News

COVID-19 EVENTS FUNDED PROJECTS GENERAL INL PICKS INL STATEMENTS INNOVATION MOST POPULAR PEOPLE RESEARCH SCALE EXPERIENCES SCALE TRAVELS SEMICONDUCTORS SINFONIA PROJECT SPOTLIGHT WOMEN IN SCIENCE WOMEN IN STEM

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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). Beyond the human toll, the economic impact is staggering. By 2050, AMR could add $1 trillion in healthcare costs annually and slash global gross domestic product (GDP) by up to $3.4 trillion per year by 2030. But amidst these daunting figures, a beacon of hope has appeared – bacteriophages (phages). In an era where AMR poses one of the greatest challenges in modern medicine, phages, viruses that specifically target bacteria, represent a revolutionary alternative to traditional antibiotics. A recent milestone in this field has been Portugal’s approval of customised bacteriophage therapies in hospital settings, setting Portugal to be only the third European country, alongside Belgium and France, to approve until now a guiding regulation for these new therapies (INFARMED, I.P. deliberation No. 112/CD/2024, November 15, 2024) for complex bacterial infections. This decision aligns closely with INL’s cutting-edge research on phages. Dr. Sanna Sillankorva, a tenured staff researcher from the Bañobre Research Group at INL has been instrumental in this progress. Her work focuses on isolating and […]