Introduction
The project UID/PRR/50017/2025, funded by the Foundation for Science and Technology through the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), supports the acquisition and upgrading of major scientific equipment and research infrastructures at CESAM – Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies of the University of Aveiro, in coordination with its multiannual programmatic funding and CESAM’s 2025–2029 strategic plan. With a total budget of €1,833,904.86, the project finances the purchase of equipment, certain infrastructural adaptations required for equipment operation, advanced instruments, specialised software, scientific archives and data, as well as computing systems and communication networks that enhance CESAM’s scientific capacity and promote open access to knowledge.
The implementation period runs from 1 January 2025 to 30 June 2026, within the framework of investment C05‑i13 – Scientific Research Units of the PRR. The project complies with strict rules on expenditure eligibility, public procurement, transparency, and accountability, and demonstrates a strong commitment to Open Science practices, including the deposit of publications in open access repositories within the RCAAP network.
Overall Framework in the Activities Plan
The mission of CESAM (Center for Environmental and Marine Studies), from the University of Aveiro, is to promote transdisciplinary and transformative research and knowledge exchange to address societal needs, namely environmental and marine challenges, global change processes, and sustainable solutions for the management and conservation of natural resources and the well-being of ecosystems and humanity, building upon a One-Health Approach. This is achieved through fundamental and applied research. CESAM gathers ca. 500 members (researchers, PhD students and collaborators) with knowledge and competences on a broad expertise on environmental sciences (e.g. modelling and forecasting, risk assessment, nature-based solutions, life cycle assessment, ‘omics’ technologies, bioinformatics, environmental economics).
CESAM aims to promote the efficient use of terrestrial and aquatic resources, from land to deep sea, fostering a prosperity economy and innovative sustainable development models and approaches to combat global threats. CESAM has its research structured organised in 3 transversal thematic lines (TLs) that are operationalized through 6 research groups (RGs), fostering an integrated and comprehensive approach to addressing the multifaceted nature of environmental and marine sciences. In brief, TL1 ‘Climate Change, Adaptation and Mitigation’ aims to understand the scientific basis of climate change and address its impacts at economic, environmental and social levels; TL2 ‘Environmental Management, Pollution and Modelling’ investigate environmental pollution sources and impacts and enhance environmental quality through advanced modelling and management practices; and TL3 ‘Socio-Ecological Systems and Resources’ address socio-economic drivers of climate change, assessing vulnerabilities and developing adaptive strategies. CESAM defined 4 Strategic Objectives (SO) that reflects CESAM’s comprehensive approach to address the transdisciplinarity and complexity of its targets: SO1 ‘Advancing Knowledge & Innovation’ to generate new insights and innovative solutions through fundamental and applied research, driving scientific excellence through transformative R&I, knowledge transfer, open science practices, infrastructures reinforcement (e.g. the recently funded Centre for Innovation and Technology in aquaculture at ECOMARE) and cutting-edge equipment acquisition (e.g. confocal Microscope for high-definition evaluation of materials, observation of sub-cellular structures, and dynamic processes). This will boost CESAM´s scientific reputation and attractiveness (e.g. boosting ERC and MSCA-PF grants applications); SO2 ‘Fostering Impact & Collaboration’ for translation of research into action through strategic partnerships with other research organizations, policymakers, industry, and other stakeholders, including the citizens. The CESAM’s scientific, economic and societal impacts will bolster through an active and professional science communication and manager team to make scientific research more accessible and relevant (e.g. producing documentaries for national open TV channels), an enhancement of the technical skills of science managers (e.g. organization of info sessions about relevant calls and funding programmes; improve support in competitive funded international proposals); an increase of international collaborations (e.g. organizing key international conferences) and strategic projects (e.g. MSCA-DN and ERA-Chair); foster collaborations with academic (e.g. UCalgary UN University Hub), non-academic Portuguese agencies (e.g. ICNF, APA), and private sector (e.g. non-academic chairs in FCT tenure programme); SO3 ‘Promoting Social & Ecosystem Health’ to promote solutions for human and environmental well-being, inform evidence-based policies and generate valuable knowledge on biodiversity, ecosystem-based management and restoration, aiming to restore and protect the resilience of ecosystems. Particular focus is proposed on the promotion of scientific and technological literacy (e.g. produce educational resources to empower local communities and citizens in tackling ecosystem health challenges) and citizen science (e.g. promote citizen science initiative award) to actively contribute to knowledge-driven society; SO4 ‘Enhancing International Standing’ by actively pursuing international key partnerships (e.g. with University Calgary for collaborative research and training in water sustainability) and leadership roles in international scientific (e.g. SETAC) and/or policy bodies (e.g. UNESCO) to help shaping the research agenda in environmental and marine sciences and leverage global research synergies (e.g. taking advantage of the HE-Widening programme). This objective also includes efforts to provide advanced training in specific cutting-edge areas (e.g. organization of hand-on sessions in specific fields like bioinformatics or in specific equipment) and career development opportunities, particularly for early career researchers, emphasizing the inclusiveness and gender equality aspects. Each SO is underpinned by SMART KPIs for precise performance tracking, integrating Board-dependent KPIs for governance oversight and Transversal KPIs across RGs and TLs for a holistic approach. Anticipating future challenges, CESAM remains adaptable, ready to refine strategies to sustain research excellence and societal impact. CESAM’s strategic objectives are crafted to ensure a balanced advancement in both fundamental and applied research, contributing to curiosity-driven knowledge, innovation, economic growth, and societal well-being. Through our carefully designed activity plan, our integrated approach to environmental and marine sciences will continue to be monitored and refined by the CESAM community and EAC members.
