By studying the diversity and abundance of atmospheric microbes, we aim to identify their main sources, understand how they are transported into the air, and reveal the mechanisms that allow them to persist and even thrive while airborne. A fascinating aspect of our work is examining whether these microorganisms remain metabolically active once suspended in the atmosphere—and if they do, what environmental factors control their activity. Some of these microbes are capable of producing special proteins that trigger ice formation in cloud droplets at relatively warm temperatures (close to 0°C). This biological ice-nucleation process can act as a catalyst for rainfall, with significant implications for ecosystems, agriculture, and urban environments.

We investigate these ice-nucleating proteins both in terms of their molecular function and their evolutionary history, seeking to understand how they have developed and how they might be harnessed or mimicked. By uncovering the roles of airborne microbes in atmospheric processes, we aim to contribute new knowledge that can improve the accuracy and predictive power of weather and climate models.
Our work stands at the intersection of microbiology, atmospheric science, and climate research—with the ambition to illuminate one of the lesser-known, yet potentially powerful, drivers of Earth’s climate system.

Frontier Research
Our research sits at the frontier of science because it challenges traditional boundaries between disciplines and explores a largely uncharted component of Earth’s climate system: the role of microorganisms in the atmosphere. While microbes have long been studied in soil, water, and living organisms, their presence and function in the air—one of the most extreme and dynamic environments on Earth—remains a scientific frontier. Investigating life in the sky is not only inherently fascinating, it also has the potential to reshape our understanding of key atmospheric processes such as cloud formation, precipitation, and even climate regulation.
This field pushes the limits of microbiology, atmospheric science, and climate modeling, demanding novel methodologies, cross-disciplinary thinking, and a readiness to confront the unknown. We ask bold questions: Can airborne microbes actively influence the weather? Are their biological processes significant enough to be included in climate models? What are the evolutionary drivers behind their adaptations to life in the atmosphere?
Answering these questions requires innovative approaches—from sampling microbial life at high altitudes, to studying their ice-nucleating proteins at the molecular level, to integrating findings into atmospheric models. This kind of work is inherently exploratory and high-risk, but also high-gain. The insights we generate could have significant implications for agriculture, urban water management, and global climate policy.
For science journalist trainees, this is an exceptional training ground. First, the topic is timely: climate science and biodiversity are central themes in public discourse, yet the idea that life in the air could influence the weather remains relatively unknown to the broader public. Communicating this complex, cutting-edge science in an accessible and engaging way offers an exciting challenge—and a chance to make a real impact on how people understand the planet.
Second, the interdisciplinary nature of the project provides exposure to a wide range of scientific techniques, questions, and communities—from microbiologists and molecular biologists to meteorologists and environmental modelers. This gives trainees a deep appreciation for how different scientific cultures collaborate to tackle shared problems.
Finally, our research group is internationally diverse and highly collaborative, offering an inspiring, open, and intellectually stimulating environment. Trainees will be immersed in a culture of curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity—an ideal setting to sharpen their ability to observe, interpret, and communicate science at the cutting edge.

Frontier research

The Center for Ecological Dynamics in a Novel Biosphere (ECONOVO) is at the forefront of research into how anthropogenic pressures are reshaping ecosystems globally. ECONOVO tackles one of the most urgent frontiers in ecology: understanding and guiding the emergence of novel ecosystems in a rapidly changing world. The center integrates macroecology, biodiversity science, paleoecology, archaeology, socio-ecological systems, rewilding, and vegetation modeling to uncover both the historical underpinnings and future trajectories of ecosystems facing accelerating climate change, biological invasions, and land-use transformations. ECONOVO’s work bridges fundamental and solution-oriented science, aiming to steer novel ecological dynamics toward outcomes that support biodiversity and biosphere functioning.

ECONOVO is led by Professor Jens-Christian Svenning, a globally leading macroecologist with more than 600 peer-reviewed publications and over 60,000 citations. His research spans continents and timescales, with major contributions to our understanding of plant distribution, ecosystem functioning, rewilding, and conservation under global change. ECONOVO’s environment is dynamic and international, offering a fertile setting for deep engagement with cutting-edge ecological science and its societal relevance, making it a highly suitable host for a science journalist interested in frontier environmental research.

Our pioneering research aims to uncover fundamental microbial networking principles and understand their role in diverse contexts, ranging from intracellular endosymbionts to intercellular cross-kingdom microbiomes. We utilize innovative microscopy methods, cutting-edge omics technologies, and bioinformatic analyses to decipher previously unknown microbial communication and cooperation forms. These findings have potentially transformative implications for our understanding of microbial communities and could open new avenues for applications in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. Journalists will find diverse points of contact with us, ranging from the visualization of complex microbial interactions to exploring the ecological and biotechnological relevance of networking.

Frontier Research

MibiNet addresses fundamental questions about the organization and function of microbial networks that have been insufficiently understood to date. CRC1535 will pursue a profound “learning from nature” strategy: fundamental principles and unifying concepts from natural examples of stable microbial interactions will be challenged by implementing them in the synthetic construction of designer organelles, endosymbionts, and cross-kingdom communities. We transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries by integrating innovative methods from cell biology, genomics, physics, and bioinformatics to decipher the complex interactions between microorganisms at various levels – from subcellular processes to global biogeochemical cycles.

