INESC TEC hub at the University of Minho formalised through a new cooperation protocol

INESC TEC and the University of Minho (UMinho) consolidated their cooperation for the coming years, by formalising the INESC TEC hub at UMinho, in Braga. The protocol signing ceremony took place on February 10, with João Claro, Chairman and CEO of INESC TEC, and Rui Vieira de Castro, Rector of U.Minho. 

The signed protocol represents a strategic step in consolidating the collaboration between the two institutions, towards encouraging new opportunities for research and technological innovation. 

The collaboration between UMinho and INESC TEC began in 2010, with the High-Assurance Software Laboratory (HASLab) becoming a privileged partner of the Institute; 2012 brought another important milestone, with the integration of HASLab into INESC TEC, as a research centre in IT. In 2019, this collaboration was further strengthened, when U.Minho became an associate of INESC TEC. 

Regarding the protocol signed between INESC TEC and UMinho, João Claro mentioned that “this is a very significant moment in the evolution of the partnership between the University of Minho and INESC TEC. This consolidated path of collaboration has been built over the years and reflects the commitment of both institutions to excel in research and innovation. The signed protocol reinforces the foundations of this relationship, structuring our ability to achieve and deepening a joint vision for the future”.  

“The strength of this partnership relies on the liaison between knowledge, innovation and impact, underpinned by a strong strategic approach and effective methods of institutional operationalisation. HASLab has been a key agent in this collaboration, with a track record and future vision as a centre of excellence. Over the past five years, this path translated into hundreds of scientific publications, dozens of projects and the training of highly qualified talent. Looking ahead, HASLab’s agenda remains dedicated to some of the most strategic challenges of our time, in areas like AI, quantum computing, supercomputing, and cybersecurity. With this protocol, we reaffirm our joint ambition to contribute through research and innovation to some of the most critical challenges for society and the economy, boosting the country’s technological development,” stated João Claro.  

The ceremony welcomed professors and researchers from the High-Assurance Software Laboratory (HASLab), which now constitutes the INESC TEC hub at UMinho, as well as other representatives of the two institutions.