I graduated in Marine Biology and Fisheries from the University of Algarve in 1992, where I subsequently pursued my PhD in molecular biology from 1994 to 1999, followed by a Post-Doc in fish molecular endocrinology from 2000 to 2002. In 2002, I embarked on a new chapter of my career as an assistant professor at the University of Beira Interior (FCS-UBI), later earning promotion to associate professor in 2011 through international competition. Furthering my academic achievements, I attained the aggregation title in Biomedicine at UBI in 2019.
My transition to UBI marked a pivotal moment in my professional journey, entailing active involvement in establishing research laboratories and outfitting temporary facilities, culminating in the design and equipping of the current facilities at the CICS-UBI building, which we relocated to in 2007/2008.
During this period, I forged my research niche in biomedical sciences, initially exploring cancer research before redirecting my focus to the choroid plexus (CP), a critical brain barrier, where I have since made significant scientific contributions.
Additionally, I have a keen interest in investigating the impact of sex hormone backgrounds on biological processes and the onset of neuronal diseases and cancer, highlighting the importance of tailored therapeutic approaches based on individuals'' biological sex.
My involvement in research extends beyond project leadership; I have served as principal investigator (PI) on three FCT-funded projects totaling €340,000, as well as participating as a team member in several other projects. Furthermore, I have supervised numerous PhD and Master''s students, guiding them to successful thesis completion.
Complementing my research endeavors, I have been actively engaged in teaching molecular and cellular biology, anatomy, histology, and physiology to medical and biomedical students, along with oncobiology to Master''s students of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences.
In addition to my academic roles, I have plssed a significant role in faculty and research center decision-making bodies, including coordinating various research groups and assuming leadership positions within the CICS-UBI research center. Most recently, I have taken on the role of vice-coordinator at CICS-UBI, continuing to contribute to its academic and research excellence.