Tell us a bit about the work you are/will be doing at CCMAR.

I'll be working within the CRUSTAPANHA project that aims to study the ecology, biology and population dynamics of small mud crabs with a commercial interest along the Portuguese coast. One of my main tasks will be the estimation of population sizes and maps based on aerial drone imagery. Additionally, I will also be working closely with artisanal fishermen in order to study the fishing effort on different crab species and to collect biological samples to investigate the specie's reproductive biology.  

What were you doing before you joined us?

Last year I graduated from the International MSc in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (EMBC+). After the master I decided to take a few months off, to enjoy a small "gap" period after my studies. During this time, I was living in the island of Tenerife where I joined some voluntary research projects in the University of La Laguna and, of course, I also enjoyed my time to travel around and surround myself with the breathtaking beauty of the Canary Islands. 

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Spending time in nature is what I love to do the most in life! To see with my own eyes its beauty and to understand the importance and the need to take care of the Earth. I also love to meet new cultures and places... And to learn new languages! Practicing yoga and reading are also on my list of favorite things to do. Recently I found out that I really like to make handmade jewelry with macramé... The best thing about all those things is that all of them can be enjoyed outside, in nature!