Deliverable D3.3 Chilean Map of Excellence on Key Research and ...

C h i l e - E u r o p e a n U n i o n S T I I n i t i a t i v e – D e l i v e r a b l e D 3 . 3

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Deliverable D3.3

Chilean Map of Excellence on Key Research and Innovation

Areas

Grant Agreement number: 311974 Project acronym: CEST+I

Project title: Chile-European Union STI Initiative Funding Scheme: Support Action

Due date: Actual date: Document Author/s:DLR and CONICYT Dissemination level: PUBLIC Status:


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Table of Contents

List of abbreviations ........................................................................................................................ 4

Introduction to the Map of Excellence ........................................................................................... 9

1. Outline on the Relationships between Chile and the European Union in research,

development and innovation ........................................................................................................ 10

2. Principal Chilean participants in the R+D+I system and its funding .......................................... 12

2.1. Public research institutes ................................................................................................... 12

2.2. Independent technological institutes mandated to the State ........................................... 13

2.3. Private research facilities ................................................................................................... 13

3. The university landscape in Chile .............................................................................................. 14

4. The Technology Transfer landscape in Chile ............................................................................. 18

5. General strategic guidelines for R+I in Chile (main fields of research) ..................................... 19

5.1. Biotechnology ..................................................................................................................... 20

5.1.1. Research institutions ................................................................................................... 20

5.2. Renewable energies ...................................................................................................... 28

5.2.1. The potential of unconventional renewable energy in Chile ...................................... 29

5.2.2. Research institutions ................................................................................................... 30

5.2.3. CORFO instruments for funding the development of unconventional sources of

renewable energy.................................................................................................................. 34

5.2.4. CONICYT and renewable energies ............................................................................... 35

5.2.5. Ministry of Energy and CER ......................................................................................... 35

5.3. Seismology and technology in earthquake-resistant construction ............................... 35

5.3.1. Research Institutions ................................................................................................... 36

5.4. Mining ................................................................................................................................ 37

5.4.1. Mining Innovation in Chile .......................................................................................... 38

5.4. Astronomy as a cross-discipline .................................................................................... 43


5.5.2. CONICYT and astronomy ............................................................................................. 46


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5.6. Antarctic research .............................................................................................................. 46


ANNEX 1 ............................................................................................................................................ 50

1. Framework conditions for research, development and innovation in Chile ........................ 50

5.5. Political framework conditions...................................................................................... 50

1.2 Economic framework conditions................................................................................... 50

1.3 Legal framework conditions .......................................................................................... 51

2. Indicators on research, development and innovation .............................................................. 51

2.1. Expenditure and principal political guidelines for research, development and innovation

................................................................................................................................................... 51

2.2. Publications ........................................................................................................................ 52

2.3. Patents................................................................................................................................ 54

2.4. Research infrastructure and human capital ....................................................................... 54

3. National R+D+I system .......................................................................................................... 55

3.1. National institutional system for research, technology and innovation in Chile ............... 56

3.1.1. The role of the Ministry of Economy ........................................................................... 59

3.1.1.1. The Innovation department of the Chilean Ministry of Economy ....................... 60

3.1.1.2. Innovation Fund for Competitiveness .................................................................. 60

3.1.2. Agencies ...................................................................................................................... 60

3.1.2.1. Economic Development Corporation - CORFO (www.corfo.cl) ........................... 61

3.1.2.1.1. Innova Chile ................................................................................................... 61

3.1.2.2.Millennium Scientific Initiative (ICM) .................................................................... 62

3.1.3. The Ministry of Agriculture and FIA ............................................................................ 63

3.1.4. The Ministry of Education and CONICYT ..................................................................... 64

3.1.4.1. Funding for the strengthening of the scientific and technological base. ............. 66

3.1.4.2. Funding for the development of advanced human capital .................................. 67

3.1.4.3. Cross-cutting Funding ........................................................................................... 68


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List of abbreviations ACT: Atacama Cosmology Telescope

