11-11-2025
Photo: João Lima/NOVA FCT
Tomás Vaz (Biochemistry), Mariana Duarte (Cellular and Molecular Biology) and Pedro Pinto (Micro and Nanotechnologies Engineering) from NOVA FCT were recognized in the latest edition of the Gulbenkian New Talents Scholarships, a program that rewards academic excellence and the potential of outstanding university students.
For Mariana Duarte, the distinction represents “a validation of all the work developed so far and an important incentive to pursue a career in scientific research.” She sees the scholarship as “an opportunity to connect with other young people who share the same ambitions and to invest in courses and conferences in the field of genetic regulation.”
Tomás Vaz also highlights the importance of the program in consolidating his academic journey: “The Gulbenkian New Talents Scholarship will give me the opportunity to put into practice everything I have learned as a student at NOVA FCT. It will be an innovative experience that will allow me to live new realities, build valuable connections, and gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be a scientist. Institutions such as NOVA FCT and the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation inspire me to reach my full potential, fostering curiosity and the pleasure of learning with rigor and passion.” Passionate about biochemistry from an early age, he chose NOVA FCT for its practical teaching approach and high-quality laboratories, with the ambition of continuing to build a research career.
For Pedro Pinto, a student of Micro and Nanotechnologies Engineering, receiving the scholarship is “the culmination of three years of dedication and effort.” Inspired by the career of Elvira Fortunato, he highlights the essential role of the Department of Materials Science and its professors, who “have always promoted curiosity and scientific excellence.” With this support, he intends to continue his work in the field of sensors, strengthening the first steps of his research career.
With a financial grant of €3,500, the Gulbenkian New Talents program promotes both the scientific and personal development of its fellows through specialized mentoring, workshops, scientific retreats, and advanced training activities. The scholarships also fund participation in conferences, summer schools, internships, language courses, and the acquisition of research materials.
This distinction reinforces NOVA FCT’s commitment to nurturing talent and scientific excellence among its students, highlighting the institution’s crucial role in training future generations of top scientists and researchers.
