Sara N. Veríssimo
Technician
Details
Position
Technician
Member type
Technical Staff
Degree
PhD
My networks
My
fascination with nature, starting at a young age, was a motivating factor for a
series of choices throughout my academic path. It started by directing me to a
degree in Biology, which I concluded in 2016 at the University of Coimbra,
followed by a Master’s degree in Ecology, completed in 2018 at the same
institution. In an eagerness to deepen my knowledge, I pursue a PhD in
Biosciences with specialization in Ecology, graduating in 2024 with praise and
distinction at the University of Coimbra. My work focuses on understanding how
human activities impact wildlife, with a specialization in avian conservation.
During my master’s thesis, I investigated the influence of fisheries on seabird
ecology and diet. In my PhD, I examined the effects of plastics and chemical
additives on waterbirds. Beyond my research, I have contributed to various
other projects, including European-funded LIFE projects, science outreach, and
work as an ornithologist at Strix, where I monitored birds of prey migration in
a wind farm. My current focus is on biodiversity–energy infrastructure
interactions, working within an existing partnership with Lightsource bp. In
this context, I provide scientific advisory support for Environmental Impact
Assessments, monitoring plans, and ecological restoration plans aimed at
achieving no net loss of biodiversity. My work also involves assisting in the
implementation of the Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) framework and conducting
applied research to evaluate the impact of solar parks on soil, with particular
emphasis on soil biodiversity and carbon retention.