At Instituto Superior Técnico we believe that although we cannot do more than the bigger ones, although we cannot do better than the best ones, we could be at least as big as the bigger ones and as best as the best ones. And we also believe that we can do it in a different way. We have believed that since the very first beginning, in 1911. And somehow that restlessness over the last 110 years became a part of our DNA and gives us the strength to overcome challenge after challenge.

And what are the big challenges that we have right now?

The COVID19 pandemic showed, as never before, the importance and transformative capacity of partnerships between universities, research and development centers, industry and the public administration: at a national and at a local level.

This strategic alignment is indispensable for the establishment of a path of scientific and technological research that contributes to innovation and increased added value in the production lines, namely in compliance with the priorities set for the decade: energy transition, digital transition, oceans, space and climate sustainability.

At Instituto Superior Técnico we are committed to follow the path of integrating symbiotic projects with our industrial partners that may foster economic recovery, growth and development. We are walking this road with our partners with a strategy based in four pillars:
1. establishing a strong connection with local administration where our campi are installed;
2. establishing a dynamic “network of industrial partners” at local, national and international level;
3. providing access to knowledge for accelerating innovation; and
4. promoting social responsibility: through scholarships to support students.

At Oeiras we have found an exciting ecosystem and promising future right before us, here at the Oeiras Valley. More than a region, it is a concept of a new idea of collaborative gathering universities and research centers, industry and economic tissue, arts and the support of the local administration of the territory.

Rogério Colaço is currently Dean at Instituto Superior Técnico. With over 30 years of experience in Research & Development, teaching and university management, Rogério Colaço is Full Professor and Researcher in Materials Science and Engineering.