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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 […]

INL and Universidade Franciscana Strengthen Collaboration in Nanosciences and Nanotechnology

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) has reinforced its scientific ties with Brazil through a newly formalised cooperation agreement with Universidade Franciscana (UFN). This partnership, established in 2024, fosters the exchange of scientific and technical knowledge in the fields of nanosciences and nanotechnology, further strengthening INL’s longstanding engagement with Brazilian research institutions. Through this collaboration, both institutions aim to facilitate academic mobility, joint research projects, and knowledge transfer. The agreement has already yielded significant developments, including the approval of an international cooperation project funded by Brazil’s National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq). Titled “Nano-strategies for Environmental Remediation: Modelling, Simulation, Synthesis, and Toxicological Evaluation of Nanomaterials“, the project brings together an international consortium of institutions, including UFN, the Federal University of Goiás (UFG), the Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA), the University of Porto (Portugal), Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry (Germany), and Jammu University (India), alongside INL. INL researchers are actively engaged in this initiative, providing expertise in nanomaterials synthesis and characterisation, as well as advanced modelling techniques. The collaboration has also facilitated researcher mobility between UFN and INL. Notably, INL research group leader Prof. Dr. Pedro Alpuim visited UFN in August 2024 to participate in the XI Workshop in […]

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 […]

INL Celebrates Women in Science

Today, February 11, in celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) proudly presents its latest video tribute to all the Women working at INL. This powerful visual story highlights the dedication, talent, and achievements of women scientists at INL who are shaping the future of nanotechnology. Despite progress in gender equality, only 41% of scientists and engineers in Europe are women. At INL, we are committed to increasing this representation, with 42% of our researchers being women—a testament to our dedication to inclusivity and scientific excellence. The video showcases the inspiring work of several outstanding women scientists, engineers, and facility managers at INL. Through their groundbreaking research and unwavering commitment, they are paving the way for future generations and proving that there is a place for women in science. 📽 Watch the video and join us in celebrating these incredible women who are transforming the world of science and INL. Thank you to all the women at INL for your resilience, passion, and commitment to pushing scientific boundaries. And to all INLers—thank you for supporting and championing an inclusive and diverse research environment. Let’s continue breaking barriers and building a future where science belongs […]

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 Welcomes Princeton Alumni for Research Visit

The INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) welcomed a group of Princeton University alumni residing in Portugal for an exclusive visit to its research facilities. Organized by Princeton Alumni in Portugal and co-sponsored by the Association of Princeton Graduate Alumni (APGA), the visit offered attendees a first-hand look at INL’s cutting-edge Research Core Facilities and laboratories. Throughout the visit, alumni engaged with leading INL researchers across multiple scientific disciplines, including nanofabrication, advanced materials, quantum technologies, and biomedical imaging. They explored INL’s Micro and Nanofabrication Facility (MNF), followed by discussions with expert research groups led by Pedro Salomé (solar energy materials), Pedro Alpuim (2D materials and flexible electronics), Ernesto Galvão (quantum computing), and Paulo Ferreira (nanostructured materials for engineering applications). The group also learned about INL’s Nanobiotechnology and Imaging (NBI) capabilities and engaged with researchers such as Jana Nieder and Sara Abalde, who are advancing biomedical imaging and diagnostics. This visit reinforced INL’s commitment to international collaboration and knowledge exchange, showcasing the value of fostering global scientific connections. As INL continues to expand its outreach and collaboration efforts, we welcome academic institutions, research groups, and industry partners to explore our facilities and engage with our world-class scientists. To learn more about our research and how to collaborate with INL, visit INL Research Core Facilities or contact us […]

Maria Relvas Awarded LPCC-NRN Research Grant to Advance Cancer Diagnostics

Maria Relvas, a PhD student and Associate at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) in the Diéguez Research Group, supervised by Sara Abalde-Cela, has been awarded a Research Initiation Grant by the Portuguese Cancer League – North Branch (LPCC-NRN) to advance cancer diagnosis. The project builds upon findings from SENTINEL and 3DSecret, two prior research initiatives that have contributed to the development of novel diagnostic technologies. Her innovative project applies a novel nanosensor for the classification and prediction of cancer patterns, aiming to improve early detection and patient outcomes. As part of the funded project, Maria is leveraging the ex-vivo potential of this nanosensor to analyze two distinct cohorts of plasma samples from prostate and breast cancer patients from Hospital de Braga and CCA-Braga. The research seeks to demonstrate the effectiveness of this nanosensor in cancer monitoring while also exploring its potential to predict cancer outcomes by integrating clinical data from patients. This study aligns with the broader mission of advancing oncology through technology-driven solutions, particularly in developing personalized medicine approaches. By combining nanosensing capabilities with patient-specific data, the project has the potential to contribute significantly to more precise and effective cancer diagnostics and treatment strategies. The recognition of Maria Relvas’ research highlights INL’s commitment to pioneering nanotechnology solutions for healthcare, reinforcing the importance of early […]

INL Joins the Global Celebration of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ2025)

The year 2025 marks a century since the foundational principles of quantum theory were first formulated, shaping the modern scientific and technological landscape. Recognizing this milestone, the United Nations General Assembly has officially proclaimed 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQ2025). This global initiative will showcase the vast potential of quantum science and its transformative impact on society in the 21st century. A wide array of scientific and technological organizations are participating in this historic celebration, and INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory – is proud to be one of them. INL is fully committed to the communication and outreach efforts of IYQ2025, ensuring broad dissemination of its significance and impact. Portugal’s Role in IYQ2025 In INL’s host country, Portugal, the Portuguese Physical Society has established a national committee dedicated to planning and promoting activities aligned with IYQ2025. As a key supporter, INL has launched a dedicated website to share information on various events, including talks, conferences, and other initiatives throughout the year. A Global Celebration IYQ2025 will officially commence with an opening ceremony at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris on February 4-5, 2025. This high-profile event will set the stage for a year filled with […]

INL advances skin engineering with the European network NETSKINMODELS

Advances in skin engineering research are being made at the INL as part of the NETSKINMODELS COST Action. This European network is dedicated to advancing skin engineering and modelling by developing improved cell-based and computational skin models, with the goal of reducing reliance on animal testing. Ana Ribeiro, staff researcher at INL, highlights the contributions of Alfaro-Moreno’s research group: “At INL, we are developing skin-on-chip models, which are advanced microfluidic devices designed to replicate the structure and function of human skin. These models have the potential to transform research by providing more reliable and human-relevant data while supporting the 3Rs principle: reducing, refining, and replacing animal testing.” Samantha Costa, one of the next-generation researchers benefiting from the NETSKINMODELS educational initiatives, has joined INL for her PhD research. Samantha’s work takes a further step towards the practical applications of these models, from testing cosmetics and nanoparticle safety to skin microbiome interactions. By focusing on sustainable and ethical research practices, Samantha concludes that “INL’s innovations aim to benefit science, industry, and society.” “This work not only advances dermatological research but also helps prepare the next generation of scientists,” adds Ana Ribeiro. “Through initiatives like NETSKINMODELS, we are ensuring that Europe remains at […]

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