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Dr. João Vareda holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Coimbra (2022), where his research focused on the development of functionalized silica aerogels for environmental cleaning and heavy metal recovery. His expertise lies in composite and silica-based aerogels (spanning applications in thermal insulation, pollutant adsorption, environmental remediation and energy storage) and in polymer science (dealing with biopolymers, hydrogels and drug delivery). In recognition of his scientific impact, Dr. Vareda was included in the world’s top 2% scientists list by Stanford University and Elsevier in both 2024 and 2025 (single-year impact ranking). He was the Principal Investigator of the Projeto Semente de Investigação Interdisciplinar 2023, a six-month proof-of-concept initiative funded by the University of Coimbra and Santander Universities (€20,000). He demonstrated the feasibility of composite aerogel electrolytes for solid-state sodium batteries, producing thermally stable and mechanically robust materials with promising ionic conductivities. Over time, he has participated in 7 research projects and expanded his work toward sustainable materials aligned with circular economy principles. His publication record includes 25 indexed papers, with 16 as first author, 6 as corresponding author and 1 as sole author. His current h-index is 17 (Scopus). Dr. Vareda has presented his research in 10 oral and 20 poster communications, earning two awards for best oral presentation. His work has been featured in the media.
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Identification

Personal identification

Full name
João Pedro Caria Vareda

Citation names

  • Vareda, João P.
  • Vareda, João Pedro

Author identifiers

Ciência ID
111E-99D9-E473
ORCID iD
0000-0002-1025-3488
Researcher Id
AAR-2629-2020
Scopus Author Id
57191603461

Addresses

  • Dep. Engenharia Química, Universidade de Coimbra, Rua Sílvio Lima - Polo II, 3030-790, Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal (Professional)

Knowledge fields

  • Exact Sciences - Chemical Sciences - Polymer Science
  • Engineering and Technology - Nano-technology - Nano-materials
  • Engineering and Technology - Materials Engineering - Composites
  • Exact Sciences - Chemical Sciences - Colloid Chemistry
Education
Degree Classification
2015 - 2022
Concluded
 Engenharia Química (Doutoramento)
Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
"Environmental Cleaning and Recovery of Heavy Metals via Functionalization of Silica Aerogels" (THESIS/DISSERTATION)
 Approved with praise and distinction
2010 - 2015
Concluded
 Mestrado Integrado Em Engenharia Química (Mestrado integrado)
Universidade de Coimbra Faculdade de Ciencias e Tecnologia, Portugal
"INCORPORAÇÃO DE POLÍMEROS INTELIGENTES EM AEROGÉIS À BASE DE SÍLICA// Smart polymer reinforced silica based aerogels" (THESIS/DISSERTATION)
 16
Affiliation

Other Careers

Category
Host institution 		Employer
2023/10/02 - Current Técnico Superior (Técnico Superior) Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
Universidade de Coimbra Centro de Engenharia Mecânica Materiais e Processos, Portugal

Others

Category
Host institution 		Employer
2023/03/01 - 2023/06/30 Postdoc Research Fellow on Project NATURAL Ref. CENTRO-01-0247-FEDER-047080 - Nano-argilas para remoção/captura de fosfatos (P) e sua reutilização como fertilizante Universidade de Aveiro, Portugal
Universidade de Aveiro CICECO, Portugal
2021/10/01 - 2022/12/31 MSc Research Fellow on project BIOSHELL Ref. BLUEBIO/0003/2019 - Recycling Crustaceans Shell Wastes for Developing Biodegradable Wastewater Cleaning Composites Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
Universidade de Coimbra Centro de Investigação em Engenharia dos Processos Químicos e dos Produtos da Floresta, Portugal
2017/04/01 - 2017/12/31 MSc Research Fellow on project AerogelDustFree - Aerogels for ISO8 spatial applications without powder release Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
Universidade de Coimbra Centro de Investigação em Engenharia dos Processos Químicos e dos Produtos da Floresta, Portugal
2016/10/17 - 2016/12/23 Serviços especializados: Avaliação de desempenho de aerogéis como adsorventes Universidade de Coimbra Centro de Investigação em Engenharia dos Processos Químicos e dos Produtos da Floresta, Portugal
Projects

Grant

Designation Funders
2023/03/01 - 2023/06/30 NATURAL Ref. CENTRO-01-0247-FEDER-047080 - Nano-argilas para remoção/captura de fosfatos (P) e sua reutilização como fertilizante
CENTRO-01-0247-FEDER-047080
Post-doc Fellow
Universidade de Aveiro CICECO, Portugal
 Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia
Concluded
2021/10/01 - 2022/12/31 BIOSHELL, Ref. BLUEBIO/0003/2019 - Recycling Crustaceans Shell Wastes for Developing Biodegradable Wastewater Cleaning Composites
BLUEBIO/0003/2019
Research Fellow
Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
 Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia
Concluded
2017/04/01 - 2017/12/31 AerogelDustFree – Aerogels for ISO8 spatial applications without powder release
017815
Research Fellow
Universidade de Coimbra Centro de Investigação em Engenharia dos Processos Químicos e dos Produtos da Floresta, Portugal
 Agência Nacional de Inovação SA
Concluded

