Risk. Responsibility. Research. How INESC TEC Got It Right – with José Manuel Mendonça

This is the second part of the series with with José Manuel Mendonça. It explores the unique governance model of INESC TEC, its evolution in relation to industry collaboration, the role of academia in research institutes, and the importance of multidisciplinary approaches in research.

José Mendonça shares insights on how INESC TEC was established to bridge the gap between academia and industry, the challenges faced, and the strategies implemented to foster collaboration and innovation.

The discussion highlights the need for a sustainable model that balances academic freedom with industrial application, emphasizing the significance of large, multidisciplinary teams in addressing real-world challenges. In this conversation, José Mendonça discusses the innovative models of laboratory sharing for impactful research, the evolving role of universities in the research landscape, and the complexities of governance in research institutions.

He emphasizes the importance of mentorship and the dual missions of research institutions to serve both educational and research goals. The conversation also touches on the effects of European integration on research capabilities and the ongoing challenges and opportunities for INESC TEC in the future.

Takeaways

• INESC's governance model is a pioneer in Portugal.
• The need for a model to interface with companies was clear from the start.
• Professors transitioned from researchers to project managers.
• The governance model allows for a sustainable structure.
• INESC TEC serves as a strategic glue for the ecosystem.
• Alignment of interests between INESC TEC and universities is crucial.
• The model requires continuous explanation to new university leadership.
• Multidisciplinary approaches are essential for tackling complex problems.
• Large groups enable collaboration across different scientific areas.
• The balance between academic freedom and industrial application is vital. State-of-the-art laboratories are essential for impactful research.
• Shared laboratories can accommodate large research groups effectively.
• Engineers play a crucial role in scientific research.
• Universities must adapt to evolving research demands.
• Governance in research institutions is complex and multifaceted.
• INESC TEC balances its dual mission to serve universities and researchers.
• Mentorship is vital for developing future leaders in research.
• European integration has transformed research capabilities in Portugal.
• Competition among institutions fosters innovation and improvement.
• The future of INESC TEC involves addressing funding and sustainability challenges.

Chapters

00:00: The Governance Model of INESC TEC

07:07: Evolution of Research and Industry Collaboration

17:00: The Role of Academia in Research Institutes

30:02: Multidisciplinary Approaches in Research

35:52: Innovative Laboratory Models for Research

39:12: The Evolving Role of Universities

41:44: Navigating Complex Governance Structures

45:05: Balancing Dual Missions in Research

48:41: The Importance of Mentorship in Research Institutions

56:11: European Integration and Its Impact on Research

01:07:51: Future Challenges and Opportunities for INESC TEC