The Faculty of Biotechnology of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa, in Porto, hosted on May 16 the national final of the 19th edition of the Biotechnology Olympiad. This annual initiative, organised in partnership with the Portuguese Society of Biotechnology, aims to promote scientific and technological culture among secondary school students, fostering interest in biotechnology and life sciences.
In this edition, 48 students from secondary schools across the country were selected from more than 300 participants in the regional eliminatory rounds to compete in the final stage. Throughout the day, finalists faced various theoretical and practical challenges — including a written test and a laboratory exercise — designed to assess their knowledge and skills in multiple areas of biotechnology: science, ethics, sustainability, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary thinking.
“The Biotechnology Olympiad is a true celebration of young talent and scientific curiosity. By providing challenging experiences and direct contact with research and higher education, we are sowing seeds for future scientific careers and reinforcing the role of science in building a more sustainable future. The increase in participation in 2025 — from 148 students from 14 schools in 2024 to 309 students from 34 schools — shows that this initiative resonates strongly with secondary schools”, highlights Paula Teixeira, lecturer at the Faculty of Biotechnology and member of the event’s organising committee.
In the final moments, the students’ testimonials reflected the enthusiasm and positive impact of the experience. Afonso, from Colégio Luso-Francês, thanked Católica “for the opportunity to get to know a little more about this vast world that is science and biotechnology”. Raul, from Escola Secundária Arquiteto Oliveira Ferreira, added: “I would like to thank Católica for the experience provided”.
The 2025 edition once again highlighted the Olympiad’s role as a platform for discovery and inspiration for future scientists, fostering close connections between schools, the university, and scientific research. The Faculty of Biotechnology thus reaffirms its commitment to promoting scientific literacy and encouraging vocations in science and technology.
