What is INESC TEC?
INESC TEC – the Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science – is a private non-profit research association with Public Interest status. It’s all about scientific research, technological development, technology transfer, advanced consulting and training, and even pre-incubation of new tech-based companies. Operating right at the crossroads of academia and business, INESC TEC brings together universities, companies, public administration, and society. The goal? To turn research knowledge into real-world technology transfer projects that create value and have immediate social impact.
Main Benefits and Key Facts
Here’s a quick snapshot of what makes INESC TEC stand out:
- Present in 6 sites across Porto, Braga, and Vila Real
- Comprises 13 R&D Centres grouped into four main domains: Computer Science, Industrial and Systems Engineering, Networked Intelligent Systems, and Power and Energy
- Hosts over 700 integrated researchers, including about 350 PhDs
- Team includes staff researchers, grant holders, affiliated researchers, trainees, and technical and administrative support
- Focuses on creating a fulfilling and sustainable future through impactful science, technology, and innovation
Research Domains Driving Innovation
INESC TEC thrives in a multidisciplinary environment, organised into clusters to boost synergy and competitiveness. Their research domains cover a wide spectrum, including Artificial Intelligence, Bioengineering, Communications, Computer Science and Engineering, Photonics, Power and Energy Systems, Robotics, and Systems Engineering and Management. This broad approach allows them to tackle complex challenges from multiple angles, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Innovation Through TEC4 Thematic Areas
Innovation at INESC TEC is market-driven and versatile, structured into thematic areas known as TEC4. These areas focus on real-world challenges and include:
- TEC4AGRO-FOOD
- TEC4ENERGY
- TEC4HEALTH
- TEC4INDUSTRY
- TEC4SEA
- TECPARTNERSHIPS
Each TEC4 area targets specific sectors, ensuring that research and development efforts are aligned with market needs and societal demands.
Recent Highlights and Achievements
INESC TEC has been making waves recently. For example, they’re working on early detection technology for heart diseases aimed at developing countries, using Artificial Intelligence to make cardiac diagnoses more accessible where specialised care is scarce. They’ve also teamed up with SINTEF, a leading Norwegian R&D centre, on offshore energy structure health monitoring. Plus, a researcher from INESC TEC, Miriam Seoane Santos, won the prestigious ERCIM Cor Baayen Award for her work on responsible AI development – the first Portuguese scientist to do so. And for the third year running, INESC TEC secured a spot on the European Innovation Awards podium with a solution improving kidney transplantation efficiency, potentially saving millions in healthcare costs.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – through early detection technologies and healthcare innovations
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – via research in power and energy systems and offshore energy monitoring
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – by fostering technology transfer and innovation ecosystems
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – through smart systems and engineering solutions
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – collaborating with international research centres and industry partners
Contact and Location
INESC TEC is headquartered in Porto, Portugal. For more information or inquiries, they can be reached at +351 222 094 000 or via email at info@inesctec.pt. Whether you’re curious about their latest projects or interested in collaboration, they’re open to connecting and sharing their journey towards impactful science and technology.
