With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of an esteemed professor, researcher, and beloved friend, Maria Teresa Cidade (Mité for family and friends). She departed this world on 12 January 2023, surrounded by the love and memories she so generously shared with all who had the privilege to know her.
Born on the 1st of June 1959, Teresa was endowed with enthusiasm for learning, love for humanity, and joy in simple pleasures. A rare combination of intellect, persistence, determination, and grace, Teresa personified a harmonious balance between academic excellence and compassionate human interaction. Notably, a fervent advocate of justice, Teresa upheld a standard of equanimity that resonated within different spheres of interaction.
Maria Teresa Cidade was an Associate Professor with Habilitation in the Department of Materials Science (DCM) at NOVA University Lisbon. Teresa was an active and dedicated researcher and a co-founder of the center CENIMAT/i3N.
Additionally, she played a vital role as a founding member of the Portuguese Liquid Crystal Society (SPCL) and the Portuguese Society of Rheology (SPR), which later was also President. Her influence extended to roles as Associate Editor of Physica Scripta and Editorial Board of Fluids member.
Teresa was genuinely curious about the Rheological behavior of complex fluids, particularly polymers, liquid crystals, and their composites. Her insights into the rheological intricacies of these materials were invaluable and crucial for their characterization.
Teresa Cidade was a dedicated mentor of doctoral and master’s students, perpetuating knowledge dissemination and fostering a learning legacy. Teresa’s insights and commitment to education left an indelible mark on each individual fortunate enough to learn from her guidance.
We must remember her boundless energy and pivotal role in organizing the 28th International Liquid Crystal Conference (ILCC2022). The event’s success bore her signature, and her unwavering commitment was commendable.
A true enthusiast of culture, Teresa had an unmatched appreciation for the arts, literature, and the finer things in life. Her ability to infuse every conversation with thought-provoking insights made every interaction with Teresa an unforgettable experience. She had a unique talent for making the world around her livelier.
As we bid farewell to Teresa, we find solace in the countless memories she leaves behind. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her husband, António Portugal, two sons, Filipe and Tiago, her granddaughter Ema, her sister, Manuela, and nephews, friends, and colleagues.
Portuguese Liquid Crystal Society