The Biomaterials Chemistry Committee of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), which includes Universidade de Aveiro (Chemistry Department) and CICECO’s researcher João Borges among its members, has been recognised with the 2026 Inspirational Committee Award.

The distinction has been awarded for the committee’s efforts in developing programmes and initiatives that support, connect and empower the biomaterials chemistry community, and fostering inclusion across career stages and professional sectors. According to the RSC, the committee has demonstrated a sustained commitment to building an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive environment that bridges academia, industry and clinical practice.

Through scientific events, mentoring activities and targeted professional development initiatives, the committee has strengthened engagement with the global biomaterials chemistry community while promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and facilitating knowledge exchange. The RSC highlighted the broader impact of these efforts in supporting career development, advancing and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration within the chemical sciences, and accelerating the translation of biomaterials research into healthcare solutions and societal impact.

João Borges, who joined the committee in 2024, described his involvement as an opportunity to contribute to the scientific community that has supported his own career development.

“My motivation to volunteer with the RSC, particularly within the Biomaterials Chemistry Group Committee, stems from a strong desire to give back to the scientific community that has supported my career”, said João Borges. “I was especially drawn to the opportunity to help shape initiatives that better support and empower students, researchers and professionals across all career stages, while fostering meaningful connections and collaborations.”

Reflecting on his experience within the committee, João Borges highlighted the collaborative spirit among its members as one of the most rewarding aspects of the role.

“Since joining the committee, one of the most memorable aspects has been the exceptionally welcoming and collaborative environment. I was immediately encouraged to share ideas and perspectives, and it has been rewarding to work with colleagues who are genuinely committed to strengthening the field and evolving the community”, he said.

The CICECO’s researcher also noted that volunteering has contributed significantly to his personal and professional growth, creating opportunities for new collaborations, expanding his international network and establishing lasting professional relationships.

The Inspirational Committee Award recognises the collective efforts of the committee’s members in building a supportive community within biomaterials chemistry. According to the RSC, the award reflects the committee’s success in creating opportunities for researchers at different career stages while strengthening links between academic research, industry and clinical applications.

For João Borges, the collective recognition also serves as an encouragement for researchers to become involved in scientific societies and professional communities, and contribute to creating scientific impact. “Volunteering is not only rewarding from a personal and professional viewpoint, but also a meaningful way to help shape the future of our community”, he said. He also emphasizes that “the fact that the RSC distinguishes collective efforts must be truly valued in recognising collective over individual efforts. This is something we do not see often enough and points out to the importance of joint contributions and community building.”

The Royal Society of Chemistry is one of the world's leading scientific societies for the chemical sciences, supporting researchers, educators and professionals through scientific publishing, networking, training and community-building activities worldwide.

Check the RSC information about the committee: https://www.rsc.org/standards-and-recognition/prizes/winners/rsc-biomaterials-chemistry-committee