Pedro Henrique Carvalho (CTM) and Ricardo Silva (CPES)

Pedro Henrique Carvalho (CTM)

“The coordinators of CTM selected the researcher Pedro Henrique Carvalho. Ever since he joined INESC TEC, Pedro Carvalho has proved to be a researcher of exemplary professionalism and motivation, particularly within the scope of the projects in which he collaborated. Henrique managed to find a balance between carrying out the different tasks for which he was responsible and making scientific contributions – leading to the publication of several scientific articles. This aspect was particularly relevant during April, with the completion of several deliverables associated with different projects – which was highly praised by the Centre’s partners. Pedro Henrique showed remarkable availability and high-quality work, which clearly benefited the Centre”.

– CTM coordinators

Given the current context, what challenges did you face while carrying out your tasks?

Even though I don’t need to go to INESC TEC to carry out my tasks, working from home over the past few months has been complicated. I think that everyone in this situation misses socialising with colleagues and taking coffee breaks; moreover, it is easier to communicate and support each other when working at the office. I also believe that it’s harder to find the necessary motivation while teleworking, since our home environment does not usually convey the idea of work.

How did you overcome these challenges?

Overcoming these challenges was a matter of getting used to new conditions, favouring interactions via email and video calls; I’ve also arranged a space to work at home, which makes me feel like I’m at the office and helps me motivate to perform my tasks.

Which aspects of your job do you enjoy the most?

What I appreciate the most is the variety of projects and tasks, which present different challenges. In this sense, my work never becomes tedious, and I am constantly learning. For example, in order to carry out research in image processing and colour correction, or to create a web application, I had to learn different skills, which made me improve and become a more complete researcher. I also like working on projects associated with the environment or healthcare, since the results of my work will help people and contribute to society’s improvement.

How do you comment on this nomination?

I am very happy with this nomination, and I am very grateful to the CTM coordinators. It’s very nice to get recognition for my work and effort, and to know that I contributed to the Centre’s success. I would also like to thank Hélder Oliveira, for his support and close follow-up.

Ricardo Silva (CPES)

“During April, and within the scope of the Flexergy project, Ricardo Silva was involved in the development of software modules for the management and optimisation of energy storage systems, showing a great ability to present new scientific developments and integrate software with business platforms in the industry. At the same time, and within the scope of the European project EUniversal, he made relevant contributions on the integration of flexibility in the electrical grids – tasks that he performed with significant autonomy and thoroughness”.

– CPES coordinators

Given the current context, what challenges did you face while carrying out your tasks?

Despite the multiple communication tools that we use on a daily basis, not being able to work at the office and interact with my colleagues is quite difficult. It is a fundamental and humanising aspect of my work, especially since my workplace has always been characterised by its lively environment and camaraderie. Teleworking, together with this lack of interaction, ended up proving to be a challenge to my motivation levels, as well as to my ability to stick to schedules, something that affects those who do not live by themselves even more.

How did you overcome these challenges?

The attitude and motivation of the people I’ve worked with over the last year were crucial. The definition of objectives and the willingness to communicate, and the fact that we’re so proud of what we managed to develop and achieve together, allowed me to stay focused and feel that I needed to live up to the challenge.

Which aspects of your job do you enjoy the most? In your opinion, what is the main differentiating aspect of the project(s)?

 Our work focused on integrating renewable energy, improving the use of distributed resources (namely batteries) and empowering consumers, so they can play a more active role in the electrical grids of the future. These up-to-the-minute themes, of instrumental relevance, due to their impact on decarbonisation, are very motivating. In addition, we participate in large European projects (the EUniversal, for instance) and in more local projects, in partnership with institutes and renowned companies (such as Flexergy). We always try to leave in mark on what we do, applying techniques such as artificial intelligence and data mining, which makes me feel that I am constantly learning and developing as a professional.

How do you comment on this nomination?

Naturally, I am extremely grateful for this recognition. And I must share it with all those I’ve worked with, not only within the scope of Flexergy and EUniversal, but also in other projects that we have been developing, since it is the result of the work we’ve carried out as a team, and not exclusive to my individual performance.