Advanced materials are the focus of the analysis that Portugal also integrates

The study “Collaborative platforms for innovation in advanced materials” was recently published, in the context of the areas of Biotechnology, Nanotechnology and Convergent Technologies (BNCT). Political decision-makers, researchers and members of the OECD's BNCT Working Group were involved in the implementation of this report, which it englobes the special contribution of Luís Viseu Melo, BNCT delegate representing Portugal.

The study, which includes the analysis of 12 case studies on the mechanisms through which collaborative platforms leverage science, technology and innovation, projects Portugal as a relevant country in the context of collaborative innovation policies, namely through the promotion of the UTA-Portugal programme, the support measure for the creation and implementation of Collaborative Laboratories (CoLAB) and the establishment of the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL).

Exploring the governance mechanisms of collaborative platforms, in terms of financing, accessibility, innovation policies and value creation, this study praises Portugal's constant commitment to cooperative mechanisms for Science and Technology.

Technological convergence, societal involvement and digitisation were identified in the study as key trends. The paper also describes the conditions under which collaborative platforms can align and leverage value chains, promote standards, catalyse innovation ecosystems and build education, skills and social capital.

Considering that advanced materials have a significant potential for the emergence of better products and production methods, collaborative platforms allow countries to create, in this field, a space for physical or digital sharing, stimulating the development of industries, research, development and interdisciplinary training poles, which are indispensable for science and technology-based innovation.

Consult the policy report “Collaborative platforms for innovation in advanced materials” here