During the various stages of a career dedicated to research, it is common to interact with technical-scientific associations, non-profit entities that rely on the volunteering work of their members to promote technical debates and scientific publications, and to facilitate interaction between professionals. In Portugal, noteworthy examples include APRP (Portuguese Association for Pattern Recognition), APPIA (Portuguese Association for Artificial Intelligence), APDIO (Portuguese Association for Operational Research), IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers), etc.
The IEEE, acknowledged as the largest professional association in the world, features a complex organisational structure that covers regions, sections, student branches, chapters, and affinity groups. In Portugal, it acts as a subsidiary, representing the institution at the national level. As the main driver of technical publications in electrical engineering, computer science and electronics, IEEE stands out for the publication of almost 200 journals, thousands of articles from more than 1.300 annual conferences, as well as standards and books.
The quality of IEEE journals, such as “IEEE Transactions”, and the notoriety of many renowned conferences, also contribute to IEEE’ prestige. Being an IEEE member translates into concrete benefits; for instance, access to Overleaf Premium and reduced publishing costs. In addition, membership over the years enables recognition through progression in terms of senior members or fellows. Obtaining the status of fellow, reserved for the best in the world in a specific technical area, is a rare and remarkable achievement.
The presence of senior members in an institution is indicative of quality and is sometimes a criterion used by external evaluators – like those designated by FCT – in the assessment of associated laboratories. In Portugal, the restricted number of fellows (19) highlights the exclusivity of this acknowledgement; and it’s worth mentioning that three of said fellows are associated with INESC TEC: João Peças Lopes, Vladimiro Miranda and João Gama.
The eclectic nature of a researcher, which requires technical, communication, management skills and a solid network of contacts, finds in the active participation in technical-scientific associations a valuable tool of development. Upon assuming the position of treasurer of IEEE Portugal for the second term (2024-2025) – and after eight years in various management roles -, I increasingly recognise the role of these associations in improving personal and professional skills. Also noteworthy is the active involvement of other INESC TEC members in management positions in IEEE Portugal and Region 8: Ana Madureira, João Paulo Cunha, Duarte Dias, Vítor Grade Tavares, Rui Araújo, Rolando Martins, Nuno Cruz, Alfredo Martins, Hugo Ferreira, and Bruno Ferreira.
The year 2024 holds a significant event for IEEE Portugal: the organisation of a R8 flagship conference called MELECON, featuring Ana Madureira as one of the General Chairs. This conference, open to various topics of electrical and computer engineering, will take place between June 25 and 27, at Alfândega do Porto.
I encourage everyone to get involved in management positions in technical-scientific associations. For IEEE members, I suggest that they consider becoming senior members and, if possible, achieve the title of fellow. Any questions on this topic, please feel free to reach out.
Carlos Ferreira, Business Developer
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