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New quantum computing protocol demonstrated by international research team

A recent breakthrough in photonics-based randomness manipulation has been achieved by a strong collaboration with Ernesto Galvão from INL and scientists from Milan’s Polytechnic and Sapienza University of Rome. The group’s findings were published in the prestigious journal Nature Photonics, where they presented a new protocol known as a Bernoulli factory,demonstrating advanced capabilities in manipulating probability distributions encoded in photonic quantum bits. Ernesto Galvão, group leader at INL, outlines the importance of this research in the broader context of quantum computing. “Quantum computers promise to offer extreme speed-ups for certain computational problems, but actually building them is very challenging, independently of the physical platform used,” he explains. Galvão elaborated on the unique properties of photonic quantum computers, which encode and process information using photons – i.e. particles of light. This encoding can leverage various aspects of light, such as the paths it follows, polarization, arrival time, or its spectrum (colour), making it a highly versatile approach to quantum information processing. “The core functionality demonstrated involves manipulating a probability distribution encoded within these photonic quantum bits. To achieve this, we used a programmable multimode interferometer, which enables the encoding of information based on the paths photons take within the device.”, adds […]

INL Researcher Recognised by the Portuguese Cancer League for Groundbreaking Research

Alexandra Teixeira, a researcher at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), has been awarded the prestigious Liga Inovação 2024 Prize, a distinction promoted by the North Branch of the Portuguese Cancer League (Núcleo Regional do Norte da Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro). The award, valued at 7,500 euros, was presented during the 6th National Meeting of Young Researchers (6º Encontro Nacional de Jovens Investigadores – ENJIO) in Porto, where her innovative cancer research project was recognized among 80 competing proposals. Teixeira’s research focuses on the development of advanced technology to better understand the behaviour and metastatic potential of circulating tumour cells (CTCs), which play a critical role in cancer progression. Her work is particularly focused on breast cancer, a condition that affects millions worldwide and is projected to increase in prevalence. By studying CTCs, the project aims to uncover new insights into how cancer spreads, paving the way for more targeted and personalized treatment strategies. The Liga Inovação Prize aims to promote research with the potential to contribute significantly to oncology, particularly in developing personalized medicine approaches for cancer patients. Teixeira’s project aligns with this mission by addressing metastasis, which is responsible for up to 90% of cancer-related deaths. The […]

ERN 2024 Brings Science to Life for Nearly 1,400 Participants in Braga

On September 27, 2024, nearly 1,400 participants gathered in Braga for the European Researchers’ Night (ERN), under the theme Science for Global Challenges. The event showcased cutting-edge research and demonstrated how science addresses critical global issues like environmental protection, economic development, and social justice. INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, committed to outreach and bringing science closer to the public, actively participated with European funded projects such as LEARN, FRONTSH1P, Forging, and 3DSecret. Attendees enjoyed interactive experiences, including optical experiments revealing the colors of white light, engaging science-themed board games, and an immersive exploration of extracellular vesicles. João Martinho Moura’s multimedia performance micromacronanooffered a unique blend of art and science, illustrating the connection between the smallest particles and the vastness of the universe. The Consortium: A National Collaboration ERN 2024 was powered by a national consortium. INL and the University of Minho led efforts in Braga, while the University of Coimbra, University of Lisbon, Universidade Nova, ISCTE, and the University of Évora ensured the event reached communities across Coimbra, Lisbon, and Alentejo, making science accessible throughout the country. + A day to remember. See the full photo gallery here >>

INL researchers recognised among top 2% of scientists worldwide

INL researchers have received prestigious recognition by Stanford University, placing them among the top 2% of scientists globally. On the 16th September 2024, Stanford University published its latest global list of highly acclaimed scientists from various fields. The university maintains an accessible database featuring scientists with significant academic impact, providing standardised details on citations, h-index, co-authorship-adjusted hm-index, citations by authorship position, and a composite indicator (c-score). This data is made available separately to assess both career-long impact and the achievements of the year 2023. Remarkably, the following INL members have earned a place on the ‘World Ranking Top 2% Scientists’ list for 2023: Bruno Romeira, Joaquín Fernández-Rossier, Miguel A. Cerqueira, Nuno Peres, Paulo Ferreira, Sanna Sillankorva, Victor Souza, and Zhongchang Wang. Additionally, Joaquín Fernández-Rossier, Francis Leonard Deepak, Miguel A. Cerqueira, Nuno Peres, Paulo Ferreira, Sascha Sadewasser, and Zhongchang Wang, were recognised in the career-long analysis of the ‘World Ranking Top 2% Scientists’ list. Congratulations to INL researchers for their remarkable achievement! For the complete list, you can visit the following link.

