Accardo Margherita
“Experiment, explore, discover: science driven by passion.”
Contact: margherita.accardo@unibas.it
My doctoral project focuses on the development of innovative formulations through the valorization of olive sector waste, particularly Olea europaea leaves and pomace. The research integrates sustainability and pharmaceutical innovation from a circular economy perspective. The waste is rich in bioactive phenolic compounds, such as oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol. The goal is to obtain standardized extracts and integrate them into formulation systems capable of improving their stability, bioavailability, and efficacy.
The work is divided into several integrated phases: optimization of the extraction processes using a systematic approach based on experimental design; advanced chemical-analytical characterization for defining the phytochemical profile; evaluation of biological activity through in vitro assays; and development and characterization of innovative formulations.
The added value of the project lies in the integration of pharmaceutical technology, analytical chemistry, and industrial sustainability, with the aim of transforming an agro-industrial residue into a functional resource with high therapeutic value. The expected results contribute both to innovation in the formulation sector and to the reduction of the environmental impact of the olive supply chain.
My position is funded by the Ministry of Universities and Research under the PNRR, Ministerial Decree 630/2024, in collaboration with the company "Sveba srl" on the topic “Design, development and production, control of well-being and health products”
My motivations
I decided to undertake a PhD in Science with the aim of deepening the knowledge and skills developed during my university career in a more critical and structured way. I consider my doctorate a crucial step in my growth as a researcher, because it offers the opportunity to address complex problems, develop scientific autonomy, and contribute directly to innovation through the formulation of original ideas and new solutions.
This path will allow me to strengthen my analytical and methodological skills, working in a stimulating and collaborative context. After graduating and completing my doctorate, I hope to be able to work in academia or advanced research centers, where I can apply the skills I have acquired to address concrete challenges and contribute to scientific and technological progress. At the same time, I want to collaborate with experts in the field, continue to grow both professionally and personally, and ultimately make my knowledge available to new generations of students and researchers.
My daily doctoral work is strongly oriented towards experimental activity in the laboratory, where I deal with the evaluation and optimization of extraction processes applied to various agri-food waste. I spend much of my time preparing samples, planning tests, and running experiments, paying particular attention to operating parameters to improve their yield and efficiency.
In parallel, I analyze the experimental data, organize them into detailed reports, and critically interpret their scientific implications, a fundamental activity for understanding any critical issues and planning subsequent phases. A central aspect of the day is the ongoing discussion with the research team and supervisor: regular meetings allow progress to be discussed, technical problems to be addressed and new ideas to be developed.
Evening hours are often dedicated to carefully scheduling future experiments and delving into the latest scientific literature, essential activities to keep the project up-to-date and competitive in the current research landscape.
My events
Dagli scari alle risorse: strategie green per valorizzare la filiera olivicola attraverso formulazioni farmaceutiche innovative. (Castelluccio superiore, 2025)
CONFERENCES:
Vittorio Carlucci, Claudia Mangieri, Muhammad Tuseef, Margherita Accardo, Alessandro Garramone, Maria Ponticelli, Immacolata Faraone, Luigi Milella, 2025. Optimizing Polyphenol-Enriched Extract from Citrus medica L. via Full Factorial Design. Abstract in: Bacoli, Italy. (Oral presentation)
Claudia Mangieri, Immacolata Faraone, Daniela Russo, Margherita Accardo, Vittorio
Carlucci, Luigi Milella, 2025. From Orchard to Follicle: Annurca Apple as a New Frontier in Preventing Hair Loss. Abstract in: Napoli, Italy. (Oral presentation)