P.4
Presentation
P. 4 President of the Board of Trustees
P. 6 Vice-chancellor
P.46
USC International
P. 48Mobility on the five continents
P. 51Foreign students
P. 8
The charm of living in Santiago and Lugo
P.12
Degrees Awarded
P. 14Bachelors Degree
P. 16Masters Degree
P. 16Non official Degrees
P. 19Doctorate Degree
P. 22Life-long learning
P. 23IV University Cycle
P.24
Support for students
P. 26At College
P. 28Preparation for the working world
P. 27At University
P.30
Languages
P. 32Modern Language Centre
P. 35
P. 35Institute of the Galician Language Language Standardisation Service
P. 34International Courses
P.36
Libraries
P. 38University Library
P. 40University libraries network
P. 39Virtual Library
P.42
Information and
Communication Technologies
P. 44Virtual Campus
P. 45University ID Card
Index
P.52
Research
P. 54International Excellence Campus
P. 55The USC, leader in research
P. 56
P. 56Starting Grants-ERC
P. 60Internal research institutes and centres Other research centres and services P.62
Dialogues with Science
P. 64
P. 64Scientific spreading
Visits from Nobel Prize Winner
P. 64
P. 67Fonseca Awards
P.68
Entrepreneurship and employment
P. 70Transfer of research results
P. 70Entrepreneurship: creativity for job creation
P. 74The USC in the main rankings
P. 77Quality Certificates
P. 76University networks to which USC belongs P.72
Quality
P. 88University halls of residence
P. 88Cultural activities Sporting activities
Social and Voluntary Participation
P. 88University cafeterias
P. 90 P. 91
P.86
Living at USC
P. 94USC, Pioneering University in Spain
P. 96Equal Opportunities Plan
P. 94Sustainable Development Plan
P.92
Corporate Social Responsibility
P.78
University with prestige
P. 80Awards
P. 83Academy members
P. 82Doctor Honoris causa at other universities
P. 84Positions in scientific societies
4
5
Transparency and social
justification
Promoting awareness of all the aspects of the University, showing the clear benefits it genera- tes, and taking action to disseminate its work in society are some of the powers that legislation assigns to the Board of Trustees.
Therefore we thought it reasonable that the governing body of USC contributes with this pu- blication, in which we try to open, as the Vice-chancellor says, “a window to all citizens and to the world”, to which we could add: in an increasingly demanding environment, which demands transparency and social justification, even from private companies and from institutions, specially those funded primarily by public financial resources.
And although addressed to others, I’m sure it can also be of great value to the entire university community, despite this being an informative publication, as daily work often prevents us from seeing within ourselves. On the other hand, we also have to save some internal resistance as disclosure outside scientific channels costs us work, although such publications are increasingly required in the world in which we live.
Even more so when there are abundant reasons to be proud of our institution’s five hundred year old history and we are reasonably satisfied with what we are, of the efforts being made to con- solidate the excellent results achieved and the challenges that we are taking to follow that path . Therefore, it only remains to congratulate ourselves for getting this publication printed, which belongs to all of us at USC, and to thank those who made this possible.
Manuel Puga Pereira
President of the Board of Trustees
6
7 Juan José Casares Long
Vice-chancellor
University of Santiago de Compostela, synonymous with commitment
The history of which we are custodians makes us a unique institution whose deeply rooted tradi- tion can only look forward, knowing that we are part of the progress. Prestige, ability to innovate, transparency, the quality of services and processes, and confidence are traits that permeate our personality and our way of moving forwards.
Today, USC is a Galician trademark, synonymous with commitment. Commitment to education, to research, to entrepreneurship, to innovation, to the society to which we owe.
Because together with training people and professionals in the most comprehensive sense of the term, we are committed to shining a light on the unknown, confident that the work in lecture rooms, libraries and university laboratories is synonymous with progress. And with that same philosophy we strive to give back support to society in the form of well-being. Thus, we become a kind of energy that we try to expand beyond our borders.
In this paper we present a static picture of what we honour, what makes us continually move forward to find new opportunities to reinforce ourselves and to contribute to social progress in all dimensions. This is the reflection of a university with two campuses in ancient cities, with multiple attractions and services aimed at providing better care for university students in all aspects of their educational journey.
The following pages are also the result of the contribution from the USC Board of Trustees, who- se support enables us to open a window to all citizens and to the world, through which one can approach the multifaceted and committed reality of the University of Santiago de Compostela.
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The charm of living in
Santiago and Lugo
10
The University of Santiago de Compostela offers the appeal of living in two World He- ritage cities. Full of enchanting corners, pre- sented to residents and visitors with the charm of its lively cobbled streets whilst maintaining the privilege of the contact with nature.
Santiago de Compostela
, destina- tion of the universal Camino de Santiago, is a microcosmos where pilgrimage and tourism mixes with the people of Santiago de Com- postela and with the university community.Its historic centre, one of the largest and best preserved in Europe, contrasts with the new
urban spaces which have a modern appea- rance in which tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony.
The university areas are spread throughout the city, from north to south, where the Cam- pus Vida is situated, and in the historic centre.
Outside the lecture rooms and laboratories, university life also flows through the cinema and theatre, exhibitions, concerts and count- less businesses with a student feel to them. A cultural offering for the most heterogeneous audiences.
Lugo
is a two thousand year old city su- rrounded by the Roman Wall, unique in the world in style and accessible throughout its 2km length. The Miño, the main Galician river, gives the city a unique beauty.The scenic grandeur of this inner Galicia, clo- se to the Ancares and Courel mountains to the east, to the Mariña Lucense on the Cantabrian coast and the Ribeira Sacra to the south, it is completed with the value of the Galician cuisi- ne that Lugo has inherited.
University life permeates every corner of the cities of Santiago and Lugo
11 The university community adds a unique
charm to these two cities. It gives movement to the streets and all areas have a special life, a genuine excitement. As a sign of gratitude, Compostela and Lugo lovingly embrace their university students, as per tradition and for the future.
