Renata Santana holds an MSc in Biochemistry from the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Porto, complemented by a pre-Bologna degree (BSc) in Biological Sciences from the University of Brasília (Brazil).

Renata’s MSc research was conducted within the Molecular Synthesis group at LAQV – Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry of REQUIMTE. The dissertation focused on the synthesis of peptide-peptoid hybrids of melanostatin, utilising N-functionalized glycines synthesized through a novel "one-pot" methodology. After the MSc, Renata developed her experience as a Junior Research Associate at a biotechnology company and as a researcher on the Pep2mer project (2023.14440.PEX). 

During her academic career, Renata was a tutor of the Synthesis of Pharmaceuticals course included in the Master's degrees in Biochemistry (Q4114) at FCUP (2024-2025) and co-supervised high school students in Chemistry Summer School by University of Porto (Universidade Júnior). All her academic career allowed Renata to acquire knowledge and experience in the areas of Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry and Microbiology. Recently, she has also developed competencies in the training certification “Cell Culture” by Medicine Faculty of the University of Porto. 

Renata has a research fellowship on the VIIAFOOD project (PRR - Ag. Mob. - C644929456-00000040), which aims to develop a bioenriched apple pomace with potential for animal feed or food use.