Scientific and Technological System of the Azores
Azores - The Atlantic Living Lab
Scientific and Technological System of the Azores
Azores - The Atlantic Living Lab
Scientific and Technological System of the Azores
Azores - The Atlantic Living Lab

Scientific Research
Organizations

CEEAplA
Atlantic´s Applied Economics Study Center
The CEEAplA is a R&D+I structure that foster the promotion of basic and applied scientific research, through a better use of human and material resources, grouping research projects within the areas of economic and business sciences.
CICS.UAc
Interdisciplinary Center of Social Sciences
The Interdisciplinary Center of Social Sciences is engaged with the development of scientific research, training, cultural extension and community service, via an interdisciplinary approach, with special focuse on the scientific areas of Sociology, Demographics, Psychology and Educational Sciences.
CEHu
Humanistic Studies Center
The CEHu integrates several scientific disciplines (Philosophy, Political Science, Literature, Linguistics, History and Cultural Anthropology). This Center aims to bring together the scattered research within the Academia into a single Humanistic Centre, integrating a new research organization based on a multidisciplinary purpose, yet targeted and specific.
CHAM-A
History Center of d´Aquém and d´Além Mar - Açores
The CHAM-A is an inter-university research center between the University of the Azores and The Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, from the Universidade Nova de Lisboa. It seeks to develop, promote and deepen both the Azores and Portugal Historical studies, as well as the Portuguese presence worldwide; the study on the European correlation and the sea’s influence on the History of the Azores and Portugal; the global History research thru a multidisciplinary perspective.
NICA
Interdisciplinary Center for Children and Adolescents
The Interdisciplinary Center for Children and Adolescents’ mission is to develop, promote and disseminate interdisciplinary activities of scientific research and training, as well as community service, within the child and adolescents’ study scope, promoting the production and dissemination of information in an integrative knowledge perspective.
Azorean Biodversity Group
The researchers of the Azorean Biodiversity Group are engaged in complementary research within the community, molecular and functional ecology and the use of advanced statistics and spatial modeling to ensure scientific progress in the field of ecology. In addition, its researchers work in biomonitoring, ecological impact assessments, integrated pest management, health impact assessment, and risk management.
CIBIO-A
Research Center in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources – Azores
CIBIO-Azores’ main goal is the comprehensive knowledge of the evolutionary and ecological processes that determine the biodiversity patterns in the islands ecosystems, the development of strategies to manage and preserve the islands biodiversity, and the promotion of environmental awareness within the community, so as to foster a sustainable use of our natural heritage.
CBA
Biotechnology Center of Azores
The Biotechnology Centre of Azores (CBA-UAc), is a research unit from the University of the Azores that aims to foster and conduct fundamental and applied scientific research in order to contribute to the development of industrial, health, agricultural and environmental sectors, trought knowledge production and the development of advanced technologies adequate to the transformation of natural resources available in order to promote richness and wellbeing.
IITAAA
Research Institute for Agricultural and Environmental Technologies of the Azores
IITAAA develops its research activity around the areas of agro industry, agriculture, food, health and climate technologies, climate change and global changes.
IVAR
Research Institute in Volcanolagy and Geological Risks Assessment
It’s a multidisciplinary research unit of the University of the Azores, recognized by the FCT (Foundation for Science and Technology) in 2001. The IVAR is organized into seven scientific units: Physical Volcanology and Magmatism, Neotectonics and Crustal Deformation, Gas Geochemistry, Hydrogeology and Environmental Geology, Landslides and Floods, Risks and Emergency planning, Public Health Preparedness and Disaster Medicine.
IMAR
The Sea Institute of the Azores
IMAR Azores is one of the research units that form the scientific core of the Portuguese Institute of the Sea. The research unites that form IMAR aggregate a team of researchers that develop their R&D activity within their scientific fields of domain, sharing one or more common goals.
OKEANOS
R&D center
The Okeanos R&D center is a recent research unit at the University of the Azores (2015), aiming to produce, facilitate and promote scientific research in marine science and technology, contributing to the advanced training, innovation and dissemination of fundamental knowledge, also targeting at the improvement of public policies related to the ocean and its resources.
SEEBMO
Specialized Service of Epidemology and Molecular Biology at Santo Espírito Hospital in Terceira island
Is an Hospital research center of Terceira Island and is associated with the Institute of Molecular Biology and Cellular (IBMC) of the University of Porto and, more recently, the Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (I3S). Develops activities in the laboratory diagnosis of diseases with application techniques of molecular genetics, epidemiological research in immunology and molecular biology, hospital cancer registry and delivery of health care.
UGPM
Unit of Genetics and Molecular Pathology
In UGPM are held molecular diagnostic activities in the areas of human genetics (genetic diseases and genetic sensitivity to drugs) and microbiology (detection of pathogens), as well as clinical and laboratory research of regional interest diseases (leptospirosis, cardiovascular diseases, congenital heart diseases). These activities are part of the HDES services.
NIDeS
Center for Research and Development in eHealth
NIDeS is a research and development center at the University of the Azores, that aims the promotion and technological development in database and knowledgebase systems, focusing on tools’ design and implementation and intelligent services in health, contributing to more efficient, effective and sustainable practices.

