He has a PhD in Biology from the University of Porto and his main research interests are linked to Evolutionary Biology. Full Professor in the Biology Department of the University of Porto School of Sciences, where he teaches Genetics and Evolution. Director of CIBIO – Biodiversity and Genetic Resources Research Centre and of the Associated Laboratory InBIO – Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology Research Network. In recent years, he has established a network of collaborative laboratories in several African countries, called TwinLabs, whose strategic objectives are scientific and technological training, advanced human resources training and knowledge transfer. In 2017, UNESCO awarded the Life on Land Chair to the University of Porto, with the aim of promoting and coordinating this network of TwinLabs, with Nuno Ferrand holding the Chair. Coordinator of the European project BIOPOLIS, recently approved by the European Commission, which results in the mobilisation of the largest amount of funding ever awarded to a research centre in Portugal. Director of the Museum of Science and Natural History at the University of Porto where, in partnership with the Portuguese Science Promotion Agency Ciência Viva, he created the Biodiversity Gallery.