BEIC: E-library about scientific information

BGI: Integrated Management Balance

BGR: Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources

GDP: Gross Domestic Product

BMBF: German Federal Ministry of Education and Research

CASEB: Centre for Oceanographic Research in the Eastern South Pacific

CCAT: Chajnantor Hill Atacama Telescope

CCHEN: Chilean Commission for nuclear energy

CEGA: Andean Geothermal Centre of Excellence

CEMC: Centre for Molecular Studies of the Cell

CENASTRO: Centre for Astrophysics

CERN: European Organization for Nuclear Research

CHIEP-II: Chile-European Platform II

CIAM: Inter-American Collaboration in Materials Research

CIREN: Natural Resources Research Institute

CMI: Center for Mediterranean Integration

CMM: Centre for Mathematical Modelling

CNE: National Commission for Energy

CNIC: National Innovation Council for Competitiveness

CODELCO: (National) Copper Corporation

CONAF: National Forest Cooperation

CONICYT: National Commission for Scientific and Technological Research


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CORFO: Chilean Economic Development Agency

CRG: Centre for Genomic Regulation

CRUCH: Board of Deans of the Chilean Universities

CYDET: Ibero-American Programme for Science, Technology and Development

DAAD: German Academic Exchange Service

DECYTI: Department for Energy, Science, Technology and Innovation

DFG: German Research Foundation

DIMA: Directorate for Environment

DIMULTI: directorate for Multilateral Policy

DIPESP: Directorate for Special Policy

DIPRES: Directorate for Budget

DIRAMENORTE: Directorate for the Caribean, North and Central America

DIRAMESUR: Directorate for South America

DIRAPAC: Directorate for Asia Pacific

DIREMOA: Directorate for Africa and Middle East

DIREUROPA: Directorate for Europe

ENAER: National Aeronautic Enterprise of Chile

EU: European Union

EULARINET: European Union - Latin American Research Innovation NETworks

FIA: Foundation for Agrarian Innovation

FIC: Innovation Fund for Competitiveness

FIP: Fisheries Research Fund

FONDAP: Fund for Research Centers in Priority Areas

FONDEF: Scientific and Technological Development Support Fund


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FONDECYT: National Fund for Scientific and Technological Development

FONIS: National Fund for Research and Development in Health

R&D: Research and Development

HUAM: Programme for Global Fish Farming

IB: International Bureau

ICM: Millennium Scientific Initiative

IDIES: Dialogue on Innovative Higher Education Strategies

IFOP: Chilean Fishing Institute

IGM: Geographic Military Institute

IME: Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology

INIA: Agriculture and Livestock research Institute

INAPI: National Institute for Industrial Property

INN: National Institute of Standardisation

ISAP: Agency for International Academic Cooperation and Exchange

INFOR: Forest National Institute

INACH: National Antarctic Institute

INH: National Hydraulic Institute

INE: National Statistics Institute

INDAP: Agricultural Development Institute

ISP: Institute of Public Health

Madeco: Copper Manufacturing

Mideplan: Ministry of Planning

MINHDA: Ministry of Finances

MINECON: Ministry of Economics, Development and Tourism


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MINEDUC: Ministry of Education

MINRE: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

MIPYMES: Micro, Medium and Small Enterprises

MINSAL: Ministry of Health

MOP: Ministry of Infrastructures

MTT: Ministry of Transport and Telecommunications

NCP: National Contact Point

ODEPA: Agrarian Policies and Studies Bureau

OECD: Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development

PBCT: Bicentennial Science and Technology Programme

SAF: Airborne Photometric Service of the Chilean Air Force

SAG: Agricultural and Livestock Service

SciELO Chile: Scientific electronic library online

SERNAGEOMIN: National Geology and Mining Service

SHOA: Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Navy

SNI: National Innovation System

SONAMI: Mining National Society

SSAF: Flexible allocation Seed Fund

TAO: Tokyo Atacama Observatory

TIC-EDU: Programme for Effective Information Technology in Education

UA: Universidad de Antofagasta

UCN: Universidad Católica del Norte

UDA: Universidad de Atacama

UNASUR: Union of South American Nations


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USACH: Universidad de Santiago

UTFSM: Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María

STC discussions: Bilateral discussions between Chile and Germany at national level concerning

cooperation in science and technology


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Introduction to the Map of Excellence

This document has been prepared within the context of the CEST+I project. As general objectives, CEST+I seeks to support the enhancement of science, technology and innovation cooperation between Chile, the European Union, member states and associated countries. The project enables the development of new partnerships and collaborative programmes by creating networks between Chilean and European researchers, as well as aiming at a large impact in the Chilean scientific community through training of stakeholders and researchers in areas such as IPR, patenting and funding opportunities.

