2025 INL Research Wrap-up: Breakthroughs & Milestones

As 2025 draws to a close, we are incredibly proud to present a compilation of INL’s research spotlights from the past 12 months. This extensive collection reflects INL’s ongoing commitment to scientific excellence, technological innovation, and positive societal impact.

How could microalgae transform the way we produce photonics?— INL researchers, working within the NASCADIA project, have discovered a sustainable low-cost alternative to traditional cleanroom fabrication of photonic crystals, by using diatoms, a type of microalgae.

Exploring new ways to predict breast cancer metastasis— The 3DSecret research project has been exploring innovative methods to predict breast cancer metastasis by analysing tumour cells circulating in the bloodstream. More importantly, the output of this study has the potential to improve already existing cancer therapies.

INL advances skin engineering with the European network NETSKINMODELS— Reducing animal testing and promoting ethical research practices are central goals for INL teams developing skin-on-chip models—microfluidic devices that replicate human skin. Beyond advancing skin model research, the work carried out within NETSKINMODELS is placing Europe at the forefront of sustainable skin engineering.

Can Earth’s gravitational field monitor climate change?— Through the uPGRADE project, INL is developing a high-precision MEMS accelerometer to detect subtle changes in Earth’s gravitational field, enabling climate change monitoring from space. This technology is set for qualification and integration into a microsatellite launch in 2026.

Taking inspiration from the human brain to create a new class of intelligent, light-powered devices— Research, conducted under the InsectNeuroNano and META-LEDA projects, helped INL researchers to develop a quantum resonant tunnelling diode that acts like a sensory neuron, detecting light, processing information, and converting it into rhythmic electrical signals within a single device.

One of INL’s group leaders, Begoña Espiña was appointed as a member of the ZeroPollution & Health Expert Group of Water Europe. This recognition not only underscores Espiña’s contributions to understanding bioaccumulation, and nanomaterial toxicity in water, but it also reflects the calibre of expertise at INL.

Advancing neuronal research using 3D polymeric micro-scaffolds integrated with quantum sensors— In a step forward for Parkinson’s disease research, INL scientists created a highly advanced model for studying neuronal behaviour and disease. The breakthrough, supported by the Diamond4Brain project, was made possible by successfully merging two cutting-edge 3D tissue engineering strategies – 3D polymeric scaffolds and 3D neuronal spheroids.

No assumptions: just quantum advantage— Could small, noisy quantum circuits outperform certain classical computations without ideal conditions? INL, in collaboration with the University of Cambridge and the Quantum Computing Research Center, has shown that it is possible.

Graphene-based biosensor breaks detection records for non-invasive monitoring of diabetes— In a significant leap toward the future of diabetes care, INL researchers introduced a graphene-based biosensor capable of detecting glucose at attomolar levels—the lowest detection limit ever achieved.

Intelligent biosensor developed at INL combines NMR and AI to improve infectious disease diagnostics—Time is limited when fighting infectious diseases. That’s why INL researchers have developed a breakthrough biosensor that combines cutting-edge nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technology with artificial intelligence. This portable device not only speeds up diagnosis but also provides detailed insights into the immune response, opening new possibilities for point-of-care testing.

Magnetic 1D van der Waals heterostructure— INL achieved a major breakthrough at the intersection of quantum materials and nanotechnology. Funded by the FUNLAYERS project, researchers created 1D magnetic nanotubes, reporting the synthesis and atomic-scale characterisation of high-quality, single-walled hollow magnetic CrI₃ nanotubes. 

Eco-friendly sensor developed at INL enables rapid detection of pharmaceutical contaminants in water— Pharmaceutical waste in water sources is becoming a growing environmental concern. Researchers at INL have designed an innovative electrochemical sensor— a portable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly tool for water quality monitoring.

Magnetic nanowires take hydrogen production to the next level—To make green hydrogen more accessible and affordable, INLers have developed a new type of magnetic catalyst, created with cobalt ferrite nanowires, in research supported by the SpinCat and KNOWSKITE-X projects.

Shedding light on ultrafast heat transport in graphene— There are new insights provided by an INLer into energy flow in graphene under ultrafast laser excitation, exploring electron–phonon interactions on timescales shorter than a trillionth of a second.

A new tool being developed at INL can explore electrical effects on cells— In collaboration with the Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS) at the University of Minho, and under the WINGS project, INL has developed a multi-channel in vitro electrical stimulator to study cellular electrical signalling in a versatile and accessible way.

Graphene enhances lithium detection in new INL research— Lithium-detecting sensors that are both precise and robust pose a difficult design challenge. Under the NGS–New Generation Storage project, INL researchers have now shown that incorporating graphene into solid-contact electrodes highly improves lithium detection, paving the way for more reliable, next-generation sensors.

Nanostars push SERS sensing to new performance levels— SERS sensors have limited real-world applications. At INL, researchers have developed a plasmonic substrate that notably improves the stability and reproducibility of SERS-based sensing. Their work, carried out under the projects BIOCELLPHE, 3DSECRET and the Health From Portugal initiative, introduces a fabrication approach that combines precision nanopatterning with controlled chemical growth.

When less is more: a minimal approach to low-noise circuits— Instead of adding complexity, INL engineers took a different approach in low-noise circuit design. By proposing a tuneable, compact bandgap reference design, the group has significantly reduced flicker noise.

As we close the chapter on this year’s research milestones, the dedication, collaborative spirit, and creativity of everyone at INL remain evident. These achievements are not just isolated successes—they represent the collective effort to push boundaries and deliver solutions that matter.

In 2026, we aim to build on this momentum, deepening collaborations, exploring new scientific frontiers, and translating knowledge into technologies that contribute to a more sustainable, resilient, and innovative future for society.

Text by Clara Miranda
Photography by Gina Palha