On International Women’s Day, celebrated on 8 March, Ciência Viva (a Ministry of Science and Education initiative) launched the 5th volume of the book Women in Science, a tribute to 107 Portuguese female researchers from different generations and fields of knowledge. Among the distinguished scientists is Helena Vieira, ERA CHAIR holder of the BESIDE Project (Boosting Environmental Economics and Natural Resources) and coordinator, among others, of the WIN-BIG (Women in Blue Economy) project at the University of Aveiro.
As an ocean bioeconomist, Helena Vieira is dedicated to understanding the interaction between marine life, human societies, and sustainable development. Her work focuses on the economic, cultural, and ecological value of ocean ecosystems, seeking to transform this knowledge into innovative solutions for public policies, science, and new business. Helena enjoys acting as a “translator” between scientists, investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, facilitating communication and collaboration across different sectors.
The book launch event took place at the Pavilhão do Conhecimento, attended by featured researchers and their families and friends, as well as Rosália Vargas, President of Ciência Viva, and Ana Paiva, Secretary of State for Science. The photographic work by Estela Silva, Lara Jacinto, Leonel Castro, and Mário Cruz highlights the journeys, challenges, and achievements of Portuguese female scientists, representing 65 scientific institutions, 32 fields of knowledge, and five countries, reaffirming the essential role of women in science and technology.