Contract

Designation Funders
2023/10/02 - 2025/12/31 CiNTech - Polo Tecnológico de Inovação, Translação e Industrialização de Medicamentos Injetáveis Complexos
02/C05-i01.01/2022.PC644865576-00000005
Senior Technician
Universidade de Coimbra Centro de Engenharia Mecânica Materiais e Processos, Portugal
 European Union

Governo da República Portuguesa
Ongoing

Other

Designation Funders
2025 - Current Project AquaSafe – Improving the Quality of Water: Detection, Characterization and Removal of Disinfection Byproducts from Drinking Water
2024.07770.CBM
Team member
Universidade de Coimbra Centro de Investigação em Engenharia dos Processos Químicos e dos Produtos da Floresta, Portugal
Ongoing
2023/07/01 - 2023/12/31 AeroNaLyte - Silica-Polymer Composite Aerogels As Solid Sodium Electrolytes
AeroNaLyte
Principal investigator
Universidade de Coimbra Centro de Investigação em Engenharia dos Processos Químicos e dos Produtos da Floresta, Portugal
 Banco Santander Portugal

Universidade de Coimbra
Concluded
2016/01/01 - 2017/02/28 AeroMCatch: Aerogéis de Sílica para Remediação de Solos Contaminados com Metais Pesados
Process No 141735
Principal investigator
Universidade de Coimbra Centro de Investigação em Engenharia dos Processos Químicos e dos Produtos da Floresta, Portugal
 Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian
Concluded
Outputs

