Sílvia Macedo Arantes holds a PhD in Biochemistry (2020) from the University of Évora, approved with High Distinction. She is an Invited Auxiliary Researcher and Integrated Member of the HERCULES Laboratory, where she focuses on the valorization and safeguarding of Natural, Genetic, and Cultural Heritage. Her research integrates Applied Microbiology, Molecular Biology, and Biochemistry to study biodeteriogenic agents and develop sustainable biotechnological solutions. This work ranges from evaluating biochemical and toxicological properties to validate the use of Aromatic and Medicinal Plants, to characterizing biodeteriogenic microorganisms in heritage assets, and seeking innovative solutions for the environment and health. A core pillar of her trajectory is the investigation of essential oils and natural products, evaluating their antimicrobial and bioactive properties for applications in Heritage Science and Biomedicine. Having been awarded 6 R&D grants throughout her career, she currently collaborates on several strategic projects, including CLIMATECH (HERCULES), VITISBIOTA (MED), and LAVida (CHRC). Her scientific output is reflected in 17 articles indexed in Scopus (h-index 10; 472 citations), 4 book chapters, 20 publications with ISBN, and 2 invention patents, demonstrating a strong commitment to innovation and technology transfer. With extensive experience in human resources training, she has supervised or co-oriented approximately 40 students at various academic levels.