Education, scientific literacy and research: the role of the Azores University Maria do Carmo Barreto Pró-reitoria para a Ciência e Tecnologia

Science and technology have grown exponentially, particularly since the 19th century Paradox: surrounded by technology, with easy access to scientific knowledge beyond our wildest dreams, most of us are scientifically illiterate.

Painter Biologist Leonardo da Vinci Engineer Musician Mathematician Renaissance to late 19th century: small elite with knowledge both wide and deep.

20th century: Scientific and technological boom Education for all Specialization in Science and Technology + Increased advances in Science & Technology Scientific literacy did not grow as fast as knowledge

We benefit from Sci&Tech and use “sciencey” expressions in our speech without knowing the basics of science: “he was light-years away from me”; “unemployment grew exponentially”; “omega-3 is good for you” Acquiring knowledge is not only important to find a good job, it is the basis of citizenship and of freedom of choice.

 Founded 39 years ago  Highly important for development in the Azores  Key role in autonomic development  Strategically placed to be a bridge between Azores and USA and Canada Azores University has a major role in developing knowledge, scientific literacy and research in the Azores.

N EW S 3 Campuses: Faial, Terceira & S. Miguel Faial Terceira S. Miguel

Faial Images: Robert Patzner - ImagDOP / Ana Colaço

Terceira

S. Miguel

Website:

Teaching – practical classes are a strong feature

Research in a diversity of areas

Research Centers National Government funding

Research Centers Regional Government funding

Azores University – R&D by funding and area

Strongest R&D in Azores University Biodiversity / environment Biotechnology Volcanology / seismology

Strongest R&D in Azores University Biodiversity / environment Biotechnology Volcanology / seismology

Strongest R&D in Azores University Biodiversity / environment Tourism Nature-based tourism Trails / Whale-watching Birdwatching / Diving Fishing Fishing stocks / sustainability Strategic economic sectors

Strongest R&D in Azores University Biodiversity / environment Biotechnology Volcanology / seismology

Strongest R&D in Azores University Biotechnology Novel compounds from Natural Sources with pharmacological or biotechnological applications Extremophiles Enzymes & bacteria working in extreme environments with industrial application Natural Products with unique structures – new drugs Enzymes & bacteria used to produce energy from waste biomass (H 2, CH 4 )

Strongest R&D in Azores University Biotechnology Genetic profiling and in vitro production of economically-relevant crops and organims Genetic selection of plant varieties with increased resistance against virus, fungi and bacterial diseases (e.g., vine) - germobank In vitro production of traditional fruit varieties (e.g. pineapple, banana, apple ) & of endemic plants Environmentally-friendly natural pesticides from nematodes & bacteria

Strongest R&D in Azores University Biodiversity / environment Biotechnology Volcanology / seismology

Strongest R&D in Azores University Volcanology / seismology Monitoring of volcanic and seismic activity Risk assessment & safety (e.g., earthquakes, eruptions, landslides) Effect of volcanic environment in human & ecosystem health (e.g., gases & heavy metals in soil)

Azores University – interaction with local SMEs & main economic sectors Milk sector & dairy industry Nature-based & diving tourism Fishing & related industry

Azores University – Studies for Local Government Environment, Land Planning PiscicultureControl of pests with economic impact

Azores University – take-away message: Excellent Research in Biodiversity, Environment, Biotechnology & Volcanology (also other groups with good potential, e.g., Sociology, History). ) Ideal geographic location – bridge between Europe & American continent (also, connection between Azores and USA / Canada azorean-descent population) Research is reflected in teaching - sea, volcanology, tourism, history as privileged areas

Thank you for your attention Maria do Carmo Barreto