Ciências ULisboa hosts researchers in inorganic and bioinorganic chemistry for three days

The 15th edition of the Inorganic & Bioinorganic Chemistry Conference began this Wednesday amid heightened anticipation of showcasing the latest scientific developments in two of the fields that have contributed most to transforming life as we know it. The event organised by the Portuguese Chemical Society (SPQ) is bringing together more than 70 experts until Friday and will also feature awards for the best poster and oral presentation, with a total of over 70 scientific abstracts expected to be submitted. In addition to representatives from national universities, the conference will be attended by international researchers. At the close of the proceedings, the SPQ will present an award in recognition of outstanding scientific achievement.

“It is an event that serves as a meeting place and helps to forge connections that can be useful in initiating new collaborations between various researchers.” ‘What’s more, it’s a conference that showcases the scientific work being carried out in the various laboratories across the country,’ explains Carla Nunes, professor at the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Ciências ULisboa and president of the Division of Inorganic and Bioinorganic Chemistry of SPQ, who leads the coordination of the Conference.

Inorganic chemistry has given rise to a number of research projects focusing on the so-called metals of the periodic table. And the hallmark of bioinorganic chemistry is often research projects focusing on the metals found within living organisms – which may even come across with some as yet mysterious mechanisms involving metalloenzymes. “The conference programme ensures that the key topics in these two fields of study are covered. “The list of speakers includes people who have brought innovation to these fields of study,” emphasises Carla Nunes.

In addition to Carla Nunes, the opening session featured contributions from Conceição Freitas, faculty Dean of Ciências ULisboa; José Manuel F. Nogueira, head of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Ciências ULisboa; and Jorge Parola, Secretary-General of SPQ. Conceição Freitas highlighted the importance of Ciências ULisboa in hosting this event, because it “provides an opportunity for students to get involved”, which helps to enrich the academic experience.

Having highlighted the importance of these fields of study for the development of new therapies, energy storage systems and other challenges that have the potential to transform human life, José Manuel F. Nogueira highlighted the spirit of discovery and sharing that characterises the event.“ Above all, this conference is a forum for sharing knowledge, exchanging ideas and fostering cooperation. ‘It brings together established researchers, early-career scientists and students, creating a dynamic atmosphere and fostering a space for debate and the emergence of new perspectives,’ said the head of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.

Pedro Teixeira Gomes meets the criteria to be included among the group of innovative scientists, and his lecture is set to be one of the highlights of the event when he receives the Prémio Alberto Romão Dias, which recognises outstanding careers in the field of chemistry. The professor from the Instituto Superior Técnico at the University of Lisbon will receive the award after being nominated by full professors from various universities across the country.

The event includes plenary sessions on Karl Kirchner, of the TU Wien, and Peter-Leon Hagedoorn, of TU Delf. The first is an international authority in inorganic chemistry, whilst the second has been working on metalloenzymes in the context of human health. In addition to these two researchers, the conference programme includes the participation of Célia Romão, Nuno Bandeira and Paulo Costa, who have been researching at Ciências ULisboa.

To anyone who doubts the importance of these two subjects, Carla Nunes offers the following clarification: “inorganic chemistry and bioinorganic chemistry are directly related to life. Possibly, half of the objects we use in daily life would not exist without these areas of knowledge”, concludes.