ACTIVITIES

A five-session initiative brought together researchers and PhD students to discuss international collaborations, research data management, Open Science and Artificial Intelligence.

Throughout 2026, the Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA) hosted a series of CBMA Lunch Talks, an initiative designed to strengthen collaboration, encourage knowledge sharing and promote discussions on topics that are increasingly shaping modern scientific research.

Bringing together researchers, PhD students and invited experts in an informal setting, the five sessions addressed key challenges and opportunities related to international collaborations, research data management, Open Science and the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence.

The programme began with a collaborative session where participants helped define the topics for the series while also exploring new opportunities for international collaboration through the EuroMarine network and the recently submitted GENE2ECO Twinning proposal, reinforcing CBMA’s commitment to excellence and capacity building in Molecular and Environmental Computational Biology.

The following three sessions formed the series “From Data Chaos to Data Value: Shaping Better Research”, focusing on the different stages of the research data lifecycle. With contributions from the University of Minho’s Documentation and Library Services (USDB) and Bernardo Bica, an ARNET-funded research fellow, participants explored the role of Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELNs), FAIR data principles and Data Management Plans in improving research quality, reproducibility and long-term impact. Practical tools, repositories and best practices were also discussed, highlighting how well-managed research data increase visibility, foster collaboration and create new opportunities for scientific discovery.

The final Lunch Talk focused on the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in research. Participants discussed how AI-powered tools can support tasks such as coding, literature reviews, scientific writing and data analysis, while also reflecting on the ethical, legal and environmental considerations associated with their responsible use.

More than a seminar series, the CBMA Lunch Talks have become a collaborative platform for continuous learning, interdisciplinary exchange and the adoption of best practices that strengthen research excellence. By creating opportunities for open discussion and shared learning, the initiative contributes to building a more connected, innovative and future-ready research community.