INESC TEC hosts the opening session of the series “Biomédicas e Sociedade” promoted by ICBAS

The discussion Entre Tecidos e Territórios: da Bioengenharia para a sociedade brought together medicine, engineering, robotics and life sciences to discuss the concept of One Health. The first session of the “Biomédicas e Sociedade” series, organised by ICBAS as part of the celebrations of the Institute’s 50^th anniversary, took place at INESC TEC.

The concept of One Health was the main theme of the debate and reflection on the impact of science and technology on society. From comparative and translational medicine to regenerative medicine – including minimally invasive surgery and robotics for the agriculture and forestry sectors -, the session explored the value of scientific knowledge, practical applications and the social, environmental and economic impact of R&D activities. Other key themes included barriers to technology transfer and the development of cutting-edge, socially relevant, accessible and sustainable solutions.

The panel also addressed collaboration between academia, businesses and local communities. Participants included ICBAS lecturers Ana Colette Maurício, a researcher in Veterinary Regenerative Medicine, and Manuela Gomes, a researcher in Regenerative Medicine and 3D Tissue Models; Hélder Ferreira, a gynaecologist at the Centro Materno Infantil do Norte and ICBAS lecturer specialising in minimally invasive gynaecological surgery; and Filipe Neve dos Santos, a researcher at INESC TEC specialised in robotics for agriculture and forestry.

One of the key conclusions of the session was the importance of the One Health approach and the need for a national strategy in this area; said strategy must promote collaboration across human, animal and environmental health and enable a stronger response to global challenges, e.g., diseases, while contributing to a more sustainable and higher quality future. Also highlighted was the value of multidisciplinarity, joint efforts and collaboration between universities, companies and local communities, as well as the need to reduce barriers -especially bureaucratic ones – that hinder the transfer of solutions to society.

The “Biomédicas e Sociedade” series is part of the programme marking ICBAS’s 50^th anniversary, aiming to bring the Institute closer to society while promoting discussion around key sectors influenced by ICBAS’ work over the past five decades. This series will feature more session over the upcoming months (agenda available here).