News

INL Statement on the Passing of Pope Francis

INL Statement on the Passing of Pope Francis

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) joins its founding Member States, Portugal and Spain, in expressing condolences following the passing of Pope Francis. INL offers its most heartfelt sympathies to the Vatican, to His Holiness’s collaborators, and to all who have been touched by his remarkable life and legacy. Throughout his tenure, Pope Francis promoted interfaith dialogue, advocated the ethical use of science and technology, and addressed global inequality and environmental sustainability. These values resonate broadly across societies and align closely with INL’s principles of diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect. In recognition of the universal relevance of these principles, INL marks this moment respectfully and extends sympathies to all those mourning his loss. Photo credits: pexels.com

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INL Hosts High-Level Workshop on Advanced Materials for Medical Devices

INL Hosts High-Level Workshop on Advanced Materials for Medical Devices

Braga, Portugal | April 10–11, 2025 — The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) welcomed leading experts, policymakers, and innovators across Europe for a two-day workshop dedicated to Advanced Materials for Medical Devices. Held under the Technology Council for Advanced Materials framework, established by the European Commission in November 2024, the event marked a significant step forward in shaping the future of health innovation in Europe. The workshop, supported by the Council’s Subgroup on Future Priorities, served as a collaborative forum for exploring how advanced materials can unlock new possibilities in medical devices—while delivering tangible value to healthtech innovations and European citizens. Irene Norstedt, Director for “People: Health & Society” at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Research and Innovation, delivered the keynote introduction, highlighting the EU’s vision for innovation at the intersection of materials science and healthcare. She emphasised the key factors necessary for the successful adoption of new technologies in healthcare, including “the importance of addressing the needs of patients and carers, actively involving end-users, recognising the role of industry,” ensuring that industrial innovation aligns with clinical demand, and considering regulatory aspects from an early stage. A Forward-Looking Programme Over the course of two days, the programme featured a mix of […]

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Advancing neuronal research using 3D polymeric micro-scaffolds integrated with quantum sensors

Advancing neuronal research using 3D polymeric micro-scaffolds integrated with quantum sensors

A recent research study from INL has successfully merged two cutting-edge 3D tissue engineering strategies – 3D polymeric scaffolds and 3D neuronal spheroids – to create a highly advanced model for studying neuronal behaviour and disease. The collaboration between biomedical engineers, physicists, and neuroscientists has led to the development of a smart polymeric scaffold integrated with fluorescent nanodiamonds, that reveals to be a powerful quantum sensing tool. These low auto-fluorescence scaffolds, fabricated using laser-based 3D microprinting, were designed to be both biocompatible and capable of hosting 3D neuronal spheroids. The fluorescent nanodiamonds embedded within the scaffolds provide the potential for real-time monitoring of magnetic signals and temperature shifts at the nanoscale, providing a new level of precision in studying cellular signalling, disease mechanisms, and drug responses. Beatriz Costa, the first author of this study, emphasises the significance of the work: “The use of low-autofluorescence 3D polymeric scaffolds enabled the integration of quantum metrology techniques with nanodiamonds. When combined with 3D neuronal cell aggregates, this approach holds great potential for in-depth studies of neurodegenerative diseases and beyond.” The study’s success lies in its ability to use these scaffolds to host dopaminergic neurons, crucial to Parkinson’s disease research, and demonstrate the neurons’ […]

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Portuguese Competence Centre for Semiconductors Launched at INL in Braga

Portuguese Competence Centre for Semiconductors Launched at INL in Braga

The Portuguese Competence Centre for Semiconductors (POEMS) held its inaugural meeting yesterday, marking a significant milestone in the country’s semiconductor industry. Hosted by the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), the launch session showcased the consortium’s key areas of expertise and strategic goals. Co-funded by Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT) and the Chips Joint Undertaking – European Union, POEMS is set to become one of 27 European semiconductor competence centres. These centres aim to empower companies to advance semiconductor development, a critical component in the global technology landscape. POEMS, as a cutting-edge initiative under the Chips Joint Undertaking initiative, directly addresses the critical needs outlined in Axis 1 of the National Semiconductor Strategy. This strategic alignment aims to catapult Portugal to the forefront of semiconductor innovation and production, specifically focusing on microelectronics and semiconductors. These areas are pivotal for elevating the existing industrial and technological capacities to meet key global challenges. Focusing on the strategic areas of chip design, advanced packaging, and emerging semiconductor technologies, POEMS leverages the diverse expertise of its 16 consortium partners. These partners include leading research and academic institutions that bring specialised training resources and cutting-edge capabilities. In Portugal, the 16 POEMS partners will […]

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INL Colloquia Series Welcomes Prof. Dr. Max Lemme for a Groundbreaking Talk on 2D Materials

INL Colloquia Series Welcomes Prof. Dr. Max Lemme for a Groundbreaking Talk on 2D Materials

