Paula Alexandra Silva
Paula Alexandra Silva earned her PhD in Computer Science from Lancaster University, UK, where she specialised in Human-Computer Interaction and explored ways to foster creativity and innovation in design. Since then, her research interests have focused on the design and use of technology for health and care and the promotion of physical activity as a driver of health promotion and quality of life, particularly for older adults and different-abled persons.
She is passionate about teaching and working with her students. Currently, she is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Informatics Engineering, at the University of Coimbra, where she teaches Human-Computer Interaction, Universal Design, and Service Design. The latter received a teaching innovation award in 2021.
In her constant desire to contribute to a future where everyone feels represented and included, she recently launched INSPIRA, a program that aims to retain female talent in Informatics. She is also the coordinator of Activity 3 of the project equal.STEAM and a member of the management committee of the European Network for Gender Balance in Informatics (CA19122), where she co-leads WG3 - From PhD to Professor. She is also an elected member of the board of EuroGraphics Portuguese Chapter.