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Driving Innovation Together: The Johns Hopkins-INL 2025 Consulting Experience

The long-standing collaboration between Johns Hopkins University (JHU) and INL has entered its ninth year, continuing to inspire and drive innovation. As part of the immersive, project-based course on the Practice of Consulting, graduate students from JHU’s Engineering Management programme visited INL last week. Their visit culminated in a presentation of their work on January 14th, marking another chapter in this enriching partnership. This collaboration is far from ordinary. For one intensive week, the students lived at the INL Guesthouse, diving headfirst into the world of nanotechnology and its transformative potential. Their task: to work closely with INL’s research groups and provide strategic insights into commercialising cutting-edge projects. The result? Detailed reports and leads that bridge the gap between scientific research and market opportunities, showcasing how technological breakthroughs can be transformed into impactful innovations. Guiding the students through this challenging process was Andy Ross, Senior Lecturer and Associate Director of the Professional Communication Program at JHU. His mentorship ensured the students approached their work with a blend of analytical rigour and creativity, resulting in actionable business strategies for INL’s researchers. Ana Vila was the organiser for this year’s JHU collaboration at INL. She makes emphasis on the value of this […]

INL researchers are exploring new ways to predict breast cancer metastasis

A research project called 3DSecret is exploring innovative methods to predict breast cancer metastasis by analysing tumour cells circulating in the bloodstream. 3DSecret focuses on understanding how these cells contribute to cancer spreading to distant organs, which is the primary cause of mortality in breast cancer patients. Breast cancer metastasis often occurs via the hematogenous route, i.e. through the bloodstream. The presence of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) provides an opportunity to study the disease through blood samples rather than invasive tissue biopsies. Using specialised devices, INL researchers can isolate these tumour cells from blood samples. The next step involves cultivating individual CTCs in an artificial culture system, in the lab, designed to mimic their natural environment. Data from these cultures are then analysed using artificial intelligence algorithms. By examining the genetic profiles of the tumour cells and the substances they secrete, the project aims to identify unknown drivers of breast cancer metastasis. Recently, the project technical coordinator, Miguel Xavier, was at ‘90 Segundos de Ciência’, a series of science communication episodes with daily broadcasts on the Portuguese public radio Antena 1. Miguel is confident about the broader implications of this project, “this research could provide insights into the relationship between […]

How microalgae could transform the way we produce photonics

Photonic crystals, essential for controlling and manipulating light, are key components in advanced technologies such as lasers and sensors. However, their production is typically expensive, requiring sophisticated cleanroom facilities. Researchers at INL are exploring innovative alternatives by leveraging structures naturally produced by microalgae. Pedro Braga Fernandes, a PhD candidate at INL, explains “Our group works on photonic structures, and we try to draw inspiration from nature for that. I work with microalgae called diatoms. These diatoms produce a silica exoskeleton with an organisation resembling a photonic crystal, similar to those we create in the cleanroom.” This natural resemblance of diatoms with photonic crystals could bring a new solution for more sustainable production methods. Unlike traditional fabrication methods, the use of diatoms eliminates the need for costly cleanroom environments, reducing both financial and environmental impacts. Pedro Braga Fernandes highlighted the nano-patterned silica potential applications, “This enables easy integration of the structures produced by the algae into essential technologies, ranging from biosensors to quantum systems”. This unique approach not only has the potential to reduce production costs but also offers a sustainable alternative for developing photonic technologies. By using natural processes, researchers at INL aim to unlock new possibilities across a wide […]

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2024: A Year of Stories, Driven by INL’s People

At INL, our people are at the heart of everything we do. Behind every breakthrough in nanotechnology, every innovative solution in sustainability, and every step forward in quantum science, there are passionate individuals whose dedication and creativity fuel our success. Throughout 2024, we had the privilege of showcasing some of the exceptional individuals who make INL what it is—a hub of talent, innovation, and collaboration. From scientists and researchers to team leaders and support staff, their stories reflect the drive and diversity that define our community. Celebrating INL’s People, a Year of Interviews This year, we launched a series of interviews that offered a closer look at the people behind the science. These conversations captured not only professional accomplishments but also personal journeys, passions, and aspirations. + From Wildlife to Molecules and Science Communication, an interview with Bernardo Nogueira + Pedro Silva, Innovating Sustainable Food Solutions through Nanotechnology + Diana Alves’ Journey: Pioneering Superhydrophobic Coatings for Sustainability + Denis Santos explores the critical role of sensors in ensuring safety and efficiency within the H2 Green Valley Agenda + Revolutionising Water Quality Monitoring: An Interview with Najib Ben Messaoud + Engineering the Future: Patrícia Sousa on the Challenges and Innovations in Micro […]

