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Claudia Botelho

Universidade do Porto, University of Minho, Universidade do Minho

ORCID iD 0000-0001-8221-419X
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About

Cláudia Manuela da Cunha Ferreira Botelho is a senior biomedical researcher whose career spans more than 20 years of interdisciplinary work at the intersection of biomaterials, bioengineering, nanomedicine, and translational health sciences. With a foundational degree in Biological Engineering from the University of Minho (2000) and a PhD in Engineering Science from the University of Porto (2005), Dr. Botelho's scientific journey began early during her undergraduate studies and evolved into a globally engaged career that integrates fundamental science, applied technology, education, and policy advocacy.
Her doctoral research focused on the biological potential of silicon-substituted hydroxyapatite for bone regeneration. This pioneering work, conducted across elite institutions such as Queen Mary University of London, the University of Cambridge, and the Nara Institute of Science and Technology, introduced novel concepts in biomimetic ceramics, resulting in patented materials with enhanced osteoconductivity. Building upon this foundation, she expanded her scope during postdoctoral fellowships, exploring antimicrobial biomaterials, polymer-based devices, and cellular responses to biomaterials.
Currently, Dr. Botelho leads a multidisciplinary research group at the ICETA-ICBAS-University of Porto. Her group investigates sustainable biomedical innovations, including the valorisation of natural molecules and industrial by-products for applications in wound healing, skin regeneration, cancer therapy, nutraceutics and cosmetic sciences. In this capacity, she has developed patented nanotechnological tools (e.g., exosome-like liposomes) and advanced methods like microfluidic nanoparticle synthesis, demonstrating a strong translational component by partnering with Portuguese industry to accelerate the impact of research on patients and society.
She has authored over 60 peer-reviewed scientific papers and several book chapters, edited academic volumes, and presented her work at over 50 international conferences. Her contributions have earned her distinctions such as the European Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Doctoral Award, multiple national research prizes, and the Pedagogical Prize from the University of Minho for excellence in teaching.
Beyond academia, Dr. Botelho has played a vital role in national science policy. As President of the Associação Nacional de Investigadores em Ciência e Tecnologia (ANICT) from 2015 to 2019, she was a key advocate for the reform of Portuguese research careers, engaging with the Ministry of Science, university rectors, and funding agencies. Her policy work was widely covered in national media and influenced legislative developments supporting early-career researchers.
She is also an active science communicator and evaluator, having served on the expert panels for European Commission programs including Horizon Europe MSCA-COFUND and EIC Pathfinder. Her commitment to social impact is evident through education and outreach initiatives, such as “Pequenos Cientistas” and “Cientistas por um dia,” where she introduces primary school children to scientific research.
Recently awarded the academic title of Habilitation at ICBAS–University of Porto, Cláudia Botelho continues to foster innovative, interdisciplinary research while mentoring a new generation of scientists and contributing to national and international scientific development.

Employment

  • Universidade do Porto Researcher
    2026 - Present
  • University of Minho Invited Lecturer (Partial)
    2012 - 2024

Education

  • Universidade do Porto Habilitation
    2024 - Present
  • Universidade do Porto PhD
    2001 - 2005
  • Universidade do Minho 5 yeasr degrees (Engineer)
    1995 - 2000

Projects & Funding

Projects & funding information is unavailable.

Publications (130)