Prof. António José Vilela Pontes is an Associate Professor at the Department of Polymer Engineering (DEP) and Director of the Institute of Polymers and Composites (IPC) at the University of Minho in Guimarães, Portugal. He earned his PhD in Polymer Processing and Design from the University of Minho, where he has built an accomplished academic and research career focused on polymer engineering, advanced manufacturing, and product development. Prof. Pontes is widely recognized for his expertise in injection molding, additive manufacturing, polymer composites, and the optimization of processing–structure–property relationships in polymeric materials. He has coordinated and participated in more than 45 national and international R&D projects, many in collaboration with industry, notably leading the Bosch–UMinho partnership since 2012. His work bridges academia and industry, promoting innovation in polymer technologies and sustainable manufacturing. Prof. Pontes has published over 250 scientific papers and around 20 book chapters, contributing substantially to the advancement of polymer engineering. In addition to his academic roles, he serves as Vice-President of PIEP (Polímeros Engenharia Innovation & Technology Center) and as CEO of DONE Lab, specializing in advanced product and tooling development.