Currently, I am a research fellow funded by the Portuguese Next Generation EU initiative (project contract nº644915664-00000026), investigating the antimicrobial properties of algae extracts as potential novel antibiotics. This project aligns with efforts to develop alternative treatments for bacterial infections and allows me to deepen my expertise in antibiotic resistance. I completed my degree in Biochemistry at the University of Lisbon in 2015, which gave me a comprehensive base in the biological sciences and sparked my particular interest in microbiology. During this time, I undertook an internship at a hospital, gaining practical experience across key areas such as bacteriology, virology, immunology, infectious diseases and therapeutic interventions. This hands-on exposure to clinical microbiology not only enriched my understanding of microbial pathogenesis but also highlighted the critical challenges in medical settings, particularly in infection prevention and the development of effective treatment strategies. Building on this initial knowledge, I continued my academic path by enrolling in the Master’s program in Medical Microbiology at NOVA University of Lisbon in 2016. My thesis, “Assessment of a Genomic Signature for Sporulation in the Human Gastrointestinal Tract” focused on Clostridioides difficile, a spore-forming pathogen with major health and economic impact. This research explored the genetic mechanisms of sporulation, a key process in the transmission of this pathogen. This work not only strengthened my skills in genetics and microbiology but also introduced me to the complexities of microbial behavior in the human gut microbiota. After completing my Master's degree, I was awarded a research fellowship to investigate the role of uncharacterized sporulation signature genes. During this time, I became increasingly aware of the importance of in vivo models in pathogen research, prompting me to complete the Theoretical and Practical Course on Laboratory Animal Science at the Champalimaud Foundation. The course provided essential training in the ethical care, handling and use of laboratory animals in scientific research. In 2019, I applied for and was awarded a PhD fellowship as part of the PhD program in Biology at the Host-Microbe Interface (a joint programme between ITQB NOVA, IGC and iMM). Under the supervision of Dr. Serrano, Prof. Henriques and Dr. Xavier, my project focused on the Biology and Interactions of Gut Anaerobic Spore-Formers, using C. difficile as a model organism. During this period I had the privilege of collaborating with several renowned laboratories in the field of microbial development, including those of Dr. McBride (Emory University, USA), Dr. Sorg (Texas A&M University, USA) and Dr. Salgado (Newcastle University, UK). These collaborations allowed me to exchange knowledge and insights with experts in related fields, enhancing the depth and scope of my research and raising a global network of scientific collaboration. To date, I have authored one book chapter and three research papers, two as the first author. I have participated in national and international meetings, in which I presented as oral (4) or posters (8) of my work. Additionally, and since the beginning of my PhD, I have actively participated in teaching and outreach activities. These experiences have enriched my scientific expertise, reinforced my commitment to addressing global health challenges and cultivated my passion for mentoring and engaging with the broader scientific community.