Pedro Silvestre
Versatile data scientist with a background in bioinformatics, computational biology, and genetics, now focused on applying data science to broader real-world challenges. Experienced in analyzing complex datasets using Python, R, and machine learning methods, with a proven ability to adapt across domains from molecular medicine to marine science. Naturally curious and multidisciplinary, with a passion for storytelling through data, and a creative mindset shaped by both scientific research and adventurous pursuits like scuba diving and sailing.
Professional Experience
Bioinformatician
Gulbenkian Institute for Molecular Medicine, Maria Carmo Fonseca Lab | Oeiras (Portugal) | Apr 2023 - Present
- Analysis of Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), RNAseq, and PacBio Long-Reads data.
- Develops and automats end-to-end bioinformatics pipelines for WGS & RNA-seq data, from QC and alignment to variant and splicing analysis.
- Experience in creating new reference genomes for analysis.
- Performs data analysis and visualization with Python, R, and shell scripting.
- Build and deploys reproducible bioinformatics workflows using Docker containers.
- Usage of SLURM for high-performance computing on cluster environments.
- Conducted clinical bioinformatics analysis for GenoMed.
- Manages and contributes to multiple research projects simultaneously.
Research Assistant in Conservation Program
The Leatherback Trust | Cabuyal (Costa Rica) | Oct 2020 - Nov 2020
- Collected nesting data, tagged sea turtles, and managed nest relocations.
- Led conservation volunteers and monitored the success of hatchlings.
Laboratory Assistant Intern
Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e Veterinária | Oeiras (Portugal) | Jul 2019
- Extracted host DNA from stool and blood samples.
- Conducted PCR, electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing.
Marine Biology Intern
Marine Biology Station of Funchal | Funchal (Portugal) | Jul 2018
- Monitored jellyfish and coastal fauna populations.
- Processed shark samples and supported the EU GoJelly project.
Education
MSc in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics
Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Portugal | 2021 – 2024 | Final Grade: 18.47/20
- Chose to go to this master's to develop computational skills. Because of this, I selected disciplines that were purely informatics, which led me to develop an informatics focused thesis where I learned Natural Language Processing (NLP), model training, class weighting, and how to improve results using state-of-the-art deep learning tools.
- Thesis: Identifying Negative Results Using Biomedical Relation Extraction Systems
BSc in Biology
Instituto Superior de Agronomia, University of Lisbon, Portugal | 2017 - 2020 | Final Grade: 15.22/20
- As a curious person naturally attracted to life sciences and eager to learn more, I chose this bachelor's to explore different topics in biology.
- Thesis: Determination of DNA-RNA differences along leaf development of Vitis vinifera sylvestris
- Publication: RNA Editing in Wild Grapevine – bioRxiv
Technical Skills
Awards & Honors
MaxData Excellence Award in Bioinformatics
Best 1st year Master's Student (2021/2022)
Winner, Portuguese League of Bioinformatics
Pupinada Team (2023)
Leadership, Conferences & Outreach
LEDUCQ Meeting Attendee
Boulder, CO (USA May 2025) & Arrábida (Portugal Nov 2024)
- Engaged in international cardiovascular research discussions, collaborative workshops, and networking.
President, NUBISA (Biology Student Union)
Instituto Superior de Agronomia (Lisbon, Portugal)| 2019 - 2020
- Organized the annual "Jornadas da Biologia" conference for 60+ attendees and 15 speakers.
- Coordinated student trips, lectures, and peer-learning sessions.
Beyond the Code
The Team Strategist
From competitive soccer and handball to social padel, I thrive in collaborative environments. Team sports have honed my strategic thinking, communication, and discipline under pressure.
The Creative Mind
To balance a digital-first career, I invest in manual creation. Exploring ceramics and now learning to draw builds patience, hones my eye for detail, and fuels a different kind of problem-solving.
The Resilient Adventurer
True growth happens outside the comfort zone. Hitchhiking the length of Vietnam and across the Algarve taught me extreme adaptability, resourcefulness, and how to connect with people from all walks of life.