The Portuguese Society of Biotechnology (SPBT) announces Portugal’s participation in the Bio-based Innovation Student Challenge Europe (BISC-E) 2026, a European competition that challenges students to explore the emerging field of the bioeconomy by developing innovative bio-based products or processes.
A challenge on a European scale
BISC-E is an initiative that brings together students from across Europe to stimulate innovation in the bioeconomy and promote sustainable solutions based on renewable biological resources. The competition gives participants the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical projects, developing entrepreneurial and technical skills that are essential for the future of the biotechnology sector.
Students are challenged to create bio-based products or processes that meet real needs in society, from innovative biomaterials and bioplastics to bioprocesses that produce value-added compounds from organic waste or sustainable biomass. The competition promotes an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging teams to combine knowledge of biotechnology, engineering, green chemistry and sustainability.
National coordination
In Portugal, the national coordination of BISC-E 2026 is led by Professor José Teixeira, of the Department of Biological Engineering at the University of Minho, a renowned researcher in bioprocesses and fermentation. Professor Teixeira has played a key role in promoting the bioeconomy in Portugal and in linking academia, industry and society.
“This competition is a unique opportunity for Portuguese students to develop innovative projects, build international contacts and gain visibility on the European bioeconomy stage,” says Professor José Teixeira, National Coordinator. “We encourage all students interested in biotechnology, biological engineering and related fields to take up this challenge.”
How to take part
Portuguese university students interested in taking part in BISC-E 2026 should contact the National Coordinator, Professor José Teixeira, by email at jateixeira@deb.uminho.pt. Participation can be individual or in teams, with support from academic mentors throughout the project.
The competition has several stages, including submission of proposals, development of prototypes or business plans, and a final presentation to a jury of European experts. The best projects will have the chance to present at the European final, with the possibility of attracting investment and support for commercial development.
Bioeconomy: the sustainable future
The bioeconomy is a strategic sector for the transition to a more sustainable and circular economy, using renewable biological resources to produce food, materials, energy and chemicals. The European Union has invested significantly in this area through programmes such as Horizon Europe and the European Bioeconomy Strategy.
Portugal has shown growing dynamism in this sector, with several research centres and companies developing innovative solutions in areas such as biomaterials, advanced biofuels, green chemistry and waste valorisation. Taking part in BISC-E strengthens the national commitment to training new talent and developing sustainable biotechnological solutions.
About BISC-E
The Bio-based Innovation Student Challenge Europe is organised by the BI Consortium, a European network of academic institutions and research centres dedicated to promoting the bioeconomy. The competition is supported by the European Commission and industrial partners in the bio-based sector, offering participants a unique learning experience and direct contact with the European biotechnology innovation ecosystem.
Information and registration
- Email: jateixeira@deb.uminho.pt
- BISC-E website: https://biconsortium.eu/about-bisc-e
- National Coordinator: Professor José Teixeira, University of Minho
SPBT encourages all students passionate about biotechnology and innovation to take up this European challenge and contribute to the sustainable future of the Portuguese bioeconomy.
