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Sinfonia Project Concludes with a Resounding Success at the II ‘Total-Nanosafe’ International Conference in Braga

Braga recently hosted the closing event of the Sinfonia Project, where over 100 participants celebrated the successful culmination of a four-year journey dedicated to advancing nanosafety. The II ‘Total-Nanosafe’ International Conference served as the platform for this milestone, bringing together global experts to explore the intersection of nanotechnology, human health, and environmental impact. Pioneering Discussions in Nanosafety This year’s conference provided a comprehensive view of the latest nanosafety advancements, featuring discussions on nanotoxicology, organ-on-a-chip models, in vitro-in vivo bridging, in silico methods, and the environmental impact of nanomaterials. The event highlighted key trends shaping the future of nanosafety, underscoring a commitment to safe and sustainable nanotechnology development. Conference Highlights The conference opened with a welcome cocktail on November 6, followed by sessions on November 7 and 8. Professor Ulla Vogel from Denmark’s National Research Centre for the Working Environment delivered an impactful keynote on nanoparticle toxicology, focusing on occupational health risks related to nanoparticles, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and fertility impacts. Presentations from INL and other leading institutions covered diverse research topics, such as the effects of silver nanoparticles on lung-barrier function, skin-on-chip safety models, and the impacts of black carbon on aging. These studies highlighted the scope of nanosafety […]

INL Hosts Seminar on Critical Mineral Resources and the Battery Value Chain: Opportunities and Challenges for Portugal

INL recently hosts the Portugal Battery Value Chain Seminar, bringing together industry leaders and experts to discuss advancements in sustainable battery technology and Portugal's role in the global energy transition.

Revolutionising Water Quality Monitoring: An Interview with Najib Ben Messaoud

We’re excited to introduce Dr. Najib Ben Messaoud, a Research Fellow in the Water Quality Research Group at INL. With a distinguished background in nanotechnology and sensing strategies, Najib’s work focuses on developing advanced methods for detecting water contaminants. His dedication to creating reliable tools for water monitoring spans health, environmental, and agricultural applications. In this interview, Najib shares insights into his journey, recent projects, and the impact of urbanization on water quality monitoring. Could you briefly describe your academic and professional background in water quality research? I hold a PhD in Engineering Physics with a specialization in nanotechnology sciences from the High School of Sciences and Technologies, Hammam Sousse, Tunisia. During my PhD, I focused on designing nanostructured electrodes and electrochemical (bio)sensors to detect carcinogenic substances in water. My journey in water quality research began about a decade ago during my master’s project, which involved detecting perchlorate in water. In 2019, I joined INL as a Research Associate, where I contributed to developing a portable system to quantify Aeromonas salmonicida in water. Since 2021, in my role as a Research Fellow, I have engaged in multiple projects related to water quality, including those focused on detecting nanomaterials, nitrite, and nitrate in […]

INL’s Commitment to Science Outreach: New Board Games Illuminate Nanosafety and Air Quality Awareness for Young Audiences

INL – The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory continues to champion science outreach and education by introducing two innovative board games: The Life Cycle of Nanomaterials and Clean Air in School! Play & LEARN. These games, developed through INL’s projects—SiNfONiA, LEARN, and SbDToolbox—reflect INL’s enduring commitment to bridging the gap between complex scientific research and accessible learning for younger audiences and by it’s commitment to science outreach by illuminating nano safety and air quality awareness for young audiences. These games embody INL’s goal of making science both engaging and educational, fostering a new generation’s awareness of environmental safety, health, and nanotechnology’s impact on daily life. Through these immersive tools, INL emphasises that scientific understanding is not only the domain of researchers but also a vital area of knowledge for the broader community. “The Life Cycle of Nanomaterials“, Bringing Awareness of Materials’ Lifetime Supported solely by INL through the SiNfONiA and SbDToolbox projects, The Life Cycle of Nanomaterials board game provides players with a comprehensive understanding of nanomaterials’ journey from creation to potential environmental and health impacts. SiNfONiA, spearheaded by the Alfaro-Moreno Group, is dedicated to advancing research in nanosafety and enhancing INL’s capabilities in this field. In parallel, the SbDToolbox project addresses the critical need for […]

Stamp-sized microchip that imitates the human brain could speed up treatments for Alzheimer’s [republished]

