Prof. Sonia’s Saraiva | Sonia of the Conception Teixeira Saraiva | Portugal
Prof. Sonia da Conceição Teixeira Saraiva is an Invited Assistant Professor and Researcher at the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD) and the Animal and Veterinary Research Center (CECAV) in Vila Real, Portugal. Her academic and research work focuses on veterinary public health with a strong One Health approach, integrating the study of animal welfare, animal health, and the safety of animal-origin products. Through her work, she bridges the gap between scientific research and its practical applications in the veterinary and public health fields. Her teaching portfolio includes courses on infectious diseases, pharmacology, and avian medicine, fostering interdisciplinary knowledge and mentoring students and young researchers. Her contributions have positioned her as a key figure in advancing both academic and applied aspects of veterinary sciences.
Profile
Education
Prof. Sonia’s has built a strong academic foundation to support her teaching and research excellence. She earned her PhD in Veterinary Sciences, along with a Master’s degree in Food Technology, Science, and Safety, and a postgraduate diploma in Animal Welfare, strengthening her expertise in veterinary public health and animal sciences. Currently, she is expanding her professional credentials through residency training with the European College of Veterinary Microbiology (ECVM) and the European College of Veterinary Public Health (ECVPH). These advanced programs are sharpening her specialization in microbiology, zoonotic diseases, and food safety, ensuring her skills remain at the forefront of scientific and professional standards. This robust academic background allows her to integrate innovative and evidence-based approaches into her research and teaching, benefiting her students, colleagues, and collaborative networks.
Experience
With extensive experience in both teaching and research, Sónia has made impactful contributions to veterinary public health and education. As an Invited Assistant Professor at UTAD, she teaches infectious diseases, pharmacology, and avian medicine, blending theoretical knowledge with applied perspectives to enhance learning. At CECAV, she leads and collaborates on multidisciplinary research projects that address zoonotic diseases, animal health, and welfare within sustainable livestock production systems. Her work includes designing and implementing projects that investigate microbial pathogens, antimicrobial resistance, and zoonotic disease dynamics. This combination of academic and research expertise has enabled her to mentor students, contribute to international research networks, and actively engage in collaborative projects with institutions in Portugal and abroad, strengthening the practical relevance and societal impact of her work.
Research Interest
Prof. Sonia’sresearch interests revolve around veterinary public health, with a particular emphasis on foodborne and non-foodborne zoonoses, antimicrobial resistance, and animal welfare. Her work examines microbial contamination and resistance in the livestock production chain, focusing on pathogens such as Yersinia enterocolitica. She strives to generate knowledge that bridges science and policy, enabling effective interventions in animal health and food safety. Her research aligns closely with the One Health framework, acknowledging the interconnectedness of animal, human, and environmental health. This approach allows her to contribute not only to academic literature but also to practical strategies for managing zoonotic diseases and promoting sustainable livestock production. By integrating cutting-edge research with practical applications, Sónia supports advancements in veterinary science that directly enhance public health outcomes.
Award
Prof. Sonia’s exceptional academic and research achievements make her a strong candidate for recognition in the Best Researcher Award category. She has demonstrated excellence in integrating teaching, research, and public health initiatives within the veterinary sciences. Her leadership in impactful projects, commitment to mentoring students, and ability to translate research into meaningful applications for the community highlight her dedication and influence in the field. By publishing widely and collaborating internationally, she has expanded the reach and impact of her work. Her contributions to advancing veterinary public health, antimicrobial resistance research, and One Health solutions underscore her role as a thought leader in her discipline. This consistent dedication and multidisciplinary expertise exemplify the qualities recognized in prestigious academic and research awards.
Publication Top Notes
Title: Zoonotic Yersinia enterocolitica in Swine: One Health Implications for Food Safety and Public Health
Journal: Veterinary Sciences
Authors: Sónia Saraiva, Juan García-Díez, Telma de Sousa, Rita Calouro, Diana Fernandes, Ana V. Mourão, Cristina Saraiva, João R. Mesquita, Ana C. Coelho, Patrícia Poeta
Title: Tick-Borne Pathogens in Companion Animals and Zoonotic Risk in Portugal: A One Health Surveillance Approach
Journal: Microorganisms
Authors: Rita Calouro, Telma de Sousa, Sónia Saraiva, Diana Fernandes, Ana V. Mourão, Gilberto Igrejas, José Eduardo Pereira, Patrícia Poeta
Title: Aquatic Resistome in Freshwater and Marine Environments: Interactions Between Commensal and Pathogenic in the Context of Aquaculture and One Health
Journal: Microorganisms
Authors: Ana V. Mourão, Diana Fernandes, Telma de Sousa, Rita Calouro, Sónia Saraiva, Gilberto Igrejas, Patrícia Poeta
Title: Antimicrobial Resistance in European Companion Animals Practice: A One Health Approach
Journal: Animals
Authors: Helena I. G. Monteiro, Vanessa Silva, Telma de Sousa, Rita Calouro, Sónia Saraiva, Gilberto Igrejas, Patrícia Poeta
Title: Biosecurity Practices in Portuguese Small Ruminant Farms: Current Status and Future Directions
Journal: Veterinary Sciences
Authors: Maria Alavedra, Dina Moura, Beniamino Cenci-Goga, Sónia Saraiva, Filipe Silva, Isabel Pires, Cristina Saraiva, Ana Cláudia Coelho, Juan García-Díez
Conclusion
Prof. Sonia da Conceição Teixeira Saraiva exemplifies academic and professional excellence through her significant contributions to veterinary public health, One Health initiatives, and sustainable livestock production. She integrates research, education, and professional collaboration to drive meaningful change in both scientific and practical domains. Her commitment to mentoring students and young researchers reflects her dedication to building future generations of veterinary scientists. By fostering partnerships with national and international institutions, she enhances the reach and relevance of her work, ensuring that her findings contribute to better health outcomes. Her comprehensive approach, combining innovation with applied solutions, positions her as a valuable asset to the veterinary and public health communities and a deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award.