March 28th, 2022
Prof. João Mano was recognised with the title of Doctor Honoris Causa by the prestigious Utrecht University for exceptional contribution to the field of regenerative medicine
Dr. João Mano, Professor in the Department of Chemistry and vice-director of CICECO at the University of Aveiro was recognized for his pioneering research and teaching within the field of regenerative medicine.
The day of its 386th Dies Natalis, this year under the motto “Curious Collaborations”, Prof. João Mano was awarded an honorary doctorate from Utrecht University for his outstanding contribution to science across the boundaries of various disciplines.
In his celebratory address he explained how his research has been inspired by the “amazing capability of nature to adapt and find solutions to complex problems” and how he has tried to “translate this comprehension to develop new biomimetic materials and systems with unique or extreme properties”. With his research group at the University of Aveiro he explores the use of biomaterials and cells to develop multidisciplinary concepts to be employed in biomedicine. In particular, he pioneered the use of nano- and microtechnology approaches with naturally derived biomaterials to obtain biomedical devices with improved properties to control the behavior and organization of living cells.
Prof. Henk Kummeling, Rector Magnificus of Utrecht University mentioned in his address that “Prof. Mano is a truly inspirational and creative researcher, who has a mission that one can only admire: to prolong lives of people with chronic diseases.”
The hybrid ceremony took place on March 25th at the University of Utrecht’s spectacular Dom Church. Click here to watch the ceremony and read on for more details.