The Biomedicine and Health Research Directorate focuses on the development of medical biotechnologies to improve and protect the health and well-being of citizens.

By generating knowledge and innovation, research activities extend into a number of key areas. These include cell and molecular biology, biomaterials, molecular dynamics, flow cytometry and optical, electron and fluorescence microscopy. Through these research areas, it promotes the deepening of knowledge and the development of innovative solutions.

Our research also covers the following areas:

• Biotechnology, genetic tools and medical technologies - We focus on developing innovative screening, diagnostic and monitoring methods, as well as new and innovative therapeutic approaches.
• Development of innovative prophylactic and therapeutic products - We work on the development of vaccines, therapeutic serums, probiotics, dietary supplements and other innovative solutions to treat conditions and protect health.
• Ageing population - We research the health effects of ageing and develop strategies to improve the quality of life of older people.

Thus, the Biomedicine and Health Research Directorate represents a strong commitment to make significant contributions and open up new perspectives in the medical field.

The Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Research Directorate aims to develop sustainable agricultural strategies through improved natural resource management and transformative changes in the bioeconomy of rural and urban areas.

Our activities focus on the following key areas: plant biology, plant and agricultural biotechnologies, and food supplements - from their rationale, sourcing, formulation and characterisation, to traceability and safety.

Our key activities include:

• Dietary supplements - We focus on the substantiation, sourcing, formulation, characterisation, traceability and safety of dietary supplements.
• Development of new ingredients and foods - Using innovative technologies, we seek to develop organic or functional products that meet high quality standards, meet the needs of people with special diets or dietary requirements.
• Innovative processes and technologies for the food industry - We aim to reduce waste, preserve food and maintain its properties in the long term through the use of innovative technologies.
• Food and ingredient safety - We are working on the development of smart sensors to assess food freshness, which will be integrated into smart systems and components.

This line of research plays an important role in contributing to sustainable development strategies in view of new threats, biohazard risks such as pandemics, conflicts that have repercussions on economic and food flows at regional and global levels.

Through our approach, we aim to bring solutions and innovations in a sustainable development context, promoting food security and efficient management of natural resources.

The Environment and Biodiversity Research Directorate aims to create opportunities to strengthen and harmonise environmental, social and economic objectives by promoting sustainable economic activities.

Research and innovation in areas such as taxonomy, palynology and ecogenomics make valuable contributions through studies aimed at assessing risk factors, characterising natural, agricultural and anthropogenic ecosystems, and their remediation, restoration and conservation. This line of research plays a significant role in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and in accelerating the ecological transition proposed in the European Green Deal.

Through our activities, we are committed to helping protect the environment, conserve biodiversity and promote sustainable practices to build a greener and more balanced future.