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Activity Funded

Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy

Laboratório de Engenharia de Processos, Ambiente, Biotecnologia e Energia

Reference
UID/00511/2025
Project Start Date
2025-01-01
Project End Date
2029-12-31
Principal Investigator
Funding Program
Avaliação UID 2023/2024

Abstract

LEPABE is a research unit of the Faculty of Engineering - University of Porto. It has been evaluated as “Excellent” in consecutive external evaluations appointed by FCT. It counts with ca. 240 researchers, among which 36% have doctoral degrees. LEPABE´s mission is to develop innovative processes and products to respond effectively to societal challenges, using the basis of chemical and biological engineering to improve the quality of life, in a sustainable and safe way. Our goals are in line with the Horizon Europe common strategic priorities and the SDG goals of UN, focusing on research excellence, industrial competitiveness and societal challenges. To support its mission LEPABE is structured into 5 thematic groups: (1) Processes, Products and Energy (PPE), (2) Process Systems Engineering (PSE), (3) Supramolecular Assemblies (SA); (4) Biotechnology (BIO); and (5) Environmental Sciences and Technologies (ENV). LEPABE will address in the 2025-2029 period climate changes challenges through research groups like PPE (transitioning to renewables) and ENV (clean technologies, waste recycling). Another challenge is the global population's demands, pressuring food, water and energy resources. LEPABE will tackle this aspect with sustainable farming and efficient water use through BIO and ENV groups. Health crises like COVID-19 underscore the need for robust healthcare systems and innovative therapeutics; SA and BIO research groups will focus on nano-engineered materials for health. Artificial intelligence and automation bring challenges to industry and mankind, and PSE researchers are prepared to face those challenges. LEPABE's initiatives span therefore topics aligned with societal needs and Portuguese research strategies. Key activities were strategically defined for 2025-2029: - To enlarge the activity range and collaborative research, including equipment and knowledge sharing, through the participation in ALiCE; - To improve scientific excellence, by creating conditions for researchers to apply for ERC grants and attract excellent international researchers (e.g. with Marie Curie grants), to address hot national and EU research topics and promote the participation in international networks of excellence; - To enhance industry and public awareness of LEPABE’s activities and integrate Portuguese industry in the discussion forums promoted by the R&D unit; - To continue the care with human resources (providing stable careers for young researchers), for improved infrastructures (consolidate re-equipment investment plan) and for diversified funding (joint applications with other research units to access regional funds and increase own revenue namely through direct contracts with industry). We commit to a focused and results-driven approach, driving the continued growth and success of LEPABE as a leading research unit in the field of Chemical and Biological Engineering.

Institutions

Main Institutions

  • Universidade do Porto Laboratório de Processos de Engenharia Ambiente Biotecnologia e Energia (LEPABE)
  • Universidade do Porto Faculdade de Engenharia (FEUP)

Funding 3.132.299,07 €

Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT) - Portugal

3.132.299,07 €