Susana Santos holds a degree in Genetics and Microbiology from Lisbon’s Faculty of Sciences, where she began her research on the molecular mechanisms of phage-host interactions relevant to industrial fermentation processes carried out by lactic acid bacteria. She later pursued a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the same institution, continuing her prior work and developing novel approaches in the field. Her academic journey continued with a Post-Doctoral position in Molecular Biology at Lisbon’s Faculty of Pharmacy, where she focused her research on the genetics of cardiovascular diseases. As a researcher at Lisbon’s Faculty of Pharmacy and Lisbon’s Instituto Superior Técnico, she coordinated one national project (Cardiogenetics) and actively participated in over 10 national projects focused on cardiogenetics and cancer research. This experience allowed her to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and healthcare application, strengthening her ability to apply genetic knowledge to medical innovations. In 2009, she became an Assistant Professor at the Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, where she taught a variety of subjects related to Genetics, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology. Her academic career expanded in 2013 when she co-founded HeartGenetics, Genetics and Biotechnology, a start-up that pioneered a methodology integrating genomics and computational technologies. As Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Director of Quality Management System, she played a critical role in developing innovative genetic tests with applications in cardiovascular diseases, pharmacogenetics, cardio-oncology, nutrigenetics, and athletic performance. HeartGenetics aimed to provide healthcare providers with tools to promote wellness, prevent illness, and support disease diagnosis. Her experience as a leader in biotechnology grew further when, in 2018, she joined EXMceuticals Inc. as a consultant. In 2019, she was appointed Chief Innovation Officer (CIO) at EXMceuticals Portugal, a cutting-edge biotechnology company. Her role at EXMceuticals centers on the development of novel cannabis-based products, applying advanced biotechnology strategies while promoting social and environmental responsibility. Her efforts are focused on evaluating and proving the concept of phytochemicals with therapeutic and wellness potential. At EXMceuticals, she drives the company's innovation strategy, promotes scientific and technological research, and supports the development of cannabis-based products aimed at healthcare and wellness. Her work focuses on developing plant-based products that mimic essential natural and regulatory functions in the human body. Susana's career reflects her ongoing commitment to using biotechnology and genetic knowledge to promote health and well-being. Her experience ranges from fundamental academic research to the creation of applied healthcare products. Her main areas of interest lie in the development of solutions for wellness, the pharmaceutical industry, and the design of novel therapeutic products based on biotechnology innovations.