Cláudia Cavadas, PhD
"Empowering Minds, Advancing Science "
I am Cláudia Cavadas, a researcher and professor at The University of Coimbra, Portugal. I have a degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences (PharmD), a Master in Cell Biology, and a PhD and habilitation in Pharmacology. I had the opportunity to spend 3 years at the Univ. Lausanne, Switzerland to develop part of my PhD thesis.
Currently, I am Associate Professor at the Faculty of Pharmacy - Univ. Coimbra, and I am privileged to coordinate the the "Neuroendocrinology and Aging Group" at the Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC-UC).
My research is primarily focused on exploring neuroendocrine strategies to control aging and address age-related disorders. Throughout my career, I have published almost 100 research papers, and I take immense pride in leading and securing funding for 20 projects supported by national or international funding agencies. I have been invited to review international grants and to give conferences and seminars in different places (Portugal, EUA, France, Germany, Spain, Iceland, Brasil, UK, Italy, ...) to share the new data and scientific knowledge generated by my team about aging and longevity.
With almost 30 years of research and teaching experience, I have had the joy of interacting with numerous students, fostering strong connections between teaching and research. I find great satisfaction in guiding and inspiring the next generation of minds, from undergraduate to PhD students. As a mentor, I have had the privilege of guiding and supervising nearly 40 graduate students, nurturing their growth and passion for scientific inquiry. Throughout my career, I have taught a range of subjects, including Histology, Drug Screening, Pharmacology, and Science Communication, each enriching my perspective as an professor and researcher.
In addition to my passion for research and teaching, I have a genuine joy in sharing and communicating the science generated in my lab. Whether it's through interactions with scientific peers, public lectures, engaging with the general public, or contributing to the awareness of scientific advancements, I take great delight in making science accessible and understandable to everyone. By communicating our findings, we contribute to a better-informed society and inspire curiosity about the wonders of science.
Furthermore, I am deeply committed to raising awareness about the importance of women in science. As a female researcher and professor, I actively advocate for and support women pursuing careers in science, encouraging diversity and equal opportunities in the scientific community. I am very proud of the recognition of "Women in Science" by the National Agency Ciência Viva.
My journey has been filled with meaningful leadership experiences, such as Vice-Rector of the University of Coimbra, responsible for Research and Doctoral Schools, Vice-Chair of the Coimbra Group—a network of 40 European universities, Director of the Institute of Interdisciplinary Research, Vice-director of the Faculty of Pharmacy, coordinator of the Department of Pharmacology, as well as being elected as the president of the Portuguese Society of Pharmacology and leading the Science Communication office at CNC.
It is my passion to inspire and empower the next generation of researchers as we work together to address pressing scientific challenges and contribute to the betterment of society. I firmly believe that fostering the links between teaching and research is key to nurturing a generation of curious and innovative minds in the realm of science.
See more information here:
Neuroendocrinology and Aging group
