News

Navigating Scientific Frontiers: An Interview with Rajashree Konar

In this insightful interview, Dr. Rajashree Konar, a Postdoctoral Researcher at INL, shares her experiences working in diverse international research environments and how they have shaped her scientific approach. She discusses her contributions to sustainable energy solutions, particularly through her work on nanocatalysts and lithium-ion batteries. Dr. Konar also offers valuable advice for researchers looking to patent their work and translate their research into real-world applications. Additionally, she candidly addresses the challenges she has faced as a woman in a highly technical field and the importance of female support networks in overcoming these obstacles. You have worked in multiple international research environments. How have these experiences shaped your scientific approach?In-depth research always demands consistent hard work. My experiences abroad have instilled in me a profound sense of persistence. Working in science and research can often feel like a slow march forward, demanding unwavering faith. But, through my multicultural journey, I have discovered that all scientists share an intense passion for growth, refusing to be confined by limitations. Each person, lab, culture, and university I’ve engaged with has taught me that collaboration is the key to truly understanding our work and harmonising our outlook. My exposure to a vibrant tapestry of […]

From Lab to Stage: INL Postgraduate School’s Grand Opening 

The INL Postgraduate School (PGSchool) has officially opened its doors, marking an exciting new chapter in INL’s commitment to developing the next generation of researchers. Designed to equip PhD students with essential skills beyond the lab, the PGSchool offers specialised training to enhance their academic and professional growth, empowering them to excel in any career path they choose. The PGSchool started their 2025 programme with a Communication Course which brought together a first cohort of 15 PhD students for an immersive 30-hour journey into the art of communication. The course went beyond writing papers and giving presentations—it was about mastering the power of storytelling, engaging audiences, and even embracing the stage!  The course was split into two complementary modules: 🎤 Module 1 – “Communicating Science: Techniques for Writing and Speaking”: Led by Professor Andy Ross from Johns Hopkins University, this module helped participants sharpen their scientific writing, structure their ideas, and deliver research presentations with confidence. (January 2025)🎭Module 2 – “Stage Presence for Scientists”: Delivered by the Malad’arte Theatre Company from Braga, this module pushed students out of their comfort zones, using drama techniques to improve body language, vocal delivery, and stage confidence. (February 2025) The grand finale? “Epicenter“—a live performance, held on February 21, 2025, in which PhD students took the stage, seamlessly […]

INL researchers publish in Nature Materials on building atomic-scale ‘spin chains’ to study quantum excitations

In a recent publication in Nature Materials, INL researchers João Henriques and Joaquín Fernández-Rossier, through an international collaborative effort, explored a very sought-after quantum spin system. In a breakthrough that brings the strange world of quantum spins into sharper focus, researchers have successfully created and studied tiny chains of molecular rings, unlocking new insights into how quantum spin excitations behave in these atomic-scale systems. This work centres on a famous quantum physics model known as the spin-1/2 Heisenberg chain, a system where individual spins (a fundamental quantum property related to magnetism) interact in a one-dimensional line. Theorists predicted decades ago that these chains should have “gapless” excitations, meaning tiny disturbances in the spin system can occur with extremely small energy costs as the chain gets longer. However, building such chains at the nanoscale and measuring these effects directly has proven extremely challenging – until now. The research team achieved this by linking special carbon-based molecules called olympicenes – shaped like miniature Olympic rings – into precise linear chains. Each olympicene hosts an unpaired electron, creating a perfect space for quantum spin physics. Using a powerful technique called inelastic electron tunnelling spectroscopy, the scientists were able to directly measure how the […]

Taking inspiration from the human brain to create a new class of intelligent, light-powered devices

