The Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS) has been awarded the highest classification of EXCELLENT in the most recent national evaluation of R&D Units, conducted by the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT) under the Multiannual Funding Programme for 2023/2024.
This distinction recognizes the outstanding scientific contributions of the ICVS community — including researchers, clinicians, faculty members, and technical staff — whose dedication, talent, and innovation have positioned the institute at the forefront of biomedical and health sciences research in Portugal and internationally.
The FCT evaluation process analyzed the scientific and technological activity of research units between 2018 and 2023, as well as their strategic plans and organizational structure for the 2025–2029 period. Across the country, 336 R&D Units were assessed by 315 international experts covering all areas of knowledge.
The success of ICVS is part of a broader achievement for the University of Minho, which saw 84% of its 31 research units rated as either “Excellent” (13) or “Very Good” (13). These units represent 94% of the university’s researchers, reinforcing UMinho’s reputation for research excellence.
“These results are globally very positive for UMinho, confirming the impact of the work of our faculty and researchers,” stated Sandra Paiva, Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation at the University of Minho.
This recognition reflects not only past achievements but also the solid foundation and strategic vision that will guide ICVS in its mission to advance knowledge, improve health outcomes, and contribute to innovation in Portugal and beyond.
