Magmatic and volcanic systems

Magmatism is the product of partial melting of mantle and crust, and it plays a fundamental role in shaping our planet and its atmosphere. The surface expression of this exchange of heat and matter between the solid Earth and the atmosphere is volcanism.
Throughout geological history, volcanoes have contributed extensively to the formation of new crust and to building our planet’s habitability, yet they paradoxically threatened it during massive episodes of anomalous volcanic production. Today, active volcanoes continue to play a key role in geological and climatic processes, while also posing a tangible challenge when located near populated areas, with significant risks to communities and infrastructure.
Our research explores the entire magmatic system — from magma generation and storage, from melt migration through the crust to volcanic eruptions and their products. We apply a wide range of analytical approaches, integrating petrology, geochronology, geochemistry, physical volcanology, and fieldwork. We focus on active volcanoes mainly in the Mediterranean area and South America, as well as on extinct volcanic systems worldwide.