Santiago and Lugo invite you to enjoy their parks and very varied cultural offering
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Degrees Awarded
14
Santiago Campus Lugo Campus
Chemical Engineering Computer Engineering
Agricultural and Rural Engineering Civil Engineering
Food Processing Industries Engineering Forestry and Rural Engineering Geomatics and Surveying Engineering Industrial Chemical Processes Engineering
Engineering and Architecture
Between its Santiago and Lugo Campuses, the USC offers 42 bachelor degrees correspon- ding to the different branches of knowledge: 4 Science, 8 Health Science, 12 Social Science and Legal, 8 Engineering and Architecture and 9 Art and Humanities bachelor degrees.
Bachelors Degree
Santiago Campus Lugo Campus
Art History Classic Philosophy
English Language and Literature Galician Language and Literature History
Modern Languages and Literature Philosophy
Spanish Language and Literature
Culture and Cultural Dissemination Sciences Spanish Language and Literature
Arts and Humanities
15
The School of Engineering has several pilot floors dedicated to teaching and research
Santiago Campus Lugo Campus
Audiovisual Communication Business Administration Early Childhood Education Economics
Geography and Regional Planning Industrial Relations and Human Resources Journalism
Law Pedagogy
Political and Administration Science Primary Education
Social Education Social Work
Business Administration Early Childhood Education Primary Education
Working Relations and Human Resources
Social and Legal Sciences
Biology Chemistry Mathematics Physics
Sciences
Santiago Campus Lugo Campus
Dentistry Medicine Nursing
Optics and Optometry Pharmacy
Psychology
Human Nutrition and Dietetics Nursing
Veterinary
Health Sciences
16
Non official Degrees
Higher Diploma in Criminology
In order to do this degree you must have passed the University Access Exams or entered through the over twenty-five’s access route. It consists of three academic courses taught at the Institute of Criminology.
Hotel Management Diploma (1st cycle)
Enables you to work as middle management in hotel and restaurant services. It is a three year course and includes work experience and a final project. It is taught at the Higher Education Hotel Centre of Galicia (CSHG).
Advanced Diploma of Hotel Management (2nd cycle)
This course prepares future managers and directors of large tourism companies and heads of hotel chains. There are five courses which encompass professional working practices.
It is also taught at CSHG.
Students, teaching staff and researchers use the resources offered by multiple laboratories throughout the three campuses
17
Masters degrees
The Masters Degrees cover all areas of knowledge, with significant representation from diverse human activities: sea, environment, archaeology, energy, food, new technologies, health, economics and business, tourism, education or language, amongst others.
Arts and Humanities
Archaeology and Ancient Sciences Contemporary History
Crossroads in Cultural Narratives (linked to the Masters in Theoretical Studies and Comparative Literature and Culture). Erasmus Mundus Masters
Cultural Services
English Studies: Current Trends and Applications Galician Linguistics
Lectures on the Historic City Linguistic Studies
Logic and Philosophy of Science
Medieval European Studies: Images, Texts and Contexts Philosophy: Current Issues
Studying and Editing Spanish and Latin American Literary Texts Theoretical and Comparative Literature and Culture Studies
Engineering and Architecture
Agricultural and Forestry Research
Chemical and Environmental Process Engineering Dairy Industry and Economics
Engineering for Rural Development Environmental Engineering High Performance Computing Information Technologies Landscape Architecture Project Management
Sustainable Land and Territory Management
18
Health Sciences
Basic and Applied Research into Veterinary Science Biomedical Research
Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology Research Dental Sciences
Development and Medication Research
Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Conditionings of Growth and Development Gerontology
Health Care and Management (Management Speciality / Clinical Speciality) Neuroscience
Occupational Risk Prevention and Environmental Health Psychogerontology
Public Health
Veterinary Medicine and Health Research Vision Science Research
Sciences
Advanced Chemistry Agriculture
Biodiversity and Conservation of the Natural Environment Biotechnology
Environment and Natural Resources Innovation in Food Safety and Technology Marine Biology
Mathematical Engineering Mathematics
Nuclear and Particle Physics and its Technological and Medical Applications Organic Chemistry
Photonics and Laser Technologies
Renewable Energies and Energy Sustainability Science and Technology of Colloids and Interfaces Science and Technology of Materials
Statistical Techniques
Theoretical Chemistry and Computational Modelling
Humanities play an important part at the USC, an institution with over five hundred years of history
19
Social and Legal Sciences
Administrations and Public Institutions Law
Advanced Studies of Language, Communication and their Pathologies Attorney
Business Administration
Company Management and Leadership Creative Communication and Industries Economic Development and Innovation
Economics: Industrial Organisation and Financial Markets Education, Gender and Equality
International and European Community Taxes International Studies
Lawyer
Management of Educational Activities in Nature Marketing, Consulting and Political Communication
Organizational Psychology, Forensic Law Psychology and Social Intervention Private Law
Public Management
Regional Development and Economic Integration
Research into Education, Cultural Diversity and Community Development
Teachers of Secondary School Education, Vocational Training and Language Teaching Territorial Development Planning and Management
Training Processes Urban Tourism Youth and Society
Doctorate
A vast selection of doctoral programmes allows students to expand their field of study and master the research skills and methods associated with it.
