Sofia Engrola

Sofia Engrola is a Principal Researcher and Research Group Leader at the Center of Marine Sciences of Algarve (CCMAR) since November 2023. She holds a PhD in Aquaculture (2008) from the University of Algarve’s Faculty of Marine Sciences and Technology. Her primary roles include coordinating larval nutrition experiments, managing fish larvae and juvenile studies, and leading in vivo metabolic research. Engrola specializes in aquaculture nutrition, particularly in larval development, sustainable aquafeeds, and metabolic programming.

Her research focuses on optimizing diets for species like cobia, tilapia, and seabream, addressing challenges such as fishmeal replacement, thermal stress effects, and nutritional strategies for enhanced growth and resilience. She leads projects such as the Blue Bioeconomy Pact (Vertical Algae) and MAXIMUS.PT, advancing aquaculture sustainability and innovation.

Key contributions include studies on amino acid supplementation, pre/probiotics for eel larvae, and precision fish farming models. Engrola collaborates extensively, serving on CCMAR’s Board of Directors and Scientific Council, and contributes to training through workshops and seminars.