The training is part of the application for the Blended Intensive Programmes under the KA131 Erasmus+ Programme, in the context of EUGLOH - European University Alliance for Global Health, selected for funding.
The proposed BIP addresses interdisciplinary topics at the intersection of life sciences, environmental sciences and technological innovation, framed within the One Health concept. The sustainability of aquaculture is not only an economic and food security priority, but also a health challenge with direct implications for human, animal and environmental well-being. It also meets the objectives defined by the University of Porto for Education, especially in point E1. Attracting more and better students (national and international) and enhancing their academic performance and in point E2. Modernising and improving the training offer.
The programme involves trainees in real-world challenges, such as combating the rise of antimicrobial resistance, monitoring and mitigating pollutants and microplastics in aquatic ecosystems, and the safety and sustainability of global food systems. Trainees will be prepared to develop innovative nanotechnology-based solutions for sustainable aquaculture.
Partner Institutions:
University of Porto (host)
University of Szeged
University of Alcalá
UiT The Arctic University of Norway
University of Novi Sad
Objectives
The BIP aims to train postgraduate students in the innovative and responsible application of nanotechnology in the aquaculture sector, integrating the pillars of the One Health concept. Aquaculture faces challenges such as (i) infectious diseases with zoonotic potential; (ii) contamination by chemical pollutants and microplastics; and (iii) the need to increase productivity in a sustainable manner. Nanotechnology offers solutions to these problems through the development of (a) nanostructured functional foods that promote fish health and reduce the use of antibiotics; (b) biosensors for rapid detection of pollutants, microplastics and/or pathogens; and (c) real-time environmental and health monitoring strategies.
The main interdisciplinary themes of this BIP include:
Health and One Health: Combating zoonotic risks arising from aquaculture pathogens, improving preventive health strategies and food safety.
Environmental sustainability: Monitoring and mitigating the impact of pollutants and microplastics on aquatic ecosystems, promoting circular bioeconomy approaches.
Nanotechnology and biotechnology: Developing functional feeds, biosensors and smart monitoring tools that improve productivity while reducing antibiotic dependence and ecological impact.
Digital innovation: Applying data-driven monitoring and rapid diagnostic technologies to ensure early detection of threats to ecosystems and human health.
Socio-economic and ethical dimensions: Addressing food security, equitable access to technology and responsible innovation, in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water). By bringing these themes together, the programme engages trainees in real-world challenges such as antimicrobial resistance, environmental degradation and the sustainability of global food systems.
Information
Target audience: Students in the 2nd and 3rd cycles in the areas of veterinary sciences, environmental sciences, biotechnology, bioengineering, biochemistry, food engineering, and one health.
1st EDITION:
Start date of the course: 26 June 2026
End date of the training course: 24 July 2026
End date of the course:
Mode of delivery: B-learning
Language: English
Clausus numbers:
Minimum number - 10 students from foreign universities participating in the Erasmus+ programme.
Number of places - 20
Tuition fees: €0
School insurance: €2
Link: Programme 1st edition 2025/2026