I earned a BSc (Honors) in Applied Chemistry from the University of the West of England, Bristol, in 1999. I subsequently completed a degree in Chemistry in 2004, an MSc in Chemistry in 2007, and a PhD in Environmental Sciences and Technology in 2019 at the Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto. My expertise focuses on the development, optimization, and validation of advanced analytical methodologies, particularly using Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). My work includes both targeted and non-targeted analyses of cyanotoxins, hormones, pesticides, and pharmaceutical compounds, as well as the identification of novel bioactive molecules through the development of analytical methods and protocols. During my PhD, I investigated the temporal dynamics of biofouling communities using integrated taxonomic and metagenomic approaches. This research led to the first identification of 29 non-indigenous species in a major commercial cargo port, providing critical data to support the implementation of long-term biofouling monitoring programs in ports and harbors. I am currently leading the establishment and operational development of a Biotoxins Laboratory, structured in accordance with ISO 17045 requirements, contributing to laboratory quality systems, method validation, and analytical standardization. This work strengthens institutional capacity for reliable biotoxin monitoring and ensures high-quality analytical outputs that support environmental surveillance and public health protection. My research interests are centered on recreational water safety, with a focus on safeguarding public health through science-based environmental management and improved legislation. My future goals include promoting enhanced, year-round monitoring of aquatic ecosystems by expanding both the analytical scope and the range of contaminants assessed, contributing to safer and more sustainable public water resources.