It all began in 2010 when I dove into Biochemistry at FCT-NOVA. My first research experience involved studying a protein from the HIV-2 virus envelope, focusing on heterologous protein expression and purification.

For my MSc, I worked on an antibody bioseparation project with Prof. Ana Cecília Roque. My lab life included solid-phase combinatorial synthesis, high-throughput screening, and chromatography. I also trained in chemical synthesis and spectroscopic techniques, expanding my expertise in biomolecular analysis.

I joined the Macromolecular Crystallography Group to study how a pharmacological compound could reactivate a p53 mutant, a key protein in cancer research. This project deepened my interest in structural biology, where I used X-ray crystallography, MST (microscale thermophoresis), ITC (isothermal titration calorimetry), and other techniques to study protein-ligand interactions. I successfully solved the 3D structures of key protein complexes, contributing to rational drug design. I was living my best structural biology life.

Shifting my focus to glycobiology, I studied glycan-binding proteins from gut bacteria and their role in host-microbe interactions. I optimised protein constructs, solved three new protein structures, expanded my skills in SAXS (Small-angle X-ray scattering) and affinity gels, and got hands-on with glycan microarray technology.

Collaborating with biopharmaceutical companies, I contributed to research on anti-glycan antibodies for cancer immunotherapy. Using glycan microarrays, I analyzed how these antibodies recognize specific carbohydrate structures, supporting preclinical studies.

With a 4-year PhD scholarship, I explored how gut microbiota interact with host glycans, combining glycan microarrays and structural biology. My research focused on understanding what determines whether gut microbes act as friendly neighbours or disruptive troublemakers in our bodies. During my time at Imperial College London, I developed a mucin glycoprotein microarray, enhancing tools for glycan research. Besides the lab life, I explored the beautiful city of London, experiencing its vibrant culture, world-class museums, and, of course, a proper afternoon tea (or two!).

I joined iBET as a postdoctoral researcher, focusing on the role of glycans in oncoimmunology. In this work, I investigated how tumour-associated macrophages contribute to immunosuppression in triple-negative breast cancer, intending to identify new therapeutic strategies. During this time, I made crucial contributions to the team by implementing new protocols.

In 2025, I embraced a new chapter as a Project Manager, focusing on the financial management of scientific projects. Today, I ensure that research ideas are supported by solid financial planning: overseeing budgets, compliance, and resources so that teams can focus on delivering impact.