At INL, our researchers are pushing the boundaries of brain-inspired computing, developing neuromorphic systems that process sensory data the way nature does – fast, efficiently, and with minimal energy. In a recently published paper in Scientific Reports, INL researchers developed a tiny micropillar quantum resonant tunnelling diode, or RTD, that behaves like a sensory neuron. This ‘neuron’ is capable of detecting light, processing information, and converting it into electrical signals, all within a single nanoscale device. Researcher Bruno Romeira explains, “This is possible because we are using quantum phenomena.” At its core, this system is a III–V semiconductor structure (materials widely used in photonics and high-speed electronics) designed to respond directly to incoming near-infrared light. When the light intensity reaches a certain threshold, the device enters a state known as negative differential resistance, triggering large-amplitude voltage oscillations. In other words, the incoming light signal is transformed into rhythmic electrical bursts, just like the firing patterns seen in biological neurons. Traditional neuromorphic hardware often relies on complex circuits, combining separate memory components and oscillators to mimic the way biological neurons process information. This increases the size, power consumption, and complexity of the system. The new device developed by Bejoys Jacob and […]

Hazal Gergeroglu: Advancing Science as a Research Engineer and Advocating for Women in STEM

At INL, research engineers are at the forefront of scientific innovation, bridging the gap between research and practical applications. Meet Hazal Gergeroglu, a Research Engineer in the Piteira Research Group, working on cutting-edge sensor technologies for lithium-ion batteries while also advocating for greater inclusivity in STEM. In this interview, Hazal shares how her role has evolved, the impact of her research on energy storage solutions, and the challenges in her field. She also reflects on the barriers women in STEM still face and the importance of fostering a more equitable and inclusive scientific community. How has your role as a Research Engineer evolved over time? When I started at INL as a research engineer, my work focused primarily on experimental research, sensor design, and data analysis. Over time, I took on additional responsibilities in project management, team coordination, and interdisciplinary collaborations. As part of these advancements, I am currently producing various sensor components and assembling these sensors into lithium-ion batteries to improve their safety and performance. In the future, I aim to keep participating in projects integrating scientific research into the industry, focusing on microsensors for batteries, ensuring more efficient and reliable energy storage solutions. Can you describe your work in the […]

INL Hosts Insightful Session with Professor Manuel Heitor on European Research and Innovation

On Friday, February 28th, INL had the distinct privilege of welcoming back Professor Dr. Manuel Heitor, former Minister of Science in Portugal (2015-2022), an important figure following closely the conception, growth, and continued success of INL. Professor Heitor addressed a nearly full auditorium, sharing his profound insights into the dynamic evolution of research and innovation across Europe. The discussion revolved around the “Align, Act, Accelerate (AAA) Report,” which critically examines the current and emerging challenges facing European research and innovation. The report offers strategic recommendations to refine European funding frameworks, ensuring adaptability within an increasingly complex and fast-paced global landscape. The AAA Report has garnered significant attention and endorsement from leading publications, including Times Higher Education and Science Business. Professor Heitor’s ongoing efforts, such as coordinating the workgroup that delivered the AAA Report, or the survey for CESAER, further reinforce his pivotal role in shaping European research and innovation strategies. Science for PolicyProfessor Heitor’s presentation provided an extensive analysis of the key themes explored in the AAA Report, with a strong emphasis on “science for policy”—the integration of scientific knowledge into policymaking to drive forward-looking strategies in times of transformation. One of his central messages was to “Choose Europe,” advocating […]

Could this next-generation battery technology power the future?

At INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, cutting-edge research is underway to develop next-generation solid-state thin-film lithium-ion batteries. These new batteries could redefine energy storage for wearable electronics, medical implants, IoT devices, and even aerospace technologies. Leading this innovative work is Chadrasekhar Loka, a researcher at Sadewasser group, working towards the PRR New Generation Storage Agenda. Loka is focused on interfacial engineering to overcome some of the toughest challenges in solid-state battery technology. By replacing the traditional liquid electrolyte (the part responsible for many safety risks in conventional batteries) with a solid-state electrolyte, these batteries become significantly safer, more durable, and capable of higher energy densities. Despite their enormous potential, solid-state batteries face several technological hurdles, especially at the interface between electrodes and electrolytes. Poor contact at these interfaces increases resistance, slowing down ion movement and reducing battery performance over time. To tackle these issues, Loka’s work focuses on creating ultra-thin solid electrolytes and precisely tailored electrode surfaces using advanced techniques like Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). These methods allow the creation of layers with nanometre precision, enhancing both ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability, crucial for long battery life and reliable performance under demanding conditions. This […]

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 […]

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