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23 July 2026

Young researchers earn three awards at European Ceramics Network workshop

Young researchers earn three awards at European Ceramics Network workshop

Three young researchers from CICECO – Aveiro Institute of Materials and the Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering (DEMaC), University of Aveiro, received awards at the 5th Young Ceramists Network (YCN) Workshop, organised by the European Ceramic Society (ECerS). The event took place at Otrebusy Palace, Poland, bringing together early-career researchers from across Europe for a programme dedicated to artificial intelligence tools, science communication, leadership and networking.

The distinctions recognise excellence in scientific communication and visual representation of research, highlighting the quality and international visibility of work developed at CICECO.

Inês Vieira was distinguished with the Audience-Voted Best Pitch Award, selected by workshop participants for the quality and impact of her presentation. Reflecting on the experience, she shared:

"Sometimes we spend too much time wondering whether we're 'enough' to belong in a room, when the real challenge is allowing ourselves to take our place in it."

João Lopes Miranda received the award for Rapid Fire Presentations – Pitch Your Poster Sessions, recognising his ability to communicate complex scientific concepts through a concise and engaging presentation. And will be one of the 8 representatives for YCN network.

Mariana Almeida, a PhD student in Materials Science and Engineering, was awarded Second Place in the 2026 Young Ceramists Network Photo Contest for her micrographic image Zeolites Blossom. The image captures zeolite crystals self-organising within a 3D-printed geopolymer matrix, producing structures that resemble hydrangea flowers and illustrating the aesthetic dimension of materials science.

The awards reinforce the international recognition of the next generation of researchers at CICECO and DEMaC, demonstrating excellence not only in scientific research but also in communicating science to diverse audiences.

Participation in the Young Ceramists Network Workshop provided an opportunity to exchange knowledge, strengthen collaborations and develop skills that are increasingly relevant for scientific careers, including communication, leadership and interdisciplinary interaction.

The recognition achieved by João Lopes Miranda, Inês Vieira and Mariana Almeida reflects both the quality of their individual work and the strength of the research environment at the University of Aveiro.

Watch the video of the event: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Da5HL-xIcvL/ 

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