Get to know... Simone Varandas

My scientific activity focuses on the ecology of aquatic ecosystems, with particular emphasis on biodiversity conservation, environmental monitoring, and the sustainable management of water resources. I have worked extensively on the assessment of ecological integrity in rivers and streams, studying biological communities such as benthic macroinvertebrates, fish, and freshwater bivalves, as well as the hydromorphological elements that structure lotic ecosystems. My research interests include the role of riparian ecosystems in supporting fluvial landscape functioning, the influence of extreme climatic events, and the impacts of invasive species, while developing practical solutions for impact mitigation and ecological restoration of degraded habitats. In parallel, I have explored the links between biodiversity and ecosystem services, including the potential of aquatic organisms as environmental indicators, thus contributing to management and conservation strategies at local, regional, and biogeographical scales.

Throughout my career, I have integrated multidisciplinary teams research centres, namely CITAB and CIBIO/InBIO, collaborating in reference projects in the fields of agri-food sustainability, threatened species conservation, and ecological rehabilitation. I have been actively involved in knowledge transfer initiatives to society, in close collaboration with public authorities and private stakeholders, thereby reinforcing the bridge between science and environmental management. My work also extends to environmental impact assessment, the development of monitoring methodologies, and the design of ecological restoration measures based on nature-based solutions and green infrastructures. This trajectory reflects a consistent commitment to the valorisation of aquatic and riparian ecosystems, aiming to reconcile biodiversity conservation with the needs of both territory and society.