CHRC Achieves EXCELLENT score from FCT for Second Consecutive Assessment

The Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC) has once again been scored as “Excellent” by Portugal’s FCT – Foundation for Science and Technology, marking this prestigious recognition for the second consecutive time.

This accolade reaffirms CHRC’s position as a national centre of scientific excellence, underpinned by robust, evidence‑based research across clinical, public health, health innovation, and education disciplines. Organised into four thematic lines—ranging from personalised medicine in high‑burden diseases to climate change and global health—CHRC’s multidisciplinary work is dedicated to translating research into real‑world impact.

Acknowledging Our Researchers

This outstanding evaluation is due to the sustained effort, innovation, and commitment of the CHRC research community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to every researcher — their dedication has been fundamental in securing this landmark achievement.

Looking Ahead: Elevating Excellence

As we celebrate this success, CHRC is also setting an ambitious strategy for the period 2025–2029, with plans to:

• Boster our scientific reputation through publications in top‑tier venues and accessible summaries;
• Diversify international funding, particularly across areas like oncology, cardiology, nutrition, and health policy;
• Foster stronger international collaborations, aiming for 60% of projects rooted in global partnerships;
• Translate research into clinically ready innovations, targeting at least five products reaching TRL 8–9;
• Expand educational offerings, adding new courses and supporting hundreds of new master’s and PhD completions annually;
• Support career development with at least 15 new permanent positions and robust mentoring for early‑career researchers;
• Enhance health equity and community engagement, with outreach in Portuguese‑speaking African countries, Brazil, and Rwanda;
• Scale institutional partnerships, including links with leading universities such as Harvard, CMU, and Oxford CHRC.

Building on Excellence Together

This “Excellent” evaluation is both a celebration and a springboard. With confidence and optimism, we reaffirm our commitment to advancing multidisciplinary research, innovation, and social impact. Together, we will elevate CHRC’s position in global health research even further.