Ana Margarida Piloto holds a PhD in Chemistry on synthesizing photo-labile protecting groups for neurotransmitter amino acids, 2013. She has a BSc in Educational Chemistry and Physics from the University of Coimbra, in 2008. Currently, she is an FCT postdoctoral fellow at ISEP, developing fluorescent sensors for cancer biomarker detection. Before her PhD, Piloto worked on stem-cell-based therapies for spinal cord injury and the development of chelators for metal radiopharmaceuticals. She also completed a traineeship at the Max-Planck Institute in Germany, where she synthesized photodegradable drugs intended for radiotherapy applications. She is the Principal Investigator of the FCT-funded project “Following up Cancer Biomarkers with New Biomimetic Optical Systems” (€50k, 2023–2025). She was elected Co-Principal Investigator for the FCT-funded project “Self-Signalled Biosensors Integrated in Flexible Biomaterial Dressings for Chronic Wound Management” (€50k, 2022–2023). Piloto has co-supervised one Master's student and another in co-supervision, merging the themes of molecular imprinting, quantum dots and sensors. Piloto integrates research with public outreach and fosters scientific dialogue. Her scholarly output includes 20 peer-reviewed journal articles, focused primarily on developing sensitive biosensors for early cancer detection. Her works emphasize innovations such as quantum dot-based sensors, and fluorescent membranes for biomarker detection, with potential for early disease detection. With 386 citations and an h-index of 13. Piloto’s contributions extend to academic publishing, including her recent co-authorship of the book chapter “Molecularly Imprinted Polymers in Electrochemical Sensing” (2023). In addition to her research experience, Piloto taught chemistry and physics at secondary schools across Portugal, combining her scientific expertise with pedagogy to inspire a passion for science in her students. With a nearly two-decade-long commitment to education, she bridges academic knowledge with practical teaching. Piloto is a highly accomplished researcher and educator, whose work spans fundamental research, technological innovation, and nearly two decades of teaching excellence. Her achievements in biosensors, biomimetics materials, and cancer diagnostics demonstrate her commitment to advancing science, addressing critical healthcare challenges, and mentoring the next generation of researchers. Her blend of international experience, leadership in research projects, and dedication to education make her a distinguished figure in her field.