Chancellor of Brazilian University visits INESC TEC

Mariz Thompson, Chancellor of the Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG) in Brazil, visited INESC TEC on 12 and 13 November, where he had the opportunity to contact with the reality of this R&D institute.

The Chancellor, accompanied by the Pro-Chancellor Marcelo Sá and the advisor Michel Fossy, visited the headquarters of INESC TEC in FEUP and the Laboratory of MIcrogrids and Electric Vehicles, as well as INESC TEC’s environmental and underwater robotics laboratories in ISEP.

BIP interviewed Thompson Mariz, who reported his impressions on this Portuguese institute and expectations upon joining the INESC Brazil Network.

Having already visited "several research institutes at universities and laboratories in different countries of the world," the Chancellor stated that INESC TEC surprised him "by the laboratory infrastructures, by the highly qualified staff and the diversity of students who are pursuing their studies". According to Thompson Mariz, that is what motivated him to join the INESC Brazil Network, "especially because our University, like this Portuguese institute, is at the forefront of computer systems, energy and electronics", he stated.

"The UFCG, like INESC TEC, is at the forefront of computer systems, energy and electronics "(Chancellor at UFCG)

When asked about his impressions following his visit, the Chancellor said that his impressions "of the city, the University of Porto and INESC TEC were very positive" and added that when he participates in forums he will "emphasize that Portugal is as advanced as Brazil in these areas and, as such, we want to establish partnerships as equals."

It is important to highlight that in September the UFCG signed an agreement with the INESC Brazil Network, a cooperation network to be managed by INESC R&D Brazil. To the Chancellor, "the big expectation is that the synergy between the UFCG and INESC Brazil is strong enough so that no other interventions are required to promote the success of this partnership."

While in Porto, the Chancellor also had the opportunity to sign a cooperation agreement with the University of Porto, in conjunction with the Chancellor of this Portuguese University.