Fernanda is recognised as an emerging leader in the field of discovery of venom peptides targeting ion channels, with strong focus in studies of peptide bioactivity, pharmacology, and structure-function relationships of venom-derived peptides. She has extensive knowledge in high-throughput cellular screening assays, pharmacology studies using fluorescence-imaging and electrophysiology, peptide design and optimization, and has successfully discovered and developed ion channels inhibitors with proved therapeutic efficacy in pre-clinical models of neurological diseases. Besides being a busy scientist, Cardoso is a proud mom of two and a French Bulldog lover.