Arts and Humanities
Applied Linguistics and the Theory of Linguistics Archaeology and Ancient Sciences
Art and Music History Studies Classic Philosophy
20
Contemporary History
English Studies. Current Trends and Applications French Studies
Galician and Lusophone Literature. Culture and Identity German Language and Literature
Humanities and Cultural Services Logic and Philosophy of Science Medieval Art History
Medieval and Modern Europe: Territory, Society and Culture Philosophy. Current Issues
Roman Philosophy Spanish Linguistics
Studying and Editing and Spanish and Latin American Literary Texts Theory of Literature and Comparative Literature
Engineering and Architecture
Agricultural and Forestry Research Chemical and Environmental Engineering Rural Development Engineering
Information Technologies Research
Thermodynamic and Fluid Engineering Research
Health Sciences
Basic and Applied Research into Veterinary Science Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology Comprehensive Health Care
Dental Sciences Endocrinology
Forensic and Pathology Sciences
Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Conditioning of Growth and Development Gerontology
Innovation in Food Safety and Technology Medical Morphology
Medical and Surgical Specialities Medication Development and Research
The value of sciences and enginee- ring at USC is reinforced by its great prestige in the field of research
21 Molecular Medicine
Public Health
Veterinary Medicine and Health Research Vision Sciences
Ciencias
Advances in Microbial and Parasitic Microbiology Agriculture
Biodiversity and Conservation of the Natural Environment Biotechnology Engineering
Chemical Science and Technology Environment and Natural Resources
Food Industries Science, Engineering and Occupational Risks Material Science
Mathematical Methods and Numerical Simulation in Engineering and Applied Science Mathematics
Neuroscience
Photonics and Laser Technology
Renewable Energies and Energy Sustainability Statistics and Operations Research
Social and Legal Sciences
Administrations, Public Institutions and International Studies Applied Economics
Art of Teaching Experimental and Mathematical Sciences Assessment of Training Institutions and Programmes Business Management
Creative Communication and Industries Design and Innovation in Training Economic Development and Innovation Economics
Education, Gender and Equality
Education, Sustainability and Development Culture International and Community Tax
Private Law: Regional, State and European Perspective Public Management
Regional Development and Economic Integration
Social Psychology Applied to Organizational and Political-Legal Contexts Tourism Planning Management
Youth and Society Studies
22
International Doctoral School
The International Doctoral School (EDI) is the unit responsible for the organization of docto- ral studies in all fields of knowledge; it will integrate all doctoral programs renewed under the Royal Decree 99/2011. It arises from the modification and restructuring of the Doctoral School of Biomedical and Health Technologies.
In addition to planning activities of development and training of PhDs, it works on the promo- tion and dissemination of research and doctoral studies in society and in the development of strategies to promote intra and inter university collaboration, emphasizing on its interna- tionalization. The offer which manages EDI is organized in three thematic areas: Biomedical Sciences and Health Technologies, which integrates the programs related to the Campus of International Excellence-Campus Vida, Social Sciences, Law and Humanities, and Experimen- tal Sciences and Technical Training, grouping fifty doctoral programs.
Life-long learning
The wide range of courses is divided into Masters Degrees and Specialisation Courses.
The Masters Degrees associated with Health Sciences cover fields as diverse as acu- puncture, dentistry and human reproduction. The Science Masters approach the environment and corporate social responsibility, whilst the Social Sciences and Law Masters Degrees are associated with behavioural sciences, communication and society, law, economics and busi- ness management. Lastly, the Arts and Humanities Masters Degrees delve into the world of art, lexicography and training.
Specialisation courses in the area of Health Sciences take on subjects such as lapa- roscopic surgery, oral implantology, advanced dentistry, nursing in emergency situations, acupuncture to treat pain and orthopaedics. The Science Masters Degrees focus on environ- mental consulting, the Arts and Humanities Masters Degrees on History and Social Sciences and the Law Masters Degrees on the development of teaching materials and resources, the information society, human resource management, mediation in different areas, financial institutions and foreign trade.
Life-long learning allows for the acquisition of skills and abilities throughout life. Various expert and refresher environmental Science courses are taught. Health Sciences deals with
23 periodontics, auriculotherapy and oriental medicine. The Social Sciences and Law branch delves into the socio-educational management of immigration, dependency care, regional development strategies in the information society, cyber-journalism, sustainable tourism, me- diation of different conflicts, calligraphic expertise, regional planning, along with a varied se- lection in the field of economics and business management. Arts and Humanities addresses childcare, creative writing, children and youth literature, philosophy and music.
IV University Cycle
People over the age of 50 have their place at USC with their own training programme, at both the Santiago and Lugo Campuses. No previous academic cycle is required to access the IV Cycle.
The first three years are general with a choice between astronomy, oceanography, econo- mics, biology, biochemistry, physiology, energy, environment, health, nutrition, intercultural education, literature, philosophy, English, French, Italian, psychology, computer science and internet, among others.
The last two years are specialisation courses and focus on astronomy, natural heritage, eco- logy and sustainable development, law, art, computer science, English, psychology, Spanish literature or the birth of Europe.
The Senior Graduate Diploma is awarded upon the successful completion of the first three years, and a Higher Senior Degree for those who complete the five years. Following the completion of a research project, one can opt for an Excelsor degree.
The wide range of postgraduate courses cover all fields of knowledge
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Support for students
26
At College
The transition from college to university opens a new world to the College student, entering a new world. What qualification to choose, what addi- tional training can be taken, which scholarships can be benefited from, where to live, what leisure activities are on offer, which countries can acade- mic exchanges be carried out in... The University of Santiago, through its Bridging between Se- condary Education and University Program- me, will guide students on this journey.
USC helps first year students to integrate in the University
27
At University
USC is already helping new students with their incorporation into university life.
Bridging subjects can be taken before be- ginning studies in order to achieve the level of knowledge required for each degree.
A student-tutor will help them integrate in the University. They can provide information on the structure of the faculty and the qualification chosen, guide them with regards to administra- tive procedures, inform them about European, national and transnational programmes, as well as passing on all their suggestions to the ma- nagement team of the centre in which they are studying.
A lecturer-tutor guides them during their stu- dies and gives advice for their future work.
USC offers grants to help pay registration fees, the halls of residence and the university cafeterias. It awards the winners of the scientific Olympiads in Biology, Physics, Mathematics and Chemistry. It provides financial support to the university community’s cultural projects, particu-
larly the theatre and dance groups, as well as subsidising part of the urban transport ticket for the entire university community.
The best students, at USC
Every year, more than half the students who get an A or A+ at College and in the University Entrance Exams enrol at USC.
