News and Events

The CICECO Workshops series welcomed Prof. Antti Vehkaoja from Tampere University's Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology for a wide-ranging talk on how modern sensor technologies are transforming the way we monitor health and detect disease — outside the clinic and in everyday life.

Vehkaoja opened by framing the core challenge: gathering physiological data that is meaningful, continuous, and unobtrusive. He walked the audience through several key measurement modalities — respiratory rate, pulse rate and its variability, and oxygen saturation — explaining how each can be extracted from subtle surface signals of the body, such as skin color changes caused by blood circulation, detectable via camera-based systems developed in collaboration with the Finnish company Evondos.

A highlight of the presentation was the ThrombUS+ project — a portable, wireless ultrasound system designed to detect deep vein thrombosis (DVT) at the patient's bedside. Vehkaoja presented the full hardware setup, showing how compact ultrasound probes strapped to the leg can wirelessly stream data for automated analysis, potentially reducing the need for specialist radiology appointments and speeding up diagnosis in hospitals and home care settings.

The talk concluded with an overview of research in progress on non-invasive blood pressure estimation — a notoriously hard problem — using photoplethysmography-derived pulse wave analysis. Vehkaoja was candid about the current limitations, noting that the work is still at the research stage, but highlighted the potential impact for hypertension management at scale.

The seminar drew an engaged audience at Anfiteatro 3.1.15 and sparked lively discussion on the translation of these technologies into clinical and consumer-facing products.

Paula Roque, Managing Partner of Revigrés, one of Portugal’s leading business figures, and honorary member of CICECO, visited the Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering (DEMaC) and the Department of Chemistry (DQuímica) at the University of Aveiro to strengthen and update the long-standing relationship between Revigrés, CICECO, DEMaC, and the University of Aveiro.

Paula Roque holds a degree in Management and an MBA from Católica Lisbon School of Business & Economics. Under her leadership, Revigrés has established strong collaborations with the University of Aveiro and CICECO, particularly through R&D projects that drive innovation in ceramic materials. In recognition of this enduring partnership, Paula Roque was formally named an honorary member of CICECO during Jornadas CICECO 2024.

The visit highlighted the long-standing partnership between Revigrés and the University of Aveiro–CICECO, particularly through initiatives such as ReviDry (POCI-01-0247-FEDER-017784), a project focused on the sustainable development of technical porcelain stoneware through dry processing routes, as well as the recent REVIMAX project. Scientifically led by Paula Vilarinho, REVIMAX aims to incorporate waste materials and persistent luminescent additives into large-scale ceramics, produce translucent ceramic pieces, and ensure an optimal balance between pyroplastic properties and mechanical strength.

During the visit, Paula Roque, accompanied by CICECO Director João Coutinho, CICECO Vice-Director Paula Vilarinho, and DEMaC Director Rui Silva, explored laboratories, advanced equipment, and innovative materials under development. The visit provided direct insight into how Revigrés’ industrial resources are being integrated into scientific research to generate new ceramic compositions and technological solutions, including the implementation of additive manufacturing in the ceramics sector.

This collaboration demonstrates the strategic value of connecting industrial leadership with academic excellence, reinforcing sustainable innovation in the Portuguese ceramics sector while accelerating knowledge transfer between Revigrés, the University of Aveiro–CICECO, and technological partners.

Researchers from CICECO – Aveiro Institute of Materials, Universidade de Aveiro, marked a significant presence at TERMIS-EU 2026, held from 21 to 24 April in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, where they presented advances spanning bioengineering, 3D tumour modelling, biomaterials, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Bringing together leading experts from across Europe, the conference provided an international platform for CICECO-affiliated to COMPASS Research Group including Cellularis and Metatissue to share scientific progress and strengthen collaborations.CICECO’s delegation included invited speakers and researchers João F. Mano, João Borges, Mariana Oliveira and Vítor Gaspar, alongside João Rodrigues, João Mazeda, Maria Clara Gomes, Andreia Malafaia, Andreia Cerqueira, Sara Silvério, Mariana Carreira, Rita Moreira, Catarina Custódio, Maria Luiz, Marieta Alexaki, Diana Jesus, Maria Monteiro, Margarida Pereira and Syeda M. Bakht.

Across oral presentations and invited lectures, the teams showcased work on advanced 3D tumour models, human-derived extracellular matrix biomaterials, capsule-based bioinks, liquid-core microcapsules, xeno-free biomaterials, AI-assisted biomaterial fabrication and next-generation therapeutic systems.

