Lusophone University of Humanities and TechnologiesPortugal
Francisco Laranjo is a Portuguese graphic designer, researcher, and educator with a PhD in Design Methods and Criticism from the University of the Arts London. He holds an MA in Visual Communication from the Royal College of Art and a BA from ESAD – Escola Superior de Artes e Design. Currently serving as Assistant Professor at Lusófona University, he also works as an Associate Lecturer at Central Saint Martins and Co-director of the Shared Institute. PhD in Design Methods and Criticism MA in Visual Communication BA in Communication Design His work bridges graphic design with critical theory, focusing on design pedagogy, ethical implications of data-driven design, and the role of critique in professional practice. Publications span design criticism in Design Observer , Eye Magazine , and academic journals, while his teaching has reached institutions across 8 countries including CalArts, Sandberg Institute, and Zürich University of the Arts. Recent publications demonstrate a trajectory toward critical design theory, post-pandemic design adaptation, and curatorial practices. Key themes include the intersection of design and politics , digital-physical hybridity , and pedagogical innovation in graphic design education. As Editor of Modes of Criticism and co-director of Shared Institute, Laranjo fosters critical discourse through curatorial projects like the 2022 'Designers Troublemakers' exhibition and the upcoming 2025 'Graphic Collection – 50 years of design in Portugal' at the Polytechnic University of Porto.
Bruno Nobre is an Assistant Professor and Vice Dean at the Faculty of Philosophy and Social Sciences (FFCS) of the Catholic University of Portugal (UCP). He is actively involved in the Center for Philosophical and Humanistic Studies (CEFH), where he coordinates the research topic on 'Causal processes, complex systems and emergence.' Since 2020, he has served as Editor of the Revista Portuguesa de Filosofia , a Scopus-indexed journal in the Q3 category. His interdisciplinary profile bridges science, philosophy, and theology. PhD in Physics, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon (2005) Licentiate in Engineering Physics, Instituto Superior Técnico (2000) Licentiate in Philosophy, Faculty of Philosophy and Social Sciences, UCP (2010) Master of Divinity, Boston College School of Theology and Ministry (2015) Sacred Theology Licentiate, Boston College (2016) PostDoc in Philosophy of Science, Universidade Estadual do Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) Bruno Nobre's research centers on the philosophy of science, philosophy of physics, philosophy of religion, and ethics. His work explores the metaphysical foundations of scientific knowledge, the nature of causality and emergence, and the intersection of religion and rationality. He is particularly interested in humanistic perspectives on happiness, the role of aesthetic criteria in scientific theory selection, and the philosophical implications of complex systems. His approach integrates analytical rigor with interdisciplinary insights from physics, neuroscience, and theology. His recent publications reveal a strong focus on metaphysics, philosophy of religion, and happiness studies. Articles such as 'Explorations in contemporary analytic metaphysics' and 'Psychometric properties of post-critical belief scale' indicate a dual engagement with theoretical philosophy and empirical validation of religious constructs. His editorial work on Humanistic Perspectives in Happiness Research underscores a commitment to integrating philosophical depth with psychological and social dimensions of well-being. The recurring themes across his work include grounding, modality, personal identity, and the scientific study of religiosity. Scientific Awards: No specific awards mentioned in the provided text. Bruno Nobre has supervised numerous students within the Supervised Work at UCP program and has been involved in significant research grants, including the CEFH project (2020–2025) and a 2021–2023 study on neuroanatomical correlates of well-being in mindfulness and religious practices. He has organized key academic events such as the International Congress on the Philosophy of Nature and the International Colloquium on Time and Emergence, demonstrating leadership in scholarly community-building. He is a core member of the Center for Philosophical and Humanistic Studies (CEFH), a vibrant research hub at UCP that fosters interdisciplinary dialogue across philosophy, theology, psychology, and the sciences. His role as coordinator of a research topic on causal processes and emergence highlights his leadership in advancing conceptual innovation within complex systems theory.
