characterization techniques, which are essential for correlating material properties with the performance and durability of hydrogen systems. The program includes structured brainstorming sessions based on scientific literature and the possibility of a visit to the research laboratories of the CNR in Florence.
Course Structure: The 8-hour course will be held online and will be organized into four main topics (1–4). To pass the course, attendance of at least 6 out of 8 hours is required.
1. General introduction to hydrogen a. Properties, advantages, and limitations b. Classification of hydrogen (gray, blue, green, etc.) c. Main applications d. Key technological challenges 2. Sustainable production of green hydrogen: electrolysis and electroreforming a. Alkaline water electrolysis b. Hydrogen production from biomass via electroreforming c. Simultaneous production of biomass-derived chemical compounds 3. Energy production using hydrogen fuel cells a. Operating principles and types of devices b. Performance, durability, and technological challenges 4. Advanced analysis of materials for hydrogen technologies a. Materials used as electrocatalysts: state of the art and future challenges b. Structure–property–electrochemical performance correlations c. Electrochemical characterization techniques d. Morphological and structural characterization techniques
Lecturer contact: mpagliaro@iccom.cnr.it |
May 2027 8 hours 1 CFU
Program and contents:
Lesson 1. Absorption and Emission Spectroscopy: Theory, Instrumentation, and Applications
Lesson 2. IR Spectroscopy: Theory, Instrumentation, and Applications
Lesson 3. Mass Spectrometry: Theory, Instrumentation, and Applications
Lesson 4. NMR Spectroscopy: Theory, Instrumentation, and Applications
Lecturer contact: marco.paolino@unisi.it
March-May 2027 8 hours 1 CFU
The course explores the application of different polymeric matrices and metal organic nano particles for the application in the biomedical field and as drug delivery systems. The course provides the background for these types of systems, the different types of production and uses, systematic synthesis according to the statistical experimental design approach, the characterization according to the type of systems and final application.
For further information please write to simone.pepi@unisi.it
April 2027 8 hours 1CFU
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Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, ESKAPE pathogens, Quorum sensing, virulence factors, Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Course description: The course provides a general overview of antimicrobial resistance mechanisms, multidrug-resistant pathogens, and novel therapeutic approaches. Particular attention is given to the exploration of innovative strategies to overcome the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance. This critical issue, representing the central theme of the course, is discussed through the analysis of different emerging approaches and the science behind the next-generation antimicrobials, with a special emphasis on antibacterial agents. Special focus is placed on the “Trojan Horse” strategy, involving the use of the trojan horse principle to sneak antibiotics into bacteria, bypassing their defense systems. A further central topic is the disruption of bacterial Quorum Sensing, a complex type of cell-to-cell communication system, thus reducing the selective pressure for antibiotic resistance. A key section of the program is dedicated to the design and synthesis of novel chemical entities to target infectious diseases, also considering the development of drug candidates with multitargeting properties, as a promising strategy in combating antimicrobial resistance. To this end, several case-studies are shown and discussed.
Learning objectives: Understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance. Analysis and evaluation of the therapeutic impact of innovative strategies. In-depth knowledge of antivirulence compounds.
Lecturer contact: valeria.tudino@unisi.it |
October-December 2026 16 hours 2 CFU
Abstract
This course provides an advanced exploration of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) as a cornerstone technique in chemical and biological research. Designed for researchers moving from basic to advanced structural analysis, the curriculum bridges the gap between small molecule characterization and the study of complex macromolecular interactions. Participants will master the interpretation of 1D ( 1 H, 13 C) and 2D (COSY, TOCSY, HSQC) spectra, with a specific focus on stereochemical assignment via NOESY/ROESY experiments. A significant portion of the course is dedicated to Ligand-Based NMR (STD, DOSY), providing the tools to detect binding and map the interaction epitopes of small molecules within protein binding pockets. The course culminates in a hands-on laboratory session at the 600 MHz NMR spectrometer and PC workstations, where students will gain practical experience in parameter optimization, real-time data acquisition and processing for binding studies.
Course Schedule
Module 1 (4hrs) Advanced 1D & 2D NMR for structural assignment
Module 2 (3 hrs) Conformational analysis: NOE effect, J-J-couplings, and ROESY
Module 3 (4 hrs) Theory of Protein-Ligand binding: STD and DOSY
Module 4 (2 hrs) Hands-on Session: Small groups (2 students) at the 600 MHz magnet
Module 5 (3 hrs) TopSpin Processing of NMR data
Schedule and Enrollment
Preferred Period: The course is scheduled to take place between October and December 2026.
Flexible Scheduling: To accommodate the needs of all participants and ensure optimal access to the NMR facility, the specific dates and hours will be coordinated directly with the students.
How to Apply: Interested students should contact the professor directly via email. This will allow the group to define a shared calendar that fits the research and study commitments of all participants.
Lecturer contact: daniela.valensin@unisi.it
november 2026 - october 2027 24 hours 3 CFU
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Objective: Given the interdisciplinary and heterogeneous nature of the DOCTORATE PROGRAM IN CHEMICAL AND PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, this course/activity has been designed to develop the students' communication skills. The activity also aims to foster teamwork and bring the doctoral students together.
Description: During this activity, groups of students belonging to the same SSD or sharing similar expertise, will read and critically discuss recent scientific articles. Each group will present to the other students the information gathered on the specific topic of their interest. The activity aims to analyze the methodology, results, and impact of the research, improving the students’ presentation and critical thinking skills. The audience will be involved in active discussions on the presented topics fostering scientific exchange and collaborative learning.
Learning objectives:
For the coordination of these activities please contact: stefania.butini@unisi.it |