Sofia Marques da Silva

Sofia Marques da Silva is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, where she also serves as Head of the Department of Education. She is a full member of the Centre for Research and Intervention in Education (CIIE), leading the Youth, Education, Diversity and Innovation (JEDi) research group. Her institutional affiliations highlight her leadership in educational research and policy development in Portugal and Europe.

• Ph.D. in Education Sciences, University of Porto (2008)
• Master in Education Sciences, University of Porto (2004)
• Degree in Education Sciences, University of Porto (2001)
• Degree in History, Faculty of Arts, University of Porto (1995)

Her research interests center on youth cultures, educational pathways, rural and border education, inclusive and participatory methodologies, digital citizenship, and intercultural education. She employs ethnographic and mixed-methods approaches to understand how young people engage with education and community life, particularly in marginalized territories. Her work bridges sociology of education, youth studies, and policy analysis.

The 15 most recent publications reveal a strong focus on youth participation in border regions, inclusive socio-educational practices, vocational education, and digital communities. There is a recurring emphasis on participatory methodologies, resilience, and policy implications, particularly in rural and peripheral areas. Her scholarship consistently addresses equity, inclusion, and community-driven change in education.

• Convenor, Network 5, European Educational Research Association (EERA)
• Former Chair, ECER 2014 (European Conference on Educational Research)
• Editor-in-Chief, ESC – Educação, Sociedade & Culturas
• Former Editor-in-Chief, Ethnography & Education (Routledge)
• Member, Editorial Board, British Journal of Sociology of Education

Sofia Marques da Silva has led numerous national and international research projects funded by the European Commission, FCT, and regional development agencies. She has coordinated major initiatives such as SIRIUS 2.0/3.0, GROW.UP, and #IBelong, often in advisory roles for national and EU-level policy. She mentors early-career researchers and collaborates across disciplines, particularly in sociology, education, and digital studies. She leads the JEDi research group and has initiated participatory projects involving youth agendas, mobile apps, and community audits.