Miguel Piecho-Santos

Miguel Piecho-Santos is a Research Professor at the University of Algarve, affiliated with the Centre of Marine Sciences of Algarve (CCMAR) and serving as Head of the Ocean Observing and Monitoring Unit at the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and the Atmosphere (IPMA). His position as Portuguese National Focal Point for IOC-UNESCO Argo Programme and representative of IPMA in EuroGOOS highlights his leadership in ocean observation at national and international levels.

His academic background includes a Degree in Marine Biology, a PhD in Geophysical Sciences-Physical Oceanography, and a DSc (Habilitation) in Marine Sciences. These qualifications have positioned him as an expert in physical oceanography with specialization in monitoring ocean processes that influence climate systems.

Dr. Piecho-Santos's research focuses on critical areas including:

• Ocean processes and their relationship to climate systems
• Design and implementation of ocean observing systems
• Coastal upwelling dynamics and their ecological implications
• Integration of observational data into climate models

His international roles demonstrate significant recognition in the field:

• Portuguese (National) Focal Point for IOC-UNESCO Argo Programme
• Representative of IPMA in EuroGOOS
• Advisor for the National Delegate in EMSO-ERIC
• Alternate National Focal Point for GOOS
• Member of the IPOD-ICES/PICES Ocean Decade

As Head of IPMA's Ocean Observing and Monitoring Unit, Dr. Piecho-Santos leads Portugal's contribution to global ocean observation networks, providing critical data for climate research, marine policy development, and environmental monitoring. His work bridges the gap between operational oceanography and climate science, making him a key contributor to understanding how ocean dynamics influence global climate patterns.