Cristina Maria Ribeiro Caridade is a Coordinating Professor in the Department of Physics and Mathematics at the Coimbra Institute of Engineering (ISEC), Polytechnic of Coimbra, Portugal, where she has nearly 30 years of experience teaching Mathematics to Engineering students. She holds a degree in Mathematics from the University of Coimbra and an MSc and PhD in Applied Mathematics from the University of Porto.

She currently serves as President of the Physics and Mathematics Department and is a member of the Scientific Committee of the Mathematics scientific area. Her research interests have evolved from digital image processing and mathematical applications to a strong focus on educational innovation, particularly the application of active learning methodologies such as Project-Based Learning, STEM/STEAM education, gamification, and educational games.

Cristina Caridade has participated in nine Erasmus+ projects, all now completed, and is currently involved in two INOVC+ Proof of Concept projects: ImageCarb and MAT-INCLUI – Inclusive Mathematical Cubes for Inclusive Learning in Primary Education. Her work combines pedagogical innovation, curriculum development, and interdisciplinary approaches aimed at improving teaching and learning in higher and basic education.