Aníbal Castilho Coimbra de Matos

Board of Directors

Robotics and Autonomous Systems

The Centre for Robotics and Autonomous Systems (CRAS) focuses on developing innovative robotic solutions for operation in complex environments. Each day, our researchers strive to map the unknown, creating solutions to explore the oceans’ depths, monitor the environment, or inspect infrastructures. Our goal? To become a global reference in robotics and autonomous systems, combining expertise in multisensory perception and 3D modelling, navigation and control, robotic manipulation and intervention - pushing the boundaries of autonomous robotics and integrating aerial, ground, and underwater robots into our solutions. Focusing on Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) between 5 and 8, CRAS develops prototypes and operational solutions for strategic sectors. Our laboratory infrastructure includes test tanks, prototyping workshops, and a wide range of equipment ready to operate in real-world environments. Our researchers also resort to Mar Profundo, a support vessel for testing and validating innovative maritime technologies - a key asset in bridging theoretical design and field validation. CRAS stands out for a practical approach: we combine advanced research with a strong focus on real-world applications, reducing human risk in hazardous missions, optimising operations and processes, and expanding the frontiers of autonomous robotics.

International Relations Service

Our International Relations Service plays a strategic role in strengthening the institution's presence in international contexts, supporting the Board of Directors and the R&D Centres in maximising global collaboration opportunities through: <ul> <li>Developing high-level partnerships with foreign entities in strategic areas supported by cooperation agreements;</li> <li>Promoting and providing specialised support for international scientific mobility within the organisation's strategy for attracting and retaining talent;</li> <li>Monitoring the international environment in dimensions that could resonate with the institution's R&D activities and international status</li> </ul> Additionally, the SRI has been responsible for the executive coordination of the UT Austin Portugal Programme for several years, a Science and Technology partnership between the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology and the University of Texas at Austin (USA). We also host the INESC Brussels Hub, with an independent management structure and an office in Brussels.