Maria Cristina Seixas Martins Morais is a doctorate researcher affiliated with the Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB) at the University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD). She holds a Degree in Forestry Engineering and an MSc in Silviculture of Fast-Growing Species, both from UTAD. In 2013, she finished her PhD in Biology, specializing in Ecology, from the University of Coimbra. Throughout her career, Maria Cristina has served as a lecturer at UTAD and an Assistant Professor at the Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco, Escola Superior Agrária. She has contributed to several R&D projects focusing on biological invasions and plant physiological traits. Since February 2023, her research has emphasized composting and vermicomposting, particularly exploring the use of agricultural and forestry by-products to produce biofertilizers. Maria Cristina’s scientific contributions include 33 peer-reviewed journal articles, with 14 as the first author in Q1-ranked journals. Additionally, she has authored 9 book chapters, 1 book, and delivered approximately 70 presentations (oral and poster) at national and international scientific conferences. Her primary research interests encompass: - Invasive Plants: Ecological impacts, ecosystem restoration, and management/control strategies. - Plant Physiology: Understanding functional responses to environmental factors. - Composting and Vermicomposting: Developing value-added products from agricultural and forestry residues. Maria Cristina is also deeply committed to outreach activities, engaging young students and the general public to promote awareness of ecological challenges and sustainable practices.