Publications

Conference abstract
  1. Pereira, I.A.; Fonseca, Ana C.; Vareda, João P.. "Hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels for suprachoroidal administration in glaucoma treatment: influence of precursors characteristics on hydrogels properties". Paper presented in the 1st International Online Conference on Gels, 2025.
    Published
  2. Vareda, João P.; A. S. R. Oliveira; Pereira, P.; Mendonça, P. V.; Fonseca, Ana C.; Simões, Sérgio; Serra, Armenio; Coelho, Jorge. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Non-cytotoxic and biodegradable micelles from 4-arm star PLA-b-POEOA and PLGA-b-POEOA block copolymers for drug delivery". Paper presented in XXIX National Meeting of the Portuguese Chemical Society, Coimbra, 2025.
    Published
  3. Panão-Costa, João; Lopes-Cardoso, Hugo; Mendonça, P. V.; Soares-Gonçalves, João; Voronovska, Anastasiya; Vareda, João P.; Fonseca, Ana C.; Batista, Ana; Moreira, João Nuno. "mRNA cancer vaccines: leveraging sugar-functionalized LNPs for targeted antitumor immunity". Paper presented in EACR 2025 Congress: Innovative Cancer Science, Coimbra, 2025.
    Published
  4. Vareda, João P.; SOFIO, SARA; Fonseca, Ana C.; Pontinha, Ana; Valente, Artur; A.C.F. Ribeiro. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Effect of sodium perchlorate on diffusion of poly(vinyl alcohol) in aqueous solutions". Paper presented in RICI10, Coimbra, 2024.
    Published
  5. 0B19-0FDC-926C; Vareda, João P.; Frade, Tânia; Coimbra, Manuel António; Yildirim, Selçuk; Gonçalves, Idalina; Durães, Luisa; Pinto, Moisés L; Ferreira, Paula. Corresponding author: 0B19-0FDC-926C. "Porous cellulose- and cellulose/lignin-based particles derived from pine nut byproducts as ethylene adsorbers". Paper presented in 6th EPNOE Junior Scientist Meeting 2024, Vienna, 2024.
    Published
  6. Vareda, João P.; Nicole Bodnarchuk; Fonseca, Ana C.; Pontinha, Ana; A.C.F. Ribeiro. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Silica aerogels for battery electrolytes: current status and prospects". Paper presented in XXV Meeting of the Portuguese Electrochemical society, Coimbra, 2023.
    Published
  7. Vareda, João P.; Mafalda Braga Gomes; Murtinho, Dina; Valente, A.J.M.; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Chitosan-based aerogel adsorbents for the removal of prioritary pollutants". Paper presented in 6th International Seminar on Aerogels, Hamburg, 2022.
    Published
  8. Vareda, João P.; Mafalda Braga Gomes; Murtinho, Dina; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Chitosan modified silica aerogels for the adsorption of pollutants". Paper presented in Junior Euromat 2022, Coimbra, 2022.
    Published
  9. Vareda, João P.; Mafalda Braga Gomes; Murtinho, Dina; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Chitosan-silica hybrid aerogels for pollutants sorption". Paper presented in SPANISH-PORTUGUESE INDUSTRY-ACADEMIA AEROGEL MEETING, Coimbra, 2022.
    Published
  10. Vareda, João P.; Paulo Matos; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Nickel separation via adsorption by an ORMOSIL aerogel modified with a Schiff base". Paper presented in 14th Meeting of Physical Chemistry, Coimbra, 2021.
    Published
  11. Vareda, João P.; Paulo Matos; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Separation of nickel by adsorption with a Schiff base modified ORMOSIL aerogel". Paper presented in Training School: Advanced technologies for the processing and characterization of nanostructured materials, Cracóvia, 2021.
    Published
  12. Vareda, João P.; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Cleaning of heavy metals-laden water by ORMOSIL aerogels adsorbents". Paper presented in Aerogel Industry Academia Forum: Processes, products, applications & markets, 2021.
    Published
  13. Vareda, João P.; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Silica-based aerogels/xerogels with nitrogen-containing groups for heavy metal adsorption". Paper presented in 5th International Seminar on Aerogels, Hamburgo, 2020.
    Published
  14. Vareda, João P.; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa (C21F-C2FA-C7F4). Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Modified aerogels for treatment of heavy metals laden water media". Paper presented in International Conference on Aerogels for Biomedical and Environmental Applications, Santiago Compostela, 2020.
    Published
  15. Alyne Lamy-Mendes; Vareda, João P.; Rafael B. Torres; Telma Matias; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Durães, Luisa. "TAILORING THE VERSATILE CHEMISTRY OF SILICA AEROGELS FOR POLLUTANTS CAPTURE". Paper presented in PRIOCHEM XV, 2019.
    Published
  16. Vareda, João P.; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa (C21F-C2FA-C7F4). Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Heavy metal uptake with sílica aerogels and xerogels modified with amines". Paper presented in 8th Iberian Meeting on Colloids and Interfaces (RICI8), Aveiro, 2019.
    Published
  17. Vareda, João P.; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Silica Aerogels and Xerogels as Efficient Heavy Metal Adsorbents". Paper presented in 4th International Seminar on Aerogels, Hamburgo, 2018.
    Published
