Paula Campos on Science, Innovation, and Shaping the Future of Maternal Health

Since joining INL in April 2024, Paula Campos has been an integral part of the Espiña Research Group, contributing to the development of electrochemical biosensors for intrapartum monitoring. Her current research focuses on detecting lactate levels in amniotic fluid, a key indicator of fetal distress, with the goal of enabling faster, more personalised clinical decisions during labor.

With a PhD in Chemistry from Durham University (UK), Paula has built a career at the intersection of bioelectrochemistry, materials science, and health innovation. Her postdoctoral work took her across institutions in Denmark (iNANO, Aarhus University), Portugal (REQUIMTE/LAQV, ISEP), and Belgium (CMST, Ghent University). She also spent time in Beijing (NCNST), researching amyloidosis pathways linked to neurodegenerative diseases.

In this interview, Paula reflects on her international research journey, the promise of biosensors in clinical settings, and the importance of inclusion and curiosity in science.

Your research has spanned multiple institutions and countries, how have these experiences shaped your scientific approach?

Working in diverse research environments across the UK, Denmark, Belgium, and Portugal has given me a broad and multidisciplinary perspective that goes beyond a single research field. Each institution has shaped my scientific knowledge in unique ways, from fundamental research at Durham to more translational work. These experiences have not only strengthened my communication skills but also enhanced my ability to collaborate across disciplines, bridging gaps between scientific research and real-world challenges. This diverse background drives my work at the intersection of bioelectrochemistry, materials and engineering, fostering innovation and interdisciplinary problem-solving.

How does your current research contribute to improving maternal and fetal wellbeing during labor?

My current research focuses on developing an electrochemical sensor for real-time intrapartum monitoring, designed to detect lactate levels in amniotic fluid, a key biomarker of fetal distress caused from oxygen deprivation. Timely lactate monitoring is essential for assessing fetal well-being and enabling timely clinical interventions to prevent complications during labor. One of the major challenges in labor management is the lack of fast and precise tools for fetal distress assessment. By integrating electrochemical sensors into a smart catheter system, this innovative technology aims to provide obstetricians with a rapid and reliable tool for real-time clinical decision-making. Ultimately, it has the potential to reduce emergency interventions, improve perinatal outcomes, and enhance personalized medical care settings during labor.

Do you think personalised diagnostics will become a reality in clinical settings soon?
I believe personalised diagnostics are transforming healthcare by shifting the focus from a ‘one-size-fits-all’ model to treatments tailored to an individual’s unique biological profile. Advances in sensor technology, nanomaterials, miniaturisation, bioinformatics, and portability are accelerating the development of point-of-care tools that make personalised diagnostics increasingly feasible. Yet, challenges remain, particularly in obtaining regulatory approval, ensuring cost-effectiveness, and integrating these innovations into established healthcare systems.

The transition from laboratory prototypes to routine clinical use requires not only rigorous validation and standardization but also strong collaboration between academia, industry, and healthcare providers. While oncology is already benefiting from personalised diagnostics, such as liquid biopsies for cancer detection, broad adoption across other medical disciplines will take time. Still, the promise is clear: personalised diagnostics can revolutionise healthcare by facilitating early disease detection, enabling targeted therapies, and reducing unnecessary treatments, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

What message would you give to young girls curious about science and innovation?

Science and innovation go far beyond the lab, they are about solving real-world problems and making a meaningful impact on people’s lives. If you are curious, resilient, and passionate about learning, there is a place for you in science. Do not let stereotypes define your path and don’t be afraid to ask questions, or to challenge existing knowledge. Surround yourself with mentors and colleagues who inspire and support you and embrace challenges as opportunities to grow.

Science thrives on diversity, creativity and perseverance and I believe we can find these powerful tools in young girls. Encouraging them to pursue STEM careers is essential, not just for gender equality but for innovation and progress in science and technology.

From developing biosensors in international labs to tackling one of the most critical moments in maternal care, Paula Campos exemplifies how scientific curiosity, collaboration, and compassion can drive meaningful change. Her work at INL not only advances cutting-edge diagnostics but also highlights the human impact of innovation. As she continues to bridge disciplines and borders, Paula remains a powerful advocate for science that serves society, and for empowering the next generation to do the same.

Interview and Photography by Gina Palha, Communication, Conferences & Marketing Officer