Elsa Couto holds a Bachelor's degree (pre-Bologna) in Food Engineering from the University of Algarve, completed in 1991. Her academic journey has been enriched by internships, seminars, and specialized courses that deepened her knowledge. Notable experiences include an internship at the National Laboratory for Industrial Engineering and Technology (LNETI) and at CASO (Centro de Abate de Suínos do Oeste Lda.) in 1992, where she served as an Assistant to the Director of Quality Control. As part of her education, she attended international courses such as "The Quality of Fishery Produce Through Handling" in the United Kingdom and "Milk, Fermented Milk Products and Cheese Technology" in Greece, both supported by the ERASMUS Project. Since June 1993, Elsa has been working as a Laboratory Technician at the Algarve Center for Marine Sciences, being a part of the CEIB research group. She has been involved as a research fellow in various projects and holds a contract as a Senior Technician at CCMAR. Her expertise includes the application of analysis techniques such as hormone identification (Radioimmunoassay, Elisas), Histology, Liquid, and Gas Chromatography, as well as chemical, biochemical, and microbiological analyses in food. She actively contributes to research projects, mentors students, participates in samplings and is responsible for laboratory management, ensuring that daily operations run efficiently, safely, and within the required quality standards. This involves overseeing projects, safety protocols, documentation, stocks, and laboratory waste. Furthermore, Elsa has obtained certifications in the safety and management of chemical and hospital waste. She has attended the European First Aid course, sponsored by the University of Algarve, the Center for Marine Sciences, and other companies. She has received recognition for her scientific contributions throughout her career, evidenced by awards and publications in specialized journals.