Our research is groundbreaking as it uncovers novel concepts of microbial communication and cooperation, and could revolutionize our understanding of the fundamental principles of life in microbial communities. This innovative approach, deconstructing and synthetically reconstructing natural systems, holds the potential for scientific breakthroughs in microbiome research, new antimicrobial strategies, and the sustainable use of microbial resources in biotechnology and agriculture. By investigating previously unknown mechanisms and developing novel analytical tools, we are venturing into uncharted scientific territory and thus addressing genuine ‘Frontier Research’ questions.

FutureNeuro focuses on three key areas:

Diagnostics: We are improving the accuracy and speed of neurological disease diagnosis by identifying genetic, neuroelectric, and circulating biomarkers. Using cutting-edge genomics and sequencing technologies, including long-read approaches, we work to increase diagnostic yield and enable precision medicine. Our research integrates seamlessly with clinical practice, developing blood-based and data-driven biomarkers, as well as ultrasensitive monitoring technologies to detect disease progression and treatment response.

Therapeutics: We are pioneering disease-modifying treatments that target hyperexcitable and damaged brain networks. We focus on noncoding RNAs, metabolic and epigenetic processes, the blood-brain barrier, and neuroinflammation, using state-of-the-art techniques such as super-resolution imaging, single-cell ‘omics, and neurophysiology. Promising therapies are tested in our diverse translational models, including cell, animal, and human systems, to establish efficacy, understand mechanisms of action, and advance the most effective candidates toward preclinical development.

Digital Health: We are transforming and democratising healthcare through digital innovation. Our work focuses on developing connected health solutions that empower patients to monitor their well-being while enabling clinicians to make more informed decisions. We leverage real-world data and AI to improve personalised care, integrate digital tools into clinical workflows, and enhance research-enabled healthcare systems. Through collaboration with industry and healthcare providers, we are shaping the future of patient-centred, technology-driven neurological care.

By combining scientific excellence with national clinical networks and industry collaboration, FutureNeuro is driving research that improves lives.

Frontier research

FutureNeuro performs world-leading, challenge-based, high-impact science. We aim to improve how we diagnose brain diseases, to implement genomics for more personalised and effective therapy, develop the next generation of treatments, and harness state-of-the-art digital technologies to enable informed clinical-decision-making and deliver more personalised and proactive healthcare for patients and their families. Five FutureNeuro researchers are ERC awardees, who are carrying out diverse frontier research in areas including psychotic experiences in young people, circadian rhythms in families, gene therapies for age-related macular degeneration, making and breaking habits, and microglial biology.

FutureNeuro researchers have already made scientific breakthroughs in each thematic area:

Diagnostics: Our researchers discovered a new microRNA linked to epilepsy (miR-335) which targets voltage-gated sodium channels. This microRNA normally functions to restrain brain excitability and the study showed that a gene therapy (AAV9) carrying miR-335 delivered to the hippocampus of mice protected against seizures in a preclinical model. The study also discovered that cannabidiol (CBD), a new treatment for Dravet syndrome, alters expression of microRNAs in the mouse brain and may contribute to the drug’s mechanism of action.

Therapeutics: Our researchers, alongside colleagues, unveiled a significant breakthrough regarding the impact of Covid-19 on the brain. Using dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI, they showed a correlation between blood brain barrier (BBB) disruption and changes in brain volume. The analysis of gene expression revealed dysregulation in the coagulation system and a dampened adaptive immune response in individuals with brain fog. In vitro experiments revealed an increase in adhesion of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to human brain endothelial cells, and exposure of endothelial cells to serum from long COVID patients induced the expression of inflammatory markers. The findings suggest that sustained systemic inflammation and persistent, localised BBB dysfunction is a key feature of long COVID-associated brain fog.

Digital Health: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a rare neurodegenerative and currently incurable disease. Due to the absence of a definitive test, diagnosis often involves extensive medical exams, lasting up to a year. This process can be exhausting for patients and their families. FutureNeuro researchers worked towards the identification of the predictors of a caregiver’s quality of life (QoL), in addition to the development of a model for clinical use to alert clinicians when a caregiver is at risk of experiencing low QoL. The study identified novel factors impacting caregiver QoL in ALS, incorporating both patient and caregiver traits. Furthermore, employing machine learning and explainable AI, the research unveiled a proof-of-concept model showcasing AI’s potential to enhance healthcare decision-making processes.

CIIMAR research programmes allow the discovery and study of new species and ecosystems, at different depths of the ocean or in other aquatic systems, and provide basic knowledge and tools to support the protection and management of marine, estuarine, and freshwater ecosystems. CIIMAR research leads to the discovery of marine products with potential biotechnological applications in multiple areas including environmental (bioremediation), human and animal health (drugs, cosmetics, nutraceuticals), and industrial (food and feed; paints and coatings). In addition, some research programmes are dedicated to optimizing the growth potential of current and alternative species for aquaculture and to providing high quality seafood for human consumption, which is vital for tackling nutrition and seafood quality issues.

While increasing ocean literacy is a key part of CIIMAR’s mission, the institute goes further by conducting responsible research innovation through research projects that engage diverse social actors as partners.
CIIMAR’s main headquarters are at the stunning Porto Cruise Terminal, in Matosinhos, however, its research community spreads across laboratories in 5 units of the University of Porto, at the Polytechnic Institute of Porto, at the Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) in Lisbon and at the University of Madeira.
Its vibrant community is composed of around 660 people from 32 nationalities. More than 100 research projects are actively running, with CIIMAR participating in over 20 Horizon Europe projects, across Pillar 1 (Excellent Science), Pillar 2 (Global Challenges & European industrial competitiveness), and Widening Participation and Spreading Excellence actions, overseeing 7 of them as coordinators. In addition, CIIMAR is involved in several major technology transfer projects, and in projects funded by the Recovery and Resilience Plan.

