CBQF (Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina – Centre of Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry) is a Research Centre formed in 1992 within the Faculty of Biotechnology of the Catholic University of Portugal (ESB). The Centre is not a legally constituted entity, but rather a unit of the host institution from which it is scientifically independent although highly collaborative. The independence of the CBQF / ESB permits the establishment of formal and informal, collaborations and alliances whilst maintaining its identity and management autonomy. Since 2004 the CBQF has enjoyed the status of Associate Laboratory (www.fct.pt/apoios/unidades/las.phtml.pt), one of only 26 in Portugal and the only one that is not state-owned. From its inception there has been a strong tradition of publishing in international, peer-reviewed journals presence in the most relevant international and national conferences in its thematic areas, as illustrated in the indicators and other texts in this document. Considering all relevant criteria, the Centre can claim to be a leading institution in Portugal in its chosen areas and a considerable presence in the European and Latina American forums.