In turn, graduates of the University of Santia- go get excellent results in public exams held throughout the state. In 2011 three USC Psy- chology students positioned themselves in the top ten Resident Internal Psychologists (PIR), ten Medicine students in the top one hundred Resident Intern Doctors and four Pharmacy students in the top one hundred Resident Intern Pharmaceuticals. Very positive results were also achieved in the Resident Intern Radiophy- sicist (RIR) Exams.
28
Preparation for the working world
Students
Students receive preparation and support for their future career. Besides each degree’s work experience subjects, students can take part in paid internships in companies and pu- blic and private institutions in Galicia, in other parts of Spain and abroad.
There are different paths to work experience.
The USC Board of Trustees searches for the companies, in accordance with the student records and the student’s preferred towns.
The centres and faculties also have their own agreements with companies and entities.
The Galician Company-University Foundation
FEUGA sends offers to students from the three universities in Galicia, and the Faro Global Project is an international grants programme for doing work experience in countries in Eu- rope, Asia, the United States and Canada.
Graduates
Graduates also have the opportunity to do work experience in national and international organisations. The Europracticum is aimed at those who don’t have any work experience related to their qualification or less than a year and requires sound knowledge of at least one language of the countries of destination and IT knowledge.
To take part in the work experience in companies programme for new gradua- tes, students must be younger than 30, have finished their degree in the last 3 or 4 years and not had a paid job related to the degree.
FEUGA is an important foundation that offers paid work experience in Galician companies through the Galician Placement Service.
Subjects that include work experience programmes bring the student closer to the working world
29 Other public organisations such as the Ga-
lician Institute for Economic Promotion (IGAPE) from the Galician regional govern- ment, the University-Company Foundation (FUE) and the SEPI Foundation (State Society of Industrial Participations) are running various programmes in collaboration with companies.
National and international organisations promote the development of work experience in companies
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Languages
32
Modern Language Centre
A rich variety of languages
The Modern Language Centre (CLM) offers a wide range of language courses that promote academic and professional enrichment.
Intensive summer courses:
Catalan Czech Chinese Danish English French
German Italian Japanese Portuguese Russian
Arabic Catalan Czech Chinese English Finnish French German Greek Hungarian Italian
Japanese Polish Portuguese Russian Slovakian
… As well as Sign Language
Learning a language during the course and also in summer is a good addition to training
33
Spanish for foreigners
More than 600 foreign students learn Spa- nish, or improve their knowledge of the lan- guage, through regular quarterly courses and intensive courses in September and February. These courses are adapted to the levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (MCER). The Santia- go Campus also holds a Spanish literature and culture through film course.
Galician for the non Galician speaking
Non Galician speaking students can learn the language of the community in which they live and study through courses organised in con- junction with the USC Language Standardisa- tion Service, also adapted to the levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
External exams
The Modern Language Centre is a delegated examining centre in Galicia to obtain various qualifications that certify the knowledge of a language.
CILS (Italian as a Foreign Language Cer- tificate), from the Università per Stranieri di Siena (Italy)
DELE (Spanish as a Foreign Languages Diplomas), qualifications given by the Cer- vantes Institute
NOKEN Exam, official exam for Japanese Certificate from the Goethe Institut for German, specifically for ZD exams (German as a Foreign Language Certificate) and ZMP (intermediate level final exam).
CELTA certificate, of proficiency in the knowledge of English language teaching for people interested in working as English tea- chers.
Foreign students can take part in Spanish and Galician courses
34
International Courses
Spanish courses
The study of the Spanish language, culture, literature and history is combined in a varied culture and leisure programme in the Spa- nish language and culture for foreigners courses, throughout the year but specially in summer.
In collaboration with the Cervantes Institute, the demand from lecturers who wish to direct their career towards teaching Spanish as a fo- reign language is also met.
Following its pioneering nature, the range of International Courses is running a programme that combines the multidisciplinary study of the Camino de Santiago with the improve- ment of the Spanish language.
Spanish courses include culture and leisure activities
A series of courses are held throughout the year aimed at improving the communicati- ve ability in different areas such as health, health care, rural development and the environment, tourism, companies and gastronomy.
Galician courses
The USC S.A. International Courses offer training courses for teaching Galician and other lan- guages, aimed at evaluator personnel from the Galician Language Certificate (CELGA), in con- junction with the Galician regional government.
35
Institute of the Galician Language
Galician language and cul- ture courses
USC Institute of the Galician Language (ILG) gives summer classes related to the Galician language and culture for foreigners and Spa- nish students who are not from Galicia, with the collaboration of the Royal Galician Aca- demy and the Galician regional government.
Every year around a hundred students from more than twenty countries from the five con- tinents take part.
Language
Standardisation Service
Its mission is to encourage and give support to extending the use of the Galician language in which the University of Santiago de Compos- tela is immersed. The SNL is broken down into four departments. The Advisory Department is dedicated to the correction and translation of texts, as well as the resolution of queries in this field. The Training Department or- ganises courses related to the language. The Terminology Department focuses on the production of lexicography and the Dynami- zation Department initiatives to promote wider use of Galician, as well as awards for linguistic quality and excellence for students.
Every year, hundreds of foreign students take part in Galician courses
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Libraries
38
University Library
The Fonseca School, home of the University of Santiago, and housing the General Library, a repository of historical background of the Uni- versity Library, of the Galician Catalogue and of an extensive collection of reference works and interdisciplinary literature. The University Library (BUSC) also includes 11 other facul- ties and schools and 4 intercentres spread over the Santiago and Lugo Campuses.
The American Library, also located in the Fonseca School, is unique in the world for its speciality subject and one of the largest spe- cialised contents on Latin America in Spain. Its
walls house a jewel, the Book of Hours of Fer- dinand I of Leon, dated around 1055 and con- sidered to be the oldest book of Compostela.
With a total of 6,442 reading posts, the USC ranks second among Spanish universities.
