Elsa Maria Carvalho Gomes

Elsa Maria Carvalho Gomes is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at the Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, where she has been a faculty member since 2001. She is affiliated with the Center for Earth and Space Research of the University of Coimbra (CITEUC), contributing to research and academic life in geosciences.

• PhD in Geology, University of Coimbra (2001)
• Specialization: Mineralogy, Petrology, and Geochemistry
• Licentiate in Geology, University of Coimbra (1986)

Her research interests are broad and interdisciplinary, focusing on Mineralogy, Petrology, and Geochemistry of igneous and metamorphic rocks, particularly in the context of ore deposits and metallogenesis. She also investigates Environmental Geology, especially atmospheric particles in urban and mining areas, using biomonitoring and magnetic methods. A significant part of her work is dedicated to the History of Science, particularly science museums and historical geological collections, and Science Teaching, including curriculum development and teacher training.

Her recent publications span from petrological studies of fulgurites and metamorphic rocks to environmental monitoring in Angola and Portugal, and historical analyses of mineral collections. The research trends reflect a strong integration of field geology, laboratory analysis, and educational outreach, with recurring themes in geochemical fingerprinting, urban pollution, and science heritage.

She has received research funding from the European Union and the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, including projects on deep mineral prospecting and science education. Her advisory role includes supervising Master’s theses on topics ranging from tungsten tailings to urban water quality and geological education.

She has co-organized scientific events such as the XXII Bienal de la Real Sociedad Española de Historia Natural and the 2nd Meeting on the History of Science in Teaching, and has served on scientific committees for national geology congresses.