  18. Rafael B. Torres; Vareda, João P.; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Durães, Luisa. "Effect of Different Silylation Agents on the Properties of Ambient Pressure Dried TEOS/VTMS Aerogels". Paper presented in 4th International Seminar on Aerogels, Hamburgo, 2018.
    Published
  19. Durães, Luisa; Hajar Maleki; Vareda, João P.; Alyne Lamy-Mendes; António Portugal. Corresponding author: Durães, Luisa. "Exploring the Versatile Surface Chemistry of Silica Aerogels for Multipurpose Application". Paper presented in 2017 MRS Spring Meeting, Phoenix, 2017.
    Published
  20. Vareda, João P.; Durães, Luisa (C21F-C2FA-C7F4). Corresponding author: Durães, Luisa (C21F-C2FA-C7F4). "Heavy metal adsorption by mercapto and amine functionalized silica aerogel-like materials". Paper presented in Applied Nanotechnology & Nanoscience International Conference 2016, Barcelona, 2016.
    Published
  21. Vareda, João P.; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Functionalized silica aerogels for adsorption of heavy metals from groundwater and soils". Paper presented in 3rd International Seminar on AEROGELS, Nice, 2016.
    Published
Conference poster
  1. Lopes-Cardoso, Hugo; Mendonça, P. V.; Soares-Gonçalves, João; Vieira-da-Silva, Maria; Voronovska, Anastasiya; Duarte-Azevedo, F.; Joana S. Ferreira; et al. "Precision Targeting of Antigen-Presenting Cells via Sugar-Functionalized Lipid Nanoparticles for mRNA Cancer Vaccination". Paper presented in XVI Spanish-Portuguese Conference on Controlled Drug Delivery, 2026.
  2. Panão-Costa, João; Lopes-Cardoso, Hugo; Mendonça, P. V.; SOARES-GONÇALVES, JOÃO MANUEL; Voronovska, Anastasiya; Vieira-da-Silva, M.; Duarte-Azevedo, F.; et al. Corresponding author: Panão-Costa, João. "Precision myeloid modulation of the tumor microenvironment: Sugar-functionalized lipid nanoparticles rewire TAM phenotypes". Paper presented in EACR Conference - Cancer Cell Plasticity: Cracking the Code of Adaptation and Survival Virtual Event, 2025.
  3. Lopes-Cardoso, Hugo; Mendonça, P. V.; SOARES-GONÇALVES, JOÃO MANUEL; Vieira-da-Silva, M.; Voronovska, Anastasiya; Duarte-Azevedo, F.; J.S., Ferreira,; et al. "Targeting cancer plasticity and therapy resistance with sugar-functionalized mRNA-LNP vaccines". Paper presented in EACR Conference - Cancer Cell Plasticity: Cracking the Code of Adaptation and Survival Virtual Event, 2025.
  4. Pereira, Inês Anselmo; Fonseca, Ana C.; Vareda, João P.. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Hyaluronic acid-based hydrogels for suprachoroidal administration in glaucoma treatment: influence of precursors characteristics on hydrogels properties". Paper presented in The 1st International Online Conference on Gels, 2025.
  5. Lopes-Cardoso, Hugo; Mendonça, P. V.; Soares-Gonçalves, J.M.; Voronovska, Anastasiya; Vareda, João P.; Batista, Ana; Amaral, A. T.; Panão-Costa, João; Moreira, João Nuno. "Targeted Immunotherapy with mRNA Cancer Vaccines: Harnessing Sugar-Functionalized LNPs for Precision Antitumor Immunity". Paper presented in 20th ASEICA INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS, 2025.
  6. Panão-Costa, João; Lopes-Cardoso, Hugo; Mendonça, P. V.; Soares-Gonçalves, João; Voronovska, Anastasiya; Vareda, João P.; Fonseca, Ana C.; et al. "Sugar-Functionalized Lipid Nanoparticles for Targeted Reprogramming of Tumor-Associated Macrophages". Paper presented in 20th ASEICA INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS, 2025.
  7. Vareda, João P.; A. S. R. Oliveira; Pereira, P.; Mendonça, P. V.; Fonseca, Ana C.; Serra, Arménio; Coelho, Jorge. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Non-cytotoxic and biodegradable micelles from 4-arm star PLA-b-POEOA and PLGA-b-POEOA block copolymers for drug delivery". Paper presented in XXIX National Meeting of the Portuguese Chemical Society, 2025.
  8. Panão-Costa, João; Lopes-Cardoso, Hugo; Mendonça, Patrícia; SOARES-GONÇALVES, JOÃO MANUEL; Voronovska, Anastasiya; Vareda, João P.; Ana c a l fonseca; et al. Corresponding author: Moreira, João Nuno. "mRNA Cancer Vaccines: Leveraging Sugar-Functionalized LNPs for Targeted Antitumor Immunity". Paper presented in European Association for Cancer Research (EACR) 2025, 2025.
  9. 0B19-0FDC-926C; Vareda, João P.; Frade, Tânia; Coimbra, Manuel António; Yildirim, Selçuk; Gonçalves, Idalina; Durães, Luisa; Pinto, Moisés L; Ferreira, Paula. Corresponding author: 0B19-0FDC-926C. "Porous cellulose- and cellulose/lignin-based particles derived from pine nut byproducts as ethylene adsorbers". Paper presented in 6th EPNOE Junior Scientist Meeting 2024, 2024.
  10. Vareda, João P.; SOFIO, SARA; Fonseca, Ana C.; Pontinha, Ana; Valente, Artur; A.C.F. Ribeiro. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Effect of sodium perchlorate on diffusion of poly(vinyl alcohol) in aqueous solutions". Paper presented in RICI10, 2024.
  11. Vareda, João P.; Nicole Bodnarchuk; Ana Clotilde Amaral Loureiro da Fonseca; Pontinha, Ana; F31C-5EE6-4C93. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Silica aerogels for battery electrolytes: current status and prospects". Paper presented in XXV Meeting of the Portuguese Electrochemical society, 2023.
  12. Silva, M.P.; Santos, M. J.; Vareda, João P.; Tiago Farraia; Tedim, João. Corresponding author: Silva, M.P.. "The potential of LDH for phosphate removal from eutrophic waters". Paper presented in Ciência 2023, 2023.