This broad scientific participation reflected the diversity of research being developed at CICECO and University of Aveiro at the intersection of materials science, biotechnology and clinical translation. From innovative human biomaterials and bioprinting technologies to immune-engineered living materials and bone-on-a-chip systems, the contributions demonstrated how CICECO is helping accelerate the bridge between laboratory innovation and biomedical application.

Beyond the scientific sessions, TERMIS-EU 2026 reinforced international partnerships, fostered new opportunities for collaboration and strengthened CICECO’s position within the global tissue engineering and regenerative medicine community.
 
 
 

A research team from CICECO – Aveiro Institute of Materials has developed a new type of fully biological hydrogel derived from substances released by human cells, opening new perspectives for regenerative medicine and tissue repair.

These substances, known as cellular secretomes, are naturally produced and released by cells and contain molecules that regulate processes such as wound healing, tissue regeneration, and the formation of new blood vessels. In this study, CICECO researchers used secretomes from human stem cells obtained from adipose tissue, demonstrating that they can be directly converted into hydrogels without the need for additional artificial materials.

Conventional approaches require incorporating these bioactive substances into synthetic carriers to maintain their activity at the target site, increasing system complexity and limiting control. The CICECO team—Ana Santos-Coquillat, Beatriz Neves, Raquel Gonçalves, Dora Costa, João Mano, and Mariana Oliveira—overcame this limitation by engineering hydrogels composed exclusively of human-derived biological material.

Highly effective materials

The developed hydrogels enable the sustained release of proteins and other bioactive molecules over several days, promoting cell migration and supporting mechanisms associated with tissue regeneration. In laboratory assays, these materials showed higher efficacy than biological supplements commonly used in cell culture.

The researchers also demonstrated that the physical properties of the hydrogels can be tuned, allowing adjustment of stiffness or flexibility according to the intended clinical application. Furthermore, the materials supported cell adhesion and the organization of early vascular-like structures, a critical requirement for functional tissue regeneration.

This work represents a step forward in the development of fully biological, human-derived biomaterials, with strong potential for customization and application in wound healing, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and advanced therapies. It reinforces CICECO’s contribution to the development of next-generation biomaterials with translational relevance.

A session dedicated to photonics and electromagnetic simulation highlighted the role of advanced modelling tools in semiconductor innovation, while promoting training, knowledge transfer, and closer interaction between academia and industry.

The lecture featured Eng. João Freire Noronha Jardim, representing ESSS, a partner of Ansys, now part of Synopsys. The session provided participants with a structured introduction to simulation tools applied to photonics and electromagnetism, aiming to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical implementation and to familiarise students and researchers with industry-relevant workflows.

Focusing on the use of Ansys Lumerical, the lecture demonstrated how simulation at the wavelength scale supports the design and optimisation of optical waveguides, detectors, sensors, photonic integrated circuits, and high-precision electromagnetic systems. Particular emphasis was placed on integrated workflows that enable scalability from individual components to complete systems, combining tools such as Lumerical FDTD, MODE, Multiphysics, INTERCONNECT, and CML Compiler into a coherent design environment.

The session also addressed the growing role of artificial intelligence in optical circuit development, including the use of optiSLang to support optimisation processes, parameter exploration, and performance improvement. It was noted that such approaches enhance efficiency but require careful validation and should complement domain expertise.

Beyond the technical aspects, the initiative reinforced the importance of collaboration between academia and industry. Through the involvement of ESSS, participants were exposed to real-world applications, technical support mechanisms, and opportunities for engagement in applied projects, contributing to the development of qualified talent and innovation-driven activities.

Supported by Inova-Ria, the session forms part of broader efforts to connect knowledge and technology, providing students, researchers, and professionals with access to tools and trends shaping the future of semiconductors.

A patented process enabling the purification of high-quality antibodies from egg yolk has been granted in the United States, marking a significant step in the development of sustainable biopharmaceutical technologies. The innovation, developed by researchers affiliated with CICECO – Aveiro Institute of Materials and the Department of Chemistry of the University of Aveiro, is now protected under US patent US12378283B2 (link).

The patented technology, titled “Process for purifying an antibody from egg yolk, products and uses thereof”, enables the efficient and sustainable isolation of Immunoglobulin Y (IgY), an antibody naturally present in egg yolk. The process achieves purity levels approaching 100%, addressing long-standing challenges in antibody extraction and stabilisation.

The invention is credited to Mara G. Freire, Sandra Cristina Bernardo, and João Coutinho. Their work underpins the technological portfolio of RYA Purification Technologies, a company focused on IgY-based solutions for infectious diseases.