In that line of ideas, one of the main objectives of CEST+I’s work package 3 is to create a map of competences on science and industry in Chile, which identifies research and innovation capacities located throughout the nation working on 6 key areas: biotechnology, energy, seismology, mining, astronomy and Antarctic science. As a result, the document here forth includes a brief description and contact information about research institutes, innovative business and entrepreneurship projects working throughout Chile.

The following Map of Excellence also provides valuable information about the Chilean system on Science, Technology and Innovation, its main indicators, plus an overview about the Chile-EU relations on STI.

In order to ease the access to this information, an on-line interactive map has also been displayed at CEST+I website (www.sti-cooperation.cl)

In such manner, this document contributes to a greater knowledge about the existing STI cooperation and its potentialities between Chile and the EU, as well as to the feasibility of fostering synergies between the R+I communities in Chilean and the EU. Furthermore, this report also contributes to define priorities for the appropriate bilateral cooperation schemes and potential new cooperation activities or instruments. Thus, the document will be an important input for the forthcoming bilateral Policy Dialogues discussions.


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1. Outline on the Relationships between Chile and the European Union in research,

development and innovation

The lengthy tradition of cooperation in research and technology between Chile and EU Member States dates back to the 1960s. Since that time, many distinguished Chilean scientists have been educated in Europe and have established important cooperation links with high-quality research institutes in a number of EU Member States. Bilateral cooperation has developed into multilateral cooperation through a variety of international cooperation programmes from the EU and the signing of various cooperation agreements between Chile and the EU since the 1990s.

In 2002, the partnership agreement between Chile and the EU launched a specific cooperation agreement in research and technology. The implementation and monitoring of this is managed at national level in Chile by the Comisión Nacional de Investigación Científica y Tecnológica (CONICYT). The creation of the ‘European Union Programme’ unit in the Department of International Relations (DRI) has further enhanced Chilean participation since October 2004.

This new platform is recognised by the EU as a National Contact Point (NCP) and has three main activities:

a) To define a strategy for cooperation which comprises the following:

Priority areas, which are consistent with national requirements in terms of economic and social development and which also have critical mass for outstanding research.

Identifying excellent research groups in the specified areas at a national level. Identifying appropriate European partners and the expansion of existing relationships. Determining criteria for prioritising joint initiatives. Developing research networks in conjunction with European partners according to the

defined criteria. Maintaining dialogue with the Commission’s principal department for research.

b) To strengthen and expand relationships by:

Funding the mobility of scientists and representatives of research institutes on both sides. Organising themed workshops that are in benefit to both sides. Integrating this cooperation with Member States into existing cooperation agreements.

c) To significantly increase the scope of the framework programme and its likelihood of success by:

Establishing a bilingual information portal in conjunction with existing portals in Latin America and Europe.

Arranging regular conferences, lectures, seminars and courses in research institutes across the country.


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Maintaining contact with the national community of research and technology, Forging contact with other relevant participants, such as the private sector, small and

medium-sized enterprises and other government institutions. Continuing to publish information tailored to individual interest groups.

This unit is now in charge of implementing the CEST+I project (Chile-European Union STI Initiative). The project’s specific objectives are to jointly tackle societal challenges, promote the creation of networks and joint research projects, as well as dissemination of the cooperation opportunities between Chile and the EU. Likewise, the project enables the development of new partnerships and collaborative programmes by creating networks between Chilean and European researchers. Along with CEST+I, this unit also participates in the ALCUE-Net project (Latin America, Caribbean and European Union Network on Research and Innovation). ALCUE-Net aims at supporting the international Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy Dialogue between Latin America, the Caribbean and the European Union. It does so by promoting bi-regional partnerships for joint societal challenges. ALCUE-Net directly supports the Joint Initiative for Research and Innovation (JIRI) through cross-cutting thematic actions in energy, biodiversity, ICT and bioeconomy, as well as specific activities enhancing the EU and LAC networks of National Contact Points. In addition, it works to reinforce the external dimension of the European Research Area (ERA) in order to enhance the cooperation of EU Member States and Associated Countries with third countries within the Framework Programme. European Union Programme within CONICYT. Programme Director: Gonzalo Arenas [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4421 International Relations Coordinator: MarIa Mesonero [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4423 National Contact Points: [email protected]

