AL successfully completed her PhD degree in December 2011 from the Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, and subsequently continued her research at REQUIMTE-LAQV. In 2013, she was awarded a FCT post-doctoral scholarship, providing her the opportunity to make significant contributions to the field by implementing advanced synthetic methodologies rooted in green chemistry principles. Throughout this period, AL not only expanded her expertise in potentiometry and various spectroscopic techniques but also actively collaborated on multiple projects, resulting in the publication of impactful research. From 2013 to 2019, AL's research predominantly revolved around the intersection of coordination, medicinal, and environmental chemistry, focusing on the development of innovative sensors. These sensors seamlessly combined chelators and fluorophores, or other spectroscopic probes, exhibiting tailored responses to diverse analytes. AL also delved into employing different spectroscopic techniques to elucidate the solution behavior of novel compounds. Her collaborative efforts extended the application of these compounds across various domains and inspired a new research trajectory. This new path centered on crafting biowaste-based materials capable of simultaneous detection, quantification, and removal of target analytes across diverse matrices. Furthermore, these materials were repurposed as optical sensors and served as the foundation for the creation of novel catalysts. In recognition of her outstanding project, FloWater, FCT considered it for funding in 2019. Over the last years, AL has dedicated her research to the development of novel materials utilizing biowastes as valuable resources. This experience not only expanded her professional network but also fostered collaborations with Portuguese companies, enhancing the impact of her work in both academic and industrial settings.