Susana Fonseca Carvalhosa serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social and Organizational Psychology at the School of Social and Human Sciences, ISCTE - University Institute of Lisbon, while also holding an Integrated Researcher position at CIS-Iscte - Center for Social Research and Intervention within the Community, Education and Development group. Her academic credentials include: PhD in Psychology from University of Bergen, Norway (2008) Master's degree in Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies from Lusophone University of Humanities and Technology (2001) Bachelor's degree in Special Education and Rehabilitation from Faculty of Human Kinetics - UTL (1997) Her research centers on social and emotional learning (SEL) innovation, particularly through technology-mediated approaches for bullying prevention and community development. She pioneers digital interventions like the Emotechie Serious Play system targeting children aged 5-14, while maintaining strong foundations in community psychology and health promotion. Her work bridges theoretical frameworks with practical applications in educational settings, emphasizing vulnerable populations and early intervention strategies. Analysis of her publication record reveals consistent focus on bullying prevention mechanisms (both cyber and physical), with increasing integration of technology in SEL programs since 2016. Her recent work demonstrates strong emphasis on evaluation methodologies including randomized control trials, while maintaining connections to community development and social responsibility frameworks in higher education. Dr. Fonseca has led or contributed to eight major international research projects including BEEmotional-Techie (as Coordinator), DISABUSE, PARENTNETS, and LEAD, involving partnerships across 14 institutions in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Hungary, Greece, Ireland, Romania, France, Peru, Argentina, and Brazil. These projects address bullying prevention, social responsibility in higher education, mentoring pathways, and technology-enhanced learning. She actively contributes to the CIS-Iscte research ecosystem through the Community, Education and Development group, developing community-based interventions like the GerAcções program while engaging with the Ubuntu educational philosophy for socio-emotional development.
Ana Silva Marques is a Professor at the School of Dance (ESD) of the Polytechnic University of Lisbon (IPL) since 2000, with a PhD in Educational Sciences from Universidade Nova de Lisboa. She serves as Deputy Director of ESD (2017-2020), chairs the Scientific Committee of the Masters in Dance Teaching, and supervises internships in dance pedagogy. Education : PhD (2016), Master's (2007), and Graduate Degree (1999) in Dance fields Accreditation : Certified trainer in dance education, project design, and didactics Her research focuses on choreographic composition , interdisciplinary approaches in dance education, and creative pedagogy . Recent publications explore connections between dance and mathematics, architecture, and early childhood development, emphasizing formal/ informal learning contexts. Key trends in her work include: Integration of STEM concepts with dance Therapeutic applications for pediatric oncology Interdisciplinary curriculum design Historical analysis of vocational dance schools Scientific recognition includes: 2016 : IPL Merit Diploma for outstanding research 2013 : 2nd prize in Poliempreende Competition 2000 : Merit scholarship from Ministry of Education She founded the ESD Graduates Association (ADESD) and participates in national/international academic committees. Her work bridges artistic practice , educational theory , and pedagogical innovation .
Catarina Grácio de Moura is an Associate Professor at the Department of Arts, Faculty of Arts, University of Beira Interior (UBI). She serves as a researcher at the iA* Arts Research Unit and Researcher Director for Media Arts courses. Her academic work spans fashion design, cultural heritage, and contemporary art. Her research focuses on: Preservation of cultural heritage through design Post-pandemic branding and visual merchandising Critical analysis of fashion neutrality Memory studies in material culture Recent publications examine industrial anti-hegemony in design, pandemic-era branding strategies, and storytelling in post-pandemic retail environments. She collaborates with researchers like Gisele Nepomuceno and Fernando Oliveira on interdisciplinary design projects.