National Contact Points exist for certain areas, which have been incorporated into the following institutions:

Area Institution

Healthcare National Fund for Research and Development in Healthcare (FONIS), CONICYT

Food, agriculture, fisheries and biotechnology Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso

Information and communication technology (ICT), nanoscience, nanotechnology, materials and new production technologies

Universidad Tecnológica Metropolitana

Energy

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile

The environment (including climate change) Universidad de Concepción Transport (including air transport) Universidad Diego Portales Space (including astronomy) Programme for Astronomy, CONICYT

mailto:[email protected]


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Security CONICYT Small and medium-sized enterprises EuroChile Mobility CONICYT International cooperation CONICYT National coordination of the NCP CONICYT Law and finance CONICYT

2. Principal Chilean participants in the R+D+I system and its funding

2.1. Public research institutes

Chile is home to 27 organisations for science and technology. These organisations are either directly mandated to a Ministry or under the supervision of a Ministry. The following list is not intended to be thorough: Ministry of Defence

Military Research and Management Institute

Management of Research and Development in the Air Force

Military Geographical Institute

National Aeronautic Enterprise of Chile (ENAER)

Academy for Political and Strategic Studies

Ministry of Agriculture

Natural Resources Research Institute (CIREN)

Agrarian Policies and Studies Bureau (ODEPA)

National Research Institute for Agriculture (INIA)

Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG)

Foundation for Agrarian Innovation (FIA)

Agricultural Development Institute (INDAP)

National Forest Corporation (CONAF)

Forestry Institute (INFOR) Ministry of Mining

National Copper Corporation of Chile (CODELCO)

National Geology and Mining Service (SERNAGEOMIN) Ministry of Economy

Chilean Fishing Institute (IFOP)

Department for Industrial Property

Fisheries Research Fund (FIP)

National Statistics Institute (INE)

National Institute of Standardisation (INN)


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CORFO, the national business development agency, is also dependent on the Ministry of Economy. The INNOVA Chile programme, which is responsible for funding innovation in scientific projects, is also part of this agency (see Annex 1). Ministry of Foreign Affairs

National Antarctic Institute (INACH) Ministry of Health

Institute of Public Health (ISP)

2.2. Independent technological institutes mandated to the State

Fundación Chile (www.fundacionchile.com)

Fundación Chile is a non-profit corporation under private law supported by the Chilean government and two mining companies: BHP Billiton and Minera Escondida. Its principal task is the introduction of sophisticated innovations into the productive processes and the funding of advanced human capital in order to enhance the competitiveness of the Chilean economy. In performing its work, this Foundation relies on cooperation within key local and international networks.

It is also one of the most important centres of research in Chile. Its significant areas include: sustainable development; funding advanced human capital; biotechnology and food. This Foundation also maintains excellent relations with German institutions, such as the Fraunhofer Society and the Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources.

Fundación Chile operates by three concepts:

Direct funding for productive economic systems by supporting innovative firms and technologies that have a direct influence.

Funding innovation in productive processes.

Services for business.

Manager of Institutional Affairs: Leah Pollak [email protected] (56-2) 2240 0578

Director of Planning: Olaya Cambiaso [email protected] (56-2) 2240 0453

2.3. Private research facilities

Centre for Scientific Studies CECs (www.cecs.cl)


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Founded in Santiago and later moved to Valdivia, 800 km southward, the Centre for Scientific Studies is the most important of the private research facilities in Chile. CECs is a private non-profit corporation working on the development, funding and dissemination of scientific research. In its early days, the CECs was home to Chilean theoretical physicists and biologists who had built solid academic careers abroad. They succeeded in establishing the country’s first independent research institution. The centre’s early work was a three-year project which received US$150,000 annual support from the Tinker Foundation New York. Since its foundation, the institution has enjoyed cooperation with distinguished scientists, remarkable team spirit and a network of international partners. It has quickly evolved into something of a ‘nerve centre’ for science in Chile and Latin America as a whole. In addition, the institution has played a significant role in the public sector since 1990 through the development of new scientific programmes, such as the scientific Millennium Initiative, or the implementation of ideas to improve Chilean democracy. It successfully integrated the country’s military into scientific projects, which was a significant development after 17 years of military dictatorship under Augusto Pinochet.

