Paula Sá Pereira is a scientist with a career beginning in 1991, specializing in microbial enzymes for lignocellulosic degradation, metagenomics and metatranscriptomics of natural mineral waters, and molecular phytopathology. For the past eleven years, she has served as a senior researcher at INIAV and Head of the Phytosanitary Crisis Laboratory, the National Reference Laboratory for plant health. In this role, she leads accredited diagnostic programmes for quarantine bacteria, advanced molecular surveillance initiatives, and national responses to emerging phytosanitary threats. She is the national expert responsible for the detection, identification and typing of Xylella fastidiosa in plant material and insect vectors within official survey and contingency programmes coordinated by the Ministry of Agriculture. As an EPPO-designated expert on Xylella fastidiosa and its subspecies, she contributes to European diagnostic harmonisation, participates in interlaboratory proficiency testing organised by European Reference Laboratories, and integrates Test Performance Studies and Test Proficiency schemes. She is also part of the scientific team responsible for reviewing EPPO Standard PM 7/24 (versions 2 to 5). Her expertise spans molecular microbiology, metagenomics, vector biology and epidemiological monitoring, supported by extensive participation in European research networks, EFSA tenders and EPPO expert groups. Throughout her career, she has coordinated research projects and work packages, published peer-reviewed articles, contributed to national and international scientific meetings, supervised students, and served on MSc and PhD examination committees. She also leads multiple science communication initiatives aimed at informing, educating and raising public awareness on plant health and biosecurity. Currently serving as President of the Scientific Council at INIAV, she contributes to institutional governance, strategic research planning and scientific integrity oversight. Her professional trajectory reflects a strong capacity to integrate scientific excellence, operational leadership and international collaboration, delivering robust, evidence-based solutions for plant health, biosecurity and agricultural resilience.