As the Executive Director of CIVG-Vasco da Gama Research Center since 2023, I oversee scientific management and coordination. My academic and professional journey has been centered at the University of Coimbra, spanning from my Graduation in Biology (2001) to my MSc in Ecology (2003) and eventual attainment of a PhD in Biology (Ecology) in 2010. Following this, I served as a post-doc researcher (2011 to 2018) and later as an Assistant Researcher (2019 to 2023). From 2016 to 2023, I was pivotal in establishing and advancing the "MAREFOZ Laboratory: MARE-UC," contributing to research promotion, networking activities, project coordination, funding applications, consultancy, and dissemination. My research endeavors have been predominantly focused on marine and coastal ecosystems, including macroinvertebrate communities, ecosystem management, conservation, and quality assessment. With an H-index of 14 and over 780 citations in international scientific publications, my contributions encompass various activities, including R&D, project management, funding applications, teaching, and science communication. Over the years, I have managed or participated in numerous projects funded by national and international programs, comprising 13 R&D projects, 15 applied science projects, and 5 outreach projects. These initiatives have significantly advanced research areas, benefiting scientific communities, stakeholders, and society. My expertise in coastal ecosystem quality and population ecology, combined with a deep understanding of natural and anthropogenic pressures, positions me to advocate for the One Health concept. By integrating ecological principles with public health and veterinary medicine, I strive to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration aimed at safeguarding ecosystem, human, and animal health. This holistic approach underscores the interconnectedness of ecosystems, societies, and animal populations, emphasizing the imperative of balance and harmony for overall well-being.