Virtual Library
Many library resources can be accessed vir- tually:
BUSCar información
_ This service allows you to locate information in the different BUSC catalogues and in other libraries, databases, magazines and e-books and other online re- sources that the University of Santiago offers the university community. The search can be performed on multiple resources simul- taneously through the USC’s multisearcher Portico, which facilitates the approach to a particular topic of interest.The USC has the second largest number of reading posts at a Spanish university
39
RefWorks bibliographic reference ma- nager_
Gives the option of performing on- line queries. The user can create a personal database to store references imported from other databases or added manually. It is also possible to classify the stored references by creating thematic folders and give the stored extracts the bibliographic format desired and export them to a text document.Remote access_
The electronic resour- ces provided by the University Library can be remotely accessed from outside the usc.esThe USC library resources and those from other institutions can be accessed through the virtual library
domain through an authenticated University of Santiago proxy service. Some services and platforms allow entry from outside the USC without using the proxy. This is the case for NetLibrary, which provides access to full-text e-books, RefWorks, the bibliographic referen- ce manager, Science Direct, the scientific in- terest portal, and Web of Knowledge, the web platform for scientific research and academic association.
40
Network of
university libraries
The USC library is a member of Bugalicia, the Consortium of Academic Libraries of Galicia. It is the largest online centre for scien- tific information in Galicia made available to the university community, with access to elec- tronic magazines, e-books, databases, acts of congress, articles, theses, patents and bi- bliographic managers, which are basic for the development of scientific work. It is committed to the introduction of new technologies in the Galician university libraries and advances in the creation of the Library 2.0, which promo- tes the active participation of users as content creators.
It is also a part of REBIUN, the Spanish University Libraries Network, which pro- motes the connections of library’s automated systems, the application of information tech- nology in library services and the incorpora- tion of bibliographic resources from research projects.
The confluence of tradition and modernity at USC is also reflected in its libraries
41
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Information and
Communication Technologies
44
The Internet can be accessed from anywhere in the university. The USC’s wireless network is the first in Galicia and one of the first in Spain due to the number of users and registered users. It was also a pioneer among Spanish universities by giving WiFi coverage to all of the buildings in the Santiago and Lugo Campuses.
USC is also a pioneer in sending students qualifications and diverse information via text message. A total of 90 lecture rooms and 1,800 work stations constitute the Computer Room Network.
Virtual Campus
Virtual and actual lecture rooms coexist in perfect harmony. Any member of the univer- sity community can access the Blackboard Platform using their institution email account, where students are assigned to virtual lecture rooms for subjects in which they are enro- lled and teachers can register courses. A set of tools which enable learning development through the internet, by organising debate fo- rums, sending emails, holding online conver- sations, presenting academic work, and even doing exams. v
Virtual Secretary_
Enrolling for different courses, consulting academic records and all administrative procedures can be performed using the USC’s Virtual Secretary. For thoseThe University of Santiago is a pioneer in its WiFi coverage
45 students who do not have a computer with
internet connection, the University offers them the Computer Room Network in every building, equipment and support personnel to facilitate the enrolment process.
University ID Card
The University ID Card certifies members of the university community. Other groups such as alumni, collaborators, users or former stu- dents can also have an ID card to access cer- tain university services.
The University ID Card can be used:
To access restricted areas and facilities such as car parks with barriers, personal com- puters and sports facilities.
To consult personalised information and procedures using the USC web and at Univer- sity Information Points: enrolment applications, view and print academic records or recharge the transport wallet.
As electronic currency to pay in universi- ty cafeterias or dining halls, sporting facilities, reprographic services, at the University shop (Unitienda) as well as in businesses in Santia- go and Lugo.
Get discounts on urban transport in San- tiago and businesses in Santiago and Lugo.
Library loans.
Various tasks can be performed using the TUI
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International USC
48
Mobility on the five continents
The USC maintains collaborations with univer- sities in the five continents. It participates in multiple programs that allow students of any academic level to expand their training expe- rience in countries around the world.
Mobility in the EHEA
SICUE / SENECA
_ Students can carry out part of their studies in another Spanish uni- versity. Every year around 400 students take advantage of this programme.ERASMUS
_ This programme promotes mo- bility within the European Union, based on academic recognition of graduate and under- graduate studies. Around 400 USC students per year complete their studies in another Eu- ropean country.ERASMUS PRÁCTICAS
_ Offers from 3 to 6 months work experience in a company, tra- ining centre, research centre or organisation in another European country. The student may propose destinations in any EU country, as well as in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey.EUROPRACTICUM / LEONARDO DA VINCI
_ Aimed at graduates wishing to do work experience in EU companies and institu- tions. The duration is 24 weeks with financialsupport of between 2,400 and 4,300 Euros, depending on the country of destination, to pay for travel, accommodation and maintenance, as well as medical coverage. The student must not have previous work experience related to the degree, must master the language of the country of destination and demonstrate com- puter skills.
Mobility outside the EHEA
ENGLISH SPEAKING COUNTRIES
There are various alternative methods of stu- dying outside the EEES in English speaking countries, through Bilateral Agreements.
The ISEP Programme is another exchange programme with American and Porto Rican universities integrated in this network and the TASSEP Programme offers the opportunity to study Science disciplines at American and Canadian universities. All these programs re- quire TOEFL language accreditation.
OTHER COUNTRIES
There are multiple ways to study at Latin American universities through Bilateral Agreements. The Santander-CRUE Latin American Mobility Grants enable students to complete a part of their studies in Argenti- na, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Mexico, Peru, Por- tugal, Puerto Rico, Uruguay and Venezuela.
Every year, countries around the world welcome students who wish to further develop their training abroad
49
Development cooperation SPANISH LANGUAGE AND CULTURE CHAIR (Bangladesh)_
In collaboration with the University of A Coruña, USC has laun- ched ongoing training courses at the Universi- ty of Dhaka, Bangladesh, so as their students can learn Spanish language and culture.ERASMUS MUNDUS
_ Seeks mutual enri- chment between the European Union and third world countries through cooperative programs that promote the exchange of people, knowled- ge and skills in the field of Higher Education.The Erasmus Mundus External Coopera- tion Windows, dedicated to mobility, focus on different continents. USC coordinates and participates in various types of programmes.
