The ESRA Symposium Returns For a Dynamic 2nd Edition

Following its successful inaugural session last year, the ESRA Symposium made a vibrant return to INL for its second edition on 11 and 12 November. Organised by the Early-Stage Researchers Association, the event is dedicated to championing the professional growth of early-career scientists.

Eager to share their innovative work, master’s students, PhD candidates, and junior researchers gathered for two days of knowledge exchange and networking. The symposium opened with an inspiring address by Prof. Ado Jório, who emphasised the importance of the initiative in empowering the careers of early-stage researchers. Participants, then, showcased their work through engaging oral communications and poster presentations, creating a lively atmosphere filled with insightful discussions on innovation.

Setting a captivating tone, the programme featured two keynote talks. First to take the stage was Prof. Luís Arnaut, from the University of Coimbra, founder and board member of Luzitin SA, and founder and chairman of Laserleap Technologies, who delivered a compelling presentation on “The Making of an Investigational New Drug – The Case of Redaporfin”. Later, attendees heard from Luís Sarmento, co-founder and CEO of Inductiva AI, who shared his perspective on “Start-ups, Simulations, and Surprises”.

The symposium saw an impressive level of participation, with 180 total participants, 44 posters presented and 13 oral communications, reflecting the enthusiasm and commitment of the research community.

The event concluded with an award ceremony celebrating excellence in research:

Oral Communication Awards:

:: Master’s Student: Miguel Silva (Diéguez Research Group)

:: Junior Researcher: Diogo Moreira (Diéguez Research Group​​)

:: Early Career Researcher: Leonardo Sbrascini (Muñoz Research Group​)

Best Poster Awards:

:: Master’s Student: Carolina Sobral (Novo Research Group)

:: Junior Researcher: Francisca Oliveira (Diéguez Research Group)

:: Early Career Researcher: Simão Teixeira (Domingues Research Group)

The second edition of the ESRA Symposium, just like the first, proved to be an invaluable platform for early-career researchers to exchange ideas, debate findings, learn from peers, and gain visibility for their work. Through this initiative, INL reaffirms its commitment to empowering young talent by providing tools and opportunities for professional growth. Ultimately, the Symposium stands as a testament to INL’s dedication to endorse and uplift the talent behind scientific innovation.