Research Infrastructure and Laboratory Visits
During the visit, the delegation received a detailed overview of the university’s laboratory infrastructure and research activities led by Rui Morais, Associate Professor at the Faculty of Biotechnology. Particular attention was given to research groups working with biologically derived and bioactive materials, as well as those focused on food industry and biotechnology applications.
The professional programme was rich and varied: Pedro Miguel Rodrigues presented successfully completed and ongoing projects based on IT and data-driven approaches, illustrating the application of digital technologies in food and biotechnology research. António Rangel showcased microfluidics and lateral flow test-based bioanalytical research in his laboratory, emphasizing the practical and industrial relevance of automated, miniaturized analytical systems. Ana Leite Oliveira introduced the functioning and research themes of the biotechnology laboratory, which align with international trends in sustainable biotechnology solutions.
Strategic Discussions and Erasmus+ Cooperation
Strategic discussions also took place with João Paulo Ferreira, Associate Professor and Faculty Erasmus+ Coordinator, during which the two institutions’ cooperation directions were discussed, with special focus on joint research proposals, student and staff mobility, and co-supervision of research.
Benchmarking International Mobility Practices
Our colleagues held benchmarking meetings with representatives of the UCP Porto International Office (Magda Ferro, Head of Office, and Guilherme Delgado, Mobility Coordinator) to discuss mobility support processes, communication practices, and student services. These conversations highlighted numerous shared professional interests between the two institutions, providing a strong foundation for further collaboration in education, research, and international mobility.
Shared Values and Future Plans
Both parties expressed special appreciation that, as Catholic universities, their shared values provide a strong basis for deepening the partnership.
The Porto programme offered inspiring experiences both for research areas and for the development of international relations. Follow-up discussions will continue in the spring in Budapest, when representatives from UCP will visit Pázmány Péter Catholic University ITK to learn more about the local laboratories and study offerings and to further strengthen the collaboration.