Frontier Research
The ocean is determinant of the planet’s health, absorbing excessive heat and energy that is produced, and is a source of food and economic activity for human populations. Climate change is taking a heavy toll on the ocean, causing ice melting, sea-level rise, and water acidification, among others, which ultimately impact marine biodiversity and the lives of coastal communities. Finding strategies to prevent or mitigate the impact of climate change in oceans, coastal environments, and freshwater ecosystems, is of utmost importance. At CIIMAR, several research groups explore different strategies and tools to effectively address these issues. Our diverse range of research activities spans from the Antarctic Peninsula to estuarine ecosystems, encompassing the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change, pollution, and invasive species.
CIIMAR is conducting fundamental research and field monitoring programs to enhance the physical, chemical, and biological knowledge of the marine environment and ongoing changes, while also addressing land/river/ocean and ocean/atmosphere interactions. The study of emerging toxins, the development of biosensors, and nature-based solutions for ecosystem recovery is actively pursued in CIIMAR. Using experimental approaches, CIIMAR is examining causality among stressors, and their long-term effects on organisms and ecosystems, including research on biological, chemical and physical pollution, and climate change drivers.
The knowledge about the (whole) ocean is still very narrow. 71% of our blue planet is ocean, which corresponds to an extremely vast area of Earth that is hard to scan. Adding to this complex scenario is the fact that 67% of the ocean is deep-ocean, i.e., it starts 200 meters below the surface and can go up to more than 10 km depth. Exploring the deepest secrets of the ocean is human and technologically challenging, and has been impossible until very recently. We are now living in the most exciting era to discover the ocean, as humanity is developing technology that allows its exploration, at different depths. CIIMAR is involved in this exploration, with state-of-the-art technologies and facilities, and combining their expertise with international partners. By exploring the richness of ocean resources, CIIMAR is discovering and characterizing new bioactive compounds with ecological, pharmaceutical, or industrial applications.
CIIMAR research is also elucidating and comprehending the underlying fundamentals of animal molecular physiology, enhancing understanding of species biodiversity, deciphering fish life cycles, contributing to exploitation management, promoting animal growth, health and welfare, and ensuring seafood quality and safety for human consumption. Meeting the challenge of increasing production amidst resources scarcity on an overpopulated planet requires prioritizing animal resilience, feed efficiency, circularity, and climate change mitigation in both fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

1- Impact of the microbiome on reproduction (Host researcher: Inmaculada Moreno) :
Focused on the endometrial microbiome and its clinical implications in infertility and obstetric complications such as implantation failure, recurrent miscarriage and preterm delivery

2- Maternal-fetal crosstalk (Host researcher: Felipe Vilella):
Focused on understanding the mechanisms of communication between the mother and the embryo and elucidating how the mother genetically modifies the preimplantation embryo.

3- Maternal contribution in obstetric pathologies (Host researcher: Tamara Garrido):
The main focus of our group is deciphering the origin and causes of pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia.

4- Gynecological tumors (Host researcher: Aymara Mas):
We focus on the development of accurate and non-invasive diagnostic methods for gynecologic tumors.

5- Menopause and ovarian rejuvenation (Host researchers: Xavi Santamaría-Felipe Vilella):
Focused on understanding the mechanisms of ovarian aging and developing new strategies to delay or prevent reproductive aging.

Our main activity is biomedical research in the field of reproductive medicine and women’s health, focusing on clinical translation. As a multidisciplinary team of more than forty professionals, we are proud to be linked to the University of Valencia and the INCLIVA Health Research Institute (IIS INCLIVA). INCLIVA is a prestigious research center accredited by the Carlos III Health Research Institute, Spain’s leading national body for promoting health research. This prestigious affiliation enhances our institutional capacity, fosters academic careers, and ensures that our research meets the highest national standard. Together, we work to create a world where pathologies affecting the UTERUS will no longer be an impossible barrier.

Frontier Research
Our research at the Carlos Simon Foundation for Research in Women’s Health qualifies as frontier research due to its innovative approach to addressing critical and globally impactful challenges in women’s health. We are dedicated to deciphering the complex molecular, genetic, and microbiological mechanisms of the human uterus in both health and disease, with a strong emphasis on translational research that directly benefits clinical practice.
Women’s health, particularly in the areas of infertility, pregnancy complications, uterine tumors, and menopause, is often under-researched despite its profound impact on global health:
-Infertility affects up to 186 million individuals worldwide, with approximately 35% of cases attributed to uterine dysfunction.
-Preterm birth impacts 10% of pregnancies, while preeclampsia results in the death of millions of infants and mothers annually.
-Menopause affects 50% of the world’s population after age 50, leading to significant changes in women’s health and well-being.
-Uterine tumours, which are present in 70% of women globally, and ovarian cancer, the deadliest gynaecological cancer, pose immense public health challenges.

Our institution tackles these issues through cutting-edge research programs, leveraging the latest scientific advances in microbiome research, maternal-fetal communication, obstetric pathologies, gynaecological tumours, and ovarian rejuvenation. Each of our research lines is aimed at uncovering new insights into these conditions and developing innovative, evidence-based solutions that can transform clinical outcomes for women worldwide.
Moreover, the interdisciplinary nature of our research, involving experts in molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, and clinical practitioners in our projects allows for a direct connection between research and patient care, offering journalists the opportunity to engage with both scientists and clinicians, gaining insights into the real-world applications of our work.

