We take this opportunity for this year’s celebrations to introduce the chairs of the 39th EFFoST International Conference 2025*, Prof. Cristina L.M. Silva and Prof. Teresa R.S. Brandão, whose careers show the dedication, creativity, and leadership that are inspiring the next generation of women in science.
Together, Prof. Silva and Prof. Brandão have spent more than 30 years working in science, making a real difference in areas that will help shape the future. Their shared commitment to advancing research and breaking down barriers highlights the incredible progress women in science have made—and will continue to make.
Cristina L.M. Silva is an Associate Professor at Universidade Católica Portuguesa – College of Biotechnology (ESB) and leads the Food Engineering and Packaging at the CBQF research center. With more than 30 years of experience, she specializes in food quality and safety, focusing on mathematical modeling and optimization of food processes. Silva has taught at institutions like Catholic University of Leuven and has a SCOPUS® h-index of 42. She founded the ISEKI_Food network and serves on editorial boards for top journals. Silva is also responsible for internationalization, coordinator of 3rd cycle degrees at ESB and Master on Food Engineering, and a fellow of IAFoST and councillor of of IUFoST Academy.
Teresa Brandão, a Chemical Engineering graduate from the University of Porto (1990), shifted to food science in 1991, becoming a junior researcher at ESB-UCP. She completed her Master's in Food Science and a Ph.D. in Biotechnology in 2004. Brandão focused on non-thermal food processes, bioactive compounds from fruit waste, and preservation techniques. She worked at CBQF from 2004 to 2018 and is now an auxiliary researcher. Additionally, she has taught at ESB-UCP since 1991, covering subjects like Physics, Thermodynamics, and Statistics. Her expertise includes data analysis, experimental design, and predictive microbiology.
“After working together for decades, we’ve spent over 30 years developing our skills and overcoming many challenges,” said Prof. Silva and Prof. Brandão. “We continue to break down barriers and create real change in our fields. Celebrating the International Day of Women and Girls in Science means recognizing the vital role we play in building sustainable food systems. As scientists, innovators, and leaders, we are driving the shift toward new food sources, greener processes, and digital solutions. Together, we face challenges and work toward a healthier, more resilient future.”
The work of these women reflects the larger movement toward equality in science. While progress has been made, there is still work to do. It’s important to continue breaking down the barriers that prevent equal participation. By involving more women and girls in science, innovation, and leadership, we can find diverse solutions to the world’s most urgent problems, from climate change to health.
Let’s keep breaking down barriers and empowering the next generation of women and girls to lead the way in scientific discovery.
*The 39th EFFoST International Conference will be hosted by Universidade Catholica Portuguesa (UCP) from 17-19 November 2025 in the charming city of Porto. EFFoST2025 will explore the theme ‘Fostering the Transition to Sustainable Food Systems: Embracing Novelty and Overcoming Challenges’. Visit the conference website for more information.