The research group’s activities focus on the development of alloys and metal matrix composites for specific applications and with specific performances and functions. This area includes not only alloys for structural applications, but also functional materials classified as “smart materials” due to their ability to perform specific functions by reacting to stimuli from the environment. These include shape memory alloys, thermoelectric materials, phase change materials for heat management and accumulation, high entropy alloys. A topic that sees the group engaged in various projects involves the design and synthesis of new alloys and 3D lattice structures for additive manufacturing processes which still features a strong lack of easily processable and high-performance materials. Finally, it should be considered that the development of new materials and the improvement of existing alloys can be faced not only in terms of bulk materials (for 3D parts) but also developed considering their coatings. This is a very lively research area where the issues related to wear behavior, corrosion resistance and fatigue play a key role in improving the performance of components in service.