The INL Colloquia Series is thrilled to announce that Prof. Dr. Max Lemme, a leading figure in the field of nanoscale transistors and 2D materials, will be delivering a talk titled “Device Applications of 2D Materials“ on 23 April 2025 at 15:00 at INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, in Braga – Portugal. This event promises to be a highlight of the series, offering insights into cutting-edge research and its applications in communication, sensing, and neuromorphic computing. Prof. Dr. Lemme is at the forefront of the NeuroSys future cluster, an ambitious project focused on Neuromorphic Hardware for Autonomous Artificial Intelligence Systems. NeuroSys, one of seven future clusters selected for funding from over 130 submissions in the Clusters4Future initiative by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), aims to develop innovative hardware for AI applications and position the Aachen region as a global leader in this field. This talk is a unique opportunity to hear from a pioneer in the field and to learn about the latest advancements in 2D materials and their potential to revolutionize technology. About the INL Colloquia Series 2025 The INL Colloquia Series 2025 is an inspiring monthly event that delves into cutting-edge science and engineering. Now in […]

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INL Hosts IDEAL Cluster Annual Meeting in Portugal

INL Hosts IDEAL Cluster Annual Meeting in Portugal

The IDEAL Cluster for Indoor Air Quality and Health held its second Annual Meeting on March 25-26, 2025, in Braga, Portugal. The event aimed to enhance synergies and amplify the impact of various Horizon Europe projects focused on indoor air quality and health. This year’s meeting was hosted by the LEARN project at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), which coordinates the IDEAL Cluster from September 2024 to April 2025. The event saw the participation of around 50 researchers and R&I professionals representing seven projects and eight working groups, with additional attendees joining online. Among the on-site participants were 10 members from LEARN project partner organizations, including INL, FI Group, VUB, TU/e, MANN+HUMMEL, and NIA. They presented their advancements in air pollution sensors, in-vitro models, skin-on-a-chip, and multi-sensing approaches, along with preliminary results from cohorts at Belgian schools and notable communication activities. Key discussions and presentations covered policy recommendations on indoor air quality, data exchange practices, communication collaborations, innovative sensor developments, guidelines and standardisation efforts, and the potential creation of a global indoor air quality index. The European Commission was represented by project officer Rita Araújo from the DG for Research and Innovation, Marco Morini from the DG for Energy, […]

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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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INL Presents Falling Walls Lab Portugal: A Premier Pitch Competition for Innovators

INL Presents Falling Walls Lab Portugal: A Premier Pitch Competition for Innovators

The International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) is excited to announce that it will host the Falling Walls Lab Portugal on June 11, 2025, in Braga. This prestigious event is part of a global series of pitch competitions and networking forums designed to showcase breakthrough ideas from students and early-career professionals. Falling Walls Lab provides a unique platform for participants to present their innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Each participant has just three minutes to impress a distinguished jury, their peers, and the general public with their ideas. The competition not only highlights the quality and diversity of regional talent but also fosters collaboration and enhances participants’ communication skills. Winners from each international Falling Walls Lab event earn a coveted spot in the global finale in Berlin on November 7, 2025. They will also receive a ticket to the prestigious Falling Walls Science Summit, offering unparalleled networking opportunities with leaders in science, business, and policymaking. Applications for Falling Walls Lab Portugal are now open and can be submitted via www.falling-walls.com/lab/apply. The deadline for applications is May 4, 2025 May 12, 2025. Students and early-career professionals are encouraged to apply and seize this opportunity to drive their […]

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INL hosted Prof. Dr. Jean-Michel Gérard, exploring artificial atoms for quantum photonics

INL hosted Prof. Dr. Jean-Michel Gérard, exploring artificial atoms for quantum photonics

As part of its Colloquium Series 2025, INL was honoured to host Professor Dr. Jean-Michel Gérard on Friday, March 21, for a talk that brought together decades of pioneering research in quantum photonics and a compelling outlook for the future of quantum technologies in silicon. The Colloquium Series 2025 is a flagship monthly initiative at INL. It is designed to bring world-renowned scientists to Braga to share their insights on topics relevant to ongoing scientific and technological developments. These events are a source of inspiration and exchange, intended not only to spark dialogue within the INL research community but also to engage a broader audience of researchers, engineers, and students shaping the future of science and innovation. Hosted by Prof. Dr. Clivia Sotomayor, the March edition of the 2025 series welcomed Prof. Gérard from the Quantum Photonics, Electronics and Engineering Laboratory (PHELIQS), Université Grenoble Alpes, CEA, Grenoble INP, France. A leading figure in the field, Prof. Gérard delivered a lecture titled “Artificial atoms in semiconductors for quantum photonics: from III-V self-assembled quantum dots to colour centres in silicon.” The talk traced the evolution of cavity quantum electrodynamics (CQED) in solid-state systems, beginning with the challenges of applying CQED concepts in […]

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