My research addresses the impacts of global warming and artificial light pollution—two major threats disrupting natural light and temperature cycles that marine ecosystems have relied on for millions of years. These disruptions alter biological rhythms in marine species, leading to physiological changes and shifts in their distribution. I have conducted comparative transcriptomic studies on Posidonia oceanica and Cymodocea nodosa to uncover differences in environmental adaptation and heat stress responses across populations along latitudinal gradients. Currently, my PhD project focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying circadian rhythms and photoperiodic responses in marine plants.

The circadian clock coordinates environmental signals with daily and seasonal metabolic processes, promoting synchronization that enhances genetic diversity and fitness. This regulatory system is crucial for enabling organisms to anticipate environmental changes and mount appropriate molecular and physiological responses. My work aims to unravel the transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of circadian clock genes and the metabolic pathways they govern. By integrating experimental and bioinformatic approaches, I seek to improve predictions on how marine plants will respond and adapt to future climate-driven changes.