Catarina Ralheta

Catarina Ralheta began her doctoral studies in 2009 at the Department of Chemistry at the University of Aveiro, as part of the IDPOR academic-industrial collaboration program. Today she lives in the USA and is part of the global Synthomer group, where she holds a leadership position as Head of R&D for the Coatings and Construction Solutions division at one of the company's technical centers.

Experience at CICECO and Life in Aveiro

My supervisors at the University were Professor Alessandro Gandini initially, latter replaced by Professor Ana Barros, and at the company Doctor Jorge Moniz (Synthomer).I defended my thesis (New Aqueous Dispersions with Controlled Morphology for Coatings) in January 2014, focused on the development of sustainable polymers for high-performance coatings — a highly applied project carried out in partnership with the company I was working for at the time (Resiquímica), through a Foundation for Science & Technology (FCT) grant linked to PhD in nonacademic environment.

Although I was based in Lisbon, I travelled to Aveiro every week to attend the pre-doctoral courses. I remember the Entrepreneurship and Innovation course in particular — it left a lasting impression on me. At CICECO, I found a thriving scientific environment, marked by strong interdisciplinarity and a deep connection between research and real-world application — something that has remained with me throughout my career.

I remain deeply grateful to CICECO and to my advisors. It was thanks to the trust and support I received — especially from Professor Ana Barros and Doctor Jorge Moniz during my pregnancy and after the birth of my son — that I was able to complete the PhD. It was a very demanding phase of life, but one that shaped everything that followed.

A PhD That Opened Doors Worldwide

After defending my thesis, I continued working at Resiquímica, where I was already leading the research lab. In 2018, the company was acquired by the multinational Omnova, and in 2020 it became part of the global Synthomer group. In 2023, I moved to the United States and take on a leadership role as head of R&D of the Coatings and Construction Solutions Division at one of the company’s technical centers.

This opportunity became possible because of my PhD — it was, in fact, a core requirement. At times, I may have underestimated the value of that journey, but I now clearly see its impact: it opened doors, strengthened my credibility as a scientist, and gave me the tools to innovate with confidence.

From Research into Real-World Solutions

During my PhD, I developed several products that reached the market — four versions were tested, and one of them was especially successful and is still sold today. That hands-on experience, from polymer synthesis to paint formulation, gave me a holistic view of the innovation process.

I’ve always believed that researchers should, whenever possible, speak directly with customers. We’re the ones who know the product best, and we can help identify the right solution to meet their needs. Today, in the US, I still apply that same philosophy, leading a team of six and overseeing multiple areas — from architectural paints to solutions for medical applications, battery binders, home textiles, etc. always with a focus on sustainability.

Turning Ideas into Impact

Now, living and working in the US, I see how different the mindset can be: there is more openness to bringing ideas to life, to taking risks and embracing innovation. My goal now is to continue promoting and introducing new technologies, replicate best practices, and strengthen the laboratory I’ve helped to build here.

My journey has always been driven by passion and resilience. As the Flashdance movie song that inspires me goes: “Take your passion and make it happen.”