Katarzyna Magdalena Matyszczuk, M.Sc
4th year of education at the Doctoral School
Discipline: agriculture and horticulture
University of Algarve, Faculty of Sciences and Technology

From 15.09.2024 to 16.12.2024, I completed a research internship at the University of Algarve in Faro, Portugal, at the Faculty of Sciences and Technology. The internship was carried out as part of the STER NAWA – I-SDUPL project, the aim of which is to internationalize doctoral schools. My research supervisor was Isabel Saraiva de Carvalho, PhD, Associate Professor with Habilitation, a renowned scientist in the field of biochemistry and biotechnology. The main goal of her research is plants and algae from the Mediterranean region, which can be used in the human diet. Currently, her research focuses on identifying bioactive compounds of medicinal plants (used by local people) that have antioxidant, antibacterial and anticancer properties.

During my internship at the University of Algarve, I conducted research on the antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of selected Mediterranean plants, and I also collaborated with a PhD student from Morocco on his project on genetic varieties of stevia (Stevia rebaudiana). The main aim of the project was to investigate the therapeutic potential of plants in the treatment and prevention of diabetes and the reduction of oxidative stress. As part of the collaboration, I analyzed the differences in the chemical composition and biological properties between stevia varieties, which can be used in the food and medical industries. The research results generated in this collaboration were agreed as joint for publication in international scientific journals. I gained a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences with other researchers, which enriched my scientific workshop and allowed me to establish valuable contacts. The internship provided me with new research perspectives and skills that I will use in further work on my doctoral dissertation. On the other hand, cooperation with a doctoral student from Morocco was a valuable element of the internship, which allowed me to expand my knowledge of genetic differences between plant varieties and develop my skills in working in an international research environment, including communication and exchange of scientific experiences.

During my internship in Portugal, I was able to not only develop my academic skills, but also discover the beauty of this country and its culture. Faro – in the south of Portugal – is a largely local city. Faro is an ideal starting point for exploring the Algarve. It is worth starting your visit to Faro from Marina, located in the central part of the city, near the striking sign.

Another unforgettable trip was to visit Lagos – the jewel of the Algarve. Lagos, a city located in the south of Portugal in the Algarve region, is a place rich in history and breathtaking landscapes. It is one of the most popular cities in the region, known for its beautiful beaches, rocky cliffs and lively atmosphere.

Also the trip to Gibraltar was an unforgettable experience. Gibraltar, located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, is a British Overseas Territory and a strategic point controlling the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea.

The research internship in Faro, the capital of the Algarve region in southern Portugal, was an extremely fruitful and inspiring experience. The city, which combines a rich history, picturesque nature and a modern approach to research, became the ideal place to expand my knowledge and develop research skills in my field. Thanks to the diversity of Mediterranean vegetation and cooperation with the University of Algarve, I had the opportunity to conduct interdisciplinary research on the potential use of herbs in pharmacology, cosmetology and functional food.

Portugal is a country with a rich culture, known for its melancholic fado music and unique traditions. Portuguese cuisine is famous for dishes such as bacalhau (cod), pastel de nata (creamy cupcakes) and excellent wines, including port. It is a place where history, art and flavors combine in an unforgettable experience.