Carla Maria Feio Pires

Carla Maria Feio Pires is a Researcher at the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA), where she has served as Laboratory Manager of the Aquatic Valorization Division since 2017 and as a Quality Management Systems Evaluator since 2001. Her extensive research focuses on marine biotechnology with particular emphasis on valorization of marine resources, protein hydrolysates, and bioactive compounds from fish by-products and seaweed.

Her research interests span marine biotechnology, protein hydrolysates, bioactive compounds, food science, biochemistry, and sustainable utilization of marine resources. Dr. Pires has made significant contributions to developing innovative methods for extracting valuable compounds from fish processing waste, seaweed, and other marine resources, with applications in functional foods, nutraceuticals, and sustainable food production systems. Her work bridges fundamental biochemistry with practical applications in the seafood industry.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on marine resource valorization, particularly examining protein hydrolysates from fish by-products and seaweed extracts. Her research consistently explores enzymatic processing methods, thermal treatments, and novel extraction techniques to maximize bioactive properties including antioxidant, antihypertensive, and anti-diabetic activities. A key trend is her emphasis on sustainable approaches that transform waste streams into valuable ingredients for functional food applications.

Dr. Pires has supervised numerous Master's and PhD students at institutions including the University of Lisbon, NOVA University of Lisbon, and University of Algarve. Her research has been funded through multiple national and international projects including SEAFOOD_AGE, NASPA, SMARTSEAWEED, and ALGAVALUE, demonstrating significant grant acquisition capabilities in marine biotechnology and food science.

Her laboratory work focuses on the Aquatic Valorization Division at IPMA, where she leads research on marine by-product utilization, protein extraction technologies, and development of functional ingredients from marine resources. Current projects emphasize sustainable valorization of marine co-products, smart seaweed utilization, and development of innovative fishery processes for healthy aging.