Cristina Veiga Pires

Who is Cristina?

My name is Cristina Veiga Pires. I’m several people in one. I’ve graduated in Geology from Université Paris-XI Orsay, France and did my PhD in Environmental methodologies at UQAM –  Université du Québec in Montreal, Canada. I’m a researcher and a geology professor at the University of Algarve and since 5 years ago, I’m also the director of the Centro Ciência Viva do Algarve. Also, recently I’ve been accepted to be the Scientific Director of the Loulé-Silves-Albufeira Algarvensis Aspiring Geoparque. This is a big and important project that is aspiring to join the official network of UNESCO Geoparks.

What would you like to do when you grow up?

Oh, this is a tough one. Well, honestly, I don’t think I had a dream career in mind when I was little. I always liked to travel and to be outside. So I think I managed somehow to do that. Because, as a geologist I have to go out, and as a scientist I do a lot of collaborations and travel the world. Also, as a science director I see a lot of people and different ideas. So I kind of get to see the world through their eyes too.

What is the first thing on your mind when you think about Faro?

When I think about Faro, I think about Ria Formosa and a nice way of living.

What would be the soundtrack of your life story?

That would be a really complex soundtrack because I like music from French old songs all the way to rock and classic music. I like Zaz, a French singer. She has really nice songs. I also like Muse, Trainspotting, Sinatra, Shaka Ponk, Vinicius de Morais, Miles Davis and the list goes on. And then, I enjoy listening to some jazz and Brasilian music as well.

What is the place in Faro you are most connected to? Why?

Probably would be this place, Centro Ciência Viva do Algarve. Especially the LAB terrace haha! If I have a busy day at work, I can just come here for a bit, have a break and enjoy the view of Ria Formosa, which technically is the other part of the work I do. Some days I also have meetings here and other days I have drinks with my friends. It’s a very versatile place for me, that combines both the work and relaxation.