Helena Vieira, BESIDE ERA Chair holder and researcher at CESAM and the University of Aveiro, participated in Deep Téc4Ocean on 19 October 2026, sharing her experience in translating scientific knowledge into innovative solutions, creating business opportunities from marine resources, and strengthening connections between science, industry and public policy.
Held at the Técnico Innovation Center in Lisbon, Deep Téc4Ocean was organised by the Directorate-General for Maritime Policy (DGPM), in partnership with the Students’ Association of Instituto Superior Técnico. The event brought together students, researchers, companies and public institutions to discuss challenges and opportunities in the Blue Economy.
During the panel “Blue Medtech, Blue Food & Sustainable Aquaculture”, Helena Vieira shared insights from her professional experience at the intersection of science, entrepreneurship and ocean policy. She highlighted the potential of the blue bioeconomy and marine biotechnology to transform knowledge of marine biodiversity into innovative solutions, economic opportunities and societal benefits.
Drawing on her experience in establishing BIOALVO and developing applications based on marine bioactive compounds, she emphasised the importance of bringing scientific research closer to industry needs and societal challenges. She also stressed that sustainable innovation requires more than scientific excellence. It demands expertise in management, economics, intellectual property and market dynamics, alongside effective collaboration between researchers, businesses, investors and policymakers.
This perspective is closely aligned with the objectives of the BESIDE ERA Chair project at the University of Aveiro and CESAM, which promotes the integration of natural and socioeconomic sciences to strengthen interdisciplinary research and support evidence-based decision-making for the sustainable management of natural resources. Connecting science, economics and governance is essential to recognising the value of natural capital, developing innovative solutions and supporting a sustainable transition towards a resilient Blue Economy.
Addressing students interested in pursuing ocean-related careers, research projects or entrepreneurial initiatives, Helena Vieira encouraged them to look beyond scientific discovery and focus on transforming knowledge into solutions that address real societal and market needs. She highlighted the importance of understanding economic and regulatory frameworks, embracing interdisciplinary approaches and building bridges between academia, industry and public policy.
Her participation in Deep Téc4Ocean provided an opportunity to share knowledge and inspire younger generations to explore careers and innovation opportunities in ocean-related sectors, reinforcing the role of the University of Aveiro and CESAM in advancing marine science, innovation and a competitive, sustainable blue bioeconomy.
About Deep Téc4Ocean
Deep Téc4Ocean is an initiative dedicated to ocean science, technology and innovation. It aims to connect younger generations with professional and entrepreneurial opportunities in the Blue Economy while fostering collaboration between academia, industry and public institutions.