The principal areas of research in CECs are:

Physics

Biology

Glaciology

It is interesting to note that the Centre works in close cooperation with the productive sector, which is reflected in the active collaboration of key national companies on the advisory board. Director: Claudio Bunster [email protected](56-63) 2234531 Assistant: Mónica Tiznado [email protected] (56-63) 2234 500

3. The university landscape in Chile

The following is an overview on the Chilean main universities doing R&I activities. For further

explanation about the Chilean Higher Education System please refer to the Annex 1.

Universidad Austral de Chile (www.uach.cl) International Relations Unit Director: Charlotte Lovengreen [email protected] (56-63) 221 590 Secretary: Pamela Herrera [email protected] (56-63) 293 709

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (www.puc.cl) Directorate for International Academic Relations Director: Fernando Alvarado [email protected] (56-2) 2354 2416 Universidad de Concepción (www.udec.cl)


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Directorate for institutional and international relations Director: Iván Araya [email protected] (56-41) 220 4594 Secretary: Yanet Medina [email protected] (56-41) 220 4594 Universidad de Talca (www.utalca.cl) Directorate for International Relations Director: Mauricio [email protected](56-71) 2201 584 Universidad Arturo Prat – Iquique (www.unap.cl) Directorate of Institutional Relations Director: Lidia [email protected](56-57) 2526298 Universidad de Chile (www.uchile.cl) Directorate of International Relations Director : Pia Lombardo [email protected] (56-2) 2978 2300 Secretary: Nelly Isamit [email protected](56-2) 2978 2251 International Relations Coordinator: Soledad Rodríguez [email protected] (56-2) 2978 2179 Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Valparaiso (www.ucv.cl) Directorate of International Relations Director: Marcos Aviles [email protected] [email protected] (56-32) 2273901 Universidad Adolfo Ibañez (www.uai.cl) Directorate of International Relations Director: Gerardo [email protected](56 2) 2331 1000 Universidad Alberto Hurtado (www.uahurtado.cl) Directorate of International Cooperation Director: Fernando Verdugo [email protected] (56-2) 2692 0200 Secretary: Marisol Oñat [email protected] (56-2) 26920212 Universidad Autonoma de Chile (www.uautonoma.cl) Unit for international coordination Coordinator: Alejandra Meneses [email protected] (56-2) 2594 4522 Universidad Bernardo O’Higgins (www.ubo.cl) Directorate of Research and International Relations Director: Alain Carrier [email protected] (56-2) 24774176 Universidad Bolivariana (www.ubolivariana.cl) Directorate for International Relations and Projects Director: Martín Gárate [email protected](56-2)2577 6574 Universidad Catolica de la Santisima Concepcion (www.ucsc.cl) Directorate for institutional relations

mailto:[email protected]


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Director: Gonzalo Bordagaray [email protected] (56-41) 2345 059 Universidad Catolica de Temuco (www.uctemuco.cl) Directorate for International Relations and outreach Vice-Provost: David [email protected] (56 – 45) 2553801 Universidad Catolica del Norte (www.ucn.cl) Vice-Provost of R&D: María Hernández [email protected](56-55) 2355031 Universidad Central (www.ucentral.cl) General Directorate for International Relations Director: Eliana Abad [email protected] (56-2) 2582 6153 Universidad de la Frontera (www.ufro.cl) Directorate of International Cooperation Director: Hugo [email protected] (56-45) 2325058 Secretary: Gaciela [email protected] (56-45) 2325059 Universidad de la Serena (www.userena.cl) International Relations Unit Coordinator: Dietmut Graeff [email protected] (56-51) 2204 448 Universidad de los Andes (www.uandes.cl) International Relations Unit Director: Rosario Díaz [email protected](56-2) 2618 1000 Universidad de los Lagos (www.ulagos.cl) Directorate for International Relations Director: Julio Crespo [email protected] (56-64) 2333590 Secretary: Cecilia Delgado [email protected](56-64) 2333501 Universidad de Magallanes (www.umag.cl) Directorate for International Relations Director: Octavio Lecaros [email protected](56-61) 2207174 Universidad de Santiago (www.usach.cl) Department of International Relations Director: Carol [email protected](56-2) 2718 0000 Universidad de Valparaiso (www.uv.cl) Directorate for International Relations Director: Alejandro Rodrí[email protected] (56-32) 260 3151 Universidad de Viña del Mar (www.uvm.cl) Vice-Provost of International Relations: Carlos Ramí[email protected] (56-32) 2462740


