From Nature to Sustainable Innovation: The Department of Chemical Sciences Launches the Blended Intensive Programme "Bioinspired Chemistry and Green Nanotechnologies"
The Department of Chemical Sciences (DSC) of the University of Catania is organizing the Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) "Bioinspired Chemistry and Green Nanotechnologies", which will take place from 1 to 25 September 2026 within the framework of the Erasmus+ Programme and the EUNICE – European University for Customised Education Alliance. The programme will bring together undergraduate and master's students, PhD candidates, and early-career researchers from EUNICE partner universities to explore bioinspired chemistry and sustainable nanotechnologies through online learning activities and an international Summer School.
The BIP offers an international learning experience combining online teaching with an International Summer School, scheduled for 7–11 September 2026 at the Scuola Superiore di Catania, University of Catania. The initiative promotes interdisciplinary exchange, advanced training, and international scientific collaboration, encouraging the sharing of knowledge and expertise among students, researchers, and academics from across Europe.
The programme provides an interdisciplinary approach to bioinspired chemistry, advanced materials, and green nanotechnologies, exploring how nature inspires the design of sustainable, intelligent, and multifunctional materials. From self-cleaning surfaces inspired by lotus leaves to biomimetic adhesives based on gecko feet and composite materials reproducing the architecture of nacre, biomimetics has become one of the most innovative research frontiers in chemistry, materials science, and nanotechnology. The growing relevance of these topics is also highlighted in a recent article published by Corriere della Sera – Pianeta 2030 (read the article), which illustrates how nature's mechanisms are inspiring the development of the materials of the future and new strategies for sustainable chemistry.
During the on-site week, participants will attend lectures, scientific seminars, laboratory activities, group work, and international networking events, interacting with experts in chemistry, nanotechnology, biomaterials, and sustainability. The programme aims to foster a multidisciplinary approach to the design of innovative materials for applications in healthcare, energy, environmental protection, and the circular economy, while strengthening the international dimension of education and research promoted by the Department of Chemical Sciences.
Key Information
- Event: Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) "Bioinspired Chemistry and Green Nanotechnologies"
- Period: 1–25 September 2026
- Online activities: 1 and 25 September 2026
- On-site Summer School: 7–11 September 2026
- Venue: Scuola Superiore di Catania, University of Catania, Italy
- Organized by: Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Catania, within the framework of the Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) and the EUNICE European University Alliance
Scientific and Organizing Committee
- Prof. Giovanni Li Destri Nicosia
- Prof. Vera Muccilli
- Prof. Cristina Satriano
- Prof. Salvatore Scirè
Administrative Office
- Dr. Giuseppina Marino
- Dr. Adele Incarbone
Further Information
- Summer School Programme (coming soon)
- Travel Guide and Practical Information (coming soon)
- Corriere della Sera – Pianeta 2030
"Lotus Leaves, Gecko Feet and Nacre: The Ingredients of Bioinspired Chemistry Designing the Materials of the Future"