2024 Yearly Wrap-up: Research

As we reflect on the scientific achievements of 2024, we are proud to present the latest research spotlights that showcase the diversity, innovation, and societal impact of INL’s research. From addressing global health challenges like antimicrobial resistance and Parkinson’s disease to advancing quantum technology, sustainable solutions, and AI energy efficiency, this compilation highlights the exceptional work of our researchers and collaborators. These research updates represent just a fraction of our accomplishments this year but capture the essence of our commitment to advancing science for a better world. Join us in celebrating these remarkable milestones! Phages – A dual solution to the Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Crisis – Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as one of the most pressing global health threats of our time, directly causing and contributing to millions of deaths worldwide, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). Nanoscale analysis with DNA-graphene origami – In a recently published study in Advanced Materials Interfaces, INL researchers have developed a new sensor that merges DNA origami with graphene to achieve unique accuracy in detecting molecular motion. Nieder’s group at INL, together with Alpuim’s group (INL) and Thorsten-Lars Schmidt  (Kent State University), developed this innovative sensor that could have significant potential for applications in medicine and environmental monitoring. Nanodiamonds bring […]

2024 Yearly Wrap-up: Events

As 2024 comes to a close, INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory reflects on a year of remarkable milestones, innovative achievements, and global collaborations. Hosting over 8,000 visitors and welcoming more than 5,500 participants across various events, INL reaffirmed its global leadership in fostering innovation, knowledge exchange, and international partnerships. Kicking off 2024 with Leadership and Creativity The year began with a dual celebration: a heartfelt farewell to Deputy Director General Prof. Dr. Paulo Freitas, whose visionary leadership elevated INL’s global standing, and the captivating Nano Circus: The Amazing Experience of Arts & Science. This unique event brought together the worlds of art and nanotechnology, blending creative expression with scientific discovery to inspire audiences of all ages. Spring: Breaking New Ground in Science Spring 2024 saw INL hosting several groundbreaking events that advanced the frontiers of science and technology. The Neuromorphic Computing Event on May 15 brought together leading researchers to explore advancements in mimicking the brain’s architecture and functions, paving the way for revolutionary computing technologies. The CHIPS-JU 2024 Info Session, also held in May, empowered researchers and industry professionals with critical insights into European Union funding opportunities for the semiconductor field. By helping stakeholders navigate the funding landscape, INL […]

INL’s Mission NERD Brings Science to Life at Hospital de Braga

Last week, INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory – brought its Mission NERD initiative to the Pediatrics and External Consultation Services of Hospital de Braga. This visit is part of INL’s ongoing efforts to connect with the community by showcasing the fascinating world of science beyond the laboratory walls. The visit offered children, families, and hospital visitors a chance to experience science through hands-on activities that sparked curiosity and creativity. From learning how to drill a balloon without popping it to making hair stand on end, measuring their height in nanometers, and even dressing like nanoscientists, participants explored complex scientific concepts in a fun and relatable way. Mission NERD is grounded in the belief that science is for everyone. By simplifying complex ideas and demonstrating them with everyday materials, INL’s scientists aim to demystify their work and make it accessible to all. This initiative is about more than just sharing knowledge – it’s about building bridges between researchers and the broader community, fostering curiosity, and inspiring the next generation of innovators. At INL, we recognize the importance of humanizing science. Initiatives like Mission NERD reflect our commitment to creating meaningful connections, enabling dialogue, and promoting understanding across all ages and […]

Empowering Future Scientists: Highlights from INL’s 1st ESRA Symposium

In 2024, the INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory buzzed with energy as it hosted the inaugural ESRA Symposium, organised by the Early-Stage Researchers Association (ESRA). This groundbreaking event welcomed over 160 participants, including master’s students, PhD candidates, junior researchers, and early-career scientists, offering a vibrant platform to connect, share, and celebrate their innovative research conducted at INL. The symposium began with a warm welcome from INL’s Director General, Professor Clivia Sotomayor, who underscored the value of collaboration among emerging researchers. Setting an inspiring tone, Professor Ado Jório, INL’s Deputy Director General, delivered the keynote address, “Seeing the Future.” Prof. Ado provided practical insights on transforming ideas into innovations, emphasising their potential to tackle global challenges. Participants showcased their research through engaging Oral Communications and Poster presentations, with discussions brimming with innovation and collaboration. Day two featured a compelling keynote presentation by Doctor Catarina Moura, INL’s Science Communication Officer. Her talk, “Bringing Science to Life,” highlighted the critical role of science communication in making research accessible to wider audiences and strategies to deepen public engagement with scientific discoveries. The symposium celebrated the outstanding contributions of its participants, presenting 15 Oral Communications and over 50 posters that stimulated lively exchanges and sparked new ideas. […]