Teacher at Universidade Federal do Oeste do Pará, Brazil
Dr. Rosa Helena Veras Mourão is a distinguished Brazilian scientist specializing in biochemistry, medicinal plants, and biodiversity research. She is a Professor at the Federal University of Western Pará (UFOPA) and has mentored numerous graduate students. Her work focuses on the bioactive properties of plant extracts, particularly in diabetes treatment, inflammation, and antimicrobial activity. She has co-founded startups promoting Amazonian biodiversity for sustainable industries, including natural dyes for fashion and bio-based food products. Through technological extWnsion projects, she collaborates with local Amazonian communities to develop sustainable business models. A former CNPq research productivity fellow, she has played a key role in advancing biodiversity research in Brazil. Dr. Mourão’s commitment to scientific innovation, education, and environmental sustainability makes her a leading figure in biochemical and biodiversity research.
Professional Profiles
Dr. Mourão is currently a Professor at the Federal University of Western Pará (UFOPA), where she leads research in biochemical and biodiversity sciences. She actively supervises master’s and Ph.D. students in the fields of biodiversity, natural resources, and plant biochemistry, contributing to the development of future scientists in these areas.
As a Researcher in the Biodiversity & Biotechnology Network (BIONORTE), she is engaged in projects exploring the bioactive compounds of Amazonian flora. Her research focuses on the pharmacological potential of medicinal plants, essential oils, and antimicrobial agents derived from nature.
Beyond academia, she is an entrepreneur and innovator, having co-founded startups such as De Veras Amazônia, which promotes sustainable food innovation, and Xibé Oficial, which develops natural textile dyes using Amazonian plants.
In addition to her academic and entrepreneurial endeavors, she is deeply involved in community-based research in the Amazon. She develops social impact projects aimed at empowering local Amazonian communities, particularly by strengthening sustainable business models that protect biodiversity.
Her experience showcases a unique blend of academia, entrepreneurship, and community-driven research, making her a leader in biochemistry and sustainable biodiversity utilization.