The Carlos Simon Foundation embodies the characteristics of frontier research: high-risk, high-reward investigations that push the boundaries of current knowledge to achieve breakthroughs in women’s health. In this context, the Carlos Simon Foundation is well-positioned to host journalists under the FRONTIERS initiative by integrating cutting-edge scientific methodologies with a patient-centered approach, our research not only addresses fundamental biological questions but also aims to develop novel therapeutic approaches, thus contributing to the advancement of healthcare.

In fact, GIMM’s structure includes two core components: GIMM Discovery, which focuses on fundamental research and the pursuit of scientific breakthroughs, and GIMM Care, which emphasizes the application of scientific knowledge to improve healthcare and quality of life. Through the Care initiative, GIMM aims to revolutionize clinical and translational research by creating a pioneering Center of Excellence in Portugal. This people-centered, data-driven model brings together a diverse range of stakeholders to collaboratively address key health challenges, accelerate the translation of research into clinical practice, and foster innovative solutions that respond to the most urgent healthcare needs.

Through these efforts, GIMM stands at the forefront of global efforts to enhance scientific understanding and improve human health, making it an ideal partner for those committed to supporting cutting-edge research with profound societal impact.

Frontier Research

At GIMM, we position our science at the forefront of frontier research by embracing a bold and transformative approach to discovery that integrates fundamental and applied research. Our unique structure, divided into GIMM Discovery and GIMM Care, embodies this vision by unifying curiosity-driven exploration with a focus on real-world healthcare solutions.
GIMM Discovery is the heart of our fundamental research, where scientists are encouraged to pursue groundbreaking ideas that push the boundaries of our understanding of biology and human health. This component thrives on curiosity-driven research, fostering a culture where curiosity, innovative thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration are encouraged. By nurturing this exploratory spirit, GIMM Discovery not only advances our knowledge but also lays the groundwork for future innovations that can have profound impacts on science and society.
GIMM Care, on the other hand, is dedicated to translating these fundamental discoveries into practical applications that directly address healthcare challenges. By focusing on clinical and translational research, GIMM Care aims to shorten the path from fundamental scientific discoveries to real-world health solutions. This component brings together a diverse network of stakeholders, including clinicians, researchers, patients, and industry partners, to co-create innovative, data-driven approaches that enhance health outcomes and promote equity.
The synergy between GIMM Discovery and GIMM CARE ensures a dynamic flow of knowledge and innovation, where fundamental research informs applied projects, and practical needs inspire new scientific questions. This interconnected approach enables GIMM to rapidly adapt to evolving healthcare challenges, driving both scientific excellence and societal impact. By bridging the divide between curiosity-driven research and its application, we position GIMM not just as a leader in molecular medicine but as a catalyst for transformative change in global health.
Beyond the walls of GIMM, we actively shape the national and European R&D landscape through collaboration, promoting excellence in research and training, and engaging society in scientific and cultural development. Our efforts extend beyond traditional boundaries, pushing the limits of scientific knowledge and making a profound impact on global health and well-being. By focusing on ensuring these values and aims, GIMM stands at the forefront of frontier research, driving transformative change and advancing the frontiers of molecular medicine.

For over a decade, the LCSB has established a state-of-the-art infrastructure and developed skills in several fields, such as genetics, metaproteomics, enzymology and cheminformatics. We foster interdisciplinarity because we strongly believe that complex problems can only be solved when the best minds from different disciplines come together and form a team.

We work together with scientific partners worldwide and carry out collaborative projects with research-oriented companies and hospitals, to accelerate the translation of research results into clinical applications and to tackle the growing issue represented by neurodegenerative diseases worldwide.

Research projects
– experimental oncology – study of environmental, genetic, epigenetic and (patho)physiological mechanisms of carcinogenesis and cancer progression,
research and development of new approaches to cancer prevention, diagnosis and therapy.
– experimental endocrinology – research in the fields of endocrinology, neuroendocrinology and psychiatry, cardiology, exercise physiology and integrative (patho)physiology of metabolic disorders, as well as genetics and DNA diagnostics of rare disorders with focus on direct translation into the clinical practice. – – virology – research on epidemiology, pathogenesis and immunology and of viral and rickettsial infections, research and development of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, development of analytical methods for practice.
-neurobiology – research of central nervous system focused on vascular and traumatic disorders, mechanisms of injury, neuroprotection, and new approaches to regeneration of nerve tissue.

S. Pastorekova: Role of the CA IX ectodomain in tumor growth and metastasis
B. Smolkova: Identification of biological markers for prevention and translational medicine in pancreatic cancer
J. Ukropec: Molecular mediators of the response to complex lifestyle intervention in patients with obesity: Regulation of metabolic flexibility in vitro and in vivo
B. Ukropcova: Ameliorating Effects of Aging by Physical Exercise: Molecular, Metabolic and Structural Adaptations, Multi-Organ Integrative Approach
B. Klempa: Zoonoses Emergence across Degraded and Restored Forest Ecosystems (ZOE).

Ongoing research in specific pioneering areas includes:

• Exploring new paradigms for cellular signalling (Host researcher: Maria Christophorou)
• Investigating the acquisition of drug resistance in fungal pathogens (Host researcher: Jon Houseley)
• Studying protein aggregation (several research groups in the Signalling research programme)
• Dissecting how the pace of development is set in different species (Host researcher: Teresa Rayon)
• Overcoming the effects of age on the immune system (several research groups in the Immunology research programme)

The research of the Institute is underpinned by eight cutting-edge scientific facilities. The equipment and the expertise of the facility teams enable our researchers to ‘think big’, taking new approaches to make discoveries and advance our knowledge of biology. We have a tradition of pioneering new research techniques that take science forward.

