Open to opportunities

Mariana Beltrão

@marianabeltro

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Polymer engineer advancing R&D with data-driven thermoforming, injection molding, and printed electronics optimization.

Portugal

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What I'm looking for

I want to explore new opportunities in polymer/R&D, using data-driven experimentation to improve material selection and manufacturing performance—especially in dynamic, applied environments where I can keep growing scientifically and professionally.

I’m a Polymer Engineer and Research Assistant focused on R&D across thermoforming, injection molding, and printed electronics. I collect, process, and interpret multi-variable experimental datasets to pinpoint performance drivers and support data-driven material selection and process improvements.

In my current role, I optimize screen-printing processes with conductive inks and monitor manufacturing and testing data across thermoforming and additive manufacturing (FFF). I also research printed electronics integration in injected components (IME/IMD), translating results into actionable optimization decisions.

Previously, I analyzed process and material parameters for thermoforming of polymer films to guide optimization. I’ve supported functionalization processes (IMD/IML), evaluated conductive ink performance, and co-authored 9 peer-reviewed publications and conference papers from my R&D work.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Polymer Research Assistant

Current

IPC – Institute for Polymers and Composites

Jul 2022 - Present (3 years 11 months)

Conducted and interpreted multi-variable R&D datasets for packaging and automotive applications (MFI, mechanical/thermal/optical) to identify performance drivers and support data-driven material selection. Optimized screen-printing processes with conductive inks, explored printed-electronics integration in injected components (IME/IMD), and co-authored 9 peer-reviewed publications.

Mechanical Thermal Optics Injection Molding Screen Printing Conductive Inks Printed Electronics (IME IMD)

Research Grant

IPC – Institute for Polymers and Composites

Jan 2020 - Mar 2022 (2 years 2 months)

Analyzed thermoforming process and polymer-film parameters to support optimization decisions. Supported IMD/IML functionalization optimization via systematic testing and evaluated conductive inks applied via screen printing on polymer substrates.

Functionalization (IMD IML)Screen Printing Conductive Inks Material Performance Evaluation

Industrial & Production Engineer

Bosch Chassis Systems

Feb 2019 - Nov 2019 (9 months)

Analyzed material and performance datasets to support selection of polymer solutions for automotive sensor components. Evaluated thermal, optical, and tribological results to improve reliability and inform design decisions, supporting work that included additive manufacturing (FFF) and material characterization.

Polymer Solution Selection Tribology Rheological Analysis Additive Manufacturing Data Analysis

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of Minho

Master’s Degree in Polymer Engineering, Polymer Engineering

Master’s Degree in Polymer Engineering focused on processing plastic materials, including injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming. Studied characterization of mechanical, rheological, and optical properties.