Fibrenamics congratulates the appointment of Professor Raul Fangueiro as Vice-Rector of the University of Minho, taking on the portfolio of Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Knowledge Transfer — a strategic area for the country’s scientific, technological, and economic development.

Internationally recognized for his scientific contributions and his ability to transform knowledge into applied solutions, Professor Raul Fangueiro has played a decisive role in establishing the University of Minho and Fibrenamics as key references within the innovation ecosystem focused on advanced materials and products. His leadership has been acknowledged at the highest level, as evidenced by his inclusion in the top 2% of the world’s most influential researchers and his appointment as Advisor to the Government for Science, Technology, and Innovation (CNCTI).

A career rooted in innovation and value creation

As Mentor and President of Fibrenamics, Professor Raul Fangueiro has guided the institution in consolidating a pioneering model for the generation, valorization, and transfer of knowledge. Based on a virtuous triangle between Intelligence, Science, Technology, and Business, the Fibrenamics model has been highlighted by the European Commission as a success story and an example of best practices in university–industry cooperation across Europe.

Under his leadership, Fibrenamics has achieved remarkable results:

– 900 scientific publications
– 500 national and international partners
– 70 innovative products
– 45 patents
– A growing community of more than 4,500 members

These figures reflect not only the scientific maturity of the ecosystem but also its capacity to create real impact in industry and society, developing innovative solutions in areas such as health, defense, mobility, construction, sports, and sustainability.

Strengthening UMinho’s knowledge transfer strategy

Professor Raul Fangueiro’s appointment comes at a time when the country faces structural challenges related to competitiveness, digital transition, sustainability, and talent attraction. By placing Innovation and Knowledge Transfer under his leadership, the University of Minho reinforces a vision focused on impact, economic and social value creation, and strengthening relationships between academia, industry, and society.

For Raul Fangueiro, this appointment is met with enthusiasm and a strong sense of responsibility: “I am extremely honored by the trust placed in me to lead such an impactful area within the University of Minho and the entire innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem it brings together. I take on this role with a strong sense of responsibility and with the ambition to implement a sustained model for transforming knowledge into economic and social value — centered on the university, but integrating its interfaces, companies, municipalities, and other national and international entities.”

An opportunity to strengthen Fibrenamics’ mission

For Fibrenamics, this appointment reinforces the strategy developed over more than a decade: bringing science and industry closer together, accelerating innovation dynamics, and developing solutions that address emerging societal challenges.

With a global outlook — reflected in partnerships in Europe, Brazil, the USA, and a strong presence in industrial clusters and international conferences — Fibrenamics will continue working alongside the University of Minho to position Portugal as a reference in innovation based on fibrous and composite materials.

Commitment to the future

Fibrenamics congratulates Professor Raul Fangueiro on this highly deserved appointment and expresses its full commitment to collaborating in strengthening the University of Minho’s innovation capacity, contributing to business competitiveness, technological advancement, and the sustainable development of society.

From Science to People.