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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 […]

Can Earth’s gravitational field monitor climate change?

The measurement of our planet’s gravitational field, known as gravimetry, allows us to extrapolate the rate at which climate changes are occurring by detecting small variations in Earth’s gravitational field, caused, for example, by melting ice. Inês Sofia Garcia, a Research Engineer at INL, is focused on the development of a high-precision MEMS (micro electromechanical system) accelerometer, crucial for detecting the gravity field shifts of our planet. This accelerometer is a system capable of converting a mechanical phenomenon into an electrical one, and vice versa, transforming an electrical signal into a mechanical displacement. “Our group is creating a MEMS accelerometer to measure Earth’s acceleration changes,” explains Inês Garcia. “We handle the system’s modelling, design, fabrication, and characterisation.” With rigorous demands for stability, power management, and satellite orientation accuracy, this research work strengthens Portugal’s position in the global space sector. The team developed the device as part of the uPGRADE project, and at INL, we are already looking ahead to its next phase: uPGRADE-NEXT. In this new project, the device will undergo space qualification and is set to be included in the first uPGRADE microsatellite launch, planned for mid-2026. These flagship projects, led by Rosana Dias and Filipe Alves, will also […]

Call for Abstracts: InSituTEM 2025 – Shaping the Future of In Situ Electron Microscopy

The 5th International Workshop of In Situ Electron Microscopy (InSituTEM 2025) is set to take place from May 13–15, 2025, in Braga, Portugal, bringing together leading experts and researchers to explore cutting-edge advancements in real-time electron microscopy. This prestigious event will showcase the latest developments in transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), electron spectroscopy, and AI-driven imaging techniques. Attendees will engage in insightful discussions on the role of in situ electron microscopy in understanding dynamic phenomena at the atomic scale, with applications across materials science, chemistry, physics, and life sciences. Call for Abstracts – Shape the Future of Electron Microscopy Researchers are invited to submit abstracts for oral and poster presentations, presenting novel insights and discoveries in in situ electron microscopy. 📅 Submission Deadline: March 31, 2025📝 Abstract Limit: 2,500 characters (including spaces)📍 Poster Format: A0 (Width: 841 mm x Height: 1189 mm)🔗 Submit your abstract now: www.insitutem2025.com Bringing Together a World-Class Scientific Community InSituTEM 2025 will feature keynote presentations by renowned experts in electron microscopy, including leading researchers from institutions such as Stanford University, University of California, Peking University, the University of Tokyo, Max Planck Institute, and more. The event will foster collaboration between academia, industry, and research institutions, providing a platform for scientists to exchange knowledge, share breakthroughs, and discuss the future of advanced […]

INL to Host Seminar on Circular Economy in the Agri-Food Sector

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, in collaboration with PortugalFoods and CCDR-Norte, will host the seminar “Circular Economy in the Agri-Food Sector in the Northern Region of Portgual: Challenges in Valorisation for Human and Animal Consumption” on February 27, at INL in Braga. Organised within the framework of the European project FRONTSH1P, this event will bring together industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and experts to discuss innovative strategies for waste valorisation in the agri-food sector. Key discussion points will include: The seminar will also feature case studies on technological innovation, highlighting successful collaborations in the sector, as well as a roundtable discussion addressing the main challenges and opportunities in by-product valorisation. This initiative provides a unique platform for knowledge exchange, fostering collaboration between stakeholders committed to advancing circular economy solutions in the agri-food industry. Registration is free but mandatory by February 25.The event will be conducted in Portuguese. REGISTER

INL Partners with Startup Braga and 2CA-Braga to Launch the Global Health Accelerator

A new initiative to foster innovation in health, biotechnology, and nanotechnology. The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), in collaboration with Startup Braga and the Clinical Academic Center of Braga (2CA-Braga), has announced the launch of the Global Health Accelerator, a programme designed to support early to mid-stage startups developing innovative solutions in health, biotechnology, and nanotechnology. This initiative aims to accelerate groundbreaking projects by providing startups with direct access to industry leaders, expert mentorship, and tailored entrepreneurship training. A Strategic Platform for Innnovation: The Global Health Accelerator offers participating startups the opportunity to: develop pilot projects and proof-of-concepts (POCs) in collaboration with key industry stakeholders; engage in intensive bootcamps focused on entrepreneurship, business development, and market strategy; and receive mentorship from experienced professionals in the health, biotechnology, and nanotechnology sectors. Applications open until 28 February Startups looking to scale their innovations and bring transformative solutions to the market are encouraged to apply before 28 February. More information and application details are available at globalhealthaccelerator.com. The Global Health Accelerator is co-funded by the European Union’s Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) under the NextGenerationEU programme, reinforcing a commitment to fostering cutting-edge innovation in Europe’s health and technology sectors.

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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