Ana Pinheiro

I’m a research scientist specializing in immunogenetics, molecular biology and evolution, with a strong track record in studying vertebrate immune systems. I focus on how immune genes evolve under natural selection, translating evolutionary questions into rigorous biological analyses.

In my PhD (“Evolution of immunoglobulins in Leporids: inferences of genetic resistance against pathogens and identification of introgression patterns in Lepus species.”), I built expertise in linking genetic variation to pathogen-driven pressures. I graduated with strong academic recognition (approved with distinction), which shaped my commitment to high-quality, hypothesis-driven research.

As a post-doctoral researcher (CIBIO/INBIO), I conducted research on antibody and other immune system genes evolution, integrating molecular techniques with statistical and bioinformatics analyses. I also developed an interdisciplinary mindset—collaborating closely across computational and experimental perspectives to move from data to biological interpretation.

More recently, as a junior researcher (BIOPOLIS), I investigated immune system multigene families evolution in mammals and collaborated with computational scientists. With authoring of more than 30 publications, I’m known for written scientific communication and teamwork that keeps projects scientifically ambitious and execution-ready.