A human brain-on-a-chip sounds like something from a science fiction film, a gadget powering its cyborg villain. Discover how INL’s innovative stamp-sized microchip is transforming healthcare and data security. Learn about this ultra-small technology and its impact on future applications. Chemical and biological engineer Dr Raquel Rodrigues at the INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) in Braga, Portugal, believes that such a device will be key to developing more effective treatments for serious neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s. “The brain is a very complex and puzzling organ,” said Rodrigues. “We need electronic monitoring of cells and experimental parts so we can learn how it works.” Your brain on a chip Thanks to research funding from the EU, Rodrigues and fellow researchers at the INL were able to build a unique brain-emulating microchip as part of a two-year research effort called BrainChip4MED that concluded in February 2024. The research included a 12-month secondment to Brigham and Women’s Hospital, part of Harvard Medical School and pioneers in the development of organs-on-a-chip (OoC) and biosensors. The ingenious, thumbnail-sized device developed by the researchers looks similar to chips in computers or smartphones, but is much more complex. “ The brain is a very complex and […]

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 […]

A Vision for the Future: INL Welcomes New Deputy Director-General

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) hosted an inspiring ceremony this week to introduce Professor Ado Jório de Vasconcelos as its new Deputy Director-General (DDG). This event, held at the INL headquarters, signals a significant step forward in the organisation’s quest for innovative advancement. The ceremony commenced with remarks from INL’s Director-General, Professor Clivia Sotomayor, who emphasised the strategic significance of Professor Jório’s appointment. She outlined key milestones for INL, including the rationalization of research themes, the introduction of a new Career System, and strengthened collaborations with Spanish institutions and local partners. Professor Sotomayor reaffirmed INL’s commitment to European initiatives, particularly the European Chips Act, aimed at boosting Europe’s competitiveness and resilience in the semiconductor sector. These developments set a promising foundation for INL’s future. Inmaculada Figueroa, President of the INL Council and representative of the Spanish Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Universities, expressed her support for Professor Jório and enthusiasm for INL’s innovative future under his and Professor Sotomayor’s guidance. Professor Madalena Alves, Head of the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology and Vice-President of the INL Council, highlighted the crucial role of new leadership for INL’s strategic success, underscoring the responsibility of all INL members to foster a robust and competitive organisation. Olga […]

Innovative water repellent material to cut waste in the auto industry

A groundbreaking project is underway to develop hydrophobic sleeves for painting robots, aimed at extending their lifespan and reducing waste in the automotive sector. Diana Alves, a researcher at INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, is working in the GreenAuto Agenda, and is working towards the development of super-hydrophobic coatings, specifically tailored for the automotive industry. These coatings possess unique properties that repel water. Instead of spreading, droplets form into spheres and roll off the surface, preventing the accumulation of moisture. Currently, the sleeves need to be regularly replaced, generating non-reusable waste. However, with the addition of superhydrophobic coatings, paint would be repelled, significantly extending the lifespan of the sleeves. Many current solutions for hydrophobic protection depend on PFAS, a group of fluorinated compounds known for their toxicity and environmental persistence. These chemicals degrade very slowly, remaining in the environment for extended periods. Despite their widespread use, the long-lasting nature of PFAS makes them a growing concern for health and environmental safety. To address this issue, Diana Alves and Kolen’ko’s research group are developing an alternative solution using nanomaterials that provide the same superhydrophobic benefits without the use of fluorine-based chemicals. The morphological properties of nanomaterials are engineered to control […]

#ISFGM2024 – International Symposium on Functionally Graded Materials concludes with a notable achievement

The 17th International Symposium on Functionally Graded Materials – #ISFGM2024 concluded with resounding success, thanks to the participation of esteemed researchers, industry professionals, and academics from around the globe. Hosted by the INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory in Braga, Portugal, from September 29 to October 2, the event provided a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and showcasing groundbreaking research in the field of Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs). Throughout the symposium, participants engaged in thought-provoking discussions, inspiring keynote presentations, technical sessions, and poster presentations. The diverse range of topics covered reflected the multidisciplinary nature of FGMs, whose applications span biomedical, automotive, aerospace, and civil engineering sectors, among others. A key highlight of ISFGM2024 was the election of Ana Ribeiro to the international advisory committee on functionally graded materials (IACFGMs). In a historic moment for the community, Ana joins this distinguished board, marking a significant milestone for gender representation in the field. This prestigious recognition acknowledges her contributions to FGM research and her leadership in advancing the discipline. As ISFGM2024 comes to a close, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this event a success. The exchanges of ideas, the collaborative spirit, and the […]

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