Instituto de Telecomunicações expresses its profound sorrow at the passing of Professor José Epifânio da Franca, our former member, current member of our advisory board, and a leading figure in engineering, science, innovation, and technological entrepreneurship in Portugal.
José Epifânio da Franca was a Full Professor at Instituto Superior Técnico and a distinguished researcher in the field of microelectronics. He was a former member of the Instituto de Telecomunicações’ Integrated Circuits and Systems Design Research Line and developed a remarkable career, distinguished by his ability to bridge scientific and technological knowledge with the business world and society.
Throughout his career, he held numerous prominent positions, including Secretary of State for Education in the 12th Constitutional Government, and was co-founder and CEO of Chipidea and the first CEO of Portugal Ventures. He made a unique contribution to the development of engineering, innovation, and technological entrepreneurship in Portugal.
Professor José Epifânio da Franca as a member of the Instituto de Telecomunicações’ External Business Advisory Board, where he brought his extensive experience and strategic vision to discussions on the future of IT, particularly in the areas of technology transfer, knowledge valorisation, entrepreneurship, and engagement with the business community.
Instituto de Telecomunicações remembers, with deep appreciation, his contribution, his vision, and the high standards with which he always sought to bring scientific excellence closer to innovation and the creation of value for society.
To his family, friends, colleagues, and all those who had the privilege of working and spending time with him, the Instituto de Telecomunicações extends its deepest condolences.
By our President of the Board:
Armando Nolasco Pinto
Photo credits: Instituto Superior Técnico