Carlos Portas, Full Professor and one of the most prominent figures in agronomy in Portugal, passed away in Lisbon this Friday, August 21, at the age of 89. He earned his bachelor’s and doctoral degrees from Instituto Superior de Agronomia – School of Agronomy of the Technical University of Lisbon, which he presided over from 1958 to 1959, and dedicated his career to teaching, scientific research, and rural development. He served as President of the former National Institute for Agricultural Research (INIA) from 1986 to 1989, during which time he was also involved in the foundation of ITQB NOVA. He also served as National Secretary of State for Agricultural Development from 1976 to 1978.
In recognition of his contributions to science and higher education, he received an honorary doctorate from NOVA University Lisbon in 1996.
His scientific career also made a significant contribution to the field of horticulture, a sector in which he pioneered modernization at the national level. Internationally, he has been an honorary member of the International Society for Horticultural Science since 2006 and is recognized as the delegate with the highest number of participations in International Horticultural Congresses.
At the national level, he served as a consultant on rural development to the Office of the President of the Republic, Jorge Sampaio, and was awarded the Grand Cross of the Order of Infante D. Henrique by the President in 2006.
ITQB NOVA extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those who worked with him and knew him.