With Asia
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uz- bekistan (coordinated by USC)
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkme- nistan and Uzbekistan
Bangladesh, Cambodia, India and Pakistan Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Indone-
sia, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Thailand
With Latin America
Brazil (coordinated by USC)
Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay (coordina- ted by USC)
Argentina, Bolivia and Peru (coordinated by USC)
El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and Nicaragua
TEMPUS
_ The EU invites academic institu- tions to conduct joint European projects las- ting for a maximum of three years. The USC Coordinates the Tempus MUQ Programme - Management de Université pour la Quali- té and participates in other projects with Euro- pean, Moroccan and Central Asian universities.OTHER PROGRAMMES
_ Includes initia- tives such as the Formula Santander Pro- gramme with the UK and Brazil, offering mobility grants aimed at undergraduate and graduate students from Spanish, British and Brazilian universities. The Spanish Agency of International Cooperation for Deve- lopment promotes the implementation of scientific cooperation and research activities between Spain and Latin American countries, sub-Saharan Africa and the Mediterranean.The Foreign Office also offers development cooperation grants for graduate and third cycle students, and Alfa is a cooperation program- me between the European Union and Latin America Higher Education institutions.
Diverse cooperation programmes promote mobility
50
51 of International Students, International Days are held, two days in Santiago and Lugo during which foreign students present their countries of origin to the entire university community.
Volangteer
_ This project promotes learning and the use of minority languages in the diffe- rent states of the EU, so that those who come from other countries can recognise them and use them normally in their everyday lives.It also looks to integrate foreign students in Galician society and the university communi- ty. It’s mainly aimed at Erasmus students and students who are interested in Galician cul- tural exchange. Thus, informal meetings are encouraged to hold discussions about various topics and to participate in various activities, like going to the theatre, to a sporting event, cultural visits or attend food fairs.
USCasa
_ A portal for USC students and in- ternational students to get in touch to share housing.Foreign students
An increasing number of students from other parts of Spain and countries from around the world carry out part of their studies at the Uni- versity of Santiago. Whilst at USC, they receive personal guidance from the Head of Academic Mobility of each centre.
Foreign Students Tutoring Program- me
_ Volunteer students provide guidance and support to exchange students arriving at Santiago, so as they can quickly adapt to the University of Santiago and the Galician society.Attention is paid to the knowledge of the Ga- lician language and also the friendly, profes- sional, academic and scientific relationships with university students from other parts of the world.
Activities programme
_ To learn about Galician culture and enrich the experience of living and studying at the University of San- tiago, the Santiago and Lugo Campuses host various events. A Welcome to the USC Day is held at the beginning of the course and hos- ted by the vice chancellor, and, in collabora- tion with the Enxebre Compostela Associationmonocromo azul USC
Research
54
Campus of International Excellence
Campus Vida is set to become one of the most important bioclusters in the world in the fields of Life Sciences and Technologies. Described by the Spanish government as a Campus of International Excellence, in two years it went from having a regional reference to recei- ve the global reference. It has more than thirty partners in various areas, including the Hig- her Council for Scientific Research, the health research institutes in Santiago, A Coruña and Vigo, the Iberian Laboratory of Nanotechnology in Braga (Portugal), the Town Hall of Santiago de Compostela and a large group of biotech- nology companies. It is also the expression of Univerciudad, which is the University’s com- mitment to economic growth and sustainable development of the territory on which it sits.
Network of Singular Research Centres
A cornerstone of this set is the Network of Sin- gular Research Centres.
CIQUS
_ The Research Centre for Biolo- gical Chemistry and Molecular Materials focuses on relevant scientific problem solving in the field of Biological Chemistry and in the development of new functional materials.CIMUS
_ The Research Centre for Mo- lecular Medicine and Chronic Illnesses fosters the development of interdisciplinary research in the field of Biomedicine.CITIUS
_ The Research Centre for Infor- mation Technology applies R&D results to the area of Life Sciences and Technologies.CEBEGA
_ The Centre for Experimental Biomedicine will become a large infrastructu- re, providing services to the entire biomedical community in the whole of the Galicia-North Portugal and north-western Spain Euroregion.CIFUS
_ The Physics Research Centre will be dedicated to studying Physics, with special emphasis on the development of technological applications in the field of Medical Physics.Attracting talent
Aware that the highest scientific aspirations require leading teams, several researchers
have already achieved Starting Grant con- tracts through the European IDEAS Program- me, for the development of new research on an international scale. Moreover, with the aim of attracting talent, the TALENTGALIA Pro- ject seeks to incorporate senior research sta- ff in the Galician R&D system and held the first international assignment of Predoctoral Contracts of the USC International Docto- ral School.
A referent in the field of Life Sciences and Technologies
55 It collaborates with the Iberian Laboratory
of Nanotechnology in Braga (Portugal) de- veloping excellent research in the field of na- nosciences and nanotechnologies applied to health.
It leads community networks of exce- llence such as HIPEAC (European Network of Excellence in Architecture and Compilation of High Performance Embedded Systems), hea- ded by CITIUS, and EUROFORGEN (European Network of Excellence in Forensic Genetics), coordinated by CIMUS.
It also leads CampUSCulturae, an ambi- tious international consortium to promote in- tercultural dialogue, by creating platforms bet- ween villages and individuals from the most diverse cultures. This initiative provides sup- port to projects which promote less protected or endangered cultures or social groups, and is committed to the projection and diffusion of the world’s minority languages.
It manages diverse international educa- tion networks.
The USC, leader in research
Every year USC reinforces its position as re- search leader in Spain through its manage- ment skills in the field of R&D+i and the quality of its research.
LEADER IN FUND-RAISING
_ Every year, the USC raises close to 70 million Euros from different public and private financing sources to develop its R&D+i activities, which amounts to around 300 million Euros over the last four years. It is the 7th Spanish uni-Internationalisation
Campus Vida is advancing its internationali- sation, creating stable strategic alliances with technology partners.
