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Joana Araújo Honoured with Best Shotgun Poster Award at International Caparica Conference PTIM

Joana Araújo Honoured with Best Shotgun Poster Award at International Caparica Conference PTIM

INL is honoured to announce that Joana Araújo, a member of the Kolen’ko research group, has been awarded the prize for Best Poster Presentation at the 6th International Caparica Conference on Pollutant Toxic Ions & Molecules. Held biennially in Costa de Caparica, Portugal, this prestigious event brings together leading experts from the environmental sciences, biology, chemistry, and health research communities. The conference serves as a dynamic platform for showcasing latest technologies, innovative methodologies, and advances in pollution detection, contamination control, and remediation. The sixth edition of the conference took place from 2 to 6 November, featuring an extensive programme of plenary lectures, keynote presentations, oral communications, and poster sessions. Joana Araújo earned her recognition in the Shotgun Poster category, receiving a certificate and a gift from the PROTEOMASS Scientific Society. Her award-winning poster, titled “Covalent Organic Frameworks and Composites for Efficient Adsorption of Pharmaceuticals in Natural Waters”, explored the potential of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) and COF-based composites as efficient adsorbents for monitoring and removing persistent pharmaceutical contaminants from natural water sources. Further contributions from the Espiña Research Group strengthened INL’s presence at the conference. Begoña Espiña, the group leader, delivered a plenary lecture, while Miguel Sousa presented a poster […]

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Cristiana Alves: Revealing the Invisible Through Materials Science

Cristiana Alves: Revealing the Invisible Through Materials Science

Meet Cristiana Alves, Facility Lead at the Electron Microscopy and X-Rays (EMX) Facility at INL. With a lifelong curiosity for how things work and a deep passion for uncovering the unseen, Cristiana’s journey into materials engineering and nanotechnology has been driven by both precision and wonder. From exploring bioactive coatings for dental implants during her PhD to working in one of the most advanced electron microscopy facilities in the Iberian Peninsula, she combines technical excellence with a commitment to discovery. At the heart of her work is a drive to understand materials at their most fundamental level, and to help others do the same. Can you tell us a bit about your path, your main area of work, and the importance of your work?Since I was a child, I have always loved to explore and discover things in nature, get to know how things work, and why they work in such a way. I also loved math because for me, math is simple; there are no doubts or misinterpretations. This combination brought me to an engineering course (materials engineering).While pursuing my master’s, I naturally became passionate about research and science, and I pursued a PhD to study nanomaterials for biomedical applications. When you […]

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From Nanoparticles to Sustainability: A Conversation with Monica Quarato

From Nanoparticles to Sustainability: A Conversation with Monica Quarato

Welcome to this inspiring conversation with Monica Quarato, a passionate scientist whose work bridges nanotechnology, environmental sustainability, and cutting-edge research. With a background in Biotechnology and hands-on experience across Europe, from Turin to Dublin, Ispra, and Braga, Monica has dedicated her career to advancing our understanding of nanoparticles, microplastics, and their impact on both health and the environment. Today, she shares insights from her academic journey, her current projects at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), and her vision for the future of water purification and environmental monitoring. How did your academic and professional journey lead you to INL and the Espiña Research Group? During my academic and professional journey, I have been committed to advancing knowledge in the field of nanotechnology and its applications in the medical and environmental sectors, by joining different universities and research institutions. Driven by a growing interest in sustainability and the environmental impact of materials, I became involved in the detection and quantification of emerging contaminants, such as nanoparticles and microplastics, in both consumer products and marine organisms. The hands-on experience in applied environmental research helped shaping my scientific vision and reinforced my dedication in developing practical solutions to address global challenges. Motivated to further […]

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Bridging Theory and Experiment: A Conversation with Luísa Madail

