معرفی
Ana Raquel Madureira is a Senior Researcher at the Centre for Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry (CBQF) at Catholic University of Portugal and holds the position of Invited Assistant Professor at the same institution. She leads the Fermentation Solution research group, focusing on white biotechnology fermentation processes and developing innovative applications for by-products and biomolecules with strong engagement of companies at an early phase of product development.
Dr. Madureira earned her PhD in 'Use of whey protein matrices as food vectors for probiotic bacteria' from Catholic University of Portugal, with her degree awarded on September 2, 2010. Her academic journey includes being an Invited Visiting Researcher at the Industry Department, University of Buenos Aires (Argentina) and Chemical Engineering School, Vigo University (Ourense, Spain).
Her research interests span biotechnology, microbiome science, and applications across multiple industries. She has developed expertise in compounds chemical and bioactivities characterization, in vitro models for biological phenomena simulation, microbiome modulation, and understanding aging mechanisms. Her work bridges academic research with industry applications, maintaining strong collaboration with European and international companies. She has led significant projects including Nanodairy (nanoparticles loaded with polyphenols for gut health), HandCare (microbiome-friendly hand sanitizers), Radiobiome (formulations for cancer patients' microbiome), and thermal spring water applications for menopausal skin health.
Dr. Madureira's publication record demonstrates consistent output with over 90 indexed manuscripts (h-index of 32 as of October 2023), 65 conference posters and abstracts, 23 invited oral communications, and 7 patents (2 provisional). Her recent work shows a strong focus on microbiome applications, sustainable ingredient development from agricultural by-products (particularly sugarcane), skin health, and aging mechanisms.
Scientific Awards and Recognition:
- Fellow of ISAPP (International Scientific Association for Probiotic and Prebiotics)
- Award by Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation for participation in the 27th IDF World Dairy Congress in Shanghai, China (2005)
- Monetary award for participation in the 'Functional Foods' training course awarded by ABS – Post-Graduation School (Helsinki, Finland)
- Participation in the seminar Probiotics, Prebiotics, and the Host Microbiome: The Science of Translation Survey at New York Academy of Sciences
As a supervisor and mentor, Dr. Madureira has guided 7 PhD and Master's students through their academic journeys. She serves as Principal Investigator for multiple scientific projects, including Therm4Skin (2023-2026) and previously led the NANODAIRY project (2011-2014). She is an active European Projects Expert Evaluator for Innovation Fund Denmark (IFD), INNOWWIDE, H2020 EC, Eureka Eurostars, EitFood, EitHealth, and Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions.
Dr. Madureira contributes significantly to institutional leadership as a member of the Scientific Council (ESB, UCP), the Internal Engagement Task Force, and as internal coordinator of the Microbiome and Clinical Studies platforms. She is part of the management team and scientific coordination for a Centre of Excellence in Portugal focused on Biotechnology and Circular Economy, developing new molecules of high commercial interest for food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
