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Nanostars push SERS sensing to new performance levels

Nanostars push SERS sensing to new performance levels

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy has become a powerful tool for ultrasensitive and rapid chemical analysis. Its effectiveness comes from how light interacts with tiny metallic structures, generating electromagnetic fields that dramatically strengthen the Raman signal. However, turning this principle into reliable and scalable sensing platforms has been a long-standing challenge, limiting wider use of SERS in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and molecular biosensing (if you would like to learn more about the current challenges of taking SERS into real-world applications, you can also read a previous review article published by the group). In a study led by Sara Abalde-Cela, INL researchers from the Diéguez group have developed a plasmonic substrate that notably improves the stability and reproducibility of SERS-based sensing. Their work, published in Advanced Optical Materials, introduces a fabrication approach that combines precision nanopatterning with controlled chemical growth. The process begins with electron beam lithography to create highly regular nanodisk arrays. These disks are then transformed into nanostars with sharp tips capable of producing extremely strong electromagnetic fields, leading into “hot spots”. “Compared to nanodisks, which produce weaker and more homogeneous field enhancements, the nanostars show highly localised electromagnetic intensification at their tips,” explains Sara Abalde-Cela. “Both simulations, […]

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Portuguese Secretary of State for Digitalisation Visits INL

Portuguese Secretary of State for Digitalisation Visits INL

On 20th November 2025, the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory welcomed the Secretary of State for Digitalisation of Portugal, Mr Bernardo Correia, for a visit aimed at highlighting the laboratory’s pivotal role in advancing Portugal’s digital agenda. The programme started with a presentation led by Professor Ado Jório de Vasconcelos, INL’s Deputy Director-General, which was then joined by Dr Ivan Prieto, Head of Micro and Nanofabrication Facilities, and Mr Marcelo Viegas, Cybersecurity Lead. The session represented an opportunity to reinforce INL’s strengths, research priorities and its contributions to European technological development. A crucial moment of the visit was the tour to INL’s research facilities and laboratories, where the Secretary of State gained insight into the work conducted across the groups. Dr Prieto presented the Micro and Nanofabrication facilities, whilst Dr Alex Jenkins demonstrated the Spintronics Laboratory’s innovative research. Afterwards, Dr Enrique Carbo guided the delegation through the Electron Microscopy and X-Ray facilities and Dr Marco Martins showcased the Technology Engineering Group’s technological achievements. Marking a milestone in the ongoing discussions, the visit proved to be a success by reinforcing the role of research infrastructures in fostering a prosperous society grounded in digital transformation. Therefore, a strong commitment to deepening collaboration at […]

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Becoming a learning hub: INFRACHIP Research Accelerator hosted at INL

Becoming a learning hub: INFRACHIP Research Accelerator hosted at INL

From 18 to 20 November, INL transformed into an insightful learning hub for early-career researchers, as it proudly hosted the INFRACHIP Research Accelerator Programme. The short course on “Micro/Nanofabrication and Characterisation for Nanoelectronics” brought together 5 external early-stage researchers and 8 INLers, eager to deepen their knowledge and gain hands-on experience in advanced nanofabrication and nanocharacterisation techniques. About the programme This intensive training forms part of the broader INFRACHIP initiative, a platform designed to expand access to nanoelectronics infrastructures and strengthen the European research ecosystem. By sponsoring PhD students and early-stage postdoctoral researchers, INFRACHIP encourages participants to apply for transnational access to facilities available through their network, integrating these advanced, and newly acquired skills into their research. Training at INL At INL, participants engaged in a dynamic mix of theoretical lectures and live demonstrations across two core facilities: Micro and Nanofabrication (MNF) and Electron Microscopy and X-Rays (EMX). From the MNF facilities, INL experts Carlos Calaza, Jérôme Borne, Paulo Coelho, and André Cardoso delivered lectures on fundamental processes in micro- and nanofabrication, including deposition, patterning (optical and electron beam lithography), and etching (RIE). Beyond theory, Helder Fonseca and José Rodrigues challenged participants to fabricate a wafer featuring the INL and […]

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The ESRA Symposium Returns For a Dynamic 2nd Edition

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 […]

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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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INL and UMinho Transfer Cutting-Edge Graphene Diagnostic Technology to IPLEXMED