  13. Vareda, João P.; Mafalda Braga Gomes; Murtinho, Dina; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Chitosan-based aerogel adsorbents for the removal of prioritary pollutants". Paper presented in 6th International Seminar on Aerogels, 2022.
  14. Vareda, João P.; Mafalda Braga Gomes; Murtinho, Dina; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Chitosan-silica hybrid aerogels for pollutants sorption". Paper presented in SPANISH-PORTUGUESE INDUSTRY-ACADEMIA AEROGEL MEETING, 2022.
  15. Vareda, João P.; Paulo Matos; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Nickel separation via adsorption by an ORMOSIL aerogel modified with a Schiff base". Paper presented in 14th Meeting of Physical Chemistry, 2021.
  16. Vareda, João P.; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Cleaning of heavy metals-laden water by ORMOSIL aerogels adsorbents". Paper presented in Aerogel Industry Academia Forum: Processes, products, applications & markets, 2021.
  17. Vareda, João P.; Valente, Artur; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Silica-based aerogels/xerogels with nitrogen-containing groups for heavy metal adsorption". Paper presented in 5th International Seminar on Aerogels, 2020.
  18. Vareda, João P.; Valente, A.J.M.; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Silica Aerogels and Xerogels as Efficient Heavy Metal Adsorbents". Paper presented in 4th International Seminar on Aerogels, 2018.
  19. Rafael Torres; Vareda, João P.; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Durães, Luisa. "Effect of Different Silylation Agents on the Properties of Ambient Pressure Dried TEOS/VTMS Aerogels". Paper presented in 4th International Seminar on Aerogels, 2018.
  20. Vareda, João P.; Durães, Luisa. Corresponding author: Vareda, João P.. "Functionalized silica aerogels for adsorption of heavy metals from groundwater and soils". Paper presented in 3rd International Seminar on AEROGELS, 2016.
Journal article
  1. João P. Vareda; Sara P.C. Sofio; Ana D.R. Pontinha; Artur J.M. Valente; Ana C.F. Ribeiro. "Understanding the transport of poly(vinyl alcohol) in aqueous solutions containing sodium perchlorate". Fluid Phase Equilibria (2026): https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fluid.2025.114547.
    10.1016/j.fluid.2025.114547
  2. Joana S. Ferreira; João P. Vareda; A. S. Oliveira; Jéssica S. Barbosa; Francisca Bastos; Patrícia V. Mendonça; A. C. Fonseca. "Correction: Polymeric nanocarriers for cancer treatment: the promise of sensitive poly(2-(diisopropylamino)ethyl methacrylate)". Journal of Materials Chemistry B (2025): https://doi.org/10.1039/D5TB90123E.
    10.1039/D5TB90123E
  3. Joana S. Ferreira; João P. Vareda; A. S. Oliveira; Jéssica S. Barbosa; Francisca Bastos; Patrícia V. Mendonça; A. C. Fonseca. "Polymeric nanocarriers for cancer treatment: the promise of sensitive poly(2-(diisopropylamino)ethyl methacrylate)". Journal of Materials Chemistry B (2025): https://doi.org/10.1039/D5TB00268K.
    10.1039/D5TB00268K
  4. João Pedro Vareda; Ana Clotilde Fonseca; Ana Cristina Faria Ribeiro; Ana Dora Rodrigues Pontinha. "Silica-Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Composite Aerogel: A Promising Electrolyte for Solid-State Sodium Batteries". Gels (2024): https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10050293.
    10.3390/gels10050293
  5. João P. Vareda; Pedro M. C. Matias; José A. Paixão; Dina Murtinho; Artur J. M. Valente; Luisa Durães. "Chitosan–Silica Composite Aerogel for the Adsorption of Cupric Ions". Gels (2024): https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10030192.
    10.3390/gels10030192
  6. Pedro M. C. Matias; Joana F. M. Sousa; Eva F. Bernardino; João P. Vareda; Luisa Durães; Paulo E. Abreu; Jorge M. C. Marques; Dina Murtinho; Artur J. M. Valente. "Reduced Chitosan as a Strategy for Removing Copper Ions from Water". Molecules (2023): https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28104110.
    10.3390/molecules28104110
  7. João P. Vareda. "On validity, physical meaning, mechanism insights and regression of adsorption kinetic models". Journal of Molecular Liquids (2023): https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molliq.2023.121416.
    10.1016/j.molliq.2023.121416
  8. Beatriz Merillas; João Pedro Vareda; Judith Martín-de León; Miguel Ángel Rodríguez-Pérez; Luisa Durães. "Thermal Conductivity of Nanoporous Materials: Where Is the Limit?". Polymers 14 13 (2022): 2556-2556. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym14132556.
    10.3390/polym14132556
  9. João P. Vareda; Paulo D. Matos; Artur J. M. Valente; Luisa Durães; Chinenye Adaobi Igwegbe. "A New Schiff Base Organically Modified Silica Aerogel-Like Material for Metal Ion Adsorption with Ni Selectivity". Adsorption Science & Technology 2022 (2022): 1-18. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/8237403.
    10.1155/2022/8237403
  10. Vareda, J.P.; García-González, C.A.; Valente, A.J.M.; Simón-Vázquez, R.; Stipetic, M.; Durães, L.. "Insights on toxicity, safe handling and disposal of silica aerogels and amorphous nanoparticles". Environmental Science: Nano 8 5 (2021): 1177-1195. http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85106640150&partnerID=MN8TOARS.
    10.1039/d1en00026h