It promotes the creation of public-private partnerships with some of the major European pharmaceuticals, such as the USC-Esteve Mixed Unit for the discovery of new drugs.
versity for R&D fund-raising and the first in the Galician university system.
QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
_ The research staff comprises 4,136 people dedicated to R&D -- 46% women and 54% men --, of whom more than 1,700 are active resear- chers in R&D projects and contracts. It is made up of nearly 300 research groups, which rely on the 76 USC departments to carry out their work.HIGH SCIENTIFIC PRODUCTION
_ In the last four years almost 7,000 articles have been printed in scientific publications, with an exponential increase year after year. In this period 836 doctoral theses were also com- pleted.SUPPORT FOR THE CREATION OF COMPANIES
_ In the last four years 8 spin- off companies have been created within the University of Santiago, dedicated to fields as diverse as linguistics, the environment, cultu- ral management, virtual reality, functional food, the dairy industry, food analysis and sports psychology.PATENTS
_ The University of Santiago has presented 229 patent applications since 1991.The Spanish Office of Patents and Brands awar- ded a total of 147.
INCUBATION
_ USC holds the presidency of the Latin American University Network of Bu- siness Incubation and has accepted the Chair UNESCO Innovation and Management of the Entrepreneurship Culture in the Framework of the University.Every year the USC raises 70 million Euros for research
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Starting Grants-ERC
Four USC scientists have received the pres- tigious Starting Grant from the European Re- search Council (ERC) in the last two years. It comes with around 1.5 million Euros to deve- lop a worldwide relevant research project over a period of five years.
Chemist Francisco Rivadulla, researcher for the USC Magnetism and Nanotechnology Group will study new methods of obtaining electricity.
Physicist Carlos Salgado, researcher for the Theory and Phenomenology of particles, as- troparticles, fields and strings Group, will exa- mine and interpret the most recent results of the Swiss CERN particle collider, the European Organization for Nuclear Research.
Biologist Miguel López, researcher for the Biomedical Research Group headed by Pro- fessor Carlos Diéguez, will focus his research on the knowledge of certain molecular mecha- nisms for identifying new therapeutic targets for treating obesity.
Biologist Rubén Nogueiras, who has also joi- ned the USC Biomedical Research Group, will investigate whether p53 gene manipulation in some areas of the brain could become a the- rapeutic target for obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Internal Research Institutes and
Centres
The University of Santiago has 17 research institutes and 7 internal research centres to develop its R&D.
Research institutes
Galician Institute of High Energy Phy- sics
_ Its basic research aims to improve the understanding of the structure of matter and the universe, and its applied research pays interest to fields as diverse as advanced scientific instrumentation, GRID technology, microelectronics and solar energy.Institute of Agricultural Biodiversity and Rural Development (IBADER)
_ Located on the Lugo Campus, it works to conserve and manage biodiversity and the environment in rural areas, to improve ope- rating systems and find new ways of farming, as well as the planning and structure of rural territory.Institute of Aquaculture
_ Its main areas of research focus on biotechnology applied to improving the cultivation of fish and shellfish.It works with companies from the sector to diagnose diseases in fish and shellfish, and perform genetic and biotoxin analyses.
Institute of Ceramics_
Develops R&D activities in the field of industrial rocks, the production of materials and non-ferrous me- tallurgy. Its innovative products and technolo- gies have already borne fruit in several patents used by industries from the materials sector.Institute of Criminology_
Imparts stu- dies corresponding to the USC’s internal qua- lification of Higher Diploma in Criminology. It edits the Criminology and Criminal Studies magazine and the University of Santiago de Compostela’s Criminology Bulletin, where current issues are discussed and student’s research work is shared.Institute of Education Sciences (ICE)_
Addresses research in education, in order to guide the necessary changes to meet the de- mands of society, as well as working to impro- ve the quality of training in all areas.
Institute of Food Research and Analy- sis_
Performs research in the food indus- try sector and trains and advises food produc- tion and processing companies.Various groups are international pioneers
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Institute of the Galician Language (ILG)_
This linguistic research centre just turned forty. It produces dictionaries, spelling and morphological rules, surname mapping, sound files, computerized language treasu- res, toponymic inventories, linguistic atlas...as well as producing multiple studies on the Galician language.
Institute of Galician Studies and De- velopment (IDEGA)_
Its research focuses on the problems of economic development in the past and present, paying special attention to the social and economic reality of Galicia.Institute of Industrial Law_
Research focuses on economic competition, industrial property and intellectual property. It has a magnificent library, one of the largest in Euro- pe in the field of industrial property, with over 8,000 references and subscribes to nume- rous periodicals.Institute of Industrial Pharmacy_
Spe- cialised in the R&D of medication. Its lines of research include the design of new forms of drug dosage, optimising the properties of main active ingredients, as well as the study of the pharmacological activity of new mole- cules of a natural and synthetic origin.Institute of Mathematics_
Promotes and develops the research into pure and applied mathematics, promotes the study of the pro- blems in teaching this discipline and provides training. The results of their studies are useful in fields as diverse as industry, engineering, biomechanics, biology and medicine.Institute of Orthopaedics and Mus- culoskeletal Tissue Bank_
Works to promote and develop scientific and technicalresearch in the field of orthopaedics. Provides technical advice to industries related to mus- culoskeletal diseases and disseminates infor- mation of interest for orthopaedic surgery and traumatology.
Institute of Technological Research_
Carries out applied research into the fields of artificial intelligence, computing and the environment and natural resources. It brings together chemists, telecommunications engi- neers, biologists, computer scientists, chemi- cal engineers and other specialists from va- rious disciplines..
`Luís Concheiro´ Institute of Forensic Science_
Develops teaching and research in the area of Legal Medicine, as well as being an advisor to the Administration of Justice. For more than thirty years it has been testing bio- logical paternity, biological criminology, human identification and investigation in the field of Fo- rensic Research and is considered to be one of the most prestigious laboratories in the world.It also performs toxicology analyses and offers R&D services in Pathology and Clinical Foren- sics.
