Background: My main research interest lies within the molecular biotechnology area and its application in the resolution and improvement of industrial challenges.
I graduated in Biochemistry at the University of Minho and it was during my Bachelor’s degree final project that I had my first contact with molecular biotechnology. This brief contact captured my attention and I decided to join a Master’s degree in Bioengineering. The project that developed under the scope of my master thesis focused on the development of yeast strains for bioethanol production from lignocellulosic residues. Also during my Master’s degree, I had the opportunity to work at Loughborough University (UK) in a novel project in food science field. This diverse background allowed me to realize the important role that biotechnology plays in the development of both industrial and food sectors.
About Project 9:
Membrane stress by accumulation of short chain fatty acids in S. cerevisiae
Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are commercially relevant products for the chemical industry. When overproduced in S. cerevisiae SCFAs have an impact on the yeasts physiology and a toxic effect on membrane stability. This project will seek to identify genetic traits conferring robustness to SFCAs in yeast strains, with particular emphasis on genes coding for membrane and membrane-related elements.
Training Programme in Yeast Biotechnology 