Entities of the Research and Innovation System

IPCA is a higher education institution that combines the academic component with a strong connection to the business sector. Offering training in the areas of engineering, management, design and digital technologies, it stands out for its focus on applied research and the promotion of innovation. IPCA is committed to developing practical skills and creating knowledge that responds to the needs of society and the economy. The institution positions itself as a driver of regional and national development, investing in projects that unite academia, industry and the community.

The Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto (ISEP) was founded in 1852 to drive Portugal’s industrial progress. Initially the Porto Industrial School, it became the Industrial Institute in 1864 and, in 1974, was integrated into higher education as the Instituto Superior de Engenharia. In 2006, it adopted the Bologna Process, offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Known for its hands-on training and strong industry connections, it upholds the motto: "Saber Fazer" (Know How to Do).

The Instituto Superior Técnico (IST), at the University of Lisbon, is the largest engineering, architecture, science and technology school in Portugal. With a community of more than 12,000 people, IST offers innovative training in various areas of knowledge, standing out for its strong approach to research and technology transfer. The campus, located in Lisbon, Oeiras and Loures, provides a high-quality academic environment. IST also promotes international partnerships and offers mobility programs for its students.

INL is an international reference institution dedicated to research in nanoscience and nanotechnology. With a multidisciplinary team and state-of-the-art facilities, it develops projects in areas such as nanomedicine, sensors, advanced materials, and energy. Partnerships with industrial and academic collaborators enable INL to create disruptive solutions that address global challenges, advancing science and technological innovation with economic and social impact.

LIP is a center of excellence in experimental physics, focusing on advanced instrumentation and the exploration of fundamental phenomena in particle physics. It collaborates on large-scale international projects, such as CERN, and develops technologies with applications in fields like healthcare and security. LIP combines cutting-edge research with knowledge transfer, promoting scientific advancement and technological innovation.

The Portuguese Quantum Institute (PQI) is an institute focused on research, innovation, education, and outreach in Quantum Information Science and Technologies. With 18 years of experience, it has contributed to seven European projects, one American project, and a doctoral program.

UNINOVA (Institute for the Development of New Technologies) is a research institution based at the NOVA School of Science and Technology. Focused on technological innovation, it promotes the development of cutting-edge projects in areas such as electronics, intelligent systems, advanced materials and sustainable technologies, collaborating with industry and academia to create practical solutions.

The University of Aveiro (UA), established in 1973, is a public higher education institution located in Aveiro, Portugal. It stands out for its innovative approach to teaching and research, offering a wide range of undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs. The UA is recognized for its strong community engagement and for developing projects that contribute to social transformation.

The University of Coimbra (UC), founded in 1290, is one of Portugal's most prestigious higher education institutions. Originally established in Lisbon, it was permanently relocated to Coimbra in 1537. The UC is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Throughout the centuries, it has significantly contributed to education, science, and culture, shaping generations of students who excel both nationally and internationally.

The University of Minho (UMinho) was founded in 1973 and is a leading institution in higher education in Portugal. In 2023, it celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of commitment to education, research, and innovation. The commemorations, extending into 2024, highlight its growth and impact on society.

The University of Porto (U.Porto), officially established on March 22, 1911, is one of Portugal's leading higher education institutions. Its origins trace back to the 18th century, with the creation of institutions such as the Aula de Náutica (1762) and the Aula de Debuxo e Desenho (1779), which contributed to academic development in the city of Porto. Today, U.Porto comprises 14 faculties and offers a wide range of undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs, standing out for excellence in teaching and research.

The NOVA University of Lisbon (NOVA) was founded on August 11, 1973, with the goal of offering an innovative approach to higher education in Portugal. Since then, it has stood out for its departmental and interdisciplinary structure, integrating fields such as Technology, Social and Human Sciences, and Medical Sciences. In 2023, it celebrated its 50th anniversary, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, creativity in education, research, and value creation for society.

Vasco da Gama CoLAB is a collaborative laboratory that focuses its activity on technological training and the development of solutions for the blue economy. Combining science, technology and innovation, it focuses on areas such as oceanic renewable energy, marine biotechnology and environmental monitoring. This laboratory´s mission is to enhance the sustainable use of marine resources, promoting an integrated and collaborative approach between academia, industry and government.

Vortex CoLAB is a collaborative laboratory that drives innovation in critical technologies such as cyber-physical systems, secure software, and artificial intelligence. With a focus on addressing industrial challenges, it develops solutions that enhance efficiency and safety in sectors like automation, mobility, and healthcare. Its mission is to create trustworthy technology that supports organizations in their digital transformation journey.