Mariana is an Engagement Lead dedicated to communicating science to young people and the wider community. Her work centres on smart and sustainable cities, empowering communities to shape their city of the future. With a BSc in Biotechnology Engineering and an MSc in Biotechnology and Business, she is deeply passionate about STEM, advocacy, and leadership.
Mariana currently leads two main projects. A Youth Advisory Panel that connects young people, local authorities, and researchers, ensuring that youth perspectives are taken in consideration. She also leads ‘The Sensor Inspector’, an Active Travel Citizen Science programme for primary students. Through this initiative, for which she secured funding, students use environmental and traffic sensors to investigate local issues, lead community-based climate action, and promote active travel.
Her work bridges biotechnology, education, and urban innovation. In recognition of her dedication to STEM education, Mariana was named “Graduate of the Year” at the Business Post Women in STEM Awards in October 2025. Her earlier career also included roles in laboratory coordination and pharmaceutical quality control. Alongside her involvement with other youth advisory groups, she continues to advocate for inclusive and sustainable communities.