On July 3rd, the Centre for Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry (CBQF) community gathered at the Universidade Católica Portuguesa in Porto to celebrate CBQF Day 2025, a full day dedicated to highlighting biotechnology-driven science and its contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Held at the Comendador Arménio Miranda Auditorium, the event brought together researchers, students, alumni and guests in a dynamic programme celebrating scientific excellence and collaboration.
The day began with an opening session led by Isabel Braga da Cruz, Pro-Rector of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa, and Manuela Pintado, Director of CBQF, who welcomed participants and reflected on the Centre’s mission to promote research with societal impact.
One of the highlights of the morning was the round table discussion titled “CBQF across time: the role of research in achieving the SDGs”, which brought together current and former directors Manuela Pintado, António Rangel, Rui Morais and Tim Hogg, in a stimulating conversation moderated by Carla Santos and Ezequiel Coscueta. Together, they revisited the Centre’s history and debated its future contributions to global sustainability challenges.
In the afternoon, the “Three-minute Project Pitch” session gave young researchers the opportunity to present their work in short, impactful formats. The topics covered were diverse, ranging from plant nutrition and how the meat industry is driving a new generation of sustainable food, to microbial terroir in wine and innovative biomaterials for skin health.
Throughout the day, participants also engaged in a Creative Jam, which concluded with a final presentation and awards ceremony recognising originality and teamwork.
In the words of CBQF Director, Manuela Pintado: “CBQF Day is a celebration of our shared commitment to science that matters – science that connects, transforms and creates value for society. It was inspiring to witness the energy, creativity and purpose of our community.”
The event concluded with a closing address by Isabel Vasconcelos, Vice-Rector of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa for Teaching and Pedagogical Innovation, who highlighted the role of research in education and social progress.
CBQF Day 2025 reaffirmed the identity of the Centre for Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry as a hub of interdisciplinary research and innovation, driven by a vision of sustainability and impact.
