News

Espiña and Kolen’ko Groups at XI NyNA 2024 in Santiago de Compostela

From September 3 to 6, 2024, members of the Espiña (Water Quality) and Kolen’ko (Nanochemistry) groups from INL (International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory) participated in the XI International Congress on Analytical Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NyNA 2024), held in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. The event brought together experts in analytical chemistry and nanotechnology to exchange cutting-edge developments and research under key topics such as Nano(bio)sensors, Nanomaterials for sample preparation, Analytical Nanometrology, and Detection, characterization, and quantification of nanomaterials. The INL researchers made a significant impact, presenting one plenary talk, two oral presentations, and one poster, demonstrating their leading role in these fields. Begoña Espiña from the Water Quality group delivered the Plenary Lecture (PL5) entitled “Nanotechnology-based sensors and materials for water contaminants monitoring,” discussing innovative approaches to the detection of harmful substances in water using nanotechnology. The talk highlighted advanced solutions for water quality management, showcasing the increasing importance of nanosensors in environmental monitoring. Javier Terán and Carlos Gonçalves contributed with oral presentations, further elaborating on analytical methods and strategies involving nanomaterials, while Joana Araújo presented a poster detailing recent research advancements. NyNA 2024 focused on fostering the growth of analytical chemistry concepts applied to nanoscience, with discussions spanning across nanotechnological applications and miniaturized nanosystems. With their substantial contributions, the Espiña and Kolen’ko groups continue to pave the way for innovation in the realms of water quality and nanochemistry. […]

Inl Global Local Photonics Meetup

On November 13th and 14th, INL joined the global initiative Photonics Online Meetup (POM) as a POM-hub, bringing together 100 photonics enthusiasts from 24 organizations across Northwestern Iberia for two days of insightful discussions and engaging sessions. The conference was broadcast from the auditorium, while the lobby provided a platform for networking and socializing. The event was attended by representatives from various academic institutions, including the University of Minho, University of Porto, University of Aveiro, University of Vigo, University of Santiago de Compostela, University of Coimbra, University of Lisbon, FCT NOVA Lisbon, as well as representatives from local photonics-related industries and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). There were 42 poster submissions, and the best poster prize included student registration for the conference AOP2024 and the opportunity to be featured in the program as an invited speaker, sponsored by the Sociedade Portuguesa de Óptica e Fotónica. This event was sponsored by MT Brandão Lda and Izasa Scientific.

FUNLAYERS SUMMER SCHOOL

Training on Nanoscale Characterization and Analysis + Workshop on Transferable Skills In September, FUNLAYERS promotes a four-day initiative focused on Nanoscale Characterization and Analysis. The initiative is focused on students and early-stage researchers in nanoscience and materials science, and covers a wide range of subjects – from the basics to in-depth theoretical background and lab visits. The comprehensive programme is complemented by an insightful Workshop on Transferable Skills that will explore relevant competencies in communication, management, business, networking, and others. More information and registration link available at funlayersproject.eu/summer-school-2024

INL welcomes the new Deputy Director-General

Professor Doctor Ado Jório de Vasconcelos appointed to be the new Deputy Director-General of INL The Council of the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) has announced the appointment of Prof. Dr. Ado Jório de Vasconcelos as Deputy Director-General of INL, effective from the 2nd of September 2024. He will join the Director-General of INL, Prof. Dr. Clivia M. Sotomayor Torres, to provide strategic direction and leadership. Together, they will bring INL into a new phase that is fit for the challenges faced by research organisations in a rapidly changing world that requires bespoke science excellence and innovation as expressions of social engagement. As Deputy Director-General, Prof. Dr. Jório de Vasconcelos will be responsible for driving innovation, fostering the institute’s mission of advancing nanotechnology research and innovation and promoting the organisation’s global impact on society. Professor Dr. Ado Jório de Vasconcelos has a distinguished career as internationally acclaimed researcher, university teacher and administrator, innovator, and policy maker. He brings a particular international dimension based on his career path in the Americas. The INL community looks forward to his arrival and to working with him. INL Directorate Office