International Cooperation Programs

ARM
Atmospheric Radiation Measurment
The ARM program is an international initiative of the Department of the US Energy Science Office (DOE) that aims to study the relevant parameters for improving climate modeling in different geographical contexts, particularly the modeling of future climate of the Earth and has a fixed ground station located in Graciosa Island, Azores.
PICO-NARE
Pico Mountain Atmospheric Research Observatory is located at 2225m above sea level, on the top of Pico Mountain’s caldera, and it provides the perfect ground-base for free tropospheric measurements on the central North Atlantic region. Data measurements to date reveal that it is suitable for frequent observation of air pollution and boreal fire plumes from North America, occasional African dust and European air pollutants emissions.
ESA Tracking Station
Satellite tracking station (Santa Maria)- first infrastructure of European space agency in PT and one of the first stations of the ESTRACK stations network to trace launchers during all phases of propulsion. A structuring project, coordinated and operated by Edisoft, with a central role in North Atlantic área, creating news opportunities,knowledge, innovation and socio-economic development.
Galileo Sensor Station
This Station was the new acquisition in the world’s land infrastructure of the Galileo system and joins a vast network signal moni- toring stations, clock intervals and position of Galileo satellites in Earth orbit. As part of the international Cospas-Sarsat, the constellation of Galileo’s average orbit is prepared to pick up UHF signals from emergency beacons for transmission to the nearest emergency services.
CTBTO
Preparatoratory Commission for the comprehensive nuclear-test-ban treaty organization
The Graciosa I42PT infrasound station is integrated into the worldwide IMS-International Monitoring System of the CTBTO and is intended for the monitoring of nuclear tests to ensure compliance with the treaty banning nuclear tests. On the other hand, through the access to scientists, it also contributes to the study of seismic-volcanic activity or atmospheric phenomena.
RAEGE
Atlantic Network of Geodynamical and Space Stations
The RAEGE, Atlantic Network of Geodynamic and Space Stations, comprehends a network of four Geodetic Fundamental Stations (Yebes, Tenerife Island, Santa Maria Island, and Flores Island) applied to promoting studies in Astronomy, Geodesy and Geophysics. Besides the geodetic VLBI studies, there’s also equipment being developed for VGOS network towards the integration of new technologies for signal reception.

Technology
Infrastructures

Nonagon
São Miguel Science and Technology Park
Nonagon is the first Science and Technology Park of the Azores. Its goal is to be placed as a structural organization in technology promotion and in qualified human capital training within the fields of information systems and communications, and monitoring and observation of the earth, space and ocean. Its intent is to be established as a synergies catalyst for technology transfer processes.
TERINOV
Science and Technology Park of Terceira island
TERINOV is a technological infrastructure with skills to support different types of entities within the Azorean innovation ecosystem, with particular focus on companies, by providing working spaces and performing spaces and performing activities of significant added value. Its core actions encompass the AgroFood sector, cultural and creative industries, renewable energy and ITC.
INOVA
Institute of Technological Innovation of the Azores
INOVA - Institute of Technological Innovation of the Azores is a non-profit association, founded in 1988. It promotes the exercise of scientific research and technological development, focusing on providing services in the field of innovation and development of modern technologies, in collaboration with organizations, companies and public and private institutions.
LREC
Laboratory of Civil Engineering
LREC provides technical support for civil engineering and quality control of construction materials, dissemination of new techniques, collaboration in technical personnel training, promotion of seminars, conferences, symposia and internships and, finally, information and scientific and technical dissemination in the field of civil engineering, exercising its activity throughout the territory of the Autonomous Region of the Azores.
ENTA
School of New Technologies of Azores
ENTA was established in 1993 as a training center of INOVA (Institute of Technological Innovation of the Azores), then becoming formally autonomous in 2002. Throughout its lifetime, the school has developed specialized training (classroom and distance learning) on the following areas: Quality, Food quality and safety, Computer Network, Programming, Electricity and Electronics.