Our work provides the foundation for more applied, commercial bioscience. Our co-location with the 60 life science companies on the Babraham Research Campus provides the perfect environment for entrepreneurship, collaboration and innovation as we work to accelerate the application of our discoveries for societal benefit. Our partnerships with academic and commercial bioscientists allow better science to happy more efficiently on both sides. In addition to joining the Institute’s community, a journalist in residence would also have exposure to the campus community, exploring knowledge exchange at the interface of academic and commercial research.

The Institute has a long history of discovery research and our research is classed as internationally leading. Our 20 research groups, working across three themes, bring curiosity, bold scientific ambition and expertise to undertake pioneering discovery research. Our approach focuses on cellular and molecular biology working in several model systems (fruit flies, nematode worms, cell cultures, mice, human samples). This research is enabled by the Institute’s cutting-edge scientific facilities (bioinformatics, biological chemistry, biological support unit (small animal unit), flow cytometry, gene targeting, genomics, imaging, mass spectrometry) and achieved by innovation from our research teams who develop techniques to provide novel biological insights.

Our findings advance our understanding of human biology and generates the essential biological knowledge that provides the platform for lifestyle and healthcare interventions.

Scientific progress has driven incredible advances in recent centuries and life expectancies are higher than ever before. Yet improvement in healthy life span – the time when we’re still fit and active, often called health span – has been minimal. Almost 1 in 5 people in the UK are now over 65 years old and that proportion is rising. By studying how cells in our body specialise, regulate their genes, communicate and defend themselves against illness, we hope to gain insights into why we age, why some of us age faster than others and how we can stay healthy for longer.

The biology of ageing is generally not well understood, so we take a fundamental approach to understanding how our bodies change as we age. It’s not yet possible to directly intervene in the human ageing process. Instead, we use a combination of cell culture, animal models, organoids, and computational models to examine and understand the basic principles of biological ageing.

Many major illnesses including cancer, diabetes and heart disease become more common with age. Older people are also much more prone to contagious diseases such as flu. By understanding ageing, we can lay the foundations for ways to revitalise ageing systems in our bodies, which could greatly reduce the number of cases of diseases like these and many others.

The Cluster of Excellence CMFI brings together researchers from different disciplines such as infection biology, immunology, bioinformatics, pharmaceutical biology, antibiotics research, molecular and medical microbiology, biotechnology, environmental biology, systems biology, chemistry, and medical history and ethics. Their common goal is to elucidate the mechanisms of interaction between beneficial and harmful bacteria and the host in order to develop novel targeted therapeutic and anti-infective treatments.

The CMFI is one of more than 50 Clusters of Excellence funded by German federal and state governments as part of the Excellence Strategy to sustainably strengthen Germany as a center of science, improve its international competitiveness and make cutting-edge research at German universities visible. In addition to the University of Tübingen, the Max Planck Institute for Biology and the University Hospital Tübingen are involved in the CMFI.

Its main research directions include Immunity & Inflammation, Neuroscience, Cancer Biology, RNA Biology & Epigenetics, Bioinformatics & Computational Biology. Additionally, BSRC FLEMING has recently established its frontier research in Biomolecular Engineering & Synthetic Biology with a European Research Area chair (ERA Chair), Dr. Georgios Skretas. These research directions reflect the work of its group leaders and serve as links between the two FLEMING Institutes: Institute for Bioinnovation (IBI) and Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR). The focus of IFBR is on unravelling the molecular and cellular basis of disease via novel animal models of human pathologies, while IBI’s vision is to advance fundamental research achievements towards innovative translational biotechnologies and drug development.
BSRC FLEMING’s strength and international recognition arises from pioneering research towards understanding the molecular and cellular basis of human diseases, and development and validation of relevant animal models of chronic inflammatory diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic diseases, cancer and autoimmune syndromes, among others, and the development of new approaches for their diagnosis and treatment, using transdisciplinary approaches and state-of the art facilities and technologies. It is of note that several of its researchers have been included in the list of outstanding research leaders in Europe awarded ERC grants.
The center also coordinates two major Research Infrastructures (RIs) for modeling human diseases and bioinformatics/biocomputing resources, while it participates in personalized medicine, precision oncology and bioimaging RIs.

IDIBAPS research is organized into research areas and multidisciplinary programs.

5 Research Areas and 3 transversal groups:
1. Biological aggression and response mechanisms
2. Respiratory, cardiovascular and renal pathobiology and bioengineering
3. Liver, digestive system and metabolism
4. Clinical and experimental neuroscience
5. Oncology and haematology
6. Transversal research groups focusing on primary care, pharmacology and nursing

Multidisciplinary Programs:
1. Transitional cancer research program
2. Lymphoid neoplasms program
3. Synaptic autoimmunity in neurology, psychiatry and cognitive neuroscience program

Among the multiple research groups, we would like to highlight the following research lines, supported by ERC grants, for the FRONTIERS Science Journalism Residency Program:
– Neuronal control of metabolism directed by Marc Claret, Principal Investigator of MITOSENSING project: https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/725004
– Cortical circuit dynamics directed by Jaime de la Rocha, Principal Investigator of PRIORS project: https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/683209
– Molecular pathology of lymphoid neoplasms directed by Elías Campo, Principal Investigator of BCLLatlas project: https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/810287

Furthermore, the work environment fosters a strong culture of science communication, offering fellows a full immersion into the realm of scientific outreach. Fellows will have the opportunity to develop essential communication skills, create engaging content, and broaden the reach of scientific discoveries to the general public. This fellowship is ideal for professionals interested in exploring the intersection of science, journalism, and digital communication while collaborating with a multidisciplinary and inspiring team.

