The CIVG – Vasco da Gama Research Centre, EUVG’s Research and Development (R&D) unit, is dedicated to research and innovation within the One Health concept, developing its activity in a multidisciplinary manner in the areas of Veterinary Sciences, Biological Sciences and Ecosystems.
Created in 2017, the CIVG has around 30 integrated PhD researchers and 50 collaborators, and was recently classified as ‘Good’ by the FCT in the 2023-2024 R&D Unit Assessment, consolidating its scientific relevance at national and international level.
ORGANIZATION
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RESEARCHERS
research grants
+80
Researchers
+500
Published Articles
Classification by the Foundation for Science and Technology
R&D
Research and
Development
Our Projects
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BioimpACE+
CARDIOSTEM
OLIVEμALGAE
Epilepsia Canina
RABBIT-EC
EDPFC1
VECTORCAT
PUPS-CHASE
MEPR1
WildPath
PlastiTox® PT
ABBa
PARA2
EPAPRU3
VetOncProtOmics
NanoMasTherapy
Research and Knowledge Promotion Activities - Community Outreach
1. CIVG Annual Meeting
A structuring scientific initiative of the CIVG, organized annually, which focuses on the main research topics developed at the Center, within the scope of the One Health concept. This meeting aims to promote knowledge sharing, strengthen links with external partners, and establish itself as a reference in the field of interdisciplinary research in human, animal, and environmental health. It is aimed at the scientific, academic, and professional communities, as well as the general public, promoting dialogue and collaboration between different sectors of society.
2. CIVG Mini Talks
Scientific dissemination sessions that promote the presentation of work developed, results achieved, and new ideas within the scope of CIVG research. They are aimed at researchers, teachers, and students, serving as a privileged space to foster knowledge sharing, stimulate debate, and promote synergies between CIVG members and the surrounding scientific community. These sessions contribute to the enhancement of research and the strengthening of institutional scientific culture.
3. Be Healthy with CIVG
A set of interactive and educational activities that promote human, animal, and environmental health, bringing science closer to society.
3.1. Live Science in Summer
3.1.1. Health in the Bioreserve
Interactive visits to protected areas managed by MILVOZ, where native biodiversity and natural ecosystems are explored. These activities invite participants to discover nature and raise awareness of its protection, promoting a link between health and environmental conservation from a One Health perspective.
3.1.2. Health on the Beach
Visit to the intertidal zone of Buarcos Beach to learn about its marine inhabitants and understand their importance for biodiversity and environmental balance. The initiative highlights the main threats to these ecosystems, such as pollution and climate change, and presents marine mammals as indicators of ocean health. It includes an interactive moment on what to do if you spot stranded animals, such as dolphins or seals.
3.1.3. Health on the Island
Walk on Morraceira Island, an ecosystem rich in biodiversity and shaped by sustainable human activities such as aquaculture and traditional salt production. The initiative allows visitors to learn about the ecological importance of the island, raising awareness of the preservation of natural habitats and the link between health, the environment, and human activity.
3.1.4. Health in the Park
Team scavenger hunt, designed for families, friends, or spontaneous groups, with challenges and questions about marine health, climate change, and biodiversity. A fun and educational activity that promotes scientific knowledge in an accessible and participatory way.
3.1.5. Health on the Street
An urban version of the peddy paper, held on the streets of the city, focusing on ocean health, climate phenomena, and local curiosities. An interactive activity that invites scientific discovery in an informal setting.
3.1.6. Health in Schools
Scientific peddy paper held in a school setting. Through games and challenges, it promotes scientific literacy and the connection between science, health, and the environment.
3.2. European Researchers’ Night
3.2.1. MYTH OR TRUTH? The Pharmacology of Our Animals
Interactive quiz that challenges participants to distinguish myths from facts about the use of medicines in companion animals, promoting literacy in veterinary pharmacology.
3.2.2. Lactose-Free Milk: The Magic of Immobilized Lactose
A hands-on experiment where participants transform regular milk into lactose-free milk, exploring the role of enzymes and biotechnology in inclusive nutrition.
2.3. From Genetics to Function: Simulating Protein Synthesis
A hands-on activity that allows students to build a model of protein synthesis, explaining how the body transforms genetic information into proteins.
3.2.4. Microorganisms: Hidden Heroes or Silent Enemies?
Observation of real microorganisms, including oral microbiota, to discover the essential role of these invisible beings in health and ecosystem balance.
3.2.5. “Sorry, but it’s not food!”
Educational activity on the impact of microplastics on marine ecosystems and food chains.
4. CIVG Summer Internships
Scientific internships for students, integrated into the Ciência Viva no Verão (Science Alive in Summer) program, providing practical research experience in the One Health context.
4.1. Insect Hunters
Internship in parasitology, with field and laboratory work on disease-carrying insects, morphological diagnosis, and transmission risk assessment.
4.2. Ocean Explorers
Internship in marine ecosystems and biomedical research with zebrafish, including studies of behavior, animal welfare, and ecotoxicology.