Carla Alegria

Researcher

Bioactive Compounds Montado Food Quality and Technology Mediterranean Food Products Abiotic Stress Treatments Mediterranean Agroecosystems

I am a Biotechnological Engineer with a 5-year degree, holding an MSc in Food Science and Engineering and a PhD in Food Engineering from Universidade de Lisboa – Instituto Superior de Agronomia, in collaboration with the National Institute for Agrarian and Veterinarian Research (INIAV) and Texas A&M University (2015). Currently, I serve as a Researcher at the Plant Functional Ecology group and as the Communication Office Coordinator at CE3C.

My research revolves around food science and technology, with a particular emphasis on plant-based food products. Key areas of my research include:

Enhancing the microbial, bioactive, and sensory quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut fruits and vegetables through controlled abiotic stress treatments.
Mathematical modelling of biochemical processes and quality attributes.
Profiling food bioactive compositions and examining physical-chemical and rheological properties.
Exploring conventional and emerging food processing technologies.
Utilising isotopic approaches for food traceability and authenticity.

I am dedicated to advancing sustainable food production systems from farm to fork. My recent projects focus on integrated fruit and vegetable processing technologies to develop new, healthy food products that are both sensorially appealing and highly bioactive. Additionally, I work on linking ecology to sustainable food production, enhancing the authenticity and valorisation of Mediterranean food products, and valorising plant processing co-products to reduce food waste and minimise environmental impact through circular economy principles.

I led the SmartProduct team at SFCOLAB (2021-2022), supporting multidisciplinary and applied research for Agriculture Digitalisation. This involved collaborating with farmers and agribusinesses to develop low-cost sensors for optimising resource use and monitoring fruit maturation. Our work demonstrated the vast potential of digital tools in food production and processing, highlighting the need for continued applied research in this “open world” of possibilities.

As the CE3C's Communication Office coordinator (2022-), I play a focal role in bridging scientists from diverse areas and connecting people around CE3C’s goals. This role encompasses:

Managing and guiding collective efforts to align with the centre’s strategic vision.
Maintaining direct communication with the centre’s executive and management board and secretariat to ensure consistent integration of communication initiatives.
Developing content, managing the website, maintaining a strong social media presence, and implementing strategic communication plans.

Through this role, I ensure the cohesive coordination of our communication efforts, enhancing the visibility and impact of our research and initiatives at CE3C.