Ana Maria Silva Santos is an Assistant Professor at the University of Lisbon's Faculty of Human Kinetics, affiliated with the Department of Education, Social Sciences and Humanities. Her work bridges sports studies, social sciences, and digital technology, focusing on identity, mobility, and the evolving definition of sports in the digital age. Education : Not explicitly detailed in the text. Research Interests : Ana's research explores the intersection of sports, digital technologies, and socio-cultural dynamics. She examines how sports mobility, esports legitimacy, and athlete identity are reshaped by technological advancements and societal shifts. Article Trends : Her recent publications emphasize democratization of sports, digital transformation in sports management, comparative cycling event analysis, and health policy challenges like vaccine hesitancy. Earlier works delve into historical and cultural dimensions of sports in Portugal. Labs & Teams : No specific labs or teams mentioned in the provided text.
Maria Cristina Pais Aguiar serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Communication and Art at the School of Education, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, where she has held academic positions since 2001. She is also a member of the Center for Research in Child Studies (CIEC) at the University of Minho and actively conducts the Viseu Regional Conservatory Mixed Choir. Her educational background includes: PhD in Child Studies – Music Education (2015, University of Minho) Master's in Music – Theoretical Studies (2007, University of Aveiro) Bachelor's in Music Education – Singing (1998, University of Aveiro) Aguiar's research centers on singing pedagogy and music education, particularly in early childhood and elementary contexts. Her work explores vocal technique development, choral conducting methodologies, and interdisciplinary applications of music in cognitive and motor skill development. She investigates how music integrates with mathematics education, special needs interventions, and cross-curricular projects, emphasizing practical classroom applications while maintaining strong theoretical foundations in music education philosophy. Her publication trends reveal consistent focus on Portuguese music education systems, comparative international studies, and practical teaching methodologies. Recent work increasingly examines interdisciplinary connections (particularly between music and mathematics), autism spectrum interventions through music therapy, and pattern recognition in early learning. Her research bridges theoretical frameworks like Reimer's aesthetic philosophy and Elliott's praxial approach with concrete classroom applications. Her scientific recognition includes: Engineer António de Almeida Award (1998, University of Aveiro) Aguiar has supervised over 15 master's theses in music education, special education, and early childhood development, often focusing on vocal technique, music therapy applications, and curriculum development. She has participated in research projects including the Center for Research in Child Studies (UID/CED/00317/2019) and classroom supervision studies at Colégio da Imaculada Conceição. Her professional development includes specialized training with Jos Wuytack, Pierre van Hauwe, and Maria Teresa Miranda, alongside performance studies with notable artists including Elisabete Matos and Richard Miller. She maintains active artistic engagement through choral conducting and solo performances with ensembles including the Viseu Youth Orchestra and POEMa Orchestra, while frequently leading vocal workshops for actors and teachers.
João Pedro Trancoso Gomes Rosa is an Associate Professor at the Departamento de Física, Universidade de Coimbra, and Coordinator of the Masters in Physics program. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Theoretical Physics from the University of Oxford (2011), a Master of Advanced Studies in Mathematics from the University of Cambridge (2006), and a Licenciatura in Engenharia Física e Tecnológica from Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa (2005). His academic career includes postdoctoral research at the University of Edinburgh and Universidade de Aveiro, alongside visiting roles at international institutions. Education: PhD in Theoretical Physics, University of Oxford (2011) MSc in Mathematics, University of Cambridge (2006) BSc in Engineering Physics and Technology, Instituto Superior Técnico (2005) Research Interests: Rosa’s work focuses on theoretical cosmology and high-energy physics, particularly primordial black holes , axion physics , superradiance phenomena , and warm inflation models . He explores how these concepts interface with dark matter, gravitational waves, and string theory. His contributions include groundbreaking studies on axion superradiant instabilities around black holes and the role of string axiverse scenarios in cosmological observations. Articles: His recent publications address cutting-edge topics such as axion dynamics in the string axiverse, primordial black hole evaporation, and thermal inflation. Key themes include testing new physics via black hole observations and refining inflationary models to align with cosmological data. Grants & Projects: Rosa has led or contributed to over 10 research projects, including leadership in the Strong Gravity and High Energy Physics (H2020-MSCA-RISE) and Dark Complexity (CERN-funded) initiatives. He has supervised 3 PhD theses and 9 MSc projects, mentoring students in topics like black hole superradiance and dark matter models. Labs/Teams: As a key member of the Universidade de Coimbra’s physics department and the Centro de Física, Rosa collaborates with global networks such as COST Action CosmicWISPers and the SKA Engage project. His interdisciplinary work bridges theoretical physics with observational astrophysics, aiming to uncover dark matter’s role in cosmic evolution.
