I am a postdoctoral researcher at ICVS, University of Minho. I obtained a PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Bordeaux (France) in 2023, where I investigated the role of the endocannabinoid system in motivated behaviors. During my doctoral training under the supervision of Dr. Francis Chaouloff in Dr. Giovanni Marsicano’s laboratory (INSERM), I implemented a wide range of behavioral paradigms based on operant conditioning to dissect the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the dysregulated balance between food intake and physical activity observed in eating disorders. By combining behavioral neuroeconomics, pharmacological and viral approaches, my research revealed that cannabinoid type-1 (CB1) receptors located on GABAergic interneurons sex-dependently gate long-term cost-benefit decision-making between feeding and exercise. This work provided me with a strong foundation in experimental design and circuit –level approaches, resulting in six peer-reviewed publications including three as co-first author, and the presentation of my work at major international conferences (FENS, SFN). Following my PhD and first postdoctoral experience, I strategically broadened my research focus and methodological expertise. Thus, in 2025, I joined the laboratory of Dr. Ana João Rodrigues (ICVS, Braga, Portugal), recognized for its strong technical expertise in the field of reward and aversion, to further develop my independent research profile. This transition enabled me to acquire new methodologies, including single-cell calcium imaging, optogenetics and advanced computational analyses enabling a deeper understanding of neural population dynamics that support adaptive and maladaptive behavior.