Infrastructures for
dissemination of
Science and Technology

Expolab
Living Science Center
Expolab is a center for Life Science and its mission is the promotion of scientific knowledge in the many fields of Natural Sciences and Technology, focusing on experimentation and laboratory activities.
OMIC
Microbial Observatory of the Azores
This entity is responsible for the promotion and dissemination of the microbial life importance on Earth, emphasizing the existing Microbial biodiversity in the Azorean hot springs.OMIC is managed by the Ponte Norte – Collective for Education and Development of Ribeira Grande, and belongs to the Azores Science Centers’ network.
CCAH
Angra do Heroísmo Science Center
CCAH aims to an informal and playful dissemination of science for all ages. It offers an interactive main exhibition; experimental laboratory; multiuse room with short-term activities such as exhibitions or workshops; an auditorium for conferences and film screenings; a documentation center and a zone with internet access. We celebrate events throughout the year with several activities.
OMA
Sea Observatory of the Azores
OMA is a technical, scientific and cultural non-profit association, headquartered in the Whale Factory of Porto Pim, in Horta. This is an “ENGO” similar organization, certified by APA (Portuguese Agency for Environment). In 2010, it was considered an Institution of Public Utility. Its goals include science and technology dissemination and the promotion of environmental interpretation and education activities, within the Marine Sciences’ scope.
OASA
Astronomical Observatory of Santana – Azores
The Astronomical Observatory of Santana – Azores (OASA) is a Science Center that has as primary goal the dissemination of Science and Astronomy. OASA aims to create a privileged space for the scientific knowledge dissemination related to astronomy, as well as an alternative learning and fun place for all ages.
OVGA
Azores Monitoring Centre For Volcanology And Geothermal Energy
OVGA is a non-profit geological association integrated in the Azores Science Centres’ network. It promotes the scientific dissemination in the areas of Geology, Volcanology, Seismology, Geothermal Energy, Petrology, Paleontology and Geoenvironments - particularly in the Azores. In addition to its scientific collections, OVGA also publishes thematic maps, leaflets and books.
IT Spaces
The Government of the Azores is responsible for managing a network of spaces dedicated to Information and Communication Technologies, which covers the entire archipelago. These spaces promote the dissemination of technological culture, facilitate the transfer of technological know-how and provide an opportunity for the Azorean society training in information systems, programming and cyber security.

Higher Education
Institutions

Azores University
The University of the Azores is Azorean by nature, Atlantic by vocation, and Universal by mission. It promotes high-level qualification and the dissemination of knowledge within an international context. The University encourages research and development activities amongst its teachers, researchers and students, guided by high standards of quality and accuracy.

Public and Private
Organizations for Coordination
and Management of S&T

DRCT
Regional Directorate of Science and Technology
The DRCT is the Regional Government department responsible for the implementation of Science and Technology’s regional policies. Its activity comprehends public incentive systems management for Research, Development and Innovation, the management of scientific infrastructures and promotion of the Knowledge Society. It is the privileged interlocutor of the entities that make part to the Scientific and Technological System of the Azores.
FRCT
Regional Fund for Science and Technology
The FRCT is a public regional entity with administrative, financial and patrimonial autonomy, serving in scientific research and technological development with coordination and financial resources management skills.The main activity areas of FRCT are: providing support for advanced training and for the participation of SCTA – Scientific and Technological System of the Azores - in regional, national and international projects.
FGF
Gaspar Frutuoso Foundation
In the scope of a strait cooperation with the University of the Azores, the FGF seeks to foster scientific, technological, social, cultural, artistic, sportive, economic and environmental activities, among others, through the promotion and participation in competitions, programs and projects, as well as the development of training, consulting and dissemination actions.

Funding schemes
and legal
framework

Finantial Support System
The Autonomous Region of Azores has its own legal framework for funding and support of research, development and innovation activities. The PRO SCIENTIA includes incentives for the SCTA entities’ training, international cooperation, support for advanced training and is also complementary to other regional, national and European funding sources. Its management is shared by DRCT and FRCT.
Access to European Funds
Collaborating with entities from the Scientific and Technological System of the Azores allows the access to European funds for Research, Development and Innovation, namely, the programs Horizon 2020, LIFE, Atlantic Area and INTERREG. The FRCT can provide the necessary information for establishing partnerships aimed at these funding opportunities.
Samples of natural resources
The Azores has its own legal framework for access and collection of biological and genetic resources and derivatives in all natural resources and ecosystems in the archipelago. This legislation ensures compliance with the principles internationally established by the Nagoya Protocol and the Regional Directorate of Science and Technology is responsible for its management.