Scientific spin-off from the University of Minho

From microbiome to data-driven strategic decisions

We turn complex microbiome data into actionable insights that support critical decisions in innovation, product, and strategy.

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What we do in practice

From microbiome analysis to strategic decisions

Bacterial analysis (16S)

Microbial community characterization with direct impact on the system

Fungal analysis (ITS)

Identification of fungal dynamics relevant to performance and risk

Business focus

Results designed to support decision-making

48h response

Fast turnaround without compromising scientific rigor

The microbiome is complex. Decisions do not have to be.

Microbiome projects do not fail because of a lack of data, but because of generic analyses and outputs that are difficult to apply.

At PreTECHt, we transform biological complexity into clear, actionable decisions.

We start with the right question

Every project starts with a clear objective aligned with the impact it aims to create

Data that leads to action

We turn complex results into actionable insights for technical and business teams

Results everyone can understand

Clear, structured communication adapted to different decision-making profiles

Focus on what truly matters

We remove analytical noise and highlight only what creates real impact

PreTECHt in the media and innovation ecosystem

Institutional recognition and presence across leading innovation ecosystems.

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How we turn data into decisions

From the right question to real impact, with focus on what truly matters

01

We begin with the right question

We define clear objectives aligned with the impact you want to generate

02

We analyse what really matters

We focus only on the variables that have real impact in your context

04

We communicate with clarity

Structured results adapted to technical and business audiences

Who we are

A team focused on turning science into real impact.

Core team
Joana Castro

Joana Castro

Founder
  • Biologist specialised in microbiology
  • and microbiome analysis
  • Experience in bioinformatics and
  • the development of applied solutions
  • Focused on turning complex data
  • into strategic decisions
view profile
Carlos Pinto

Carlos Pinto

Co-founder
  • Forestry engineer with experience in
  • project management and sustainability
  • Specialised in linking science,
  • territory and practical application
  • Focused on operationalising solutions
  • with real-world impact
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Scientific mentors
José Teixeira

José Teixeira

Scientific mentor
  • Full professor at the University of
  • Minho
  • International reference in biotechnology
  • Top 2% most cited scientists
  • worldwide
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Lucília Domingues

Lucília Domingues

Scientific mentor
  • Associate professor at the University of
  • Minho
  • Specialist in biotechnology and
  • fermentation
  • Extensive experience in applied research
  • and innovation
view profile

We work with teams that want real impact

We work with teams that value applied science and informed decisions.

Ideal for:

  • Biotech startups in a growth stage
  • Companies that depend on data for critical decisions (agrotech, foodtech, health)
  • R&D teams oriented toward real impact

Not ideal for:

  • Projects without defined objectives or success metrics
  • Requests for generic or standardised analyses
  • A price-only mindset
If this sounds like your team, let’s talk.

Science that drives decisions, not reports

At PreTECHt, we do more than microbiome analysis.

We connect microbiology, bioinformatics, and strategy to turn complex data into clear, actionable decisions.

The focus is not the report. It is the impact on your business.

Because data without context does not create impact.

Before we get started

Clear answers for informed decisions.

Is PreTECHt the right fit for my project?

It makes sense when there is an important decision to make and the microbiome may influence performance, risk, or innovation. If the project is still loosely defined, we help clarify it before moving forward.

What kind of projects are a strong fit for PreTECHt?

Projects in biotech, agrotech, foodtech, environment, and health where microbiome data needs to be translated into practical direction for R&D, product, or operations.

Does PreTECHt only provide sequencing, or also analysis and interpretation?

We deliver the full process: objective framing, experimental design, sequencing, bioinformatics analysis, and strategic interpretation of the results.

Do you work with standard or customised protocols?

Our approach is customised. We select the pipeline and depth of analysis according to what you actually need to decide.

Are the results understandable for non-technical teams?

Yes. Deliverables are written for both technical and business teams, with clear conclusions, explicit limits, and practical next steps.

At what stage of the project should I contact PreTECHt?

Ideally before sampling and sequencing, but we also support ongoing projects that need review, reanalysis, or strategic repositioning.

Does PreTECHt work with international companies?

Yes. We work with national and international teams and can structure communication and deliverables in Portuguese or English.

How does the initial process with PreTECHt work?

We start with a short conversation to understand the objective, context, and decision at stake. Then we return with a proposed approach, scope, and next steps.

Want to discuss your case?

Talk to the team
Contact

Turn complex data into decisions with real impact

Receive a strategic assessment of your project and discover how to turn data into decisions with real impact on your business.

Why work with PreTECHt?

  • Tailored approach
  • Focus on real impact
  • Clear communication
We work with startups and R&D teams in biotech, agrotech, and health, with a focus on informed decisions and measurable impact.
Reply within 24-48h. Initial conversation with no commitment.