Research Unit CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials

Description

Established in 2002 at the University of Aveiro, the Associated Laboratory CICECO was formed by joining scientists from the Departments of Chemistry, Physics and Materials Engineering, with the mission to develop the scientific and technological knowledge necessary for the innovative production and transformation of materials for a sustainable development and the benefit of society.Comprising about 508 members from 28 countries (191 with PhD), including 46 professors and 131 researchers very committed to training the next generation of scientists, at present 14 post-docs and 237 PhD students. CICECO has earned a strong international reputation in its field and is very productive, publishing over 550 scientific papers and around 30 patents annually. Our successful collaborations with both local and international industries have significantly contributed to national economic and social progress. CICECO has launched 4 startups and actively participates in EU programs, including 7 active ERC grants and 28 additional projects. We have state-of-the-art Materials Science and Engineering research facilities, and are actively engaged in community outreach efforts, targeting citizens of all ages.Looking ahead, CICECO’s activities will focus on developing innovative solutions to societal challenges in Digitization, Energy, Sustainability and Health. Our research will explore quantum materials, light-emitting materials, piezoelectric and ferroelectric materials, and porous materials, leveraging artificial intelligence and computer simulations in their design. We are working on materials pivotal for the digital transition, including light-emitting materials for tomorrow’s Information and Communication Technology, encompassing the Internet of Things, sensing, and security tagging. Addressing the urgent need for a sustainable planet, we are committed to the energy transition towards cleaner, and efficient energy sources and processes. Materials science plays a crucial role in tackling some of humanity’s most significant challenges. We aim to enhance materials for photovoltaics, fuel cells, batteries, supercapacitors, and mixed renewable energy harvesting technologies, including thermoelectrics, piezoelectrics and magnetocalorics.Sustainability is core to our work, guiding the development of new materials and processes that contribute to a Circular Economy. Beyond their excellent properties or performance metrics, these innovations should foster a regenerative system that closes loops in material and energy use. Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 3, we are committed to ensuring healthy lives and promoting the well-being for all at all ages. Our ambitious program includes developing biomaterials for implants, advancing tissue engineering and drug delivery systems, and creating novel biopharmaceuticals based on antibodies or genetic therapies.