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INL Hosts Insightful Session with Professor Manuel Heitor on European Research and Innovation

On Friday, February 28th, INL had the distinct privilege of welcoming back Professor Dr. Manuel Heitor, former Minister of Science in Portugal (2015-2022), an important figure following closely the conception, growth, and continued success of INL. Professor Heitor addressed a nearly full auditorium, sharing his profound insights into the dynamic evolution of research and innovation across Europe. The discussion revolved around the “Align, Act, Accelerate (AAA) Report,” which critically examines the current and emerging challenges facing European research and innovation. The report offers strategic recommendations to refine European funding frameworks, ensuring adaptability within an increasingly complex and fast-paced global landscape. The AAA Report has garnered significant attention and endorsement from leading publications, including Times Higher Education and Science Business. Professor Heitor’s ongoing efforts, such as coordinating the workgroup that delivered the AAA Report, or the survey for CESAER, further reinforce his pivotal role in shaping European research and innovation strategies. Science for PolicyProfessor Heitor’s presentation provided an extensive analysis of the key themes explored in the AAA Report, with a strong emphasis on “science for policy”—the integration of scientific knowledge into policymaking to drive forward-looking strategies in times of transformation. One of his central messages was to “Choose Europe,” advocating […]

INL Develops High-Speed Nanosecond True Random Bit Generator for Secure Computing

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) has developed a Nanosecond True Random Bit Generator (nRBG), on an advanced solution for secure randomness in cryptographic systems, artificial intelligence (AI), and high-performance computing (HPC). The nRBG technology operates at the nanoscale and delivers true random numbers at a speed of one bit every 10 nanoseconds, making it one of the fastest and most reliable random number generation solutions available today. Its high entropy and unpredictability have been validated through 10 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) randomness tests, ensuring its suitability for critical security applications. Advancing Computing with True Randomness Random number generation is a fundamental component of digital systems, particularly in encryption, communications, and AI-driven models. Unlike other generators, which rely on deterministic algorithms, INL’s nRBG generates unpredictable, high-speed random bit streams, enhancing efficiency across various domains. Key features of INL’s nRBG include: Potential Applications: INL’s nRBG is designed to support a range of high-security and computational applications, including: INL partners with technology companies, research institutions, and industry leaders to explore: technology integration – embedding the nRBG into existing and emerging security architectures; joint research and development (R&D) – advancing next-generation randomness solutions for AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity; and commercialisation pathways – bringing nRBG technology to market-ready applications. Organisations interested in integrating nRBG […]

INL’s Women in Science Shine at PQHack 2025

INL proudly celebrates the remarkable achievement of three of its researchers, Alexandra Ramôa, Ana Neri, and Sara Franco, members of the Galvão Research Group who, along with Bruna Salgado from the University of Minho, secured second place at PQHack 2025 as Team Quantum Shemulation. Their outstanding performance in tackling quantum computing challenges earned them the prestigious Team Quantum Shemulation prize on International Day of Women and Girls in Science. PQHack 2025 proved to be an exciting competition, bringing together 39 participants across 12 teams for a 24-hour quantum computing hackathon. Fueled by determination (and plenty of coffee and pizza), the teams engaged in a series of complex coding challenges designed by experts in the field. The results showcased the incredible talent and innovation within the quantum community. This achievement is not only a testament to the expertise and dedication of our INLers but also an inspiration for greater representation of women in quantum science. As we celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we recognize their hard work and contributions in shaping the future of quantum technologies. Congratulations to all the participants, and especially to Alexandra, Ana, and Sara for making INL proud! Photo kindly provided by PQHack 2025 Team

INL recognised as ‘Key Innovator’ for paper-based packaging innovation

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) has been recognised as a “Key Innovator” by the European Commission’s Innovation Radar for its transformative paper-based packaging innovation. Developed as part of the FlexFunction2Sustain project under the Horizon 2020 framework, this cutting-edge solution offers improved water and oxygen barriers for fresh food packaging. The European Commission’s analysis categorised this innovation as “Business Ready”, signifying its readiness for market adoption. Moreover, the project addresses the needs of existing markets, emphasising its significant contribution to sustainable packaging solutions. Revolutionising Packaging with Sustainability in Mind In collaboration with project partner SONAE MC – SERVIÇOS PARTILHADOS, SA, INL’s innovation aims to revolutionise packaging for fresh foods by combining eco-friendly materials with enhanced performance capabilities. This breakthrough innovation helps industries reduce their environmental footprint while ensuring the quality and freshness of packaged food. The efforts at INL were coordinated by Pablo Fuciños from the Pastrana Research Group, whose expertise in sustainable innovation and project management was crucial in aligning the development process with the project’s goals. About FlexFunction2Sustain The FlexFunction2Sustain project focused on enabling the adoption of sustainable materials and processes in flexible and printed electronics, packaging, and medical industries. The outcomes of the project demonstrate the potential […]

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 […]

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 […]

Diana Alves’ Journey: Pioneering Superhydrophobic Coatings for Sustainability

We are thrilled to have Diana Alves with us today. Diana joined the Kolen’ko’s Group at INL as a Research Fellow in February 2022, where her groundbreaking work focuses on developing paint functional additives based on nanomaterials with hydrophobic properties. Diana’s journey in science began with a master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Minho in 2011. Her international experiences include pivotal research stints at the University Medical Centre of Groningen and Innocore Pharmaceuticals in the Netherlands. She later pursued a PhD in Chemical and Biological Engineering, also at the University of Minho, focusing on functionalizing biomaterials to impart antimicrobial properties. During this time, she collaborated with the prestigious Messersmith Research Group at Northwestern University in the USA. Her postdoctoral and junior research years further showcased her versatility, as she delved into areas such as bacteriophage encapsulation for food safety and antimicrobial coatings for medical devices. Let’s dive into her inspiring journey and groundbreaking research! 1. Your career has taken you from Portugal to the Netherlands and the USA, working with institutions like Innocore Pharmaceuticals and Northwestern University. How have these international experiences shaped your approach to research and innovation?” Both international experiences – first in the Netherlands […]

Engineering the Future: Patrícia Sousa on the Challenges and Innovations in Micro and Nanotechnologies

Introducing Patrícia Sousa, a pioneering Research Engineer in Integrated Micro and Nanotechnologies at INL. With a strong foundation in Chemical Engineering and a Ph.D. in Chemical and Biological Engineering from the University of Porto, Patrícia has specialized in microfluidics and advanced fabrication techniques that address critical challenges in micro and nanotechnologies. Patrícia’s dedication extends beyond the lab, as she actively participates in public outreach initiatives, including the European Researcher’s Night and educational programs in local schools. There, she shares her expertise in accessible and inspiring ways, illustrating how nanotechnology can transform fields such as medicine, electronics, and sustainability. In this interview, Patrícia offers insight into her career journey, the challenges and triumphs in her work, and her passion for making science accessible and impactful for all. Could you briefly describe your academic and professional background in micro and nanotechnologies? My academic background includes a first degree in Chemical Engineering, from the Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto followed by a PhD in Chemical and Biological Engineering, also from the Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto. Since my PhD studies focused on microfluidics, at that time I started deepening my knowledge in the field of micro and nanotechnology and in particular, micro […]

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 […]

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INL in the Media

October 28, 2025

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