Cristiana Mendes

Cristiana Mendes is an Assistant Professor at the Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, School of Education, where she serves in the Department of Exact and Natural Sciences. She holds leadership positions including Member of the Department Board, Scientific Committee Member, and Coordinator of textbook evaluation teams for Basic Education across multiple educational cycles.

She completed her PhD in Biology (Ecotoxicology and Environmental Biology) in 2016, Master's in Toxicology in 2006, and Bachelor's in Biology and Geology (Teaching) in 2003, all from the University of Aveiro. Her academic trajectory bridges biological sciences with educational practice.

Her research spans Science Education, Teacher Training, Environmental Education, and Intergenerational Practices. Dr. Mendes has pioneered innovative approaches through experimental science olympiads and interdisciplinary teaching methods, emphasizing non-formal education and social inclusion via heritage-based learning. Her work connects academic research with practical classroom applications.

She leads multiple funded projects including the I Mini-Experimental Science Olympiads, Interdisciplinary Practices in Higher Education (Portugal-Brazil collaboration), and ViseuInterAgeStories (a mobile app promoting social inclusion). Her publication portfolio reveals consistent focus on science education methodologies, teacher development, and ecological assessment.

• Current projects address science education innovation, interdisciplinary teaching, and social inclusion through technology
• Research demonstrates strong connection between ecological studies and educational applications
• Work integrates community engagement with academic research

As an educator, Dr. Mendes has supervised seven Master's students and served extensively on thesis committees. Her teaching focuses on natural sciences education for elementary and primary school teachers through practical, inquiry-based approaches. She coordinates textbook evaluation teams and teacher training initiatives, demonstrating commitment to educational quality improvement across multiple educational levels.