Equipment
Equipment and sfotware are aligned with CESAM’s multi-annual plan 2025–2029 and essential to deliver SO1–SO4. They fill gaps in lab, field and computational capacity, reinforcing CESAM as a reference in sustainability sciences. The portfolio modernises outdated infrastructure, ensures biosafety and reproducibility, supports digital transformation (AI/ML, UAV-LiDAR, advanced data integration), and expands CESAM’s integration in European infrastructures (EMBRC, ACTRIS, LifeWatch, AnaEE, eLTER). It will enhance PhD training, stakeholder engagement and open science. Contributions to KPIs are clear: more laboratory users and access requests, better reproducibility, growth in interdisciplinary projects, stronger international partnerships, and delivery of health metrics, policy evidence and sustainable practices.
1. Confocal Microscopy Platform – Confocal microscopy is applied across several CESAM research areas, including high-definition evaluation and characterisation of materials, observation of subcellular structures, the study of dynamic processes, and tomographic or three-dimensional reconstruction of structures. Its non-invasive nature represents a significant advantage, enabling the identification of biological changes in living organisms (in vivo), avoiding the need for animal sacrifice and allowing continuous observations throughout the duration of experiments, thereby contributing to the reduction in the number of animals used in experimental procedures. This infrastructure constitutes a significant advancement for research in the environmental and life sciences, particularly in cell biology and related fields. The information obtained through confocal microscopy, together with Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy, is complementary within the framework of Correlative Microscopy, enabling the identification of rare events by confocal microscopy, followed by high-resolution visualisation using electron microscopy. [See photo here. € 495,366.99 + VAT].
2. Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) – This equipment is used for surface imaging and elemental chemical characterisation of samples. The SEM/EDS technique has broad applicability across several scientific fields, including chemistry, where it is employed for the morphological characterisation of a wide range of materials such as microplastics and nanomaterials, and biological sciences, where it supports the study of cell and tissue morphology, as well as investigations of viruses, bacteria and their interactions within biological systems. These applications underpin the research activities of CESAM members in the fields of chemistry, environmental sciences and biology, contributing directly to the objectives of CESAM’s Strategic Project. By combining high-resolution imaging with elemental analysis, SEM/EDS provides essential insights into the structure, composition and behaviour of natural and engineered materials in environmental and biological contexts. [See photo here. € 214,950.00 + VAT].
3. Inductively Coupled Plasma Tandem Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS/MS) – Used for the trace quantification of metallic elements in environmental samples, ICP-MS/MS provides highly sensitive multi-element analysis. Its capability to simultaneously determine a wide range of elements reduces sequential analysis time and achieves significantly lower detection limits (<1 ppt) compared with flame atomic absorption spectrometry. These applications support the research activities of CESAM members in the fields of chemistry, environmental sciences and biology, contributing directly to the implementation of CESAM’s Strategic Project. [See here. € 166,493.00 + VAT].
4. Liquid Chromatography System with Automated Sample Preparation and Extraction – Designed for the chemical characterisation of complex matrices, including environmental samples, this system provides automated sample preparation and extraction workflows for coupling with the Q Exactive mass spectrometer available in CESAM’s central laboratories. By enhancing analytical efficiency, reproducibility and throughput, it supports the comprehensive identification and quantification of compounds in complex environmental matrices. These applications underpin the research activities of CESAM members in the fields of chemistry, physics, geosciences and environmental sciences, contributing directly to the objectives of CESAM’s Strategic Project. [See here. € 96,214.00 + VAT].
