Rafaela Seabra

Results-driven biotechnology professional with hands-on experience in molecular biology, biomaterials, cell culture, protein-related techniques, and scientific research, combined with customer-facing and communication skills developed in commercial environments. Experienced in PCR/qPCR, ELISA, cell-based assays, and scientific troubleshooting, with the ability to understand technical client needs and communicate complex scientific concepts clearly. Motivated to contribute to the Life Sciences sector through scientific sales, technical support, and customer relationship management, combining scientific expertise with a proactive and relationship-oriented mindset.

Strong interpersonal communication skills, adaptability, and the ability to build positive relationships with clients, colleagues, and multidisciplinary teams.

Research Fellow at CDRSP, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria (2025-04 – Present)

Involved in the PREDICTOS EU project, in the development of an in vitro and in silico 3D model for mimicking Osteosarcoma.

• Conducted research in biomaterials, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine projects.
• Performed laboratory techniques including cell culture, biomaterial characterization, and biological assays.
• Worked with 3D printing technologies for biomaterial scaffold development.
• Participated in scientific troubleshooting, experimental optimization, and data analysis.
• Collaborated within multidisciplinary teams and presented scientific results in meetings and conferences.
• Contributed to scientific documentation, technical reports, and project organization.

Research Fellow at CDRSP, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria (2024-05 – 2025-04)

Involved in project "Embalagem do futuro" - Focused on the development of an cosmetic packaging using biopolymers and natural fragrances, where we used electrospinning and characterized polymers.

• Developed problem-solving, teamwork, and scientific communication skills in applied research settings.
• Performed polymer characterization and use of electrospinning technique.
• Collaborated with research teams in experimental planning, scientific analysis, and project organization.

Research Intern at University of Coimbra, CNC (2022-04 – 2022-12)

Participated in a professional internship as a laboratory technician, focusing on various biotechnology techniques and methodologies to development of IgY antibodies targeting multiple strains of Vibrio bacteria, using recombinant proteins.

• Performed molecular biology procedures including DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning-related workflows, and nucleic acid analysis using bioinformatic tools
• Purification using anion exchange chromatography and size exclusion chromatography chromatography and biochemical characterization (SDS-PAGE, ELISA, Wester-Blot) of proteins and antibodies obtained.
• Contributed to experimental optimization, laboratory organization, data interpretation, and technical documentation.
• Developed strong analytical, problem-solving, and scientific communication skills within multidisciplinary research environments.

Beauty Advisor & Customer Consultant at Flormar (2021-11 – 2022-05)

• Delivered personalized customer support and product recommendations based on client needs.
• Developed strong communication and relationship management skills in fast-paced commercial environments.
• Achieved and exceeded sales targets through active selling, cross-selling, and up-selling strategies.
• Built and maintained strong customer relationships, promoting brand loyalty and repeat business.
• Managed transactions and supported daily store operations in a fast-paced retail environment.

Master's in Marine Resource Biotechnology – IPL (Polytechnic Institute of Leiria) (2019 – 2022)

Bachelor's Degree in Marine Biology and Biotechnology – IPL (Polytechnic Institute of Leiria) (2016 – 2019)