Raquel Silva

Raquel Silva is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Dental Medicine, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, and a Researcher at the Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Health (CIIS). She holds a PhD in Biology from the University of Aveiro and has held research positions at IPATIMUP and IEETA. Her academic and research career spans molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatics, and oral medicine, with a strong focus on oncology and patient-centered care.

Education:

• PhD in Biology, Molecular Reconstruction of a Genetic Code Alteration, University of Aveiro (2005)

Research Interests:
Raquel Silva’s research is centered on the molecular and genetic aspects of cancer, particularly in the context of oral health. Her work explores nutritional interventions during cancer treatment, oral mucositis in pediatric oncology, and the use of saliva as a non-invasive diagnostic and monitoring tool. She investigates biomarkers in medical-dental imaging, microbial changes in the oral cavity of cancer patients, and the molecular evolution of key enzymes. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates genomics, bioinformatics, and clinical dentistry to improve patient outcomes.

Recent Research Trends:
Her recent publications and projects reflect a strong emphasis on precision medicine, non-invasive diagnostics using saliva, and improving quality of life during cancer therapy. She leads and participates in multidisciplinary projects that combine oncology, nutrition, and dental medicine, often employing systematic reviews and clinical studies to guide evidence-based practices.

Scientific Awards:

• Co-evolutionary study of NAD biochemical networks (Project Leader), 2010
• EMBO Short-term Fellowship, 2003
• eQTL analysis of the NAPRT locus, 2018
• GoBack - New therapeutic targets for spinal cord injuries (Team Member), 2018
• "HPV: sexo, cancro e prevenção", 2022

Supervision and Grants:
Raquel Silva has extensive experience in student supervision, thesis examination, and participation in research evaluation panels. She has led and contributed to multiple funded research projects, including "NutriCancerMonitor" and "SPIT-it-AML", supported by national and European funding mechanisms such as Portugal2020. Her role as Principal Investigator and researcher demonstrates leadership in interdisciplinary health research.

Laboratories and Research Teams:
She is affiliated with CIIS and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams across institutions, focusing on health innovation, digital education in dentistry, and translational research in oncology and oral medicine.