GHOSTDANCE, an exploratory research project carried out at CICANT and led by researcher Rui Filipe Antunes, received the final classification of ‘Excellent’.
The FCT Evaluation Committee recognised both the quality of the scientific results achieved and the team's ability to successfully manage complex challenges throughout the project's execution.
According to the final report, despite considerable challenges, the project achieved its objectives. The main results include conferences, peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, a website dedicated to the project, videos, a software prototype with associated protocols and the production of significant data.
The evaluators highlighted the high levels of flexibility and adaptability demonstrated by the team in responding to ongoing challenges, emphasising that this capacity was essential in a project of an exploratory nature. The solutions developed not only overcame the obstacles encountered but also boosted the project's results. For example, instead of contributing to just one master's thesis, as initially planned, the research will now support three.
The report also emphasises the wider dissemination efforts than planned, including the production of additional videos and awareness-raising actions. The constant concern with accessibility was identified as one of the project's greatest assets.
One of the most important contributions, according to the evaluators, was the set of data produced and the artificial intelligence model developed based on this data, which should have an important impact on future research projects in the area.
The project's impact is also evidenced by the number of publications in international scientific journals, which exceeded expectations, a key indicator of scientific excellence. The publication of a book is also in preparation, which will allow the scope of the results to be extended even further.
The report concludes that the project met the proposed objectives and was carried out in accordance with the highest scientific standards. This evaluation confirms the exceptional quality and lasting relevance of the work carried out, positioning GHOSTDANCE as an example of resilience, innovation and academic excellence.
For more information on the project, visit: https://ghostdance.ulusofona.pt
