Ricardo Matias is a marine biologist with a MSc in Ecology from the Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra (Portugal).  Currently, his research focuses on microplastic and other toxicant levels in wild Antarctic marine fauna and in trophic interactions of the Antarctic food web.

​   At the moment, he is taking his first steps in his scientific career, developing scientific articles and participating actively on education & outreach programs and other projects related to polar science.

​   He is a member of the executive committee of APECS Portugal since February 2018. From then on, he has represented the national committee in APECS International and occupied the role of vice-president during 2018-2019.