Professor João Santos Pereira (1948–2025) was a distinguished Portuguese forest scientist and Professor Emeritus at the Instituto Superior de Agronomia (ISA), University of Lisbon. Recognized internationally for his expertise in tree physiology and forest ecology, his pioneering research advanced the understanding of how forests respond to elevated CO₂, drought, and other environmental stresses, linking ecophysiology mechanisms to ecosystem function and global change.
Author of more than 150 scientific publications, Professor Santos Pereira collaborated extensively with colleagues in Portugal and abroad, coordinated major European research initiatives such as CARBOEUROPE-IP, and represented Portugal in international research networks including ICOS. His scientific contributions extended beyond Europe, namely contributing to studies in the Amazon region.
He played a pivotal role in the development of the Forest Research Centre (CEF) at ISA, which under his influence became a reference institution in Mediterranean forest science. He also served on the editorial boards of several scientific journals, including Tree Physiology.
Within the Portuguese Society of Plant Physiology (SPFV), Professor João Santos Pereira was instrumental in the creation of the Portuguese–Spanish Plant Physiology Group, a collaborative network that remains active and influential today. He served as President of the SPFV from 1991 to 1998, and later as President of the General Assembly of the SPFV from 2008 to 2014, demonstrating his commitment to strengthening the plant science community.
Professor João Santos Pereira’s scientific vision, intellectual generosity, and lifelong dedication to connecting research with society have left a lasting legacy in forest ecology, climate change science, and the sustainable management of Mediterranean ecosystems. His contributions will continue to inspire generations of researchers and students.