  11. Vareda, J.P.; Valente, A.J.M.; Durães, L.. "Ligands as copper and nickel ionophores: Applications and implications on wastewater treatment". Advances in Colloid and Interface Science 289 (2021): http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85100233847&partnerID=MN8TOARS.
    10.1016/j.cis.2021.102364
  12. João P. Vareda; Artur J. M. Valente; Luisa Durães. "Silica Aerogels/Xerogels Modified with Nitrogen-Containing Groups for Heavy Metal Adsorption". Molecules 25 12 (2020): 2788-2788. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25122788.
    10.3390/molecules25122788
  13. Alyne Lamy-Mendes; Rafael B. Torres; João P. Vareda; David Lopes; Marco Ferreira; Vanessa Valente; Ana V. Girão; Artur J. M. Valente; Luísa Durães. "Amine Modification of Silica Aerogels/Xerogels for Removal of Relevant Environmental Pollutants". Molecules (2019): https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24203701.
    10.3390/molecules24203701
  14. Vareda, J.P.; Durães, L.. "Efficient adsorption of multiple heavy metals with tailored silica aerogel-like materials". Environmental Technology (United Kingdom) 40 4 (2019): 529-541. http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85033675757&partnerID=MN8TOARS.
    10.1080/09593330.2017.1397766
  15. Torres, R.B.; Vareda, J.P.; Lamy-Mendes, A.; Durães, L.. "Effect of different silylation agents on the properties of ambient pressure dried and supercritically dried vinyl-modified silica aerogels". Journal of Supercritical Fluids 147 (2019): 81-89. http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85061835563&partnerID=MN8TOARS.
    10.1016/j.supflu.2019.02.010
  16. Vareda, J.P.; Valente, A.J.M.; Durães, L.. "Assessment of heavy metal pollution from anthropogenic activities and remediation strategies: A review". Journal of Environmental Management 246 (2019): 101-118. http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85066503559&partnerID=MN8TOARS.
    10.1016/j.jenvman.2019.05.126
  17. Vareda, J.P.; Lamy-Mendes, A.; Durães, L.. "A reconsideration on the definition of the term aerogel based on current drying trends". Microporous and Mesoporous Materials 258 (2018): 211-216. http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85029716813&partnerID=MN8TOARS.
    10.1016/j.micromeso.2017.09.016
  18. Vareda, J.P.; Maximiano, P.; Cunha, L.P.; Ferreira, A.F.; Simões, P.N.; Durães, L.. "Effect of different types of surfactants on the microstructure of methyltrimethoxysilane-derived silica aerogels: A combined experimental and computational approach". Journal of Colloid and Interface Science 512 (2018): 64-76. http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85031791624&partnerID=MN8TOARS.
    10.1016/j.jcis.2017.10.035
  19. Vareda, J.P.; Matias, T.; Durães, L.. "Facile preparation of ambient pressure dried aerogel-like monoliths with reduced shrinkage based on vinyl-modified silica networks". Ceramics International 44 14 (2018): 17453-17458. http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85049299070&partnerID=MN8TOARS.
    10.1016/j.ceramint.2018.06.213
  20. Luisa Durães; Hajar Maleki; João P. Vareda; Alyne Lamy-Mendes; António Portugal. "Exploring the Versatile Surface Chemistry of Silica Aerogels for Multipurpose Application". MRS Advances (2017): 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1557%2Fadv.2017.375.
    10.1557/adv.2017.375
  21. Ana Borba; João P Vareda; Luisa Durães; António Portugal; Pedro Nuno NL Nuno NL Simões. "Spectroscopic Characterization of Silica Aerogels Prepared Using Several Precursors - Effect on the Formation of Molecular Clusters". New J. Chem. (2017): https://doi.org/10.1039%2Fc7nj01082f.
    10.1039/c7nj01082f
  22. Vareda, J.P.; Durães, L.. "Functionalized silica xerogels for adsorption of heavy metals from groundwater and soils". Journal of Sol-Gel Science and Technology 84 3 (2017): 400-408. http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-85013212415&partnerID=MN8TOARS.
    10.1007/s10971-017-4326-y
  23. Vareda, J.P.; Valente, A.J.M.; Dur�es, L.. "Heavy metals in Iberian soils: Removal by current adsorbents/amendments and prospective for aerogels". Advances in Colloid and Interface Science 237 (2016): 28-42. http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-84994577698&partnerID=MN8TOARS.
    10.1016/j.cis.2016.08.009
  24. Vareda, J.P.; Valente, A.J.M.; Durães, L.. "Erratum to “Heavy metals in Iberian soils: Removal by current adsorbents/amendments and prospective for aerogels” (Advances in Colloid and Interface Science (2016) 237 (28–42) (S0001868616301804) (10.1016/j.cis.2016.08.009))". Advances in Colloid and Interface Science 237 (2016): 76-77. http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-84995538920&partnerID=MN8TOARS.
    10.1016/j.cis.2016.10.002
  25. Vareda, J.P.; Matias, T.; Fonseca, A.C.; Durães, L.. "Flexible acrylate-grafted silica aerogels for insulation purposes: comparison of reinforcement strategies". Journal of Sol-Gel Science and Technology 80 2 (2016): 306-317. http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-84976892860&partnerID=MN8TOARS.
    10.1007/s10971-016-4137-6
Thesis / Dissertation
  1. "Environmental cleaning and recovery of heavy metals via functionalization of silica aerogels". PhD, Universidade de Coimbra, 2022.
  2. Vareda, João P.. "Incorporação de polímeros inteligentes em aerogéis à base de sílica". Master, Universidade de Coimbra, 2015.
Activities

