Direção de Transferência de Tecnologia do IST (TT)

TEKEVER, a European leader in autonomous systems and member of Técnico’s Partner Network, supported the rehabilitation and modernization of the new Aerospace Engineering Laboratory at Instituto Superior Técnico, in Lisbon, a renewed space designed to foster talent and research in Portugal. This renovation is part of a protocol signed between the company and the university, which will extend at least until 2027.

With 200 square meters fully equipped, the laboratory is dedicated to practical classes, research projects, student initiatives, and outreach activities, bringing academia and industry closer together and accelerating the creation of real-world impact solutions.

According to Rogério Colaço, President of Instituto Superior Técnico:

“The new space represents Técnico’s commitment to improving teaching conditions at all levels of study, while also promoting research, innovation, and stronger links with the business sector, embodied here through TEKEVER’s important support.”

Ricardo Mendes, TEKEVER’s CEO, Técnico alumnus and former faculty member, emphasized:

“This laboratory reflects TEKEVER’s conviction that universities and companies must work closely together to foster mutual understanding and shared learning. Our role is to ensure that the brightest minds in this country have the ideal conditions to experiment, create, and transform. Engagement with academia is part of our identity: we return as partners to help shape the next generations of engineers and innovators. More than a one-off collaboration, this protocol symbolizes a shared vision between TEKEVER and Técnico — science, engineering, and entrepreneurship working side by side to address the greatest challenges of our time.”

Fernando Lau, Técnico professor, highlighted the diversity of specialized areas covered by the laboratory:

“The goal is to promote a collaborative environment and enhance the practical dimension of training.”
He further noted that the laboratory opens opportunities for research across different levels, from master’s to postdoctoral studies:
“It is an essential resource for Aerospace Engineering education at Técnico, while also strengthening extracurricular activities of student groups.”

The inauguration ceremony took place at Técnico’s Salão Nobre, with the presence of the institution’s president, Professor Rogério Colaço, and representatives from academia and industry, including alumni now working at TEKEVER.

Beyond the renovation of the laboratory, this partnership also includes the creation of a Merit Award, participation in academic events, innovation challenges addressing real-world problems, and support for student integration in projects with TEKEVER’s technologies — ranging from unmanned aerial systems to space missions.