Ana Alexandra Pereira

Assistant Researcher

Research group: Biotechnology

Background: PhD in Chemical and Biological Engineering – Faculty of Engineering of Porto, Portugal

Major research topics

• Biofilms and Legionella
• Biofouling Monitoring and Prevention
• Biofilm Engineering
• Innovation Management

Selected Publications

Pereira, A., Melo, L.F. ‘’Online biofilm monitoring is missing in technical systems: how to build stronger case-studies?’’. npj Clean Water (2023) 6, 36.

Silva, A. R., Narciso, D.A.C., Gomes, L.C., Martins, F.G., Melo, L.F., Pereira, A. ‘’Proof-of-concept approach to assess the impact of thermal disinfection on biofilm structure in hot water networks’’. Journal of Water Process Engineering, (2023), 53, 103595.

Barros A.C., Melo L.F. and Pereira A. ‘’A Multi-Purpose Approach to the Mechanisms of Action of Two Biocides (Benzalkonium Chloride and Dibromonitrilopropionamide): Discussion of Pseudomonas fluorescens’ Viability and Death’’. Frontiers in Microbiology (2022), 13:842414.

Pereira, A., Silva, A.R., Melo, L.F. ‘’Legionella and Biofilms—Integrated Surveillance to Bridge Science and Real-Field Demands’’. Microorganisms, (2021), 9,1212.

Pereira, A., Mendes, J., Melo, L.F. ‘Using Nanovibrations to Monitor Biofouling’. Biotechnology and Bioengineering (2008), 99(6), 1407-1415.

Selected Projects

LegioFilms - ‘’Understanding the Role of Biofilm Architecture in Legionella Colonization and Risk of Detachment in hospital networks using an Integrated Monitoring Approach’’ (2022.03523.PTDC), funded by FCT/MCTES (PIDDAC). Beginning: 2023. Duration: 36 months. Role: Principal Investigator

PRESAGE - ‘‘Potential of decentralized wastewater treatment for preventing the spread of antibiotic resistance, organic micropollutants, pathogens and viruses’’ (Aquatic/0007/2020), co-funded by ERA-NET Cofund Aquatic Pollutants through the FCT. Beginning: 2021; Duration: 36 months. Role: Researcher

pBio4.0 - ‘’Prevent Biofouling in Membrane Systems’’ (POCI-01-0247-FEDER-033298) funded by P2020|COMPETE - Co-promotion with industrial partner; Beginning: 2018; Duration: 36 months; Role: Principal Investigator (until March 2019)

AQUAVALENS - ‘’Protecting the health of Europeans by improving methods for the detection of pathogens in drinking water and water used in food preparation’’ (311846), funded by FP7, KBBE.2012.2.5-01; Beginning: 2013; Duration: 60 months; Role: Principal Investigator from Enkrott

VIBS - ‘’Tecnologia de vibrações para monitorização de sujamento em sistemas industriais’’ (SI IDT - 11470/2010), funded by QREN/ANI. Beginning: 2010. Duration: 36 months. Role: Principal Investigator