The Department of Earth, Environmental and Life Sciences - DISTAV - brings together professors and researchers in the areas of biology and geology who conduct research and education in a diverse set of fields of geological, biological and environmental sciences.

Our Vision

DISTAV's vision focuses on the synergy among teaching, research and public engagement activities, promoting an interdisciplinary approach to address current environmental challenges.The scientific and cultural project is aimed at developing basic and applied research programs, which integrate different disciplines on the following macro-themes: 

• monitoring, diagnostics, and management of natural, marine and terrestrial systems, and reconstruction of processes and evolutionary patterns that govern them;
• quantitative modeling of the chemical, physical and structural properties and of the endogenous and exogenous evolution of the Earth system;
• protection of biodiversity and maintenance of environmental and human health according to the 'One Health' approach;

in line with the Agenda 2030 sustainable development goals and the University's strategic vision (Strategic Plan 2021-2026 and Update 2022-2027). Part of the integrated activities of the department's three missions (Teaching, Research and Outreach) have long been focused on the marine environment, in line with territorial realities and in light of the consequences of ongoing global climate change.

The main objectives of DISTAV's vision are:

Innovation and Teaching Excellence: Through constant improvement of its educational offer, teaching programmes and teaching methodologies, and by integrating the latest scientific discoveries and the needs of the socio-economic context, DISTAV strives to provide students with a constantly updated and multidisciplinary preparation, from the first (three-year degrees) to the third level (PhD courses).

Sustainability and Well-being: through the connection of basic/applied research to crucial issues for sustainable development (such as reduction of anthropogenic impacts, protection of the territory and its diversity, resource management, energy transition), DISTAV aims at promoting individual and collective well-being, contributing to socio-cultural progress in harmony with environmental needs.

Collaboration with External Bodies: through synergies with local authorities, educational institutions and socio-economic actors in the area, DISTAV aims at amplifying the impact of teaching and research and contributing to social growth.

DISTAV is largely involved in the National Recovery and Resilience Plan - Next Generation Italy (PNRR) demonstrating its commitment to basic and applied research that addresses contemporary challenges. This participation underlines the department's role as a key player in territorial development initiatives, contributing to projects with a significant impact on local and national realities.

More information is reported in the ‘Departmental Planning’ document (attached below).