Oral presentation

Presentation title Event name
Host (Event location)
2026/01/15 Sugar-Functionalized LNPs for mRNA Delivery to Reprogram Tumor-Associated Macrophages XVI Spanish-Portuguese Conference on Controlled Drug Delivery
(Albacete, Spain)
2022/07/20 Chitosan modified silica aerogels for the adsorption of pollutants Junior Euromat 2022
Univerisdade de Coimbra (Coimbra, Portugal)
2021/07 Separation of nickel by adsorption with a Schiff base modified ORMOSIL aerogel Training School: Advanced technologies for the processing and characterization of nanostructured materials
AGH University of Science and Technology (cracóvia, Poland)
2020/02 Modified aerogels for treatment of heavy metals laden water media International Conference on Aerogels for Biomedical and Environmental Applications
universidade Santiago Compostela (santiago Compostela, Spain)
2019/10 Modified silica aerogels and xerogels as heavy metal adsorbents Training School: Aerogels processing, modelling and environmental-driven applications
universidade de coimbra (coimbra, Portugal)
2019/10 Tailoring the versatile chemistry of silica aerogels for pollutants capture Priorities of Chemistry for a Sustainable Development - PRIOCHEM 15th Edition
(bucareste, Romania)
2019/07 Heavy metal uptake with sílica aerogels and xerogels modified with amines 8th Iberian Meeting on Colloids and Interfaces (RICI8)
universidade de aveiro (aveiro, Portugal)
2018/05 Perspectives for silica aerogels as heavy metal adsorbents Workshop on How to protect water, soil, and plants production all together
universidade de coimbra (coimbra, Portugal)
2017 Exploring the Versatile Surface Chemistry of Silica Aerogels for Multipurpose Application 2017 MRS Spring Meeting
MRS (United States)
2016/11 Heavy metal adsorption by mercapto and amine functionalized silica aerogel-like materials Applied Nanotechnology & Nanoscience International Conference 2016
(Barcelona, Spain)

Supervision

Thesis Title
Role 		Degree Subject (Type)
Institution / Organization
2025/12 - 2026/05 Hidrogéis para entrega de fármacos em aplicações biomédicas
Co-supervisor
Universidade de Coimbra Centro de Engenharia Mecânica Materiais e Processos, Portugal
2025/02 - 2025/09 Desenvolvimento de hidrogéis de base ácido hialurónico para aplicações oftalmológicas
Co-supervisor
 Mestrado em Engenharia Química (Master)
Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
2023/01/02 - 2024/01/26 Compósito aerogel/polímero para tecnologias de armazenamento de energia
Co-supervisor
Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
2019/09 - 2019/12 Effect of catalysts on macroscopic properties of ORMOSIL aerogels and xerogels
Co-supervisor
Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal

Event organisation

Event name
Type of event (Role) 		Institution / Organization
2022/02/28 - 2022/03/02 2º Encontro Ibérico de Fluidos Supercríticos (2022/02/28 - 2022/03/03)
Conference (Member of the Organising Committee)
 Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
2021/12/13 - 2021/12/14 Annual Meeting | 2021 – CIEPQPF (2021/12/13 - 2021/12/14)
Meeting (Member of the Organising Committee)
 Universidade de Coimbra Centro de Investigação em Engenharia dos Processos Químicos e dos Produtos da Floresta, Portugal

Event participation

Activity description
Type of event 		Event name
Institution / Organization
2023/09 - 2023/09 Aerogéis de silica e armazenamento de energia
Other
 Noite Europeia dos Investigadores
Universidade de Coimbra Instituto de Investigação Interdisciplinar, Portugal
2022/12 - 2022/12 Adsorção de poluentes de águas contaminadas por aerogéis sílica-quitosano
Other
 Engenheiro Químico por um dia
Universidade de Coimbra Centro de Investigação em Engenharia dos Processos Químicos e dos Produtos da Floresta, Portugal
2022/07/26 - 2022/07/26 O que é um aerogel? A química sol-gel ao teu alcance para engenharia deste produto especial…,
Other
 Universidade de Verão
Universidade de Coimbra Centro de Investigação em Engenharia dos Processos Químicos e dos Produtos da Floresta, Portugal
2018/11 - 2018/11 O que é a… Engenharia Química. O que é um aerogel?
Other
 Dia Nacional da Cultura Científica
2017/09 - 2017/09 Nano: 0D a 3D
Other
 Noite Europeia dos Investigadores
Universidade de Coimbra Instituto de Investigação Interdisciplinar, Portugal

