Ana Cecília Amaral is an early-career researcher at MARE-Madeira, with a bachelor's degree in Biology and a Master’s in Conservation Biology. She began her scientific career by conducting the first study on interactions between Mediterranean monk seals and aquaculture off the coast of Madeira Island. Her work focuses on island ecosystems, combining marine conservation with science communication and community engagement. Her current research explores the impacts of climate change on coastal areas, with an emphasis on risk prevention and environmental management.

Dr. Carlos Alberto Pestana Andrade is a Principal Researcher at MARE-ARDITI and Board Member of the Oceanic Observatory of Madeira. He holds a Licentiate degree in Marine Biology (University of Lisbon, 1986), an M.Sc. in Aquatic Resource Management (King’s College London, 1988), and a Ph.D. in Marine Biology and Aquaculture (University of Lisbon, 2012). He established Portugal’s first offshore fish farm in 1995 and managed it until 2004. From 2000 to 2023, he led the Aquaculture Division of the Regional Government of Madeira and oversaw the Mariculture Centre of Calheta. His research focuses on sustainable production methods for low-trophic aquatic species and the development of alternative feed ingredients aligned with circular economy principles.