BIOPOLIS - Reforçar a transferência de conhecimentos científicos e tecnológicos através de um novo Centro de Excelência em Biologia Ambiental, Ecossistemas e AgroBiodiversidade - Fase 2

The BIOPOLIS project aims to reinforce and expand the results achieved by the BIOPOLIS Teaming initiative (funded by H2020) and the NORTE-01-0246-FEDER-000063 operation. Phase 2 of the project focuses on consolidating CIBIO under the management of the BIOPOLIS Association, transforming it into a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Environmental Biology, Ecosystem Research, and AgroBiodiversity. This project represents the final phase of complementary funding from the CCDRN, supplementing earlier phases. The project’s strategic objectives are: 1.. Developing and Strengthening CIBIO’s Infrastructure The BIOPOLIS CoE will have plant growth chambers, greenhouses, and modern laboratories, providing essential resources for advanced research and collaborative demonstration projects with the private sector. The infrastructure aims to: • Boost collaborative projects with private companies. • Transfer scientific and technological knowledge to the business sector, stimulating regional innovations. • Create economic value by developing new products and solutions to environmental and agrobiodiversity challenges. 2. Integrating Research with Real Applications A core objective of the project is to translate scientific research into practical market applications. This integration will occur through knowledge dissemination and collaboration between academia, business, and international partners: • Sectoral pilot projects testing new technologies in collaboration with private companies. • Experimental actions linking academia to the market. • International partnerships to align with global best practices and exchange knowledge with other excellence centres. 3. Strengthening Three Strategic Areas in CIBIO BIOPOLIS is organized around three key pillars essential for developing innovative solutions in environmental biology, ecosystems, and agrobiodiversity: • Environmental and Biodiversity Assessment and Monitoring: Focusing on tools for monitoring biodiversity and environmental impact, with a digital component. • Ecosystem Function, Services, and Restoration: Studying ecosystem services, climate change mitigation, and habitat restoration. • Agrobiodiversity and Conservation of Local Genetic Resources: Promoting agrobiodiversity and conserving local genetic resources to strengthen agricultural competitiveness and sustainable practices. 4. Transfer of Technology and Knowledge to the Business Sector A central focus of Phase 2 is the transfer of technology and knowledge to industries. Partnerships with the private sector will: • Promote innovation and technological transformation in the agri-food, environmental, and forestry industries. • Accelerate the implementation of sustainable solutions, especially in agrobiodiversity and ecosystems. • Develop spin-offs and science-based projects that can create new companies and products for the market. 5.Strengthening the Research and Innovation Ecosystem in Northern Portugal The project’s infrastructure and capacity improvements aim to strengthen the innovation ecosystem in Northern Portugal. Expected impacts include: • Economic development and the creation of highly qualified jobs in science, technology, and innovation. • Strengthened regional competitiveness, positioning the region as a hub of excellence in environmental biology and agrobiodiversity.