60 Seconds With... Andreia Costa

Andreia Costa is Project Manager for Training & Career Development, NIHR Oxford Health BRC (OH BRC), and Chair of the Neurodiversity & Disability Working Group.

Tell us a little about yourself, and what attracted you to studying/working at the University of Oxford?  

I spent many years working in media evaluation, which aligned with my academic background in Communication, Media, and Culture (Oxford Brookes University). However, despite the experience and stability, I always felt something was missing. I’ve always been someone who’s driven by purpose and a desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

That calling led me to my current role at the Department of Psychiatry for the NIHR Oxford Health BRC, where I support the career development of researchers, including Nurses, Midwives and Allied Health Professionals (NMAHPs). While I may not be a researcher myself, I feel deeply fulfilled knowing that my work contributes to the advancement of healthcare and research.

Seventeen years ago, I moved from Portugal to Oxfordshire, and today, I’m incredibly proud to be part of the University of Oxford. I’ve found a place where I truly belong—surrounded by inspiring colleagues, supported in my growth, and constantly energised by the collaborative spirit across departments. I feel valued, validated, and more passionate than ever about the power of research to change lives.

What is your vision for the team/project/research you work with?

My vision is to continue strengthening and evolving the delivery of the Oxford Health BRC Training Programme. We've just completed its first year—an exciting milestone. While there were challenges, engagement steadily grew, and overall, it was a successful launch. As someone who tends to be a perfectionist, I’m always open to acknowledging areas for improvement, but I’m genuinely proud of what we’ve achieved so far.

This summer, we’re taking time to reflect—looking closely at what worked, what didn’t, and how we can enhance the experience for the next academic year. Our commitment remains clear: to listen actively to the needs of our research teams and to support their career development in meaningful, practical ways.

I’m especially excited about the upcoming training sessions starting in September. We’re working hard to ensure they are inclusive, diverse, and responsive to the wide range of needs across our research community. I truly believe in the value of what we’re building, and I can’t wait to welcome everyone back for another impactful year. 

Alongside this, I’m also leading the organisation of the Oxford Health BRC Neurodiversity Conference, which will take place on the 19th and 20th of September. It’s a project I’m incredibly passionate about, and I’m proud to be contributing to such an important conversation within our research and healthcare communities.

What is currently at the top of your To-Do List?

At the top of my to-do list is planning the Autumn Term of the Oxford Health BRC Training Programme. Alongside that, I’m leading the organisation of the OH BRC Neurodiversity Conference, taking place on 19–20 September. This initiative was inspired by my lived experience as a mother of an autistic daughter and my own ongoing assessment for autism and ADHD.

While awareness of neurodivergence is growing, I believe adults remain underrepresented in research—especially in relation to mental health across the lifespan. This conference aims to bridge that gap by bringing together researchers, local organisations, and the community to inspire inclusive, impactful research.

I’m incredibly grateful for the support of Professor Clare Mackay, Professor Cathy Creswell, and Dr Jiedi Lei, who believed in this idea from the start and are part of the organising committee. I also want to acknowledge Professor Catherine Harmer and the Neurodiversity & Disability Working Group, whose contributions have been instrumental in shaping the event. It’s a true team effort, and I’m proud to be part of something that reflects the BRC’s core strategy: Academic Career Development, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, and Patient and Public Involvement, Engagement and Participation (PPIEP).

How did you get to where you are today?

With a lot of resilience and determination. It hasn’t always been easy, and the journey has certainly taken its toll at times—but my passion for what I do has always kept me moving forward. I’m someone who leads with heart, and I believe in the power of being open and honest about my lived experiences.

Authenticity and genuineness are core values I live by. And while it might sound a bit cheesy, I truly believe that love is one of my greatest strengths. When you put love and care into everything you do—whether it’s work, relationships, or community—you can go a very long way.

Who or what inspires you?

My daughter, Melody, is my greatest inspiration. Despite facing learning difficulties and speech delay, she approaches life with determination and joy. She may do things in her own unique way, but she does them with confidence and a smile—and that resilience inspires me every single day.

I also find deep inspiration in music. Regardless of genre, music has always been a powerful and therapeutic force in my life. Artists like Pink and Sia, who are unapologetically themselves and use their voices to speak about vulnerability and strength, resonate deeply with me.

And I’m constantly inspired by the incredible people in my support network—those who bravely share their stories and fight for causes close to their hearts. People like Dee Nic Sitric from Autism Champions, Professor Clare Mackay for her work on BFRBs, and Leandra Hamblin from SENtipede remind me of the impact that authenticity, advocacy, and compassion can have. 

If you were not in your job currently, what would you like to be doing?

I would love to lead my own Community Interest Company dedicated to supporting the neurodivergent community. I envision it as a vibrant, inclusive hub where families could access counselling, children could take part in inclusive activities, and I could host my NDV Coffee Mornings and record the NDV Podcast in an on-site studio.

A key part of this vision is supporting the career development of neurodivergent individuals—helping them gain the confidence, skills, and opportunities to enter and thrive in the workplace. Unemployment rates, particularly among autistic people, remain unacceptably high, and I want to be part of changing that. The hub would also serve as a training centre, equipping neurodivergent people with practical workplace skills and offering employers and professionals training on neurodiversity to foster more inclusive environments.

It’s a dream I hold close to my heart—one rooted in lived experience, compassion, and a deep belief in the potential of every individual. I hope to make it a reality in the future.

What’s your favourite time of year?

Spring and summer, without a doubt. I love sunshiny days—they instantly lift my mood and make me feel lighter, more energised, and inspired. There’s something about the warmth, the longer days, and the colours of nature coming alive that really resonates with me. I’ll admit it—I’m not a fan of the rain. Give me sunshine any day!

What’s your favourite place in the world?

My hometown, Porto. It’s a city full of character and rich in history, with a unique charm that always draws me back. What makes it truly special for me is the connection to nature—the sea and the Douro River. Both are places where I feel grounded and at peace. Whether it’s walking along the riverbanks or listening to the waves by the ocean, Porto is where I go to reset, reflect, and feel at home.

Is there a quote or saying that you think everyone should know?

"The world needs different kinds of minds to work together." Dr. Temple Grandin