Tell us a bit about the work you’ll be doing at CCMAR.
During my stay at CCMAR, I will be collaborating with the Comparative, Adaptive and Functional Skeletal Biology (BIOSKEL) group. My work will be mainly focused on the identification of genetic mutations associated with several human pathologies, particularly bone-related diseases, as well as on the investigation of their functional effect through in silico and in vitro analysis.

What were you doing before you joined us?
In 2014, I completed my BSc degree in Biochemistry and last year, I got my MSc degree in Molecular and Microbial Biology, both held at University of Algarve. Actually, I already worked at CCMAR during the development of my master’s thesis which was mainly focused on the genetic and functional analysis of a specific mutation in the TBX5 gene associated with the Holt-Oram syndrome.

What interests and hobbies do you enjoy when you are not doing science?
When I have some spare time, I like to spend a good time with my family and friends. I enjoy being outdoors and to appreciate the nature’s beauty. As the weather warms up, I love going to the beach where I can completely relax and swimming in the sea. I also enjoy travelling and exploring new places.