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INL Strengthens ties with CNPEM through Strategic MoU

On September 6, 2024, the INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory and the National Centre for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM) took a significant step forward in advancing scientific collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement sets the foundation for strategic partnerships in the field of nanotechnology. The MoU was signed by INL’s newly appointed Deputy Director-General, Professor Dr. Ado Jório, alongside Dr. Rodrigo Barbosa Capaz, Director of the National Nanotechnology Laboratory (LNNano/CNPEM), and Dr. Antonio José Roque da Silva, Director-General of CNPEM. The agreement formalizes their intention to foster scientific and technical collaboration, focusing on the exchange of knowledge and resources to boost the institutions’ research capacities and unlock new opportunities for innovation. Professor Jório emphasized the importance of this initiative: “This collaboration represents step forward for INL as to strengthen our international network and explore new frontiers in nanotechnology with a renowned institution like CNPEM,” he said. “It underscores our commitment to scientific excellence and creating global partnerships.” The MoU outlines a series of collaborative activities, including the exchange of researchers and personnel, organization of joint workshops, and pursuit of shared funding opportunities for future projects. It also establishes a Joint Cooperation Committee, tasked […]

European Researchers’ Night 2024: a celebration of science for global challenges this Friday

The European Researchers’ Night (ERN) returns this year on September 27, 2024, uniting science enthusiasts across Europe for an unforgettable evening of discovery, innovation, and community engagement. Promoted by the European Commission since 2005, this annual event aims to bring science closer to citizens and highlight its role in addressing some of the world’s biggest challenges. As part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, ERN 2024 will take place in over 30 countries and 300 cities, including key locations in Portugal: Braga, Coimbra, Lisbon, and Évora. The event, themed “Science for Global Challenges”, will focus on connecting the general public, particularly students, with important scientific research and knowledge aimed at tackling global issues like environmental protection, economic growth, and social fairness. Connecting Society with Science The European Researchers’ Night is more than just a celebration; it serves as a bridge between society and the scientific community. By reaching out to students and the public, ERN2024 aims to increase awareness of the vital role science plays in everyday life and inspire the next generation of scientists. This year’s theme emphasises how scientific research can be a powerful tool for addressing global challenges—from climate change to social inequality. ERN2024 aims to show why by helping students, educators, and communities understand the relevance of scientific research in tackling real-world problems. At […]

September 20, 2024, Government Declares National Day of Mourning for Fire Victims

The Portuguese Government has declared a National Day of Mourning for Friday, September 20, 2024, to honour the victims of the devastating wildfires that swept through the North and Central Portugal earlier this week. The announcement was made today by António Leitão Amaro, the Minister of the Presidency. This day of national mourning reflects the profound sorrow and solidarity of the Portuguese people in the wake of these tragic events. “On behalf of the government and the nation, we express deep regret for the loss of lives and the devastating impact of the fires,” said Leitão Amaro. “Our hearts go out to the families of the victims, and we stand united with them in their grief.” The fires, which have claimed lives and left several injured, tore through rural and forested areas, leaving destruction in their wake. Several towns and villages were severely affected, with homes, businesses, and farmlands reduced to ashes. While thousands of residents have been evacuated, many remain displaced as emergency services work tirelessly to bring the situation under control. Over the past week, the combination of intense heatwaves and strong winds fuelled the fires, making them extraordinarily difficult to contain. Portugal’s emergency response was further challenged […]

SPMicros2024 Conference: Advancing Microscopy in Materials and Life Sciences

The Portuguese Microscopy Society (SPMicros) hosted its annual conference, SPMicros2024, on September 13th, bringing together experts from across Portugal. The event focused on the latest breakthroughs in microscopy within Materials Science and Life Science, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and networking among researchers, students, and industry professionals. Two notable invited talks highlighted the event: Materials Science Talk with with Daniela Gomes, Assistant Professor at NOVA FCT, Department of Materials Science, CENIMAT/I3N, she explored how advanced microscopy is revolutionizing the study of materials at the nanoscale, revealing new properties and innovations; and the Life Sciences Talk with Antonio Pedro Matos, Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research, he discussed the enduring relevance of conventional electron microscopy in modern life science research, showing how past techniques are still vital in solving today’s challenges. SPMicros would like to thank all participants for making SPMicros2024 a success. Your contributions, whether through presentations or participation, were essential in fostering meaningful discussions and advancing microscopy research in Portugal. We look forward to continuing this journey together and seeing you at future events. + Check the full gallery here Text and Photography by Gina Palha, Communication, Conferences & Marketing Officer

