8/05/2026

On May 7th, LS4FUTURE researchers took part in a full-day Site Visit to BIAL, in the Porto area, gaining first-hand insight into the inner workings of a leading pharmaceutical company.

The visit began with a warm welcome and networking lunch, setting the stage for a day of discovery across BIAL’s key operational areas. Participants were given guided access to both industrial production facilities and research and development (R&D) units, offering a comprehensive view of the journey from early-stage scientific ideas to the delivery of medicinal products to market.

Throughout the day, researchers explored the diversity of scientific and technical activities at BIAL, spanning Process and Medicinal Chemistry, in vitro and in vivo Pharmacology, biology, and translational research. This immersive experience highlighted not only the complexity of drug development pipelines but also the wide range of career paths available within the pharmaceutical industry, from R&D to production and regulatory environments.

Beyond the technical insights, the visit provided an important opportunity for reflection, encouraging participants to consider how their own research may connect with industry challenges, and potentially paving the way for future collaborations or career transitions.

This initiative marks the beginning of a growing interaction between LS4FUTURE and BIAL, with further joint activities already being organised. We encourage the community to stay engaged and take advantage of upcoming opportunities.