This offers an immersive experience within the vibrant ecosystem of CNC-UC / CiBB, providing fellows with unique access to the forefront of biomedical research and science communication. Fellows will be fully integrated into the CNC-UC / CiBB community and will have the opportunity to attend weekly scientific seminars and thematic retreats, gaining invaluable insights into cutting-edge research across various biomedical disciplines. They will actively participate in the institution’s science communication dynamics, engaging in various outreach activities and gaining access to scientific platforms to observe experiments and scientific endeavors firsthand.

More about CiBB
With the largest critical mass of researchers in the Centre Region of Portugal, internationally recognized and linked to the Faculties of Pharmacy, Medicine, Sciences and Technology and Economics, as well as to the Institute of Interdisciplinary Research and to the Coimbra University Hospital, CiBB has a high-level of scientific production and attracts talent and funding at national and international levels.

The CiBB stands as the flagship of Biomedical and Biotechnology Sciences at the University of Coimbra (UC). It is the largest R&D Unit in the center region of Portugal and the sole UC-coordinated Associate Laboratory (top 100% evaluation), welcoming circa 700 members.
CiBB comprises 37 dynamic and multidisciplinary research groups, dedicated to understanding how and why diseases develop, particularly those associated with aging, and translating this understanding into clinical applications and technological breakthroughs.
Structured around four thematic pillars, CIBB’s mission spans diverse areas:
1. Neuroscience and Disease: Delving into brain function and dysfunction in disorders such as neurodegenerative diseases, neuropsychiatric conditions, and vision impairments.
2. Metabolism, Aging, and Disease: Investigating the cellular and molecular underpinnings of metabolic dysfunction and aging, and their impact on age-related diseases.
3. Innovative Therapies: Harnessing the potential of stem cells, genetic interventions, and pharmaceuticals to pioneer new treatments for neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, oncological, and infectious conditions.
4. Healthcare Challenges: Tackling healthcare challenges by promoting evidence-based decision-making, engaging citizens, and finding innovative solutions for aging-related questions.
CiBB is committed to nurturing talent, through robust international training programs at the master’s and doctoral levels. Additionally, CiBB bridges the gap between research and society through effective communication and public engagement initiatives.
In collaboration with the Coimbra University Hospital and its Clinical Academic Center, CiBB leverages its strong ties to clinical practice, facilitating the translation of fundamental research findings into clinical benefits. Moreover, CiBB invests on the transformation of scientific breakthroughs into intellectual property, fostering technology transfer and the creation of economic value.

Note: We are open to developing projects that encompass a broader scope, involving communication across different areas of the center, and/or focusing on specific ongoing research projects within the center.

In order to examine microbial natural products and to understand infectious diseases better, we combine both areas of research. We aim to elucidate how microorganisms produce both pathogenic substances and pharmacologically relevant components. Beyond that, these substances of micro-organisms serve as instruments of communication among themselves. Another module of our research is the interaction of pathogenic microorganisms with their host. We are interested in investigating the methods and tricks that both parties use in this process.

Numerous individual joint projects enable us to acquire new knowledge in the field of biosynthesis and the function of natural products. We use this knowledge to develop innovative ingredients for the diagnosis and therapy of illnesses, including new anti-infectives. Implementing our research results and the models derived thereof, we contribute to the development of a systems biology of infections.

Under the central theme of “population-based prevention research in the life-course,” the institute conducts interdisciplinary epidemiological health research on the national and international level. It develops innovative methods and utilizes diverse data sources to study significant health disorders and to evaluate preventive measures and strategies. In addition, BIPS significantly contributes to the establishment of research infrastructures of national and international importance. To this end, BIPS is also committed to the expansion of research data management and the FAIRification of research data as an important basis of Open Science and Open Data.

For many years, strengthening prevention has been a key scientific, social, and political objective. BIPS is dedicated to achieve this goal with high-quality research based upon methodological research investigating epidemiological questions with a focus on the development of epidemiological and statistical methods. The institute emphasizes the particular importance of the life-course perspective for the health of individuals and the population as a whole with its focus on long-term studies. Research at the institute provides important insights to ensure and improve health and well-being with measures that begin early and are related to transition periods within the life-course.

Discovery: This branch of research investigates the highly complex interactions of different immune cells—with each other and with the organism’s cells—to understand how the immune system maintains the health of the organism.
Translation: This area focuses specifically on the preclinical development of immune-cell therapeutics. This includes the identification, differentiation, expansion, and preclinical testing of therapeutically relevant immune cell populations.
Clinical Application: At the LIT, our core focus is on the clinical translation of scientific findings: We therefore place significant emphasis on the development and roll out of clinical trials and focus on the clinical implementation of the results.

