Between 2020 and 2024, the University of Porto participated in the publication of 26,290 scientific works indexed in Web of Science, corresponding to almost a quarter (24%) of the total national scientific production. These figures, detailed in the U.Porto Research_2025 report, indicate an average annual growth of 1.8% in U.Porto's scientific output, contrasting with a negative variation of 0.3% at the national level during the same period. The University's share of the Portuguese total increased from 22.8% in 2020 to 24.8% in 2024.
The impact of U.Porto's research also stands out, with 441 works classified as Highly Cited Papers™ between 2020 and 2024, representing 26.1% of the national total. Additionally, 11.95% of the University's works are among the top 10% most cited in their respective fields.
U.Porto's research ecosystem integrates 45 R&D Units, of which 42 were classified as “Excellent” or “Very Good” by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT). The University also participates in 16 Associated Laboratories and 25 national research infrastructures. In 2025, the scientific community comprised 3,609 researchers, 2,164 faculty members, and 4,713 doctoral students.
U.Porto also strengthens its connection with society through 21 Collaborative Laboratories, two Clinical Academic Centers, and two Clinical Research Centers. The University also hosts three Ciência Viva Centers and 11 Functional and Competence Centers.
Regarding competitive funding, U.Porto's ecosystem attracted 176.5 million euros in projects supported by the FCT between 2017 and 2025. Internationally, participation in Horizon Europe generated 139.7 million euros since 2021, and 26 grants from the European Research Council (ERC) were awarded since 2009, totaling 46.7 million euros.
The international dimension of research is reinforced by participation in networks such as COST Actions (477 networks since 1999) and the alliance EUGLOH – European University Alliance for Global Health. The University also participates in the IACOBUS program, promoting cooperation in the Galicia-North of Portugal Euroregion.
In terms of knowledge valorization, in 2025, U.Porto's portfolio included 256 active patents, with a total of 742 patents granted between 2003 and 2025, of which 631 were international.
