Program Overview
Pharmaceutical Sciences and Bioactive Substances
The PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Bioactive Substances is based within the Department of Pharmacy at the University of Pisa. The programme focuses on developing a research project in the field of bioactive substances, with particular emphasis on identifying new molecules with potential therapeutic activity, developing diagnostic tools, and understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying diseases.
Coordinator
The coordinator of the PhD programme is Prof. Tiziano Tuccinardi.
Administrative Seat
The administrative seat of the PhD programme is the Department of Pharmacy.
Project Description
The PhD programme carries out pharmaceutical research across the entire development processfrom design, synthesis, development, and formulation to the evaluation of activity at the molecular and pharmacological level. The main areas of research include:
- Development of bioactive compounds through rational drug design and synthesis of new molecules or extraction of active compounds from natural products.
- Investigation of the biochemical, physiological, and pharmacological mechanisms underpinning the therapeutic or toxicological effects of these molecules in humans.
- Formulation studies of bioactive compounds.
- Assessment of the environmental impact of bioactive substances and their production processes.
Course Objectives
The primary objective of the PhD programme is to train new researchers in the field of pharmaceuticals and bioactive substances through a high-level educational pathway that combines teaching and research. The programme aims to establish collaborative networks with research institutions and academic bodies at both national and international levels.
Scientific-Disciplinary Areas
The PhD programme covers the following scientific-disciplinary areas:
- Biochemistry
- Applied Biology
- Pharmaceutical Biology
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- General and Inorganic Chemistry
- Organic Chemistry
- Pharmaceutical Technology
- Pharmacology
Research Approach
The PhD programme has a strong multidisciplinary approach, bringing together diverse and complementary areas of expertise. It integrates a wide range of disciplines and methodologies in a coherent and structured way, with reference to CUN areas 03 and 05 and specific ERC sectors (Life Sciences, Physical Sciences and Engineering).
Programme Structure
The PhD programme offers a range of high-level educational activities, including:
- Cycles of lectures, usually monographic in nature, delivered by lecturers from the department as well as by external lecturers and representatives from the professional sector.
- Seminars by highly qualified national and international lecturers.
- Participation in national and international schools for PhD students, as well as summer and winter schools.
- Organisation of thematic workshops.
Programme Goals
The specific objectives of the PhD programme are:
- To design and implement innovative research programmes in the field of health.
- To provide the skills needed to carry out critical analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of ideas and processes, applicable in research institutions and in the national production system.
- To acquire new cross-disciplinary scientific competences aimed at sustainable development (in line with the 2030 Agenda goals).