`Pedro Barrié de la Maza´ Institute of Neurological Sciences_
Approaches the study of six fields within neuroscience: micro- neurosurgery, neurosurgery, neurophysiology, neurology, neuropathology and neuro-oncology.USC has 17 institutes and 7 internal research centres
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Internal Research Centres Centre of City History Studies_
Located in the city of Lugo, it analyses the historic ur- ban phenomenon throughout its periods, pa- ying special attention to the Roman era. It also studies the road network that linked cities long ago and organises conferences, meetings and scientific excursions.Centre of Cooperative Studies_
The purpose of this centre is the research, training and study of cooperativism in its economic and legal dimensions. It covers the Galician, Euro- pean and international scope.Centre of Film Studies_
Develops research projects focused on audiovisual arts, in addition to promoting the study of visual relationships with other areas of human knowledge.Centre for the Research into Emerging Cultural Processes and Practices_
It fo- cuses on the scientific study of emerging cul- tural processes, particularly artistic and literary phenomena. It addresses local, regional, na- tional or international manifestations, as well as cultural practices associated with commu- nities, groups or individuals.Centre of Tourism Studies and Re- search (CETUR)_
Deals with the research, teaching and technical assistance for all as- pects related with tourism in Galicia. It has an observatory from where the sector is monito- red using the analysis and study of its main components of offer and demand.`Gumersindo Busto´ Interdisciplinary Centre of American Studies_
Promotes the scientific research and academic and cul- tural dissemination of any aspects associated to America, especially its links with the Gali- cian community.USC is a pioneer in diverse fields of research
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Interdisciplinary Centre of Feminist Research and Gender Studies (CI- FEX)_
Studies gender relationships in Galicia from educational, psychological, social, histo- rical, linguistic, philosophical, biological, medi- cal and legal perspectives.National Genotyping Center (CEGEN- ISCIII)_
USC coordinates this organisation, funded by the Carlos III Health Institute. It performs mass genome analyses to determi- ne the genetic basis of diseases and provides large-scale genotyping services to researchers working in this field, collaborating with the pharmaceutical industry in the development of medical technology that will advance the field of personalised medicineUSC is the Galician research institution with the biggest human resources team
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Other Research Centres and Services
The USC has very diverse centres and units that play an important part in supporting research in areas of specific knowledge.
The city of Santiago has two centres specialised in natural history and astronomy.
`Luís Iglesias´ Natural History Mu- seum_
Combines the largest collection of historical and scientific heritage in Galicia. It houses various collections of Zoology, Botany, Geology and other objects related to the de- velopment of Natural Sciences from the nine- teenth century until now. This heritage gem is opened in its new building, at Finca Vista Alegre.`Ramón María Aller´ Astronomical Ob- servatory_
Situated on the Campus Vida, it boasts a telescope with an aperture of 62 centimetres. Various activities are organised within the framework of the observatory to bring astronomy to the university community and to the rest of society. In its gardens there are two weather stations, one manual and one automatic, which obtain data for the city of Santiago de CompostelaThere are three scientific stations belonging to the USC in other areas of the Galician com- munity, focused on the study of mountains, the sea and rivers:
O Courel Scientific Station_
Placed on the O Courel Mountains, in the province of Lugo, it is equipped with facilities and equi- pment to support the research and teaching in all areas related to the Galician mountains.A Graña Marine Biology Station_
Based in the city of Ferrol, it promotes and facilitates research and teaching in Marine Biology and provides advice and dissemination on issues related to Galician marine wildlife.Encoro de O Con Hydrobiology Station (EHEC)_
Located in Vilagarcía de Arousa, it provides suitable facilities and resources for the study of inland aquatic ecosystems.The following support units are also used for the purposes of research:
Reference Laboratory for Escherichia coli (LREC)_
It has been recognised by the Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition as a National Reference Laboratory for the Detection of E. coli in food. Located in the Veterinary Faculty of Lugo, it is the first uni- versity work group to incorporate the national network of accredited centres in this field and is also integrated into the community network.It is one of the few international laboratories and the only one in Spain which has all the antisera for the complete serotyping of this
bacteria. Its role was crucial in solving the food crisis related to the bacteria that triggered in Germany in 2011.
Structural Timber Engineering Plat- form (PEMADE)_
Based at the School of Engineering on the Lugo Campus, it provides teaching, research and service support to society on issues related to the engineering of wood for structural purposes. It is part of the USC’s Support Infrastructure Network for Technological Research and Development (RIAIDT)Archaeology and Heritage_
Centres its lines of research on military, Roman and medieval archaeology. Its main project is the management of the excavation and restoration of the Roman site Aquis Querquennis (Bande, Ourense), which has led to the creation of a Foundation, a research centre and an Inter- pretation Centre.61
monocromo azul USC
Dialogues with
Science
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Scientific spreading
Knowledge, research and development are ste- rile if they are not communicated and transfe- rred to society. Under this premise, USC pro- motes initiatives in the academic community and in the society interested in approaching science and knowledge. Thus, in 2006, the po- pular science program ConCiencia is born.
The program is promoted by USC and the Con- sortium of Santiago de Compostela. It tries to reinforce the scientific exchange between the most important scientist from all over the word and in a wide range of fields and the USC re- searchers.
Visits from Nobel Prize Winners
Since its creation, ConCiencia has encouraged visits to Santiago from the most prestigious scientists from around the world, including Nobel Prize Winners. Over the years, around twenty international figures have shared their knowledge with the Galician society.
Heinrich Rohrer, Nobel Prize for Phy- sics in 1986
for the invention of the tunnel effect microscope, which is to Nonotechnolo- gy what the telescope is to AstronomyMichael Francis Atiyah, Fields Medal
in 1966 and Abel Award in 2004
. These are the two most important awards in the field65 of mathematics, a discipline for which there is
no Nobel Prize.