Paleobotânico at Centro de Geociências, Portugal
Dr. Pedro Correia is a distinguished geologist and paleontologist based at the Geosciences Center of the University of Coimbra, Portugal. Holding a PhD from the University of Porto, his research focuses on the Carboniferous fossil flora and fauna of Portugal, significantly advancing knowledge in paleobotany and paleoecology. He has authored over 28 peer-reviewed articles and described numerous new fossil taxa, demonstrating his expertise in taxonomy and evolutionary studies. Dr. Correia actively mentors graduate students and participates in academic examination committees, highlighting his commitment to education and research training. As coordinator of a major project on the Buçaco Carboniferous Basin, he exhibits strong leadership in scientific research. His professional involvement includes serving as Treasurer of the Portuguese Society of Paleontology and engaging in public science communication. Dr. Correia’s work is characterized by rigorous methodology, international collaboration, and contributions to understanding paleoenvironments, making him a prominent figure in his field and a strong candidate for research awards.
Professional Profile
Education 🎓
Dr. Pedro Correia completed his higher education at the University of Porto, Portugal, where he earned both his degree and doctoral qualifications in the field of Earth Sciences. He obtained his undergraduate degree in 2007, focusing on the floristic zonation of the Douro Carboniferous Basin, which laid the foundation for his specialization in paleobotany and paleontology. Building on this, he pursued a PhD at the same institution, completing it in 2016 with a dissertation titled “Contribution to the knowledge of the fossil flora and fauna of the Douro Carboniferous Basin (NW of Portugal).” His doctoral research deepened his expertise in fossil plants and animals, particularly from the Carboniferous period, and contributed significant new knowledge about the paleoecology and taxonomy of these ancient species. Supported by a prestigious PhD scholarship funded by Fundação da Ciência e Tecnologia, Dr. Correia’s education equipped him with advanced skills and a strong research foundation that underpin his subsequent academic and scientific career.
Professional Experience 💼
Dr. Pedro Correia has developed a robust professional career centered on paleontology and geosciences, primarily at the Geosciences Center of the University of Coimbra, Portugal. Since completing his PhD, he has engaged in postdoctoral research focusing on the Buçaco Carboniferous Basin, where he investigates paleobotanical, paleoclimatic, and paleoenvironmental aspects. He has played a key role as the coordinator of a multi-year scientific project dedicated to characterizing this basin, demonstrating leadership and project management skills. In addition to his research activities, Dr. Correia is an experienced educator, delivering paleontology lectures at the University of Coimbra and contributing online courses at the University of Lisbon. He actively supervises and mentors Master’s and undergraduate students, fostering academic development. His professional service includes examining final theses and participating as a jury member in recruitment procedures. Additionally, Dr. Correia holds a leadership position as Treasurer of the Portuguese Society of Paleontology, reflecting his commitment to advancing the paleontological community in Portugal.
Research Interest 🔬
Dr. Pedro Correia’s research interests lie primarily in paleobotany, paleontology, and geosciences, with a strong focus on the Carboniferous period fossil flora and fauna of the Iberian Peninsula. He specializes in the taxonomy, paleoecology, and evolutionary biology of ancient plant species, contributing significantly to the discovery and description of new fossil taxa. His work integrates high-resolution methodologies to analyze paleoclimatic and paleoenvironmental conditions, aiming to reconstruct ancient ecosystems and understand their responses to past climate changes. Dr. Correia is particularly interested in the paleogeographic distribution and adaptation mechanisms of plant groups during the late Paleozoic era. He also explores the broader implications of fossil data in interpreting earth’s historical biodiversity patterns and environmental shifts. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, his research contributes to refining stratigraphic frameworks and enhancing the scientific understanding of fossil basins such as the Douro and Buçaco Carboniferous Basins. Overall, his work bridges taxonomy, evolutionary studies, and environmental reconstructions within paleosciences.
Research Skill🔎
Dr. Pedro Correia possesses advanced research skills in paleontology and paleobotany, particularly in the identification, description, and classification of fossil flora and fauna. He is highly skilled in taxonomic methodologies, enabling him to discover and formally describe numerous new species and genera from the Carboniferous period. His expertise extends to paleoecological and paleoclimatic analyses, utilizing high-resolution imaging and analytical techniques to interpret fossil data within their environmental contexts. Dr. Correia is proficient in coordinating multidisciplinary research projects, managing fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data synthesis to produce comprehensive scientific outputs. He also demonstrates strong mentorship abilities, guiding graduate students through complex research processes. His skills include scientific writing and peer-reviewed publication, with a track record of contributions to prestigious journals. Additionally, Dr. Correia has experience in teaching paleontology courses and delivering scientific presentations, further reflecting his ability to communicate complex research findings effectively to academic and public audiences.
Award and Honor🏆
Dr. Pedro Correia has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to the fields of paleontology and geosciences through various academic honors and research scholarships. Notably, he was awarded a prestigious PhD scholarship by the Fundação da Ciência e Tecnologia, supported by the European Social Fund, which funded his doctoral studies from 2012 to 2015. This scholarship reflects his early promise and dedication to advancing scientific knowledge. Throughout his career, Dr. Correia has gained respect in the scientific community for his role as Treasurer of the Portuguese Society of Paleontology, underscoring his leadership and commitment to promoting paleontological research in Portugal. Additionally, his authorship of multiple new taxa and numerous peer-reviewed publications highlight his scientific excellence and contribution to taxonomy and paleobotany. While specific awards beyond scholarships are not detailed, his leadership in coordinating significant research projects and active involvement in academic and professional societies demonstrate his recognized standing and honor within the paleontological community.
Conclusion📝
Dr. Pedro Correia is highly suitable for a Best Researcher Award based on his:
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Outstanding scientific productivity,
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Original taxonomic contributions,
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National leadership in paleobotanical research,
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Dedication to mentorship and teaching,
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Active role in professional societies, and
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Public science engagement.
With continued growth in international collaborations and larger-scale funding leadership, his profile would align not only with national-level but also with prestigious international research awards. As of now, his record already meets and in many aspects exceeds the standard expectations for such honors.
Recommendation: Strongly endorse nomination for the Best Researcher Award.
Publications Top Noted📚
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Correia, P., Pereira, S., Šimǔnek, Z., Sá, A.A., & Pereira, Z. (2025). A new species of Acitheca (Psaroniaceae, Marattiales) with exceptionally and three-dimensionally preserved sporangia from the Buçaco Carboniferous Basin, western central Portugal. Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology.
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Correia, P., & Góis-Marques, C.A. (2025). Palaeopteridium andrenelii sp. nov., a new noeggerathialean species from the Middle Pennsylvanian of Portugal with new insights on the Noeggerathiales. Geological Magazine.