Sezione di Scienze Ambientali
Via Mattioli 4 – 53100 Siena
Email: letizia.marsili@unisi.it
Letizia MARSILI is a marine ecotoxicologist who, since 1988, has focused her research on the monitoring of at-risk species (cetaceans, pinnipeds, seabirds, sea turtles, elasmobranchs), developing non-destructive sampling techniques and cell cultures to assess the impact of environmental contaminants such as OCs, PAHs, and PFASs. Full Professor of Ecology, she leads the Magiamare-Siena research group and directs two laboratories. She is Coordinator of the PhD program in Environmental, Geological and Polar Sciences and Technologies, ASN Commissioner for Ecology, and Director of the Interuniversity Center for Cetacean Research (CIRCE). She serves as marine environment representative for the Tuscany Region under the NatNeT agreement. She is a member of several scientific and advisory boards (Maremma Regional Park, Tuscany Biodiversity Council, and Casa dei Pesci Talamone). She is the author of 143 peer-reviewed international publications and has a well-established record in science communication and citizen sciences.
1. Ecotoxicology and conservation of at-risk species – Study of the presence and effects of environmental contaminants (OCs, PAHs, PFAS, etc.) on at-risk species such as cetaceans, sea turtles, elasmobranchs, seabirds, and top-predator fish, using non-destructive sampling techniques.
2. Biodiversity and environmental quality in vulnerable ecosystems – Integrated monitoring of marine, riverine, coastal, and transitional environments (such as lagoons and estuaries), as well as geothermal and industrial areas, to assess environmental quality.
3. Sustainable fisheries, fishery resources, and circular production systems – Analysis of sustainable fishing practices, assessment of fish stocks and quality of fishery and aquaculture products. Development of integrated approaches for the sustainable management of fishery and agri-food resources in a circular economy perspective.
4. Alien species, ecological impacts, and biodiversity management in relation to climate change – Analysis of the effects of alien species on ecosystems and native communities, with a focus on climate change, management of sensitive habitats (e.g., Natura 2000 sites, protected areas), and evaluation of conservation policy effectiveness.
5. One Health, science communication, and citizen science – Integrated One Health approaches to explore the links between environmental contamination, ecosystem health, and human risk, with strong commitment to science communication and citizen science initiatives for biodiversity conservation.