International experts and research team assess achieved results, future opportunities, and the long-term legacy of the ERA Chair project.
The BESIDE ERA Chair project held its 3rd Steering Committee meeting on 18 March 2026 at the University of Aveiro, bringing together members of the Advisory Board and the entire BESIDE research team, including Scientific Coordinator Ana Lillebø, a CESAM/DBIO researcher, and ERA Chair Holder Helena Vieira, a CESAM/DAO researcher, to assess the progress achieved and define the project’s strategic contribution to the University’s scientific leadership in the coming years.
The meeting, held at the Senate Room of the Rectorate and at ECOMARE, represented a key moment to reflect on the results achieved by BESIDE and, above all, to discuss its long-term institutional impact. Participants focused on how the project is strengthening research excellence, international visibility, and interdisciplinary integration within CESAM and across the University.
Members of the BESIDE Advisory Board participated in the discussions both in person and remotely, engaging with researchers, PhD students, and the project leadership in a context of broad exchange and strategic reflection.
Throughout the meeting, the significant scientific and organisational progress of the project was highlighted, including increased scientific output, the attraction of competitive funding, and the consolidation of a dynamic and internationally connected research team. The Advisory Board emphasised that these achievements position BESIDE as a catalyst for strengthening CESAM’s capacity and reinforcing the University of Aveiro’s leadership in addressing complex sustainability challenges.
A key focus of the discussions was the sustainability and legacy of the ERA Chair initiative. Participants explored ways to ensure that BESIDE’s approaches, networks, and scientific agenda continue to influence institutional priorities beyond the project’s duration, contributing to talent attraction, scientific innovation, and stronger societal engagement.
By promoting the integration of natural and socio-economic sciences and fostering forward-looking research strategies, BESIDE is playing an increasingly relevant role in supporting the University of Aveiro’s ambition to consolidate its position as an international reference in sustainability research and innovation.
