My journey began as a PhD student at Instituto Superior Técnico, where I explored fast processes in excited states, with a focus on anthocyanins and molecular chain dynamics. During my postdoctoral fellowship at ITQB, I honed my research skills in the characterization of light-activated pesticides and the stabilization of anthocyanin food dyes. Collaborations with Professors Helena Santos, Fausto Elisei, and Frank Quina enriched my expertise, particularly in transient absorption spectroscopy. My research lead to several important contributions in the field of fluorescence sensing. Some examples are the use of intrinsic fluorophores of proteins to probe structural alterations induced by additives and physical processing, the use of multiplexing sensor systems based on energy transfer applied to nucleic acid sensing and the design of multichannel fluorescence sensors and photoreleasing systems. I have extensive research work on the photophysics and photochemistry of luminescent gold(I) complexes, that lead to the first quantitative correlation between Au...Au distance and the photophysical constants for excited state deactivation. I have made research contributions in the field of sustainable solutions for energy harvesting and remediation such as the demonstration that carbonaceous materials, depending on their composition, can act as oxidation photocatalysts with visible light. I also lead research on optimization of performance in Dye Sensitized Solar Cells through structural synthetic variations around the core of natural compounds and non-conventional electrolytes. In 2000, I joined Universidade NOVA de Lisboa as an Assistant Professor, progressing to Associate Professor with habilitation in 2016. My responsibilities expanded to include curriculum development, leading research projects, and managing university departments. Notably, I oversaw the installation of cutting-edge spectroscopy equipment and established the Dye Sensitized Solar Cells Laboratory within the Chemistry Department. My career further evolved with my promotion to Full Professor in 2023, following my habilitation in Physical Chemistry in 2016. My leadership roles extended beyond the laboratory; I served on the executive board of the Chemistry Department and as Subdirector of Research at the School of Science and Technology. Since 2018, I have been a key member of the Directive Board of NOVA.ID.FCT, culminating in my presidency from 2019 to 2022. In 2023, I was elected Subdirector of LAQV for a three-year term.