5. Real-Time PCR System (RT-qPCR) – This equipment enables the precise detection and quantification of nucleic acids. It is a standard tool in modern molecular biology, essential for ensuring reproducibility, reliability and scientific competitiveness. As a core component of the molecular biology platform, it provides fundamental analytical capacity that is indispensable for research across multiple scientific domains aligned with CESAM’s Strategic Plan. [See here. € 29,696.80 + VAT].
6. Thermocyclers – These two conventional thermocyclers enable the performance of PCR reactions that do not require real-time quantification. They form part of the basic and essential infrastructure of the molecular biology platform, supporting research activities across a wide range of scientific fields relevant to CESAM’s Strategic Plan. [See here. € 11,302.20 + VAT].
7. Imaging System for DNA and Protein Detection – This system enables the standardised documentation and quantification of results obtained from electrophoresis, fluorescence and chemiluminescence assays, including DNA and protein gels. It constitutes a core element of the molecular biology platform, providing essential support for research in diverse scientific areas that contribute to the objectives of CESAM’s Strategic Plan. [See here. € 29,616.20 + VAT].
8. Micro Gas Chromatograph – This instrument enables the detection and quantification of a wide range of gases, including permanent gases such as hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen, as well as light hydrocarbons, supporting research activities within CESAM’s Strategic Project. These applications underpin the work of CESAM researchers in the fields of chemistry, environmental sciences and biology, contributing to the study of environmental processes, pollutant dynamics and ecosystem functioning. [See photo here. € 88,100.00 + VAT].
9. Pyrolysis–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) – Used for the chemical characterisation of non-volatile samples, this system eliminates the need for the labour-intensive sample preparation typically associated with conventional GC–MS analysis, enabling the direct analysis of non-volatile materials. It supports both qualitative and quantitative analysis of composite materials and polymers, including microplastics and nanoplastics, providing valuable capabilities for research in chemistry and environmental sciences. [See photo here. € 139,457.00 + VAT].
10. Advanced Mass Spectrometry Data Analysis Software – Two software packages to be installed on the UPLC–MS (Orbitrap) platform, providing advanced tools for the processing, analysis and interpretation of mass spectrometry data in metabolomics and proteomics applications. These tools enhance the extraction of biological and chemical information from complex datasets, supporting high-resolution analytical workflows and improving data reliability and reproducibility. Their use underpins the research activities of CESAM members in the fields of chemistry, environmental sciences and biology, contributing directly to the objectives of CESAM’s Strategic Project. [See here. € 39,500.00 + VAT].
11. Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) Analyser – Used for the determination of particle size and particle size distribution in suspension, this instrument supports the chemical characterisation of a wide range of chemical and environmental materials within the framework of CESAM’s Strategic Project. By providing rapid and accurate measurements of particulate systems, it enables the study of colloids, nanoparticles, polymers, natural organic matter and environmental particulates. These applications support the research activities of CESAM members in the fields of chemistry, physics, geosciences and environmental sciences. [See here. € 81,090.00 + VAT].
12. Microwave Digestion System – Used for sample preparation prior to chemical analysis, particularly for the quantification of environmental contaminants, this microwave digestion system enables the efficient and reproducible processing of a wide range of environmental and biological matrices. By ensuring complete sample digestion and improving analytical accuracy, it supports high-quality chemical characterisation and contaminant assessment. The system has broad applicability across chemistry, biology and environmental sciences, contributing to research activities that are central to CESAM’s Strategic Project. [See here. € 20,000.00 + VAT].
13. SMZ-171-TLED Trinocular Stereo Microscopes – two stereo microscopes to support the zebrafish (Danio rerio) and amphibian (Xenopus) culture facilities [See photos here and here. € 3,692.00 + VAT].