Funded under the European Commission Horizon 2020 Sustainable Food Security call, DIVINFOOD boasts a consortium of 25 European institutions led by the Institut national de recherche pour l’agriculture, l’alimentation et l’environnement, in France, with four Portuguese partners: ITQB NOVA, Évora University, ADECA and Cooking lab. In Portugal, the project focuses on grass pea (Lathyrus sativus).
Carlota Vaz Patto coordinates the ITQB NOVA team engaged in DIVINFOOD, specifically the PlantX Lab. With a history of participatory research with local grass pea farmers in Alvaiázere, Portugal, the team has expanded its scope under DIVINFOOD to include a wider range of farmers and processors, establishing the Portuguese living lab, GPeaPort, under her coordination. Living labs are user-centric innovation systems that foster co-creation, integrating research and innovation within community contexts. GPeaPort aims to revitalize and value grass pea cultivation and use by enhancing varietal diversity and developing innovative food products with local food producers, consumers, chefs, cooks, small-scale processors, rural development associations, local authorities and researchers, using a citizen science approach.
At ITQB NOVA, the Genetics and Genomics of Plant Complex Traits (PlantX) Laboratory, led by Carlota Vaz Patto, specializes in molecular quantitative genetics applied to plant breeding. The lab focuses on identifying genes controlling complex interesting traits, such as disease/drought resistance or seed quality, to develop control models, scientific methods and molecular tools to assist precision breeding programs. Within the scope of DIVINFOOD, PlantX hopes to contribute to the diversification of grass pea production systems, through the improvement of its traditional varieties – boosting tolerance to drought, enhancing nutritional quality, and increasing production capacity. They hope to contribute, in collaboration with other Portuguese stakeholders, to diversify diets, by facilitating the implementation of alternative mild processing methods to obtain innovative food products.

Our expertise encompasses a wide variety of organisms, from charismatic Indonesian tarsiers under threat of extinction to thermophilic neophytes that have spread rapidly and conquered new habitats in the past decades in response to rising temperatures. From giant fossil marine reptiles that were dreaded top predators of the Jurassic Sea to millimeter-sized parasitoid wasps that lay their eggs in other insect larvae, preventing agricultural pests. With more than 12 million specimens in our collection and cutting-edge facilities, we investigate this diversity to unravel the uniqueness of each specimen. It is the fascinating stories behind each specimen that we convey not only in scientific articles but also to our visitors in the exhibition. Be it the first evidence of cancer from 240 million years ago, the predation among giant marine reptiles, as evidenced by bite marks or how the evolution of mouthparts contributed to the diversity we see in some hyperdiverse insect groups.
Through close collaborations, such as with the particle accelerator at KIT, we are able to use synchrotron radiation to create three-dimensional models of insects trapped in amber millions of years ago or visualize the behavior of live parasitoid wasps moving in their host.
We regularly carry out expeditions and paleontological excavations. Both in the vicinity, where many world-famous fossil deposits are easily accessible and also worldwide, with many highly important findings. They range from small, such as the oldest fossil hummingbird to the probably heaviest animal that ever lived on earth: Perucetus colossus. Our scientists describe new species from the meadows and forests in the area where most people would not expect to find the unknown. But also from remote areas such as cave systems across Europe, tropical rainforests or the islands of New Caledonia. We do this together with institutions and researchers from the area and maintain close collaborations that allow for capacity building and vice versa knowledge exchange on an eye level. We are active members in several networks, through which we are able to join forces with other natural history museums, universities and research institutions of all kinds to conduct large-scale projects, such as the German Barcode of Life.

Research, developed within the Champalimaud Research (CR) programmes, is primarily focused on the fields of neuroscience, cancer and physiology. More specifically, 31 groups are dedicated to fundamental and clinical research on topics that range from Brain-wide control of Behaviour and its impacts in Artificial Intelligence /Machine Learning, to the Immune System and the interaction between Neural and Immune Systems and Disease Progression. With a community of ~500 members distributed in two big open labs (somehow similar to big media newsrooms), with access to several technical and scientific facilities, the aspiration of CR is to help scientists reach their full creative potential and to promote collective achievements beyond those reachable by individual scientists or laboratory groups. The legacy of CR will not only be advances in scientific knowledge but advances in the scientific process itself.

According to the latest European Research Council (ERC) dashboard, which comprehensively overviews ERC-funded projects, Portugal has secured funding for 165 projects since 2007 and CF leads the list of institutions in Portugal for ERC funding, both in terms of total number of grants and of overall funding. Most of our ERC grants are in Life Sciences but we also have secured grants in Social Sciences and Humanities and in Physical Sciences and Engineering.

To understand these processes, the institute currently conducts work on four different model organisms: worms, fruit flies, turquoise killifish and mice. The studies on model organisms are in the long term to be linked with comparative studies in humans. To this end, we are examining samples from patients in the clinic and conducting studies on long-lived families.
Host researcher Joris Deelen focuses on the identification of the genetic mechanisms underlying healthy ageing and extended lifespan in humans. Moreover, the Deelen group aims to establish novel human ageing studies in Cologne to identify and validate biomarkers of healthy ageing.

The vision for the ERC-funded MIMESIS project was to develop wound dressing biomaterials that combine antimicrobial and skin regeneration properties. The research team successfully developed a biocompatible extraction method that preserves the plant polyesters’ antimicrobial capabilities. Building on this success, the team secured an ERC Proof of Concept Grant in 2024, for potential applications in food and therapeutics. This new project, SNAIL, explores the potential of suberin in encapsulation technologies, envisioning a sustainable shield for functional ingredients, such as probiotics and proteins. By transforming plant polyesters into purposeful biomaterials, this work represents a shift away from energy-intensive synthetic production methods, focusing instead on “closing the loop”, supported by the principles of green chemistry and biorefinery.
During the residency, the science journalist is invited to discover this research, which is not only advancing scientific frontiers but also actively contributing to a more sustainable future by having a clear focus and commitment on the translation into tangible innovations. In addition to delving into the project’s intricacies, supported by ITQB NOVA’s cutting-edge facilities, including the largest Portuguese NMR facility, CERMAX, the science journalist will have the opportunity to experience all the intricacies atmosphere of scientific exploration. This encompasses the dynamic journey of discovery, comprising both highs and lows, where breakthroughs are not confined to “Eureka” moments.

