A Vision for the Future: INL Welcomes New Deputy Director-General
October 18, 2024
The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) hosted an inspiring ceremony this week to introduce Professor Ado Jório de Vasconcelos as its new Deputy Director-General (DDG). This event, held at the INL headquarters, signals a significant step forward in the organisation’s quest for innovative advancement.
The ceremony commenced with remarks from INL’s Director-General, Professor Clivia Sotomayor, who emphasised the strategic significance of Professor Jório’s appointment. She outlined key milestones for INL, including the rationalization of research themes, the introduction of a new Career System, and strengthened collaborations with Spanish institutions and local partners. Professor Sotomayor reaffirmed INL’s commitment to European initiatives, particularly the European Chips Act, aimed at boosting Europe’s competitiveness and resilience in the semiconductor sector. These developments set a promising foundation for INL’s future.
Inmaculada Figueroa, President of the INL Council and representative of the Spanish Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Universities, expressed her support for Professor Jório and enthusiasm for INL’s innovative future under his and Professor Sotomayor’s guidance.
Professor Madalena Alves, Head of the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology and Vice-President of the INL Council, highlighted the crucial role of new leadership for INL’s strategic success, underscoring the responsibility of all INL members to foster a robust and competitive organisation.
Olga Pereira, Alderwoman of the Municipality of Braga, represented the local community by welcoming the new DDG and emphasizing the strong ties between INL and the city, as well as the potential for continued collaboration aligned with the Municipality’s strategy for a “Smart and Trendy City.”
The introduction of Professor Ado Jório de Vasconcelos as Deputy Director-General marks a pivotal moment in INL’s trajectory, reinforcing its commitment to fostering innovation and strengthening its role in the European research landscape. With a renewed focus on key initiatives such as the European Chips Act and a strategic partnership with local and international stakeholders, INL is well-positioned to lead groundbreaking advancements in nanotechnology and contribute to Europe’s competitive edge in critical industries.
The leadership of Professor Jório and Professor Sotomayor sets an optimistic tone for the future, as INL continues to push the boundaries of science and technology.