Vito Martella is a Full Professor of Infectious Diseases of Domestic Animals at the Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Italy. His primary research expertise covers animal health and welfare, specializing in enteric viruses of animals with zoonotic potential and the discovery of novel pathogens. Throughout his career, he has served as Principal Investigator and scientific coordinator for numerous national and international research initiatives. Additionally, he has held prominent institutional advisory roles, including serving on the Italian High Health Council (CSS). Internationally recognized for his scientific leadership, he collaborates with various global virus classification groups, such as ICTV Caliciviridae study group, norovirus group NoroNet, and the Rotavirus Classification Working Group. With over 470 peer-reviewed scientific publications and more than 21,600 citations, and a Scopus H index of 71 (July 2026), his research impact has earned him recognition among Stanford University's World's Top 2% Scientists.