The Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD) is a multidisciplinary and cross-institutional research unit dedicated to applied research and knowledge transfer, hosted in Covilhã, in University of Beira Interior. Affiliated with the European College of Sport Science, CIDESD was established in 2007 through a consortium agreement that brought together seven Portuguese universities and polytechnic institutions from both mainland Portugal and the autonomous island regions.
CIDESD pursues excellence in research, community engagement, and advanced education, contributing to the generation, dissemination, and application of scientific knowledge in sports sciences, health sciences, and human development. Its research activities are organized into specialized groups, including:
HEART (Health Empowering Activities and Responsive Technology), which investigates the effectiveness, implementation, and translational potential of physical exercise interventions for healthy aging and the prevention and management of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and cancer.
ELITE (Enhanced Learning and Integrated Training for Excellence), which develops innovative approaches to athlete development and sports performance through advanced training methodologies, emerging technologies, and evidence-based pedagogical practices, with applications ranging from youth sport participation to elite performance contexts.
Through its multidisciplinary structure and collaborative network, CIDESD promotes scientific excellence while addressing societal challenges related to health, physical activity, sport participation, and human development across the lifespan.
After the evaluation by FCT, CIDESD was classified as a “Excellent” R&D Unit (2025-2029).
CIDESD is supported by National Funds by FCT – Foundation for Science and Technology, under the projects UID/04045/2025, UID/PRR/04045/2025 and UID/PRR2/04045/2025.
Scientific Coordinator: Daniel Almeida Marinho
Rua Morais do Convento, 6201-001 Covilhã
dmarinho@ubi.pt | Phone +351 275 329 717
