The Centre for Research and Studies in Sociology (CIES-Iscte) has entered a new leadership cycle with the inauguration of its governing bodies.

On 7 November, Professor Patrícia Ávila assumed office as Director, succeeding Professor Teresa Patrício. The Executive Board also includes Professor Renato Miguel do Carmo and Professor Elsa Pegado, who continues from the previous team.

In the inaugural address, Professor Ávila reaffirmed the commitment of CIES to research excellence, highlighting the centre’s recent achievements — notably the reinstatement of the “Excellent” rating by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), the expansion of the research team, and the relocation to new facilities. The address also underscored the importance of maintaining the capacity to respond to internal challenges and external uncertainties arising from the evolution of national science policies and global trends.

For the 2025–2028 triennium, the Executive Board will focus on the consolidation of the scientific team, the strengthening of participation in national and international funding programmes, and the development of collaborations with knowledge transfer platforms, while safeguarding the autonomy and identity of CIES.

The new Scientific Committee took office on 10 November, continuing its role of providing strategic guidance and oversight of the centre’s research activities. The committee now includes Violeta Alarcão, joining as a new member, alongside Cláudia Álvares, Helge Jörgens, and Sandra Mateus, who continue from the previous term.