A printed circuit, a biomedical sensor, or a discarded mobile phone all share the same challenge today: the environmental impact of the materials they are made of. Based on this reality, the 39th edition of the Chemical Engineering Seminar Series (JEQ) at Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, promoted by the Chemical Engineering Group at Técnico (NEQIST), brought together students, researchers and companies to discuss the contribution of Chemical Engineering in responding to global challenges.
The initiative was part of the Técnico Career Weeks and explored “The Impact of Chemical Engineering on Society”, highlighting the role of Chemical Engineering in energy transition, decarbonisation and the development of sustainable solutions, and reinforcing the link between academic training, research and industrial application.
One of the highlights was the presentation by Elvira Fortunato, a scientist at the Materials Research Centre (CENIMAT)/i3N Associate Laboratory, at NOVA School of Science and Technology (NOVA FCT), and former Portuguese Minister for Science, Technology and Higher Education. The speech focused on the problem of electronic waste and emerging technological responses. “Science and technology must go hand in hand”, she stressed, while presenting research projects aligned with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN’s 2030 Agenda.
In an approach that emphasises the use of materials that are abundant in nature and solutions with potential for industrial scalability, Elvira Fortunato highlighted the development of new sustainable materials and the application of laser-induced graphene, which shows promise in biosensors and biomedical devices. “The big challenge is not only to develop new materials but also to ensure that they are produced sustainably and that they reach both industry and society. Chemical engineering plays a central role here because it connects fundamental science with the implementation of practical solutions”.
The biocompatibility of materials and the possibility of direct application to the skin – including concepts of ‘electronic skin’ – were also addressed, highlighting the potential of Chemical Engineering at the intersection of technology and health. The use of different types of lasers to optimise the properties of synthesised materials demonstrated the versatility of the field and its ability to generate solutions adaptable to multiple contexts, from biochemical sensors for glucose monitoring to devices for energy and biomedical applications.
When asked about large-scale production, Elvira Fortunato pointed out that the main obstacle is “companies’ lack of awareness regarding the research conducted in universities”, advocating the need for greater dialogue and collaboration between the two sectors. “The creation of more sustainable and economical alternatives depends on this coordination, in a joint effort to replace non-reusable materials with more efficient solutions”, she stressed, adding that “science is a pillar for the development of every country”.
For Margarida Girão, president of JEQ, “going beyond course requirements” is crucial in preparing students for a professional environment in constant changing. “Participating in initiatives such as JEQ allows students to complement their academic training with practical skills and a clearer view of the different career opportunities”, she says. “Direct contact with professionals and companies helps students understand where they can apply the acquired knowledge and which study areas have the greatest potential for growth”.
She emphasised the importance of integrating a business fair, which strengthens the connection with the business world by offering “a much closer perception of industrial reality”. “Taking advantage of opportunities to engage with industry and various sectors helps students develop a more comprehensive profile that is better prepared for future challenges”, she added, also highlighting that sustainability, energy transition and decarbonisation “will strongly shape the future of Chemical Engineering”.
The Chemical Engineering Seminar Series took place from 24 to 26 February 2026, at Técnico – Alameda campus. The event brought together the academic community and the business sector to discuss global challenges and opportunities for innovation, as well as the role of chemical engineers in society. “From the initial design to control and continuous improvement, it is the chemical engineer who ensures that operations are technically feasible, efficient, and economically sustainable”, concluded Margarida Girão.
