Prof. Dr. at Universidade Portucalense, Portugal
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fátima Matos Silva is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in Humanities and Social Sciences, with a focus on archaeology, heritage management, sustainable development, and cultural tourism. She earned her European Ph.D. in Prehistory and Archaeology from the University of Granada, Spain, in 2008, supported by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT). Since 1988, she has been a pivotal figure at the Portucalense University, contributing as a professor, researcher, and program coordinator while serving on various advisory bodies. Dr. Silva has led numerous national and international research projects, authored eight books, and published over ninety articles and book chapters. She is affiliated with REMIT and CITCEM, esteemed R&D units recognized by the FCT, and actively contributes to initiatives promoting heritage accessibility, cultural tourism, and sustainable practices.
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Education 🎓:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fátima Matos Silva holds a European Ph.D. in Prehistory and Archaeology from the University of Granada, Spain, which she completed in 2008 under a doctoral program funded by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT). This program culminated in the prestigious recognition of a European Ph.D., showcasing her dedication to academic excellence. Her advanced studies reflect a profound engagement with humanities and social sciences, laying the groundwork for her impactful career in research, teaching, and cultural heritage management.
Work Experience 💼:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fátima Matos Silva has a rich and diverse professional experience spanning over three decades at Portucalense University. Since 1988, she has served as a researcher, professor, and coordinator of study programs, significantly contributing to the institution’s academic and research excellence. She has held leadership roles such as Vice President of the Pedagogical Council, Coordinator of the Cultura@Portucalense project, and Departmental Erasmus Coordinator. Her expertise extends to leading archaeological excavations, conducting environmental and heritage impact assessments, and participating in EU capacity-building initiatives across Latin America and Europe. Dr. Silva’s experience is further enriched by her integrated research roles with REMIT and CITCEM, where she actively contributes to transdisciplinary studies on heritage, culture, and sustainability.
Awards and Honors
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fátima Matos Silva has earned numerous accolades throughout her illustrious academic career. Her groundbreaking contributions to heritage management, cultural tourism, and archaeology have garnered recognition at both national and international levels. She has been actively involved in prestigious EU-funded research initiatives, highlighting her excellence in fostering academic collaborations across continents. Her leadership in significant capacity-building projects and innovative research endeavors underscores her standing as a distinguished academic and researcher. Furthermore, her impactful publications and dedication to advancing the humanities and social sciences have cemented her reputation as a trailblazer in her field.
Research Interests:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fátima Matos Silva’s research interests lie at the intersection of Humanities and Social Sciences, with a strong emphasis on cultural heritage and tourism. Her expertise spans diverse areas, including archaeology, preventive conservation, heritage management, and sustainable development. She is deeply engaged in exploring the impacts and risks to cultural heritage, heritage interpretation and enhancement, museology, and universal accessibility. Dr. Silva also focuses on cultural tourism, religious and accessible tourism, and pilgrimage studies, aiming to integrate heritage accessibility into modern spatial planning. Her multidisciplinary approach seeks to preserve and enhance cultural assets while fostering sustainable tourism and education.
📚 Publications
Analytical Model for the Development Strategy of a Low-Density Territory: The Montesinho Natural Park
- Authors: F Matos Silva, C Sousa, H Albuquerque
- Journal: Sustainability
- Volume: 14
- Issue: 7
- Article Number: 4373
- Year: 2022
- Citations: 21
Religious Tourism and Pilgrimages in the Central Portuguese Way to Santiago and the Issue of Accessibility
- Authors: MF Silva, IM Borges
- Source: Handbook of Research on Socio-Economic Impacts of Religious Tourism and…
- Year: 2019
- Citations: 16
Desenvolvimento Econômico Local da Zona Oeste do Rio de Janeiro e de seu Entorno
- Authors: RL La Rovere, MO Silva
- Source: Pesquisa Projeto Faperj
- Project Number: E-26/110.644/2007
- Publisher: FAPERJ, Rio de Janeiro
- Year: 2009
- Citations: 15
Estudo Tipológico dos Cossoiros do Museu da Sociedade Martins Sarmento (Citânia de Briteiros, Castro de Sabroso e Proveniência Diversa)
- Authors: MF Silva, PC Oliveira
- Year: 1999
- Citations: 15
Valorización de los Poblados Fortificados de la Edad del Hierro (Noroeste de la Península Ibérica) y el Turismo Arqueológico
- Author: MF Silva
- Year: 2015
- Citations: 12
Conclusion
Dr. Fátima Matos Silva embodies the qualities of an outstanding researcher with her extensive contributions to academia, innovation in heritage management, and commitment to societal development. Her interdisciplinary research, leadership, and prolific output make her an ideal candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award.