Bridging Theory and Experiment: A Conversation with Luísa Madail

Welcome to our Quantum Spotlight Series, where we explore the stories and insights of researchers contributing to the rapidly evolving world of quantum science. Today, we’re joined by Luísa Madaíl, a Research Assistant in the Theory of Quantum Nanostructures group at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL). With a background in theoretical physics and a deep curiosity about the electronic properties of novel materials, Luísa shares how her academic path, current research, and personal reflections all intersect in her journey through the quantum frontier. How did your academic journey and early career experiences shape your role as a Research Assistant at INL? My research in theoretical physics began on understanding the role of topology in condensed matter physics, particularly studying the electronic properties of analytically solvable artificial materials with topological behavior. During this time, I also had the opportunity to collaborate with a research group on open many-body quantum systems, mainly focusing on developing numerical techniques for out-of-equilibrium dynamics and validating quantum devices through experiments with neutral atoms, trapped ions, and solid-state systems. In 2020, I started my PhD and since then, my work has centered on exploring the electronic properties of two-dimensional real materials based on nanographenes. This background has contributed […]

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INL Welcomes Dr Cyril Laucci as Ombudsperson

INL Welcomes Dr Cyril Laucci as Ombudsperson

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Cyril Laucci as Ombudsperson, a role that reflects the organisation’s ongoing commitment to fostering a respectful, fair, and inclusive environment. The Ombudsperson serves as a neutral, independent, and confidential resource available to all members of the INL community. The position is designed to promote fairness, transparency, and accountability across the organisation by addressing concerns, mediating disputes, encouraging respectful engagement, and advising on potential measures to resolve systemic challenges related to equity and inclusion. It is essential to emphasise that the Ombudsperson does not represent either the organisation or individual members of staff. Rather, the role functions as an impartial facilitator, supporting the informal resolution of issues and contributing to a constructive and healthy organisational culture. Dr Laucci is a highly distinguished legal professional with recognised expertise in human rights, workplace ethics, and international law. He holds a PhD in Law from both Université Aix-Marseille and the University of Geneva. Over the course of his career, he has held senior legal positions at several major international institutions, including the International Criminal Court (ICC), the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, and the Special Court for Sierra Leone.  On 22 […]

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Interview with António Costa: Where 2D Materials Meet Quantum Innovation

Interview with António Costa: Where 2D Materials Meet Quantum Innovation

Since earning his PhD in 1998, António Costa—Associate in the Rossier Research Group—has dedicated his research to the theoretical exploration of low-dimensional magnetic systems, with a particular emphasis on spin excitations. By combining analytical approaches with computational modeling, he investigates how magnetic materials respond to external influences such as magnetic fields and electrical currents, uncovering fundamental mechanisms that underpin their behavior. Your research focuses on 2D materials and the interface between plasmonics and magnonics. What recent breakthroughs stand out in your work?On the magnonics side, we have been studying the spin excitations of a new kind of magnetic materials called altermagnets. These have properties that are sort of in-between ferromagnets and antiferromagnets. We have demonstrated that the lifetime of magnons in metallic altermagnets can be highly anisotropic, a property that can be exploited technologically to guide magnons along certain paths in the material. Further details can be found in the publication here.On the magnonics/plasmonics interface, we have shown that graphene plasmons can couple strongly to the low-energy magnons in a 2D insulating ferromagnet, which can be uses as a new way to probe magnons in 2D materials, and also as a way to convert a magnetic into an electric signal and […]

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Rui Campos Advances Biosensor Research at INL

Rui Campos Advances Biosensor Research at INL

Rui Campos, working in the Diéguez Research Group at INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory since October 2024, is developing a biosensor for continuous detection of inflammation biomarkers as part of the WINGS project funded by the La Caixa Foundation – Health Research Programme. His research focuses on bioelectrochemical assays for detecting nucleic acids, proteins, and small molecules. Dr. Campos earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from Durham University (UK) in 2013. He has conducted postdoctoral research at Aarhus University (Denmark), INL (Portugal), and the University of Antwerp (Belgium), where he developed a biosensor for prostate cancer microRNAs under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions fellowship. In this interview, Dr. Campos shares his journey in biosensor research, contributions to the WINGS project, and advice for young researchers in nanotechnology and biomedical applications. What drew you to biosensor research, and how has your journey across different institutions shaped your expertise? My interest in biosensor research was sparked by the potential to create innovative solutions for real-world problems, particularly in healthcare. The ability to develop devices that can detect and monitor biological markers with high sensitivity and specificity is incredibly exciting.My journey across different institutions has been instrumental in shaping my expertise. At Durham, UK, […]

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Navigating Scientific Frontiers: An Interview with Rajashree Konar

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 […]

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

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 […]

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