IMBRAIN · Improving Biomedical Research and Innovation in the Canary Islands

To unlock and develop the research and innovation potential of the Centre for Biomedical Research of the Canary Islands (CIBICAN), a coherent series of activities have been designed through the development of this project (IMBRAIN). From a recent SWOT analysis, several impediments have been identified that must be overcome to maximize our research capacities. They include the isolation from decision−making centers and resources, the excessive cost and effort required to coordinate and collaborate in projects and to disseminate research achievements both into the science community and the society. In addition, despite the quality of the research teams and their focus on priority areas, the problems of recruiting experienced new researchers, technical staff and innovation managers remain a serious handicap that we are strongly committed to overcome. The main strategic objective of this project is to increase the quality of research at CIBICAN, and to build its innovation capacity to become a leading centre in Biomedicine and the Health Sciences. It will have a significant impact in promoting regional economic and social development, and in spreading of health knowledge into the outermost EU regions and the near African countries. This will be achieved through the following measures: 1) Exchange of know-how and experience with EU research partnering organizations; 2) Recruitment of experienced researchers, technical staff and innovation manager; 3) Upgrading of research equipment, based on existing infrastructure and core facilities; 4) Elaboration of a strategic IP development plan for IP management and protection and innovation capability building; 5) Dissemination of knowledge on health and increase the visibility of CIBICAN activities at regional, national and European levels. In addition, an ex−post evaluation facility will be developed at the end of the project to define specific strategy actions for long−term sustainable development.