Ricardo Bonacho

Ricardo Bonacho is an Assistant Professor at Universidade Europeia, coordinating the Hotel Management degree. He also holds roles as Guest Assistant Professor at ELISAVA (Barcelona) and the University of Coimbra. With a PhD in Design from the Lisbon School of Architecture, his expertise spans Design, Gastronomy, Tourism, and Marketing. He co-founded FORK and the Food Design Lab Lisboa, focusing on innovation and sustainability in food systems. His research explores design-driven solutions for culinary arts, consumer behavior, and gastronomic tourism.

Education & Roles:

• PhD in Design (Lisbon School of Architecture, Universidade de Lisboa)
• Specialist in Audio-Visual and Media Production (CNAEF 213)
• Former coordinator of Master’s programs in Culinary Innovation and Food Design at Estoril Higher Institute

Research Interests: Bonacho’s work bridges design, gastronomy, and sustainability, addressing topics like food heritage preservation, consumer behavior, and marketing strategies in tourism. His projects often involve transdisciplinary collaboration to reimagine food systems through innovation and cultural dialogue.

Projects & Initiatives:

• Projeto Taste: Promoting Portuguese gastronomy globally as a tourist attraction
• Rescuing Seed’s Heritage: ERC-funded initiative exploring historical agricultural frameworks
• Co-founder of FORK and Food Design Lab Lisboa

Professional Roles Beyond Academia: Director of Marketing, Communication, and Innovation at Imppacto, Catering & Events.