Claudia Botelho earned her first degree in Biological Engineering in 2000 from the University of Minho (UM). Her introduction to high-level research began in 1998 during her undergraduate studies, when she was invited to collaborate on an ongoing research project. Upon completing her five-year degree, Claudia immediately started her PhD studies, focusing on the evaluation of bioceramics, particularly the role of microelements like silicon, in enhancing the metabolic activity of bone cells and supporting bone tissue regeneration. While her PhD was granted by the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Porto and the Institute of Biomedical Engineering, much of her research was conducted at European and Asian institutions, including Queen Mary University of London, the University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, and the Nara Institute of Science and Technology in Japan. Upon her PhD, Claudia began her postdoctoral research, aiming to further advance bone tissue regeneration by developing a novel biomaterial that was later patented. Her work earned her multiple prizes, including the European Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Doctoral Award. In 2009, Claudia welcomed her first child and took a high-risk pregnancy medical leave from April to May, followed by maternity leave from the end of May to November. She also adopted a reduced schedule for the subsequent year to nurse her child. Upon resuming her career, Claudia returned to the Department of Biological Engineering at UM, where her research pivoted toward exploring the interaction of cells with distinct compounds. Her focus shifted to identifying new molecules with potential applications in areas such as cancer treatment—particularly as adjuncts to chemotherapy—and skin regeneration. Recognizing the importance of bridging research and society, Claudia became actively involved in advocating for stable careers and funding for scientists. She joined the Associação Nacional de Investigadores em Ciência e Tecnologia (ANICT), initially as a member and later as President of the association, followed by a term as President of the General Assembly. During her leadership, she played a pivotal role in influencing government policies on researchers' careers in Portugal, engaging with key stakeholders, including the Minister of Science and Technology, the President of the Portuguese Deans Council, and the President of the Foundation for Science and Technology. In 2015, Claudia had her second child, once again taking high-risk pregnancy medical leave from April to May, followed by maternity leave until November and a reduced schedule for nursing her child. Since 2011, Claudia has balanced her research responsibilities with teaching roles at the University of Minho and as an invited lecturer at the Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo. Her dedication to teaching earned her the Pedagogical Prize from the UM. In addition to her primary affiliation with the Centre of Biological Engineering at Minho, she also served as an invited researcher at the Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory. More recently, Claudia established her own research group, focusing on the development of new therapies using natural molecules derived from nature or industrial by-products to address pressing societal challenges. To accelerate the impact of her work, she collaborates with national companies, aiming to deliver benefits to communities and patients efficiently. Although climate change is not her primary research focus, Claudia is committed to addressing environmental issues through her work. By repurposing materials that would otherwise be wasted and employing sustainable methods, she contributes to mitigating the effects of climate change and advancing the bioeconomy, aligning her efforts with the One Health approach. Her career recently earned her the academic title of Habilitation, a recognition of her contributions to science, teaching, and societal impact at ICBAS – University of Porto.