Biography
Leonardo studied at the University of Bologna, where he received both his BSc and MSc. Regarding the former, he synthesized small sequences of peptides, known as Low Molecular Weight Gelators, which have the potential to form supramolecular structures like gels, while examining the rheological properties of these compounds under the supervision of Professor Claudia Tomasini (2020). Concerning the latter, he investigated a hydrogen atom abstraction (HAT) process, conducted through electrosynthesis, utilizing Electrasyn 2.0 as a pivotal instrument for the research, under the guidance of Dr. Giulio Bertuzzi and Professor Marco Bandini (2022). In 2023, Leonardo joined the P4i laboratory under the supervision of Professor Alessandra Tolomelli and Professor Walter Cabri. There, he began studying nucleic acid chemistry, focusing particularly on the synthesis of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) using both Solid-Phase and Liquid-Phase approaches. Additionally, Leonardo explores Peptide Nucleic Acids (PNAs), aiming to develop a greener and more sustainable methodology for their synthesis through both Solid-Phase and Liquid-Phase methods.
Leonardo joined Booth group in April 2025 as a visiting Phd student, investigating new modifications that can be applied to ASOs drugs.
During his spare time, Leonardo enjoys playing football, padel, and video games, watching football matches, and visiting whatever city he is, currently London.
Research Interests
Methods for nucleic acid synthesis
Booth Research Group 