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July 25, 2025

Cristiana Alves: Revealing the Invisible Through Materials Science

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 […]

INL Colloquia Series Explores Living Materials with Leading Researcher Dr. Anna Sandak

INL will host Dr. Anna Sandak as the featured speaker for the May edition of the INL Colloquia Series 2025. A leader in sustainable architecture and advanced materials, Dr. Sandak will share her visionary work on Engineered Living Materials (ELMs) — a new class of bio-integrated materials that bring adaptability, self-regeneration, and environmental responsiveness into the built environment. Her talk will highlight groundbreaking research from two major EU-funded projects: ARCHI-SKIN, which develops living coating systems for buildings using fungal biofilms, and REMEDY, a new initiative exploring bespoke, living layers for architecture — so-called archibiome tattoos — that blend aesthetics with functionality. By merging biotechnology with material science, Dr. Sandak’s work is redefining sustainability in architecture and opening the door to a future where buildings can grow, heal, and evolve with their surroundings. About Dr. Anna Sandak Dr. Sandak is the Deputy Director for Science and Head of the Materials Department at InnoRenew CoE in Slovenia, and an Associate Professor at the University of Primorska. With a strong background in biology and wood science, she has led over a dozen major research projects, including the ERC Consolidator Grant project ARCHI-SKIN and the EIC Pathfinder project REMEDY. Her research focuses on integrating living systems into construction materials to create eco-adaptive and regenerative buildings. About INL Colloquia Series 2025 The INL Colloquia Series 2025 is an inspiring monthly […]

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 […]

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 Celebrates Women in Science

Today, February 11, in celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) proudly presents its latest video tribute to all the Women working at INL. This powerful visual story highlights the dedication, talent, and achievements of women scientists at INL who are shaping the future of nanotechnology. Despite progress in gender equality, only 41% of scientists and engineers in Europe are women. At INL, we are committed to increasing this representation, with 42% of our researchers being women—a testament to our dedication to inclusivity and scientific excellence. The video showcases the inspiring work of several outstanding women scientists, engineers, and facility managers at INL. Through their groundbreaking research and unwavering commitment, they are paving the way for future generations and proving that there is a place for women in science. 📽 Watch the video and join us in celebrating these incredible women who are transforming the world of science and INL. Thank you to all the women at INL for your resilience, passion, and commitment to pushing scientific boundaries. And to all INLers—thank you for supporting and championing an inclusive and diverse research environment. Let’s continue breaking barriers and building a future where science belongs […]

INL’s Women in Science Shine at PQHack 2025

INL proudly celebrates the remarkable achievement of three of its researchers, Alexandra Ramôa, Ana Neri, and Sara Franco, members of the Galvão Research Group who, along with Bruna Salgado from the University of Minho, secured second place at PQHack 2025 as Team Quantum Shemulation. Their outstanding performance in tackling quantum computing challenges earned them the prestigious Team Quantum Shemulation prize on International Day of Women and Girls in Science. PQHack 2025 proved to be an exciting competition, bringing together 39 participants across 12 teams for a 24-hour quantum computing hackathon. Fueled by determination (and plenty of coffee and pizza), the teams engaged in a series of complex coding challenges designed by experts in the field. The results showcased the incredible talent and innovation within the quantum community. This achievement is not only a testament to the expertise and dedication of our INLers but also an inspiration for greater representation of women in quantum science. As we celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we recognize their hard work and contributions in shaping the future of quantum technologies. Congratulations to all the participants, and especially to Alexandra, Ana, and Sara for making INL proud! Photo kindly provided by PQHack 2025 Team

Diana Alves’ Journey: Pioneering Superhydrophobic Coatings for Sustainability

We are thrilled to have Diana Alves with us today. Diana joined the Kolen’ko’s Group at INL as a Research Fellow in February 2022, where her groundbreaking work focuses on developing paint functional additives based on nanomaterials with hydrophobic properties. Diana’s journey in science began with a master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Minho in 2011. Her international experiences include pivotal research stints at the University Medical Centre of Groningen and Innocore Pharmaceuticals in the Netherlands. She later pursued a PhD in Chemical and Biological Engineering, also at the University of Minho, focusing on functionalizing biomaterials to impart antimicrobial properties. During this time, she collaborated with the prestigious Messersmith Research Group at Northwestern University in the USA. Her postdoctoral and junior research years further showcased her versatility, as she delved into areas such as bacteriophage encapsulation for food safety and antimicrobial coatings for medical devices. Let’s dive into her inspiring journey and groundbreaking research! 1. Your career has taken you from Portugal to the Netherlands and the USA, working with institutions like Innocore Pharmaceuticals and Northwestern University. How have these international experiences shaped your approach to research and innovation?” Both international experiences – first in the Netherlands […]

Engineering the Future: Patrícia Sousa on the Challenges and Innovations in Micro and Nanotechnologies

Introducing Patrícia Sousa, a pioneering Research Engineer in Integrated Micro and Nanotechnologies at INL. With a strong foundation in Chemical Engineering and a Ph.D. in Chemical and Biological Engineering from the University of Porto, Patrícia has specialized in microfluidics and advanced fabrication techniques that address critical challenges in micro and nanotechnologies. Patrícia’s dedication extends beyond the lab, as she actively participates in public outreach initiatives, including the European Researcher’s Night and educational programs in local schools. There, she shares her expertise in accessible and inspiring ways, illustrating how nanotechnology can transform fields such as medicine, electronics, and sustainability. In this interview, Patrícia offers insight into her career journey, the challenges and triumphs in her work, and her passion for making science accessible and impactful for all. Could you briefly describe your academic and professional background in micro and nanotechnologies? My academic background includes a first degree in Chemical Engineering, from the Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto followed by a PhD in Chemical and Biological Engineering, also from the Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto. Since my PhD studies focused on microfluidics, at that time I started deepening my knowledge in the field of micro and nanotechnology and in particular, micro […]

INL Researcher Recognised by the Portuguese Cancer League for Groundbreaking Research

Alexandra Teixeira, a researcher at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), has been awarded the prestigious Liga Inovação 2024 Prize, a distinction promoted by the North Branch of the Portuguese Cancer League (Núcleo Regional do Norte da Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro). The award, valued at 7,500 euros, was presented during the 6th National Meeting of Young Researchers (6º Encontro Nacional de Jovens Investigadores – ENJIO) in Porto, where her innovative cancer research project was recognized among 80 competing proposals. Teixeira’s research focuses on the development of advanced technology to better understand the behaviour and metastatic potential of circulating tumour cells (CTCs), which play a critical role in cancer progression. Her work is particularly focused on breast cancer, a condition that affects millions worldwide and is projected to increase in prevalence. By studying CTCs, the project aims to uncover new insights into how cancer spreads, paving the way for more targeted and personalized treatment strategies. The Liga Inovação Prize aims to promote research with the potential to contribute significantly to oncology, particularly in developing personalized medicine approaches for cancer patients. Teixeira’s project aligns with this mission by addressing metastasis, which is responsible for up to 90% of cancer-related deaths. The […]

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INL in the Media

October 9, 2025

Interesting Engineering | New tiny gold mirror could make solar panels lighter, cheaper, and stronger

October 8, 2025

EcoInventos Green Technology | Científicos portugueses desarrollan “espejo nanométrico” que mejora un 1.5% la eficiencia de células solares ultrafinas

October 8, 2025

Energy Reporters | Scientists Create Ultrathin Solar Cells With Nano-Mirrors That Trap More Sunlight (and could change energy forever)

El Confidencial | El espejo fabricado en Portugal que soluciona los tres grandes ‘frenos’ de los paneles solares

October 6, 2025

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