Laboratório de Instrumentação e Física Experimental de Partículas

Four decades of science, collaboration and impact

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In 2026, LIP celebrates 40 years of scientific research, collaboration and impact.

Founded in 1986 in the context of Portugal’s accession to CERN, LIP has played a central role in establishing experimental particle physics in Portugal and in integrating the country into major international scientific collaborations.

Over four decades, the laboratory has expanded its activities across multiple domains, including particle and astroparticle physics, instrumentation, advanced computing, and applications in health, space and industry.

Today, LIP brings together researchers, engineers and students across its nodes in Lisbon, Coimbra and Braga, contributing to cutting-edge research and to the training of new generations of scientists.

This anniversary marks not only a moment to reflect on LIP’s history and achievements, but also an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to scientific excellence, innovation and international collaboration in the years ahead.

4 May	Opening Session: “LIP: 40 Years of Science and National Impact” Coimbra Exploratório & LIP-Coimbra
	10:00 - Welcome and Opening Remarks From 10:15 - Programme Sessions Origins & Foundations LIP Today National Strategy & Future Challenges 12:00 - Visit to Exploratório 15:00-18:00 - Open Day Coimbra Guided visits and activities for schools and general public *registration required for schools
5 May	Advanced Computing Day Online A curated digital programme highlighting LIP’s role in advanced computing and digital infrastructures supporting scientific research, delivered through our digital channels (website and social media). Launch of introductory MOOCs on High-Performance Computing Showcase of LIP activities in HPC, data science and distributed computing Contributions to national and European infrastructures
6 May	Innovation & Technology Transfer Day Braga
	11:00-12:30 \| 15:00-18:00 - Open Day Braga Activities for schools and general public registration required for schools From 14:00 - Institutional Session:* Opening Remarks Keynote Talk Round Table: “Internationalisation of Science” Closing Remarks
	From 14:00 - Institutional Session: Opening Remarks Keynote Talk Round Table: “Internationalisation of Science” Closing Remarks
7 May	Innovation & Technology Transfer Day Lisboa
	16:00-20:30 - Open Day Lisbon Guided visits and activities for schools and general public *registration required for schools
8 May	Solemn Session: “Science for the Future” Lisboa
	15:00 - Welcome and Opening Remarks 16:00 - Keynote Lecture 17:15 - Closing Ceremony Signature of the symbolic Commitment Charter and official photo 17:30 - Porto D´Honra 18:00 - Visit to the LIP Lisbon facilities

As part of the LIP 40th anniversary celebrations, the laboratory will open its doors to schools and the general public across its three nodes: Lisbon, Coimbra and Braga.

These Open Days offer a unique opportunity to discover the science developed at LIP- from fundamental research in particle physics to its applications in areas such as health, space and advanced technologies.

Visitors will be able to explore the environments where LIP’s work takes place, and to learn more about the experiments, infrastructures and collaborations that connect the laboratory to major international facilities such as CERN and the Pierre Auger Observatory.

Depending on the location, the experience may include guided visits to laboratories and technical spaces, hands- on activities, demonstrations and informal interactions with researchers and students.

Schedule and Registration

Participation is free but subject to prior registration for schools.

Registration links:

Coimbra — 4 May (15:00–18:00)

Braga — 6 May (11:00–12:30 | 15:00–18:00)

Lisbon — 7 May (16:00–20:30)

Whether visiting a laboratory, engaging in an activity or speaking directly with researchers, participants will have the opportunity to experience science as it happens at LIP.

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