Currently, the IBB hosts about 150 researchers, including tenured professors from the UAB, senior scientists, postdoctoral and doctoral fellows, master students and technicians. We host 17 research groups organized in 3 scientific programs that cover multiple scientific areas, but with a shared multidisciplinary character. This configuration allows a broad approach to biological problems and facilitates the transfer of scientific results towards the improvement of the well-being of our society. These three main research umbrella topics are: (1) Applied Proteomics and Protein Engineering, (2) Genomics in Evolution and Disease and (3) Response Mechanisms to Stress and Disease
The senior PIs of the IBB are Dr. Ventura, Villaverde, Ruiz-Herrera, Roig, Corchero, Ferrer, Ariño, Pallarès, Barbadilla, Martí, Gibert, Reverter, Yero, Cerdà, Jaraquemada, JM. Lluch, Piñol, Quijada, Cáceres, Daura, Lorenzo, Pividori, M. Lluch and Roher (Director of the IBB), offering experience in Bioinformatics, Cellular and Structural Biology, Genomics, Immunology, Microbiology, Synthetic Biology, Nanobiotechnology and Proteomics. Some areas in which our researchers work are within the fields of diagnostic tools and theragnostics, vaccine development, neurodegenerative disease detection and new treatments, immune disorders, cancer and targeted drug delivery, bacterial virulence and antibiotic resistances, biotherapeutics for several diseases, etc.

The Environment and Health over the Life-course programme conducts high-quality integrative research to expand knowledge on the causes and mechanisms of NCDs. The programme focuses on environmental, radiation, occupational, lifestyle, social, infectious, and genetic risk factors throughout life, from prenatal to late adulthood. Key topics include respiratory, immune, and cardiovascular health, neurodevelopment, and cancer.

The Climate, Air Pollution, Nature and Urban Health programme aims to strengthen evidence related to the health effects of climate change and exposures in urban and natural environments and to assess the health co-benefits of climate action. It focuses on factors such as temperature, noise, air pollution, and green spaces, and their effect on a spectrum of health outcomes, including premature mortality, cardiovascular and respiratory health, and cognitive function. Their main methods consist of the assessment of exposure and health impact, epidemiological modelling, and intervention evaluation, complemented by computational modelling of global climate variations, tipping points, and their impact on health.

The Malaria and Neglected Parasitic Diseases programme aims to generate valuable knowledge and expand, through a multidisciplinary approach, the current scientific understanding of malaria, Chagas, and other neglected parasitic diseases (NPD) affecting humans, and their interactions with human and animal hosts and/or vectors.

The Maternal, Child and Reproductive Health programme aims to bridge the know-do gap and support the global efforts to ensure that all women and children, regardless of where they live or are born, have access to quality healthcare services. Its research focuses on developing and assessing the efficacy and effectiveness of maternal and reproductive health interventions through relevant clinical trials and implementation science.

The profound impact of infectious diseases on society, notably underscored during the COVID-19 pandemic, accentuates the imperative for in-depth research to comprehend the intricate dynamics of infectious agents. This includes understanding their modes of transmission, the factors within hosts that influence disease outcomes, and the identification of effective intervention strategies. The urgency of this research has been particularly evident during the pandemic, highlighting the pivotal role of scientific investigation in addressing global health challenges.

The Infectious Diseases Research Program at CIC bioGUNE stands as a vanguard in scientific exploration, pioneering an initiative committed to unraveling the complex and dynamic molecular foundations of infectious diseases.

This program encompasses several crucial research areas:

• Molecular Basis of Cancer Progression: Investigating the molecular signatures and signaling pathways that drive the progression of Prostate, Breast, Colorectal, and Liver cancers. Our goal is to identify potential targets for precision medicine and advance the development of tailored therapeutic interventions.

• Precision Medicine in Cancer Treatment: Applying precision medicine approaches to develop targeted therapies for different cancer types. This includes deciphering the genetic and molecular variations that contribute to cancer heterogeneity and tailoring treatments accordingly.

• Biomarker Discovery for Diagnostic Advancements: Identifying and validating biomarkers that enhance cancer diagnostics and prognostics. Through advanced molecular profiling and bioinformatics analyses, we aim to contribute to the development of reliable biomarkers for various cancer types.

The importance of research dedicated to rare diseases lies in its potential to unravel the underlying molecular mechanisms, genetic factors, and cellular processes driving these conditions. Investigating genetic mutations associated with rare diseases provides crucial insights into the fundamental aspects of human biology and the consequences of genetic abnormalities. Understanding the molecular basis of disease progression is essential for developing targeted therapies that can alter the course of the disease, improving the quality of life for affected individuals.

The impact of rare diseases research extends beyond the laboratory, directly influencing clinical practice, healthcare policies, and societal perceptions. By identifying potential therapeutic targets, researchers contribute to the development of novel treatment approaches and pave the way for precision medicine tailored to the unique genetic and molecular profiles of individuals with rare diseases. Additionally, advancements in rare diseases research contribute to the broader understanding of biological processes, benefiting the entire field of medicine.

The Rare Diseases Research Program at CIC bioGUNE plays a pivotal role in addressing the challenges posed by rare diseases. By exploring the intricate molecular pathways, genetic factors, and cellular mechanisms associated with rare diseases, the program contributes not only to scientific knowledge but also to the development of innovative diagnostic methods and targeted therapeutic strategies. The societal impact of this research is substantial, offering hope and improved outcomes for individuals grappling with rare diseases and their families.