Ad Hoc journal article review

Journal title (ISSN) Publisher
2025 - Current Sustainable Chemistry for the Environment Elsevier
2025 - Current Journal of Porous Materials Springer Nature
2025 - Current Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects Elsevier
2025 - Current Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering Elsevier
2024 - Current Journal of Environmental Management Elsevier
2019 - 2024 Journal of Molecular Liquids elsevier
2018 - 2018 Molecules MDPI

Association member

Society Organization name Role
2019 - 2023 AERoGELS COST Action (CA 18125) Member

Course / Discipline taught

Academic session Degree Subject (Type) Institution / Organization
2022/12/05 - 2022/12/05 Materiais em Bioengenharia Licenciatura em Bioengenharia (Licenciatura) Universidade do Algarve, Portugal
2022/10/20 - 2022/10/20 Nanotecnologias Mestrado em Engenharia Química (Mestrado) Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
2021/10/15 - 2021/10/15 Nanotecnologias Mestrado em Engenharia Química (Mestrado) Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
2018/10/25 - 2018/10/25 Nanotecnologias Mestrado Integrado em Engnharia Química (Mestrado integrado) Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
2017/10/11 - 2017/10/11 Nanotecnologias Mestrado Integrado em Enhengaria Química (Mestrado integrado) Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal

Interview (newspaper / magazine)

Activity description Newspaper / Forum
2025/10/23 93 cientistas da Universidade de Coimbra entre os mais citados do mundo Notícias UC
2024/10/10 91 cientistas da Universidade de Coimbra entre os mais citados do mundo Notícias UC
2024/04/29 Universidade de Coimbra em projeto para criação de baterias mais seguras Diário as beiras
2022/03/28 Artigo de revisão por investigadores do DEQ recebe os prémios de mais citado e mais transferido DEQ-Notícias
2016/01/28 Dois investigadores da região premiados pela Gulbenkian Jornal de Leiria

Interview (tv / radio show)

Program Topic
2026/01/13 - 2026/01/13 90 Segundos de Ciência

Journal scientific committee

Journal title (ISSN) Publisher
2022 - 2022 Guest Editor, Special Issue "Adsorption of Emerging Contaminants from the Environment", Toxics (2305-6304) MDPI

Mentoring / Tutoring

Topic Student name
2020/02 - 2021/07 Accompanying of master students in Chemical Engineering Paulo Matos
2018/02 - 2018/09 Accompanying of master students in Chemical Engineering Marco Ferreira
Distinctions

Award

2023 Projeto Semente de Investigação Interdisciplinar 2023 , Project AeroNaLyte
Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal

Banco Santander Portugal, Portugal
2022 most downloaded paper award 2021 for review papers
Elsevier BV, Netherlands
2022 most cited paper award 2021 for review papers
Elsevier BV, Netherlands
2019 Melhor Apresentação Oral de Early Carrier Investigator
Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
2019 Melhor apresentação oral, RICI8
Universidade de Aveiro, Portugal
2015 Prémio de Estímulo à Investigação 2015, Project AeroMCatch
Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, Portugal
2014 Prémio 3% dos Melhores Estudantes UC// 3% Best Student Award
Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
2013 Prémio 3% dos Melhores Estudantes UC// 3% Best Student Award
Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
2012 Prémio 3% dos Melhores Estudantes UC// 3% Best Student Award
Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal

Other distinction

2025 Featured in the World’s Top 2% Scientists, considering the impact of a single year (2025), “August 2025 data-update for "Updated science-wide author databases of standardized citation indicators"”
Elsevier BV, Netherlands
2024 Featured in the World’s Top 2% Scientists, considering the impact of a single year (2024), “August 2024 data-update for "Updated science-wide author databases of standardized citation indicators"”
Elsevier Inc, United States
2024 Paper in the top 1% cited papers in the Environment/ecology fields, classified by Web of Science, for paper Assessment of heavy metal pollution from anthropogenic activities and remediation strategies: A review
Clarivate Analytics US LLC, United States
2024 Paper in the top 1% cited papers in the Chemistry field, classified by Web of Science, for paper On validity, physical meaning, mechanism insights and regression of adsorption kinetic models
Clarivate Analytics US LLC, United States