Sofia Costa

Sofia Costa is an Invited Assistant Researcher at the Center for Textile Science and Technology (2C2T) of the University of Minho, specializing in sustainable fibrous materials for biomedical and environmental applications. She holds a PhD in Materials Engineering (2020–2024) and a Master's in Biochemistry with clinical specialization (2015–2017). Her research bridges biomaterials, electrospinning, and macroalgae-based formulations for textile functionalization.

• PhD in Materials Engineering, University of Minho (2024)
• Master’s in Biochemistry, University of Aveiro (2017)
• Licenciatura in Biochemistry, University of Minho (2015)

Her work focuses on biodegradable nanofibers, photodynamic therapy, and algae-derived biopolymers for medical textiles, air filtration, and food packaging. Current projects include PRR PBA - Pacto da Bioeconomia Azul and DRI/India/0447/2020, emphasizing circular economy and sustainable innovation.

Key trends in her 12 peer-reviewed articles and 18 conference communications include electrospun membranes for cancer therapy, antimicrobial facemasks, and algae-based dyeing. She has co-authored works on conductive starch composites and multifunctional nanofibers for military use.

Scientific recognition includes the 2021 ICNF Poster Award for biodegradable air filtration membranes. She mentors BSc/MSc students and contributes to conferences like ICNF 2025 and AuxDefense2024, aligning with her leadership in sustainable textile R&D teams.