INESC TEC and Oswaldo Cruz Foundation signed a MoU in the field of epidemiological surveillance

Combining INESC TEC’s scientific and technological competencies in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, with the work that the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FioCruz) develops within the scope of epidemiological surveillance in geographical regions like Amazon and Antarctica; this is the main objective of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Portuguese Institute and the Brazilian Foundation. This agreement establishes, among other elements, the joint participation in research and development projects and the promotion of exchange opportunities.

FioCruz is a R&D institution dedicated to biological sciences, located in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, whose research work stands out in the field of public health and epidemiology. “FioCruz is among the major institutions of science and technology in health in Latin America; they have been carrying out important research in the area of epidemiological surveillance in geographical regions of greater sensitivity and vulnerability to climate change, like the Amazon and Antarctica”, explained Rui Oliveira, highlighting the FioAntar project, promoted by said institution – with Antarctica as the living laboratory of epidemiological research.

According to the member of the Board of Directors at INESC TEC, the formalisation of this endeavour “represents FioCruz’ acknowledgment of the importance of INESC TEC scientific and technological competencies in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, namely concerning the work that the Brazilian institution has been carrying out – thus contributing to address societal challenges like climate change and associated impact on biodiversity, or the spreading of viruses among the human population”.

The Memorandum of Understanding provides for a range of activities, including joint participation in R&D projects, the promotion of exchange opportunities, the sharing of information and technical documentation, the organisation of courses, seminars and conferences, or the joint publication of papers.

The INESC TEC researcher mentioned in this news piece is associated with UMinho.