University of Coimbra takes part in Forum on Artificial Intelligence and Innovation in the United States

The University of Coimbra (UC) was represented at the PAPS Forum 2026 – Accelerated Change – in the United States by Nuno Mendonça, Vice-Rector for Innovation, Business Relations and Employability.

Promoted by the Portuguese American Postgraduate Society (PAPS), the forum took place on 31 January, and brought together academics, researchers, entrepreneurs and policymakers to discuss the impact of technological acceleration — particularly artificial intelligence — on higher education, research, innovation, and knowledge application systems.

Vice-Rector Nuno Mendonça took part in a session on Portugal’s new Agency for Research and Innovation, presenting the University of Coimbra’s perspective on the relationship between research and its practical application, the role of universities in generating economic and social impact, and key areas for investment in this rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Dr Mendonça highlighted the work carried out by UC in promoting knowledge transfer, innovation and partnerships with the business, institutional and social sectors.

“Participating in the PAPS Forum 2026 was a valuable opportunity for the University of Coimbra to share its vision of the role of universities in today’s fast-paced era of technological transformation. Artificial intelligence poses significant challenges, but it also opens up new possibilities for strengthening the link between research, innovation, and economic and social impact.

“Spaces for international dialogue such as this are fundamental to building strategic, collaborative responses to the future of science and higher education,” said Nuno Mendonça.

The PAPS Forum, an initiative of the Portuguese American Postgraduate Society, promotes dialogue between highly qualified members of the Portuguese diaspora, academia, the business sector and public decision-makers, fostering connections between knowledge, innovation and development.