Espiña and Kolen’ko Groups at XI NyNA 2024 in Santiago de Compostela

From September 3 to 6, 2024, members of the Espiña (Water Quality) and Kolen’ko (Nanochemistry) groups from INL (International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory) participated in the XI International Congress on Analytical Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (NyNA 2024), held in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. The event brought together experts in analytical chemistry and nanotechnology to exchange cutting-edge developments and research under key topics such as Nano(bio)sensors, Nanomaterials for sample preparation, Analytical Nanometrology, and Detection, characterization, and quantification of nanomaterials. The INL researchers made a significant impact, presenting one plenary talk, two oral presentations, and one poster, demonstrating their leading role in these fields. Begoña Espiña from the Water Quality group delivered the Plenary Lecture (PL5) entitled “Nanotechnology-based sensors and materials for water contaminants monitoring,” discussing innovative approaches to the detection of harmful substances in water using nanotechnology. The talk highlighted advanced solutions for water quality management, showcasing the increasing importance of nanosensors in environmental monitoring. Javier Terán and Carlos Gonçalves contributed with oral presentations, further elaborating on analytical methods and strategies involving nanomaterials, while Joana Araújo presented a poster detailing recent research advancements. NyNA 2024 focused on fostering the growth of analytical chemistry concepts applied to nanoscience, with discussions spanning across nanotechnological applications and miniaturized nanosystems. With their substantial contributions, the Espiña and Kolen’ko groups continue to pave the way for innovation in the realms of water quality and nanochemistry. […]

INL welcomes the new Deputy Director-General

Professor Doctor Ado Jório de Vasconcelos appointed to be the new Deputy Director-General of INL The Council of the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) has announced the appointment of Prof. Dr. Ado Jório de Vasconcelos as Deputy Director-General of INL, effective from the 2nd of September 2024. He will join the Director-General of INL, Prof. Dr. Clivia M. Sotomayor Torres, to provide strategic direction and leadership. Together, they will bring INL into a new phase that is fit for the challenges faced by research organisations in a rapidly changing world that requires bespoke science excellence and innovation as expressions of social engagement. As Deputy Director-General, Prof. Dr. Jório de Vasconcelos will be responsible for driving innovation, fostering the institute’s mission of advancing nanotechnology research and innovation and promoting the organisation’s global impact on society. Professor Dr. Ado Jório de Vasconcelos has a distinguished career as internationally acclaimed researcher, university teacher and administrator, innovator, and policy maker. He brings a particular international dimension based on his career path in the Americas. The INL community looks forward to his arrival and to working with him. INL Directorate Office

Researchers Inspire Young Minds at Schools

As part of the European Researchers’ Night initiative, researchers visited several schools in the summer camp program in Tadim-Braga to promote science and engage young students. These visits are part of the ongoing efforts to celebrate science and bring it closer to citizens, aligning with ERN’s 2024-2025 theme of “Science for Global Challenges.” July 4: Engaging the Young MindsOn July 4, a team of INL researchers, including Catarina Moura, Carlos Honrado, Adriana Carneiro, Bernardo Nogueira, Maria Relvas, and Tiago Moura, prepared different experiences for students of EB1 Tadim, EB2,3 Tadim, and Alfacoop schools. 45 students participated and built on their knowledge and interest in scientific topics. The activities conducted were designed to illustrate how science can address major global and European challenges in environmental, economic, and social sustainability. July 18: Continuing the Journey of DiscoveryOn July 18, researchers João Henriques, João Rodrigues, Lurdes Gonçalves, Diana Oliveira, Mariam Debs, Carlos Rosário, and Catarina Moura prepared different experiences, once again, for students of EB1 Tadim, EB2,3 Tadim, and Alfacoop schools. Students, aged between 4 to 14, participated in interactive sessions that sparked their curiosity and enthusiasm for science. These activities were tailored to suit the varied age groups, ensuring that each student […]

Filipa Lebre: Exploring the Frontier of Nanosafety

Filipa Lebre is a Research Fellow in the Nanosafety Research Group at INL, and her research focuses on the complex interactions among the immunological system and different organs, using novel technologies and in-house developed systems. Filipa has a background in Pharmaceutical Sciences and holds a PhD in Pharmaceutical Technology from the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, focused on the development and optimization of a polymeric nasal vaccine against hepatitis B to be used for mass immunization. She moved to Ireland during her postdoc to conduct her research at the interface between biomaterial and immunology, studying key aspects of immunomodulation by a relevant spectrum of materials with applicability in the regenerative medicine field. Could you share with us your professional trajectory and what inspired you to embark on a career in nanosafety? I’m very curious by nature and always had this passion and interest in science. When I did my degree in Pharmaceutical Science, I was fortunate enough to find a teacher who was working in the vaccine field and made me realize how I could use my passion to impact millions of lives. That was when I started to work with nanoformulations. I obtained my PhD in formulation development, […]

Secretary of State for Science Visits INL, Showcasing Key Projects and Innovations

Prof. Dr Ana Paiva, Secretary of State for Science, visited INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory today. This visit provided an exceptional platform for INL to present its ongoing projects and significant achievements in the field of science and technology. The presence of Prof. Dr. Paiva underscored the crucial role of INL’s work and its far-reaching impact on the broader scientific community. Prof. Dr. Clivia M. Sotomayor Torres, INL Director-General, welcomed Prof. Dr Paiva and provided an insightful overview of INL’s mission and accomplishments. This introduction set the stage for a series of detailed presentations and discussions that highlighted INL’s prominence in both the national and European research landscapes. Presentation Highlights: Secretary of State’s visit to INL was a testament to the laboratory’s dedication to innovation, excellence, and its significant contributions to the field of science and technology. This visit not only highlighted INL’s achievements but also reinforced the importance of continued support and investment in scientific research and development. Text and Photography by Gina Palha

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