INL recognised as “key innovator” in cutting-edge spintronics technology by EC Innovation Radar

The work developed by the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory within the EU-funded project RadioSpin was recently highlighted on the European Commission’s Innovation Radar for its significant potential. The important milestone is the result of the joint effort by INL and two consortium partners – Thales and CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) – in the development of RF-mode MTJ stacks and devices optimised for neuromorphic computing and sensing. This breakthrough technology, which mimics brain-like computing, is set to transform fields like neuromorphic computing and advanced sensing. The Innovation: A Game-Changer in Neuromorphic Computing and Sensing The innovation centres on Magnetic Tunnel Junction (MTJ) stacks in radio frequency (RF) mode. These optimised MTJ devices offer potential breakthroughs in neuromorphic computing—a field inspired by biological neural networks, aimed at more efficient, brain-like computing. Additionally, their sensing capabilities could significantly enhance various high-tech applications, from telecommunication to smart sensors, benefiting a wide range of industries such as IoT, AI, and healthcare. The Innovation Radar analysis identifies this technology as having great market potential. RadioSpin focuses on developing spintronic devices that operate at high frequencies, offering innovative telecommunications and neuromorphic computing solutions. Spintronics is a technology that exploits the intrinsic spin of electrons […]

INL Strengthens ties with CNPEM through Strategic MoU

On September 6, 2024, the INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory and the National Centre for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM) took a significant step forward in advancing scientific collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement sets the foundation for strategic partnerships in the field of nanotechnology. The MoU was signed by INL’s newly appointed Deputy Director-General, Professor Dr. Ado Jório, alongside Dr. Rodrigo Barbosa Capaz, Director of the National Nanotechnology Laboratory (LNNano/CNPEM), and Dr. Antonio José Roque da Silva, Director-General of CNPEM. The agreement formalizes their intention to foster scientific and technical collaboration, focusing on the exchange of knowledge and resources to boost the institutions’ research capacities and unlock new opportunities for innovation. Professor Jório emphasized the importance of this initiative: “This collaboration represents step forward for INL as to strengthen our international network and explore new frontiers in nanotechnology with a renowned institution like CNPEM,” he said. “It underscores our commitment to scientific excellence and creating global partnerships.” The MoU outlines a series of collaborative activities, including the exchange of researchers and personnel, organization of joint workshops, and pursuit of shared funding opportunities for future projects. It also establishes a Joint Cooperation Committee, tasked […]

INL team develops sensor to detect multidrug-resistant bacteria

A research team at INL is using ionizing light to “smell” volatile compounds emitted by multidrug-resistant bacteria. Antibiotic resistance is a serious global threat with widespread implications, contributing to an estimated 5 million deaths annually due to drug-resistant infections. This occurs as bacteria evolve to resist the effects of antibiotics, leading to new bacterial strains that are resistant to treatment. As a result, infections become harder to treat, increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness, and death. Recently, this work was featured in ‘90 Segundos de Ciência’, a series of science communication episodes with daily broadcasts on Antena 1 Portuguese public radio. In this episode, Research Engineer Susana Costa explains INL’s contribution towards this exciting project in just 90 seconds (in Portuguese). The novel sensor is being designed to detect multidrug-resistant bacteria in hospital environments and healthcare facilities. Susana Costa explains that “the photo-ionization sensor employs a sophisticated mechanism that emits light, targeting gaseous molecules released by bacteria present in the air. When the light interacts with these molecules, it ionizes them, creating ions and electrons. These electrons, under the influence of an electric field, generate an electric current, which is then measured by the system”. The technology behind […]

European Researchers’ Night 2024: a celebration of science for global challenges this Friday

The European Researchers’ Night (ERN) returns this year on September 27, 2024, uniting science enthusiasts across Europe for an unforgettable evening of discovery, innovation, and community engagement. Promoted by the European Commission since 2005, this annual event aims to bring science closer to citizens and highlight its role in addressing some of the world’s biggest challenges. As part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, ERN 2024 will take place in over 30 countries and 300 cities, including key locations in Portugal: Braga, Coimbra, Lisbon, and Évora. The event, themed “Science for Global Challenges”, will focus on connecting the general public, particularly students, with important scientific research and knowledge aimed at tackling global issues like environmental protection, economic growth, and social fairness. Connecting Society with Science The European Researchers’ Night is more than just a celebration; it serves as a bridge between society and the scientific community. By reaching out to students and the public, ERN2024 aims to increase awareness of the vital role science plays in everyday life and inspire the next generation of scientists. This year’s theme emphasises how scientific research can be a powerful tool for addressing global challenges—from climate change to social inequality. ERN2024 aims to show why by helping students, educators, and communities understand the relevance of scientific research in tackling real-world problems. At […]

September 20, 2024, Government Declares National Day of Mourning for Fire Victims

The Portuguese Government has declared a National Day of Mourning for Friday, September 20, 2024, to honour the victims of the devastating wildfires that swept through the North and Central Portugal earlier this week. The announcement was made today by António Leitão Amaro, the Minister of the Presidency. This day of national mourning reflects the profound sorrow and solidarity of the Portuguese people in the wake of these tragic events. “On behalf of the government and the nation, we express deep regret for the loss of lives and the devastating impact of the fires,” said Leitão Amaro. “Our hearts go out to the families of the victims, and we stand united with them in their grief.” The fires, which have claimed lives and left several injured, tore through rural and forested areas, leaving destruction in their wake. Several towns and villages were severely affected, with homes, businesses, and farmlands reduced to ashes. While thousands of residents have been evacuated, many remain displaced as emergency services work tirelessly to bring the situation under control. Over the past week, the combination of intense heatwaves and strong winds fuelled the fires, making them extraordinarily difficult to contain. Portugal’s emergency response was further challenged […]

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