About me
I am a scientist, entrepreneur, and innovator dedicated to translating cutting-edge research into impactful solutions for society. My work focuses on Life Sciences and Biotechnology, particularly genomics, bioinformatics, and the transformative power of data. Throughout my career, I have specialized in analyzing complex datasets using computational tools, leveraging data science, bioinformatics, and machine learning to uncover insights that drive innovation. I believe in the potential of data to revolutionize decision-making and improve outcomes in precision medicine, diagnostics, and sustainable resource management.
Professional Journey
I am the founder and CEO of Ophiomics, a medtech company driving an ambitious agenda for precision liver medicine. Our flagship product, HepatoPredict, integrates artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and machine learning to transform how liver cancer is diagnosed and managed. By combining cutting-edge technology with clinical insights, we aim to deliver innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes.
Beyond Ophiomics, I have actively contributed to building innovation ecosystems at regional, national, and institutional levels. As the scientific director of Healthcare City, a health-focused startup incubator, I mentored entrepreneurs in developing R&D strategies and co-designed acceleration programs like the 11 Health Market Program. My work extends to fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and startups through initiatives such as my role on the scientific committee of a large technology park.
Data Science
Throughout my career, I have specialized in analyzing complex biological datasets using computational approaches. My expertise spans data science, bioinformatics, and machine learning, which I have applied across diverse fields such as cancer research, biodefense, marine biotechnology, and agroforestry. This deep understanding of data-driven solutions has been central to my work in precision medicine and innovation.
Leadership in Research & Infrastructure
In academia, I led the Computational Genomics Laboratory at the Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência (IGC) for over a decade. My research focused on evolutionary cell biology (EvoCell), where we explored intracellular compartmentalization using bioinformatics and omics technologies. I also managed the institute’s Bioinformatics Core Facility and played a key role in establishing national and European infrastructures like BioData.pt (Portugal’s biological information infrastructure) and ELIXIR (a European-wide bioinformatics network).
Global Perspective
Having worked at leading institutions across Portugal, the UK, and the USA—including EMBL-EBI, the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), and others—I bring a global perspective to research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This international experience has shaped my ability to navigate complex ecosystems and deliver impactful results.
Education & Mentorship
I hold a PhD in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Porto and an undergraduate degree in Biochemistry. To bridge academia with business, I completed an executive program in entrepreneurship at Católica Lisbon School of Business & Economics. Over my career, I have supervised multiple PhD students (including MDs) and coordinated graduate programs in bioinformatics and computational biology.
Passion for Innovation ecosystems
I am deeply committed to building innovation ecosystems around precision medicine—where emerging technologies like AI and biotechnology hold immense potential to revolutionize healthcare management. I believe these ecosystems will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare globally.
Advisory Roles
I serve on several scientific advisory boards for public institutions and initiatives that aim to bridge science with society. My advisory work spans areas such as biotechnology, entrepreneurship, and innovation strategy, reflecting my commitment to fostering impactful collaborations.
One of my passions is supporting the development of scientific communities in Portuguese-speaking African countries as part of my broader interest in advancing the Global South. I believe that emerging precision medicine initiatives in these regions have the potential to redefine healthcare delivery through innovative approaches tailored to local needs while contributing to global impact. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies—from AI to genomics—these initiatives can address pressing healthcare challenges and create sustainable solutions for all.