Maria Emilia Brassesco is a Researcher at the Centre for Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry (CBQF), Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP). She obtained her BSc in Biotechnology from the National University of Rosario (UNR), Argentina, and completed her PhD in Chemical Sciences in 2019, with research conducted at UNR and the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), Portugal. Her doctoral work focused on developing polymeric materials and innovative purification techniques for biotechnological applications. Maria Emilia has authored 23 peer-reviewed publications, including 7 as first author, 4 as corresponding author and 5 book chapters, demonstrating her scientific leadership. She has been invited to moderate key sessions, deliver oral presentations at international conferences, and contribute as editor to 4 Special Issues and 1 book in high-impact journals. Her current research centers on the valorization of agro-forestry and fishery by-products, development of functional food ingredients, and advancing sustainable purification methods. As a project manager and team member, she has contributed to European Commission, FCT, and FONCyT-funded projects, delivering impactful results such as a patent, innovative food products, and an industrial process. Maria Emilia is actively engaged in mentoring, having supervised 2 PhD students, co-mentored MSc students, and guided BSc projects internationally in agri-food byproduct valorisation for food and industrial application. She also serves as an Assistant Professor of General Chemistry at UCP, integrating theoretical and practical teaching with her research expertise. Maria Emilia’s scientific focus spans biomolecule isolation, bioactive compounds, biopolymers, functional food development and by-product valorization, aligned with green chemistry and circular economy principles. Her contributions position her as a rising leader in sustainable biotechnology.