Instruct Hands-on Workshop

The Instruct Hands-on Workshop, held from October 7 to 10, 2024, is set to provide in-depth training on sample preparation for single particle analysis (SPA) by cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). The workshop, hosted by a team of experts from ITQB NOVA, INL, and CNB–CSIC, aims to equip participants with best practices and the latest techniques in cryo-EM imaging. Participants will engage in a comprehensive course featuring a blend of lectures and hands-on tutorials. The lectures will delve into the principles of SPA, covering theoretical and practical aspects of preparing biological samples for negative staining and quality assessment. Practical sessions will offer hands-on experience with vitrification using a plunge-freezing device and optimising grids for sample screening with a cryo-transmission electron microscope (TEM). Attendees are encouraged to bring their samples, providing a unique opportunity to apply newly acquired skills to their specific research needs. The workshop will highlight recent advancements in protein production and stabilisation, as well as the latest technological innovations in grid preparation and sample manipulation. This integrative approach will be crucial for addressing challenging scientific projects. The workshop aims to provide participants with a holistic understanding of the integrated use of biophysics, biochemistry, and cryo-EM for protein structure determination and analysis. […]

Researchers Inspire Young Minds at Schools

As part of the European Researchers’ Night initiative, researchers visited several schools in the summer camp program in Tadim-Braga to promote science and engage young students. These visits are part of the ongoing efforts to celebrate science and bring it closer to citizens, aligning with ERN’s 2024-2025 theme of “Science for Global Challenges.” July 4: Engaging the Young MindsOn July 4, a team of INL researchers, including Catarina Moura, Carlos Honrado, Adriana Carneiro, Bernardo Nogueira, Maria Relvas, and Tiago Moura, prepared different experiences for students of EB1 Tadim, EB2,3 Tadim, and Alfacoop schools. 45 students participated and built on their knowledge and interest in scientific topics. The activities conducted were designed to illustrate how science can address major global and European challenges in environmental, economic, and social sustainability. July 18: Continuing the Journey of DiscoveryOn July 18, researchers João Henriques, João Rodrigues, Lurdes Gonçalves, Diana Oliveira, Mariam Debs, Carlos Rosário, and Catarina Moura prepared different experiences, once again, for students of EB1 Tadim, EB2,3 Tadim, and Alfacoop schools. Students, aged between 4 to 14, participated in interactive sessions that sparked their curiosity and enthusiasm for science. These activities were tailored to suit the varied age groups, ensuring that each student […]

Filipa Lebre: Exploring the Frontier of Nanosafety

Filipa Lebre is a Research Fellow in the Nanosafety Research Group at INL, and her research focuses on the complex interactions among the immunological system and different organs, using novel technologies and in-house developed systems. Filipa has a background in Pharmaceutical Sciences and holds a PhD in Pharmaceutical Technology from the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, focused on the development and optimization of a polymeric nasal vaccine against hepatitis B to be used for mass immunization. She moved to Ireland during her postdoc to conduct her research at the interface between biomaterial and immunology, studying key aspects of immunomodulation by a relevant spectrum of materials with applicability in the regenerative medicine field. Could you share with us your professional trajectory and what inspired you to embark on a career in nanosafety? I’m very curious by nature and always had this passion and interest in science. When I did my degree in Pharmaceutical Science, I was fortunate enough to find a teacher who was working in the vaccine field and made me realize how I could use my passion to impact millions of lives. That was when I started to work with nanoformulations. I obtained my PhD in formulation development, […]

Secretary of State for Science Visits INL, Showcasing Key Projects and Innovations

Prof. Dr Ana Paiva, Secretary of State for Science, visited INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory today. This visit provided an exceptional platform for INL to present its ongoing projects and significant achievements in the field of science and technology. The presence of Prof. Dr. Paiva underscored the crucial role of INL’s work and its far-reaching impact on the broader scientific community. Prof. Dr. Clivia M. Sotomayor Torres, INL Director-General, welcomed Prof. Dr Paiva and provided an insightful overview of INL’s mission and accomplishments. This introduction set the stage for a series of detailed presentations and discussions that highlighted INL’s prominence in both the national and European research landscapes. Presentation Highlights: Secretary of State’s visit to INL was a testament to the laboratory’s dedication to innovation, excellence, and its significant contributions to the field of science and technology. This visit not only highlighted INL’s achievements but also reinforced the importance of continued support and investment in scientific research and development. Text and Photography by Gina Palha

INL volta abrir as portas à sociedade