INL and UMinho Transfer Cutting-Edge Graphene Diagnostic Technology to IPLEXMED

Today, 13 November, INL and UMinho have signed a landmark technology licensing agreement with IPLEXMED, marking a significant step in the commercialisation of cutting-edge medical diagnostic solutions. The concession was formalised during the Research and Innovation Open Days at UMinho, in Session 6: “From Bench to Market: Intellectual Property Licence Agreement between IPLEXMED, INL and UMinho”, held at 13:30. Under this licence, IPLEXMED, a spin-out company specialising in advanced medical diagnostics, gains the rights to commercialise a pioneering technology developed jointly by INL and UMinho. This innovation features functionalised graphene sensors capable of detecting malaria and other diseases through non-invasive methods. By enabling rapid and accurate detection of pathogens in saliva or urine samples, this breakthrough has the potential to transform global health efforts. The technology was developed under the MULTIMAL project, funded by HORIZON 2020, and patented by INL and UMinho in 2024. At its core are monolayer graphene FET sensors, delivering attomolar-level sensitivity while remaining safe for deployment in tropical environments. Ultimately, this landmark moment not only promises to positively impact the healthcare field, but also carries deep symbolic meaning. As Prof. Ado Jório, Deputy Director-General of INL, noted: “The logo of INL represents a graphene-like structure, and […]

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INL Welcomes Braga’s New Mayor and Municipal Team

INL Welcomes Braga’s New Mayor and Municipal Team

On the 3rd of November 2025, the installation ceremony of the municipal bodies of the city of Braga took place in Theatro Circo, marking the beginning of the 2025–2029 term. Representing the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, Professor Ado Jório de Vasconcelos, Deputy Director-General, and Dr Carolina Baptista, International Relations and Internal Affairs Communication Officer, attended the ceremony. The event formally inaugurated the new municipal administration. It included the swearing-in of the newly elected Mayor, Mr João Rodrigues, as well as the election of the Municipal Assembly, whose president is Professor Fernando Alexandre, the current Minister for Education, Science and Innovation of Portugal. Filled with symbolism, the moment brought together representatives from local and regional institutions, enhancing the city’s commitment to collaborative governance and community development. The participation of INL in this civic occasion reflects its enduring partnership with the Municipality of Braga and its dedication to contributing to the region’s scientific, technological and social advancement, reinforcing the shared values between institutions. Hence, INL warmly congratulates Mr João Rodrigues and his team and extends its best wishes for a successful mandate, knowing that continued progress and fruitful cooperation between the municipality and INL will be fostered.

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Leonor Ribeiro Competes at the Falling Walls Lab Global Finale

Leonor Ribeiro Competes at the Falling Walls Lab Global Finale

INL is honoured to share that PhD student and INLer, Leonor Ribeiro, competed yesterday at the Falling Walls Lab Global Finale, in Berlin. The Lab is a highlight of the prestigious Falling Walls Science Summit, an international forum that brings together leading voices in science and innovation. This fast-paced competition challenges students and early-career professionals to present their breakthrough ideas in just three minutes. Facing a distinguished jury, the participants compete for the title of “Breakthrough of the Year” in the Emerging Talents category. Leonor, a member of INL’s Ultra-fast Bio and Nanophotonics Research Group and a PhD candidate in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Porto, earned her place at the global stage after winning first place at the inaugural Falling Walls Lab Portugal, hosted at INL last June. In Berlin, she presented her project­­­, “Breaking the Wall of Lung Cancer with Light”, as one of the 100 international finalists. Her research explores innovative ways to harness light in the fight against lung cancer, through a novel nanoparticle system that combines photodynamic therapy with immunotherapy, evaluated in a 3D model using metabolic imaging. Ultimately, the jury awarded Karen de la Vega-Hernández, Elena Barba Sarasua, and Harry Wilton-Clark as winners […]

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Catarina Lopes Wins the Maria de Sousa Prize

Catarina Lopes Wins the Maria de Sousa Prize

INL proudly announces that PhD candidate and INLer, Catarina Lopes, has been awarded the Maria de Sousa Prize. Now in its 5th edition, the prize pays tribute to the late scientist, Maria de Sousa, and is promoted by Fundação Bial and Ordem dos Médicos. Its mission is to support and encourage Portuguese Researchers, aged 35 or younger, advancing Health Sciences. The award ceremony takes place today, 4 November, in Lisbon. Catarina Lopes joins Neuza Domingues, Bruna Meira, Ângela Fernandes, Diogo Reis Carneiro as the five distinguished recipients. Altogether, the prize constitutes a sum of 150K euros and carries the sponsorship of the President of the Republic. The Project Catarina Lopes is a PhD candidate in Molecular and Cellular Biotechnology at the University of Porto, specialising in early gastric cancer research. She has co-authored 10 international publications, presented at over 20 conferences, and combines expertise in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and machine learning for biomarker discovery. Her winning project, SNIFF: Volatile organic compounds in saliva for non-invasive detection of gastric cancer, proposes the development of a saliva-based, affordable diagnostic tool, capable of detecting gastric cancer at an early stage. The research will analyse volatile organic compounds (VOCs), as non-evasive biomarkers for gastric […]

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