Vera Pires is a Materials Engineer and Assistant Professor at Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon. She previously worked as an Assistant Researcher at the University of Évora, within the HERCULES Laboratory and IN2PAST. With more than 18 years of academic, research and professional experience. Her academic background includes a PhD and MSc in Materials Engineering and a Postgraduate Degree in Façade Engineering. Her scientific and pedagogical interests focus on the characterization, performance and durability of geological and construction materials, particularly natural stone, covering the full chain from raw materials to final engineering applications. This includes physical–mechanical behaviour, mineralogical and microstructural features, degradation mechanisms and long-term performance under environmental loading. Within this framework, she has a growing interest in mineral processing–related topics, namely the influence of mineralogical composition, grain size distribution, texture and anisotropy on material behaviour; quality control of mineral raw materials; and the impact of processing operations such as cutting, finishing and thermal exposure on the performance of stone and mineral-based products. These topics provide a direct link between mineral processing, materials engineering and sustainable use of mineral resources, contributing to a comprehensive and applied learning experience for students.
Her research interests further include multi-factor degradation processes, stone cladding anchorage systems, salt crystallisation, thermal and hygric decay, biodeterioration, accelerated ageing and protective treatments. More recently, she has integrated digital approaches into both research and teaching, including data-driven diagnostics, HBIM, digital twins and predictive modelling, reinforcing innovation and interdisciplinarity within the pedagogical framework.
Vera has authored more than 25 peer-reviewed journal papers and has participated actively in national and international R&D projects, acting as Principal Investigator in initiatives dedicated to predictive conservation, advanced diagnostic methodologies and material performance assessment. Alongside academia, she has extensive consultancy experience in façade engineering and stone diagnostics, maintaining strong connections with public institutions and the natural stone and mineral sectors. She is also actively involved in higher education teaching, professional training and knowledge transfer activities, fostering the integration of scientific knowledge, engineering practice and sustainable resource management.