Ana Paula Lima

I am a Marine Biologist specialized in Aquaculture, with a multidisciplinary background spanning Biomedical Engineering and Marine Robotics. After earning a PhD in Animal Science, my research transitioned to regenerative medicine, focusing on innovative therapies and biomaterials for tissue repair. I have contributed to the development of intelligent tissue matrices and immunomodulatory materials for cardiovascular applications. Since 2017, I’ve managed marine robotics projects and currently serve as Industry-Research Liaison Officer at TEC4SEA, supporting INESC TEC’s marine science initiatives.

Domains

Robotics and Autonomous Systems Bioengineering

Projects

inSITE

Insite ore grading system using LIBS in harsh environments, funded by EIT Raw Material. LIBS is a promising tool for real-time analysis of low atomic weight critical raw materials such as Li. Most solutions on the market are plagued by inconsistent results and poor quantification performance. inSITE introduces a new solution based on a modular hardware architecture coupled with advanced algorithms and a knowledge database of mineral spectra, that will enable a new generation of smart LIBS technology, adaptable to real time ore grading in challenging scenarios.

STRONGMAR-CRAS

The STRONGMAR project aims at creating solid and productive links in the global field of marine science and technology between INESC TEC and established leading research institutions, helping to raise its staff’s research profile and recognition as a European maritime research centre of excellence.

STRengthening MARritime Technology Research Center

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Publications

TEC4SEA-Developing maritime technology for a sustainable blue economy

Monica, P;Cruz, N;Almeida, JM;Silva, A;Silva, E;Pinho, C;Almeida, C;Viegas, D;Pessoa, LM;Lima, AP;Martins, A;Zabel, F;Ferreira, BM;Dias, I;Campos, R;Araujo, J;Coelho, LC;Jorge, PS;Mendes, J;

2023

OCEANS 2023 - LIMERICK

Studies on growth in the early adult of the freshwater mussel, Anodonta cygnea

Lima, P;Carvalho, F;Vasconcelos, V;Machado, J;

2004

INVERTEBRATE REPRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT

In vitro culture of glochidia from the freshwater mussel Anodonta cygnea

Lima, P;Kovitvadhi, U;Kovitvadhi, S;Machado, J;

2006

INVERTEBRATE BIOLOGY

A HISTOLOGICAL STUDY OF OOGENESIS IN THE FRESHWATER MUSSEL ANODONTA CYGNEA (LINNAEUS, 1758) IN MIRA LAGOON, PORTUGAL

Lima, P;Monteiro, SM;Sousa, M;Machado, J;

2012

MALACOLOGIA

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Supervised theses

Load-Frequency Control considering Hydrogen Electrolysers’ response

Fernando José Moutinho Ribeiro

D - 2024

UP-FEUP

Centres

Robotics and Autonomous Systems

The Centre for Robotics and Autonomous Systems (CRAS) focuses on developing innovative robotic solutions for operation in complex environments. Each day, our researchers strive to map the unknown, creating solutions to explore the oceans’ depths, monitor the environment, or inspect infrastructures. Our goal? To become a global reference in robotics and autonomous systems, combining expertise in multisensory perception and 3D modelling, navigation and control, robotic manipulation and intervention - pushing the boundaries of autonomous robotics and integrating aerial, ground, and underwater robots into our solutions. Focusing on Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) between 5 and 8, CRAS develops prototypes and operational solutions for strategic sectors. Our laboratory infrastructure includes test tanks, prototyping workshops, and a wide range of equipment ready to operate in real-world environments. Our researchers also resort to Mar Profundo, a support vessel for testing and validating innovative maritime technologies - a key asset in bridging theoretical design and field validation. CRAS stands out for a practical approach: we combine advanced research with a strong focus on real-world applications, reducing human risk in hazardous missions, optimising operations and processes, and expanding the frontiers of autonomous robotics.