This purification platform supports the development of next-generation biopharmaceuticals, particularly targeting infectious diseases. IgY antibodies offer advantages over conventional mammalian antibodies, including reduced immunogenicity in humans and scalable, non-invasive production. The newly patented method enhances these benefits by providing a robust and environmentally sustainable purification route.

The technology was developed and validated in the European Research Council-funded projects IgYPurTech and PureIgY, both led by Mara Freire. These projects have contributed to advancing the possibility of having IgY-based therapeutics, positioning them as viable alternatives in the global effort to combat infectious diseases.

According to the inventors, the process also enables broader applications beyond therapeutics, including diagnostics and functional biomaterials, reinforcing the versatility of IgY antibodies in the biomedical field.

The granting of this patent in the United States consolidates international recognition of the technology and strengthens its pathway towards industrial application and market deployment.

On 14 April 2026, the European Commission hosted the 3rd meeting of the Technology Council for Advanced Materials in Brussels, bringing together key stakeholders to support the development of Europe’s forthcoming Advanced Materials Act. The session gathered representatives from Member States, academia, and industry to address strategic priorities for innovation, scale-up, and industrial deployment.

Paula M. Vilarinho and João Rocha represented University of Aveiro, CICECO – Aveiro Institute of Materials, and Portugal as members of the Technology Council, contributing directly to European-level policy discussions in advanced materials.

During the meeting, Paula M. Vilarinho presented the main outcomes of the FAME Workshop — Future of Advanced Materials in Europe — held in the University of Aveiro in November 2025. The workshop brought together more than 250 European stakeholders and is now informing the policy framework underpinning the Advanced Materials Act.

"A central conclusion emerging from this initiative is that Europe’s primary challenge in advanced materials is no longer scientific capacity, but rather the scale-up and deployment of innovations”, explains Paula Vilarinho. The FAME report identifies five strategic priorities: the development of scale-up infrastructure, the implementation of blended finance mechanisms, the creation of application-driven ecosystems, the simplification of regulatory processes, and stronger co-creation with Member States.

The participation of João Rocha as a Council member further reinforced the Portuguese contribution to this agenda, highlighting national expertise in advanced materials and commitment to European innovation strategies.

Advanced materials are recognised among Europe’s critical technologies, with a key role in enabling industrial transformation and sustainability transitions. In this context, Portugal’s presence reflects both scientific excellence and strategic positioning, supported by assets including clean energy capacity, access to critical raw materials, and opportunities for logistics.

Check the link of FAME insights publication here.

Sapienza University of Rome, through its Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Charles Darwin”, has secured European funding under the Horizon Europe WIDERA Hop-On Call, reinforcing its role within the OLinWASTE project. Within this framework, Sapienza coordinates OLinWASTE-LIGNADES, a project dedicated to the sustainable valorization of lignin from olive mill waste.

A central contribution to this initiative is ensured by CICECO–Aveiro Institute of Materials at the University of Aveiro, which joins the consortium as a key partner. CICECO will lead advanced lignin extraction and characterization, drawing on its expertise in sustainable materials and green chemistry, thereby reinforcing the scientific and technological depth of the project.

The initiative aims to transform underutilized lignin into high-value bio-based products using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES), innovative and environmentally friendly solvents. The contribution of CICECO is expected to be critical for optimizing extraction pathways and tailoring lignin properties for downstream applications.

Sapienza will subsequently test the resulting materials through an experimental platform for plant protection. In parallel, lignin-derived compounds will be integrated into bio-based functional films for sustainable food packaging, expanding their applicability within the circular bioeconomy.

“This achievement confirms Sapienza’s leadership in European research and its commitment to sustainable innovation. With this new branch of OLinWASTE, we are also able to complete the circle of valorization of by-products,” said Vincenzo Lionetti.

Starting in May 2026 and lasting 36 months, the project contributes to the development of circular, zero-waste solutions for the olive oil industry.With CICECO’s involvement, the project further consolidates European capacity in advanced materials research, supporting sustainable bioeconomy strategies.

Aveiro hosted the inaugural REFLEX2026 conference on April 9–10, 2026, establishing a dynamic platform for interdisciplinary exchange at the intersection of polymer science, materials engineering, physics, and electronics. Conceived to foster collaboration and innovation, the event brought together leading researchers and early-stage scientists from across Europe to explore the rapidly evolving field of responsive polymer systems.

Chaired by Paula Ferreira and Bernd Wicklein, REFLEX2026 aimed not only to showcase cutting-edge scientific advances but also to lay the foundations for a future European research network. Central to this vision was the creation of an open and inclusive environment that encourages dialogue, knowledge exchange, and the development of long-term collaborations.

