From finding my own path to helping others gain clarity and take action.

Behind the Bench

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Diana Bordalo, PhD

With a Bachelor’s in Biology, a Master’s in Human Genetics & Biomedicine, a PhD in Molecular Cardiology and an active scientist in the Cell & Gene Theraphy field, I’ve spent years in the trenches of academia and industry research. I know the stress, the politics, and the imposter syndrome because I’ve lived them.

Add to that my training with the Co-Active Training Institute, and you get a coach who blends science with self-awareness, action with reflection, and ambitious goals with a healthy respect for “enough.”

I bring a unique blend of analytical thinking, honesty and grounded coaching to the table.

SCIENTIST, COACH

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Researchers, Founders, Creators

My clients are scientists, researchers, and high achievers who want results without the fluff. They want a partner who understands the grind of academia, the politics of industry, and the weight of expectations — and who can help them navigate it with both strategy and empathy.

While most of my work is within the life sciences, I occasionally coach professionals from entirely different fields. The method doesn’t depend on your background — it depends on whether we resonate and can think clearly together.

WHO I WORK WITH

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Honest, Grounded, Curious and Challenging

I’ll tell you what you need to hear, not just what you want to hear. No toxic positivity, no mystical jargon — just clarity and results. I’ll dig deep into the “what” and the “how” behind your challenges. I want you to succeed, but I won’t let you hide from yourself.

MY APPROACH

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I’m not just my CV

I ride a motorbike (Honda CL500, if you need to know), sew, and climb boulders for fun. I studied piano professionally at the National Conservatory Music School and once held the title of National University Champion in Archery. I have a husband and two small kids. These things remind me that we’re more than one goal or focus — we’re made of many moving parts. Fulfilment comes from keeping them in balance, recognising when enough is enough, and remembering that most of life happens in the process, not the outcome.

OUTSIDE OF ACADEMIA

Let’s sit on the Bench, today.

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