CBMA 2024 Research Highlights
As 2025 begins, we take a moment to reflect on some of the key research achievements that shaped the past year. Among the many impactful projects led by CBMA, these highlights represent some of the work that gained significant attention in the media. Our work continues to drive innovation in molecular and environmental biology, addressing global challenges and promoting biosustainability.
- Freshwater Ecosystems and Climate Change
CBMA researchers have identified high levels of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide and methane, in rivers across Northern Portugal. This study highlights the significant role that aquatic ecosystems play in amplifying climate change and influencing extreme weather patterns.
Featured in Público and published in Global Change Biology.
Find out more here.
- Basinnov Innovation Award – Recognising Scientific Excellence
Ana Preto’s pioneering research on PMC79, a novel compound that blocks key KRAS gene mutations, was honoured with the Basinnov Innovation Award 2024. This recognition reflects CBMA’s commitment to advancing molecular biology and biomedical innovation.
Find out more here.
- Monitoring Atlantic Fish Populations with DNA
CBMA is at the forefront of marine conservation with a groundbreaking project that uses environmental DNA (eDNA) to monitor fish species across the Atlantic. This innovative, non-invasive method enables faster and more accurate identification of species, supporting sustainable fisheries and ecosystem management.
Find out more here.
- New Marine Species Discovery
CBMA researcher Marcos Rubal contributed to the discovery of Batillipes chandrayaani, a new tardigrade species found off the southwest coast of India. This discovery enhances our understanding of marine biodiversity and the resilience of microscopic life in extreme environments.
Find out more here.
- Water Purification Technologies
CBMA researchers are developing membranes containing nanoparticles capable of removing pharmaceutical and pesticide contaminants from wastewater. These membranes act as a physical barrier, with nano and microparticles on their surface that degrade contaminants through photocatalysis, using sunlight as an energy source. This technology represents a significant step towards more efficient and sustainable water purification processes.