14. High precision respirometer Oxygraph (O2k-FluoRespirometer) – To expand CESAM’s capacity in physiology and ecotoxicology, the high-precision respirometer enables detailed assessment of mitochondrial function, including oxygen consumption, respiratory chain activity, ROS formation, membrane potential and ion dynamics. It contributes to SO1 and SO3 by expanding CESAM’s capacity in physiology, ecotoxicology, toxicology and biomedicine, providing mechanistic insights linking cellular bioenergetics to environmental stressors and pollutant toxicity. As shared infrastructure, it enhances reproducibility, optimises lab use and fosters transdisciplinary projects within CESAM’s One Health mission. It strengthens collaboration, boosts international standing (SO4) and supports impactful outputs and policy inputs (SO2). Contributes to TL1, TL2, RG2 and RG5, and directly supports targets of expanding lab users, advancing environmental health metrics, generating sustainable practices, training researchers and improving policy-relevant evidence. [See here. € 73,530.00 + VAT].
15. Gas chromatograph coupled to a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer (GC-MS/MS) – used for the chemical characterisation of volatile compounds present at very low concentrations. This highly selective and sensitive instrument enables both qualitative and quantitative analyses at trace levels. The system will expand CESAM’s analytical capabilities for trace volatile compounds, complementing the existing capacity for non-volatile samples. These activities support the research carried out by CESAM members in the fields of chemistry, environmental sciences and biology. [See here. €156,000.00 + VAT]
16. Nano-LC system – used for the chemical characterisation of proteins and to be coupled to the existing mass spectrometer in CESAM’s central laboratories. These activities support the research carried out by CESAM members in the fields of chemistry, environmental sciences and biology. [See photo here. €112,418.00 + VAT]
17. Integrated Modular Incubation System – A system designed to meet the specific requirements for the incubation of eggs from aquaculture species, such as salmonids, tilapia and other biological models of interest, as well as for the early growth of larvae, ensuring a high level of experimental control and operational robustness. The proposed system comprises three vertical McDonald jar incubators, each with an approximate volume of 8 litres and a capacity of up to 20,000 eggs, providing a total capacity of around 60,000 eggs per cycle. The system operates through a controlled upwelling water flow, ensuring continuous suspension of the eggs, adequate oxygenation and prevention of clumping, all of which are critical factors for maximising hatching success and reducing embryonic mortality. It will support research and development activities carried out within CESAM’s Research Clusters 1, 4, 5 and 6, particularly studies related to climate change, ecotoxicology, marine biodiversity, sustainable aquaculture and blue biotechnology. Its modular design will enable the simultaneous implementation of different experimental protocols, thereby increasing the scientific and technical capacity of the research unit. [See here. €18,300.00 + VAT].
18. Saltwater Storage and Treatment System with a Capacity of 9,000 L – This system is intended to strengthen the experimental infrastructure required to support CESAM’s scientific activities within Research Clusters 1, 4, 5 and 6, providing the essential technical support for experiments involving marine organisms under controlled conditions. Experimental studies with marine organisms require the continuous availability of seawater with appropriate and stable physicochemical characteristics, a prerequisite for ensuring the reliability, reproducibility and scientific robustness of the results obtained. This system provides seawater storage, circulation, filtration and treatment capabilities, ensuring controlled and standardised conditions for the maintenance of living organisms and the implementation of experimental studies. The system enables the maintenance of appropriate water quality through treatment and filtration processes, ensuring the stability of parameters essential for organism survival and welfare. By reducing experimental variability, it contributes to the technical consistency and scientific reliability of the studies conducted. [See here. €19,720.00 + VAT].
19. Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) Units – These systems are intended to ensure the protection and operational continuity of scientific and laboratory equipment essential to the research and development activities of the R&D unit. The five UPS units will minimise the risk of interruptions, power failures and the loss of data or samples resulting from fluctuations in the electrical power supply. The installation of these UPS systems will help ensure the safe and reliable operation of highly sensitive and critical equipment used in the experimental and analytical activities carried out across CESAM’s Research Clusters. This acquisition is particularly important for safeguarding the integrity of scientific experiments, the preservation of valuable samples and the stability of laboratory systems supporting research activities. [See here. €7,940.00 + VAT].
20. Microplate Reader – This instrument will enable absorbance assays, ELISA-based tests, spectral scanning and the quantification of two key biomarkers used in contaminant monitoring and the assessment of their effects on organisms and ecosystems. The equipment will support a wide range of research activities and scientific projects related to ecotoxicology, environmental health, biotechnology and risk assessment, thereby strengthening CESAM’s analytical and experimental capabilities. Its use will provide more accurate, rapid and reproducible results, ensuring appropriate technical support for laboratory activities carried out by different research groups, particularly within Research Cluster 5 – Environmental Monitoring, Health and Risk Assessment. [See here. €32,500.00 + VAT].