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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 […]

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 […]

From Wildlife to Molecules and Science Communication, an interview with Bernardo Nogueira

Bernardo A. Nogueira is a Postdoctoral Fellow in Begona’s Group – Water Quality at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), contributing to the Blue Bioeconomy Pact project under the guidance of Dr. Begoña Espina and Dr. Laura Rodriguez-Lorenzo. With a strong academic background, he holds degrees in Medicinal Chemistry, Chemistry, and an MSc in Advanced and Industrial Chemistry from the University of Coimbra. Bernardo completed his PhD in Chemistry in 2022, specializing in Molecular Spectroscopy, with part of his studies conducted at Politecnico di Milano under Prof. Chiara Castiglioni. He has published over 35 scientific articles and book chapters and actively engages in peer-reviewed journals as an editor and reviewer. In this interview, Bernardo reflects on his journey into science, the role of chemistry in addressing global challenges, his passion for science communication, and his aspirations for the future. What sparked your early interest in science, and how did it shape your path toward becoming a chemist and researcher? My interest in science began at a very young age. Initially, at around 4 or 5 years old, I was particularly captivated by ecology, with a special interest in the large animals of the jungle and the oceans. I would spend […]

INL Attends the Inauguration of CeNTI’s New Facilities

On the 16th of December, the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) participated in the inauguration ceremony of the new CeNTI (Centre for Nanotechnology and Smart Materials) facilities — an event representing a significant milestone in research and innovation within the region. INL’s Director-General, Professor Clivia Sotomayor Torres, its Deputy Director-General, Professor Ado Jório de Vasconcelos, as well as Paula Galvão, Chief Officer of the Business and Strategic Relations Department, and Pedro Salomé, INL Research Group Leader, were in attendance. The event was honoured by the presence of several distinguished figures, including the Prime Minister of Portugal, Mr. Luís Montenegro, the Mayor of Vila Nova de Famalicão, Mr. Mário Passos, the Chairman of CeNTI’s Board of Directors, Mr. António Amorim, and CeNTI’s General Director, Mr. António Braz Costa. The guests were introduced to the newly established facilities, which comprise a range of advanced laboratories, state-of-the-art equipment, and expanded work areas designed to strengthen the research and technological capabilities of the institution. CeNTI is a leading Portuguese research and technology organisation specialising in advanced nano, micro, and smart technologies. In response to emerging challenges, it has positioned itself to develop disruptive solutions guided by sustainability and bioeconomy, energy and decarbonisation, and digital transformation of materials and processes. By strengthening […]

Pedro Silva, Innovating Sustainable Food Solutions through Nanotechnology

Pedro Silva, a Postdoctoral Researcher at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), has dedicated his career to exploring the intersection of bioengineering, nanotechnology, and sustainable food systems. In this interview, he shares his journey, the challenges of dispelling myths about nanotechnology, and his vision for a healthier, more sustainable future in food science. What inspired your journey and led you to join the Pastrana Research Group at INL? When I started my PhD in Food Science, the Food Processing and Nutrition Group, led by Lorenzo Pastrana, seemed like the perfect opportunity to expand my expertise in food personalization via the use of micro-nano encapsulation technologies aiming at the development of functional food ingredients. Under the supervision of Miguel Cerqueira, I had an amazing four years at INL, where I explored the use of electrohydrodynamic processing to develop functional ingredients, validated them with in vitro testing, and explored their sensory impact, in an international collaboration with University of Gent. Later, I jumped on the opportunity to join as a postdoctoral researcher in the VIIAFOOD project, which focuses on the development of sustainable and intelligent food packaging solutions. If you could address one misconception about nanotechnology in food, what would it be? […]

Strengthening Collaboration in Energy Innovation: INL Delegation Visits CIIAE

The Iberian Energy Storage Research Center (CIIAE) in Extremadura is poised to address the critical technological and scientific challenges surrounding green energy production and manageability, making renewable energy a viable alternative to fossil fuels. This mission aligns closely with the European Union’s Green Deal, which envisions a carbon-neutral Europe by 2050, fostering innovation and responsibility in tackling the ongoing climate emergency. On December 4–5, 2024, a delegation from the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) visited CIIAE to explore opportunities for collaboration in advancing sustainable energy solutions. The visit highlighted the growing synergy between the two institutions and their shared commitment to fostering impactful innovations in renewable energy technologies. Strengthening Ties Through Policy and Collaboration This visit falls within the context of a memorandum of understanding signed during the XXXIII Spain-Portugal Summit between Portugal and Spain for the creation and development of the Iberian Centre for Research and Energy Storage (CIIAE) in the Autonomous Community of Extremadura. Both governments emphasized INL’s pivotal role, highlighting its capacity to collaborate with CIIAE to make an essential contribution to the Iberian energy storage strategy. Key Activities During the Visit The INL delegation, led by Prof. Dr. Ado Jório Vasconcelos, Deputy Director-General of INL, included notable […]