The Escola Superior de Biotecnologia da Universidade Católica Portuguesa hosted the 12th edition of Jornadas de Biotecnologia, an event organized by the students with the support of the school board and the students association.
During the opening session, Isabel Braga da Cruz, dean of Universidade católica Portuguesa - Porto, emphasized the central role of the event. “These days have established themselves as a privileged meeting point between students, researchers and professionals in the field of biotechnology, in a day that is already a landmark in the life of Escola Superior de Biotecnologia”.
The dean also highlighted that the Jornadas de Biotecnologia “play a particularly relevant role in bringing students closer to the job market and to research, allowing direct contact with companies and researchers, reflection on career paths, access to internship or project opportunities and a better understanding of the real-world applications of scientific knowledge.”
“Events like this reinforce our mission to train qualified professionals who are critical thinkers and committed to innovation and the impact of science on society”.
Paula Castro, dean of Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, recalled that “the Jornadas de Biotecnologia are a space of sharing, inspiration and networking”, adding “a very special word to the students and their willingness to challenge themselves.”
“Seeing this happening at this institution is very encouraging and proves that student activism remains very much alive”.
Rich and diverse program
The day featured an intense program, starting with the panel “The Winning Trio: The Plate, Training, and the Mind”, with Angélica André, Inês Miguel, Maria Roriz, and Pedro Cruz.
This was followed by practical workshops such as “Aging 60 Years! An Immersive Experience”, led by Armando Almeida, and “Behind the Cosmetic Industry”, conducted by Ana Barros.
The speed networking session with SONAE and AMPLIAQUA allowed participants to make direct contact with the business sector.
In the afternoon, was time for the debate “Genetic Editing: Where to Draw the Line?”, featuring Marta Vasconcelos, Silvana Lobo, Sílvia Coimbra and Luísa Azevedo, followed by the workshop “I Started Working. Now What?”, led by Daniela Cunha.
Already looking ahead to 2027
The success that the Jornadas de Biotecnologia achieved year after year means that planning for the next edition is already underway.
At the closing session, Rodrigo Ribeiro, president of Associação de Estudantes da Escola Superior de Biotecnologia,, reminded everyone that the association “is always available to help,” especially because “there is always something to improve at different levels.” “For the next edition, we will be even better and Associação de Estudantes will always be present”.
Iris Domingues, head of organizing committee, highlighted the “excellent moments of knowledge and networking that the day provided” and expressed her gratitude for the support given by the school’s board and, above all, for the work of all the students involved.
The day ended with student pitch presentations, followed by a Porto de Honra and sunset gathering, a moment of socializing and informal networking that featured performances by the tuna groups of Universidade Católica Portuguesa.
