Strategic Integration of Complex Networks and Systems for Advancing Biomedical Research

Biomedical research is a rapidly evolving interdisciplinary field that tackles the intricacies of complex biological processes, disease etiology and mechanisms.

An increasing amount of available health data requires new tools and approaches to characterise multiscale, multilayer complex systems.

Complex Networks and Systems (CNS) science therefore offers a comprehensive framework towards a holistic vision of human health and disease, and improved prevention or treatment measures.

CBeRa aims to enhance the excellence and competitiveness of the recently established Católica Biomedical Research Centre (CBR) at Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP), Portugal, by strategically integrating a CNS research line.

This will involve the setting of a permanent new research team of outstanding researchers in CNS, along with implementing structural changes towards the European Research Area priorities and Open Science policy.CBeRa will contribute to: i) establish CBR as an international reference in holistic biomedical research, pursuing a unique line of inquiry within the CNS field; ii) position CBR/UCP as a reference in CNS education, by enhancing the quality and impact of the institutional programmes; iii) broaden CBR international networks with leading academic and non-academic stakeholders, to propel its reputation and visibility; iv) foster science awareness and facilitate knowledge transfer to society; v) introduce sustainable structural changes.A set of networking tools and events, expert visits, educational, research and training programmes, and capacity-building activities will raise CBR’s profile and performance.

CBeRa will act as a catalyst for structural changes, fostering interdisciplinary and intersectoral collaborations, and promoting internationalisation.In summary, CBeRa aligns with CBR’s vision of becoming a European Centre of excellence in biomedical research and contributes to bridge the existing R&I gap between Portugal and leading EU countries.