Speech title: “Seaweed Biotechnology: From bioactivities to sustainable aquaculture“

Teresa Mouga is an Associate Professor at the School of Tourism and Maritime Technology, University of Leiria and Oeste, Portugal, where she currently serves as Dean. She holds a PhD in Biology from the University of Coimbra (1997) and is a researcher at MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, as well as a member of ARNET and S2AQUAcoLAB. Her research focuses on marine macroalgae, including taxonomy, ecology, cultivation, bioactive compounds, biomaterials, and applications within the blue bioeconomy. She has published more than 40 papers indexed in the Web of Science, together with books, book chapters, and numerous conferences proceedings. Throughout her career, she has coordinated and participated in around 30 national and European research and innovation projects related to marine resources, sustainability and science communication. Beyond her scientific activity, she has held several academic leadership positions, including chair of the Scientific Council, Deputy Dean and programme coordinator, and currently contributes to national innovation and blue economy initiatives through advisory and governance roles.