PLENARY SPEAKER

Professor Federico M. Lauro is a marine microbiologist and environmental scientist whose work explores the critical role of microorganisms in sustaining ocean health. His career spans deep-sea exploration, advanced genomics and microbial ecology, bringing a systems-level perspective to marine conservation.

Prof. Lauro earned his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Padua, Italy, and completed his PhD at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego. His research combines experimental and computational methods to investigate microbial evolution, adaptation and ecosystem dynamics, with a particular focus on deep-sea environments. More recently, he has studied microbially influenced corrosion and the role of microbial biofilms in the spread of microplastics.

He was awarded the Lowell Thomas Award by The Explorers Club in recognition of his contributions to marine science and environmental exploration.

Federico is also committed to public engagement and practical sustainability. He founded Indigo V Expeditions, a non-profit citizen science initiative, and co-founded Luminis Water Technologies, a startup improving aquaculture sustainability through microbiome innovation.