Giulia Maisto is full professor of ecology at the Department of Biology, University of NaplesFederico II. She is a soil ecologist and is interested in a wide range of environmental issues.
She started her research career in studying the effects of pollutants on soil abiotic and biotic properties. Her research group uses ecological approaches to investigate the impact of human activity, such as urbanization, agriculture, tourism and fire, on soil biodiversity and functionality, and to select single and integrated indices for the evaluation of soil health. Recently, her research deals with the study of the impact of microplastics on soil health. Field sites range from forests, and urban and agricultural areas, and she works closely with conservation practitioners, policymakers and farmers.