The scientific programme was structured around key thematic areas addressing the design of polymer architectures and nanocomposites with enhanced electromechanical and optical functionalities for flexible electronics. Particular emphasis was placed on phenomena such as piezoelectricity, triboelectricity, magnetoelectric coupling, and photoresponsive behavior, reflecting the increasing demand for adaptive and multifunctional materials.

Highlights included the plenary lecture by Ian Reaney (University of Sheffield, United Kingdom), who addressed the fundamental principles of piezoelectric materials, and contributions such as Frank Clemens (EMPA, Switzerland) on thermoplastic elastomer composites for soft sensing applications. Advances in sustainable and bio-based systems were explored by Guillaume Fleury (University of Bordeaux, France), while Mónica I. Acuautla Meneses (University of Groningen, The Netherlands) presented high-performance flexible piezoelectric composites for wearable technologies. The programme also featured insights into advanced characterization techniques by Brian Rodriguez (University College Dublin, Ireland), and a keynote lecture by Martynas Sborikas (aixACCT Systems GmbH, Germany) on electromechanical characterization methods for piezoelectric polymers.

In parallel, the conference highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence in polymer discovery and design, emphasizing data-driven approaches to uncover correlations between structure, processing, and performance, thereby accelerating the transition from fundamental research to application. Sustainability also emerged as a central theme, with discussions focusing on bio-based materials, recyclable composites, and circular fabrication strategies aligned with environmentally responsible innovation.

The programme combined plenary and keynote lectures with oral presentations, flash talks, and an extensive poster session, covering topics from high-performance sensors to 3D-printed polymer systems and bio-based electronics.

Beyond the scientific content, REFLEX2026 actively promoted the engagement of early-stage researchers, reinforcing its commitment to fostering the next generation of scientists. Networking opportunities and informal interactions contributed to a collaborative atmosphere throughout the event.

In the end of the conference there were awards given for:
• Best Flash Presentation: Vanessa Sánchez (ICMM-CSIC, Spain)
• Best Poster Award: Milad Jabri (University of Groningen, The Netherlands)

By the close of the conference, REFLEX2026 had positioned itself as a promising starting point for sustained European cooperation in responsive polymer systems, marking an important step toward advancing materials innovation and strengthening an interconnected research community.

You can see the photos of the conference here: link.

On 9 April 2026, the University of Aveiro hosted the session “Patents: from scientific performance to rankings”, organized by UAcoopera within the UA Transfer 2.0 programme. The event gathered inventors, institutional stakeholders and patent agents to discuss the role of intellectual property protection as a strategic indicator of research performance and innovation.

The programme included presentations on the European Patent Office (EPO) Technology Dashboard by Ana Trindade Fonseca, coordinator of UAcoopera, and the Inventa Barometer by Vitor Moreira from Inventa, followed by a roundtable dedicated to the importance of protecting research and development results. The discussion brought together experts from across the University of Aveiro, including representatives from CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials and the Department of Chemistry.

During the debate, João Coutinho (Director of CICECO) emphasized that patenting has long been recognized internally as a valued output. He added that "internal incentives, combined with strong collaboration between multidisciplinary teams and industry partners, have contributed to the growing culture of intellectual property protection at the University of Aveiro". He also highlighted the increasing professionalization of the patent process system through specialized support structures, such as UAcoopera, that assist inventors not only in filing patents but also in licensing them.

Armando Silvestre (Director of the Department of Chemistry) stressed that successful patent activity is often the result of a solid foundation in fundamental research. "While many patent peaks are linked to large applied projects with industry, these outcomes are only possible because companies trust the scientific excellence developed through long term fundamental investigation”, said Silvestre. “This interaction between basic science and applied collaboration strengthens the potential for technology transfer, entrepreneurship, and job creation”.

From a complementary perspective, Mara Freire (patent inventor, member of CICECO and of the Department of Chemistry) highlighted the importance of identifying technologies with real market potential. “The protection and licensing of innovations require careful evaluation of competitiveness, demand, and potential market. The growing role of international collaboration is also key”, added Freire. She concluded that “there is a strategical space for patents to emerge through global research networks.”

Overall, the session reinforced the importance of integrating fundamental research, industry collaboration, identification of innovation, and institutional support structures to enhance the impact of scientific discoveries and strengthen the innovation ecosystem of the University of Aveiro.

See the photos of the event here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/CxNpYpn3wcLmPMx89