Paula Sá Pereira scientist since 1991, specialized in microbial enzymes for the degradation of lignocellulosic materials, natural mineral water metagenomics/metatranscriptomics and molecular phytopathology. Since 11 years ago, is a senior researcher at INIAV, and from 2014 is in the National reference Laboratory, responsible for the research, detection and typing of Xylella fastidiosa for more than 40000 analytical determinations on plant samples and insect-vectors associated to the national survey and contingency programs conducted by the Agriculture Ministry. She is a national Xylella fastidiosa expert (molecular method and bioassays) on European Plant Protection Organization, participates in Europeand reference Laboratory interlaboratorial testing, TPSs and TPs, She is also member of the scientific team that reviews the EPPO standards PM7/24 (versions 2 to 4, the last one). During her scientific career, she has coordinated several projects and Tasks within projects, has published peer-reviewed papers in national and international journals and participated in national and international meetings. Also, has supervised graduation, and was member of the jury of and MSc and PhD students. She is responsible for the technical training of phytosanitary inspectors that collect plant samples for the detection of Xylella fastidiosa. She coordinates several activities related with science communication with the objectives of informing, educating, raising awareness of science-related topics.