Jorge Humberto Dias is an integrated researcher at the Red Internacional Universitaria de la Felicidad at the University of Cádiz, Spain, and coordinates the Research Project 'Perspectives on Happiness' (2017–present). He holds a European PhD in Moral and Political Philosophy from NOVA University Lisbon (2013), with a focus on Julián Marías' happiness theory and the development of the PROJECT@ method in philosophical counseling. He has held academic roles at multiple institutions, including PRAXIS (University of Beira Interior/University of Évora), the Universidade Católica Portuguesa (as coordinator of the Applied Philosophy Research Line), and the University of Algarve. His research interests center on happiness studies, ethics, philosophical practice, and their applications in education, organizations, and well-being. He coordinates the Post-Graduation 'Positive Leadership and Happiness 5.0' at ISLA and teaches courses on happiness management, applied philosophy, and ethics in institutions like the European Business School of Barcelona and the Instituto Universitário Atlântica. He is also an external expert for the Technical Commission 219 on Organizational Well-Being and an ambassador for Portugal's National Plan for Ethics in Sport. Dias has published extensively, including books like Perspetivas sobre a Felicidade (2020) and articles on philosophical counseling methodologies, happiness in education, and organizational ethics. His work bridges theoretical philosophy with practical applications, emphasizing narrative processes, ethical frameworks, and interdisciplinary approaches to human flourishing. He leads initiatives like the Happy Schools Program and runs PROJECT@ Cabinet, a consultancy for individuals and organizations. His contributions span academic, corporate, and governmental sectors, reflecting a commitment to integrating philosophical insights into contemporary challenges.
Alexandre Palma is a theologian, priest, and Associate Professor at the Faculty of Theology of the Catholic University of Portugal , where he teaches courses including Mystery of God, Christology, and Theology of Religions. He also serves as a researcher at the Center for Research in Theology and Religious Studies (CITER) . His academic journey includes a Doctorate in Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University (2013), a Master’s in Theology from the Catholic University of Portugal (2008), and a Theology degree from the same university (2005). Palma’s research focuses on Trinitarian theology , public theology , hermeneutic theory , and environmental justice . His work explores intersections between theological-political discourses in post-secular societies, intercultural habitation during pandemics, and the centenary of Fátima as a plural hermeneutic moment. Recent projects include the ARCHAEOLOGY2022 and COLIVING2020 , addressing cultural ecology and theological knowledge. Thematic Trends: Trinitarian Experience, Religious Identity, Cultural Hermeneutics, Environmental Ethics He contributes to editorial boards such as Religions and Communio , and organizes academic events like the 9º Colóquio ReliMM (2024). His research output includes 42 scientific publications, with recent works on feminist hermeneutics, mental health in multicultural churches, and theological responses to pandemics.
Isilda Rodrigues is an Assistant Professor at the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD) within the Department of Education and Psychology. Her academic qualifications include a 2015 Habilitation in Science Didactics, a 2005 PhD in Education (History of Science), a 2000 Master in Health Education, and a 1993 Degree in Biology/Geology from UTAD. Research Interests: History of Science Science Didactics Experimental Science Teaching Health Education Sexual Education Environmental Education Projects: She leads the international project "Teaching through research on health issues: a study with graduates from Biological Sciences" (funded by the Brazilian government) and participates in "Promotion of teaching and training in evidence-based Veterinary Medicine - EVIEDVET" (FCT-funded, €250,000). She created the Eco-Skills Program for Sustainability and coordinates LabScience, a science education initiative. Leadership Roles: Member of the Inter-Divisional Teaching Commission (2018–present), team member for the 3rd School Assessment Cycle (General Inspectorate of Education and Science), and former Student Ombudsman (2020–2025).
