Carla Pinto-Cruz is an Associate Professor at the University of Évora with extensive expertise in plant ecology and conservation, particularly in Mediterranean ecosystems.  Their doctoral research focused on the vegetation and dynamics of Mediterranean temporary ponds in Southwest Portugal. Before that, she earned a master's in Biological Resources Management from the University of Évora (2002) and a degree in Applied Vegetable Biology from the University of Lisbon (1997).

Their research integrates species diversity and ecosystem dynamics, seeking to bridge biotic and abiotic factors for improved ecosystem management, conservation, and restoration. C. Pinto-Cruz work spans various ecosystems, including freshwater habitats, with a particular focus on temporary ponds, Montado - cork oak agroecosystem, and agricultural landscapes like vineyards and olive groves. Their academic publication accounts for more than 25 peer-reviewed journal articles, seven books, and three book chapters, making significant contributions to plant community dynamics study, Mediterranean ecosystem management, and conservation, exploring innovative approaches like disturbance-based vegetation management and environmental results-based farming models. In the context of their research activities, the supervision efforts resulted in the successful completion of one PhD thesis and 12 master's theses, and the ongoing supervision of 6 PhD students.

Is a regular reviewer for international journals and have participated in various academic juries and prize committees. C. Pinto-Cruz has coordinated significant projects, including the EU-funded LIFE Charcos, focusing on Mediterranean temporary pond conservation; the awarded funding to recover wetland threatened species and habitats; the Native Plants in the City that promoted the use of native plants in urban settings and Biomontado one where actions to safeguard biodiversity, enhance landscape connectivity, and promote this agroecosystem resilience has been piloted. All these projects aim in common to protect, enhance resilience, and restore nature in Portugal, aligning with the EU's 2030 Biodiversity Strategy and the Nature Restoration Law.