Lusophone University of Humanities and TechnologiesPortugal
José Gregório Viegas Brás is a Researcher at CeiED (Lusófona University) and teaches various courses at the Faculty of Physical Education, including History of Physical Education and Sport, Socio-Historical Analysis of Education, Philosophy of Education, Ethics, and Professional Deontology. He coordinates the Research and Learning Communities (ReLeCo) Memory, Citizenship and Sociomuseology and serves as Director of the Ethics Committee at the Faculty of Physical Education. PhD in History of Education (University of Lisbon) Post-doctorates: History of Education (Salamanca, Spain) and Socio-History (Lyon 2, France) His research focuses on the history and philosophy of the body, curriculum history, teaching ethics, life stories, and citizenship. Recent publications analyze Spinoza's educational implications, Ubuntu philosophy for decolonization, and historical intersections of health and politics. His selected articles reflect interdisciplinary work connecting education, philosophy, and historical analysis, with a particular emphasis on sociopolitical contexts and ethical frameworks.
Helena Gouveia is a faculty member at Iscte Business School , ISCTE - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in the Interactions of lasers with materials from Cranfield University and an Engineer's Degree in Metallurgy from Instituto Superior Técnico. Her academic background spans advanced materials engineering and laser physics, though specific details about her current research focus or affiliations within the business school are not explicitly stated in the provided text.
Lusophone University of Humanities and TechnologiesPortugal
José Augusto Nunes Bragança De Miranda is a Full Professor at the Lusophone University , affiliated with the School of Communication Sciences, Architecture, Arts, and Information Technologies and actively involved in research at Cicant and collaboration with ICnova (UNL) . He has contributed extensively to Theory of Culture , Media Theory , and Digital Aesthetics , with a focus on Communication Sciences and Philosophy of Technology . Academic Leadership : Served as Director of ECATI (2000-2001), President of Communication Sciences panel at FCT, and Rector of Lusophone University since 2022. Awards and Juries : Member of BESphoto award jury and Luso-Spanish Culture Prize jury. Research Themes : Explores telematic culture , networked society , digital ethics , and cinematic ontology through works like Constellations: Essays on Technique and Culture in Contemporaneity (2023). Publications : Authored Envios: Uma experimentação Filosófica na Internet (2008) and Crítica das Ligações na Era da Técnica (2002).
Lusophone University of Humanities and TechnologiesPortugal
Soraya Vasconcelos is an Auxiliary Professor at Lusófona University (Lisbon) and a researcher at CICANT (Centre for Research in Applied Communication, Culture, and New Technologies). Her practice spans photography, drawing, publishing, and installation art. PhD in Communication, Culture, and the Arts (2014, UAlg) Postgraduate Certificate in Implementing Digital Technology in the Practice of Photography Licenciatura in Fine Arts Her research focuses on Visual Arts , Photography , and Postcolonial Studies , with a strong emphasis on Decolonial Exhibitions , Archival Reinterpretation , and Gender Studies . Recent works explore the intersection of Art and Science , Dust as Metaphor , and Memory Construction . The 15 most recent publications highlight themes like Decolonization , Visual Communication , and Experimental Publishing , reflecting her commitment to Artistic Intervention and Cultural Critique . The Gulbenkian Creativity and Artistic Creation Programme participant in Photography She contributes to collaborative art projects, exhibitions, and academic research, notably the O Impulso Fotográfico project (2019–2022) and its related exhibition (Des)Arrumar o Arquivo Colonial (2023). Her work bridges artistic practice with Interdisciplinary Research .