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Universidad del Pacifico (www.upacifico.cl) Directorate for International Relations Director: John [email protected](56-2) 2862 5247 Universidad Diego Portales (www.udp.cl) Directorate for International Relations Director: Gabriel Libedinsky [email protected] (56-2) 2676 8306 Universidad Finis Terrae (www.uft.cl) International Relations Unit Coordinator: Christiane Barnahazi [email protected] (56-2) 2420 7438 Universidad Gabriela Mistral (www.ugm.cl) Directorate for International Relations Director: Magdalena Merbilháa [email protected] (56-2) 24144545 Universidad Mayor (www.umayor.cl) Directorate for International Relations Director: René Lara [email protected] (56-2) 2328 1125 Universidad Metropolitana de Ciencias de la Educación (www.umce.cl) Directorate for International Relations and Cooperation Director: Lery Mejías [email protected] (56-2) 22412528 Universidad Técnica Federico Santa Maria (www.usm.cl) Directorate for International Relations Director: Karol Trautmann [email protected](56 - 32) 2654 000 Universidad Tecnológica Metropolitana (www.utem.cl) Directorate for International Affairs Director: Alejandro Velásquez [email protected](56-2) 2787 7655 Universidad del Bio Bio (www.ubiobio.cl) Directorate for Research, innovation and development Director: Christian Aguilera [email protected] (56-41) 311 1664 Universidad Andres Bello (www.unab.cl) Directorate for technology transfer Director: Victor [email protected] (56-2) 2661 5801 Universidad de Antofagasta (www.uantof.cl) Technology Transfer Unit Coordinator: Christian [email protected] (56-55) 2637 714


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4. The Technology Transfer landscape in Chile The following is an overview on the main Technology Transfer units and offices alike at universities in Chile. The task of encouraging researchers into innovation is mainly carried out by the university where the researchers work in. This point might be explained by the fact that most Research and Innovation developed by Chilean Institution is done at Universities rather than private firms.

It is worth mentioning though that the greater part of patents is assigned to companies. All in all, a considerable number of Chilean universities file for patents and 6 of them are among the top 10 resident patentees.

Although they might differ in structure and resources, all organizations hereby presented comprise the Technology Transfer and Licensing component into their operations.

Universidad Austral de Chile (www.uach.cl) Innovation Management Bureau Cooordinator: Mauricio [email protected] (56-63) 2293333

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (www.puc.cl) Industrial and Intellectual Property Unit Coordinator: Daphne Ioannidis [email protected] (56-2) 2354 2685 Universidad de Concepción (www.udec.cl) Intellectual Property Unit Coordinator: Ximena Sepulveda [email protected] [email protected] (56-41) 2204 302 Universidad de Chile (www.uchile.cl) Directorate for Innovation Director: Javier Ramí[email protected] (56-2) 29782410 Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Valparaiso (www.ucv.cl) Directorate of Innovation and Enterpreneurship Director: Etienne [email protected](56-32) 227 3325 Universidad Adolfo Ibañez (www.uai.cl) Innovation Square Project coordinator: Valeria Steffens [email protected] (56-2) 2331 1453 Universidad Catolica del Norte (www.ucn.cl) Vice-Provost of R&D: María Herná[email protected](56-55) 2355031 Universidad de la Frontera (www.ufro.cl) Directorate for innovation and technology transfer Director: Rodrigo Navia [email protected] (56- 45) 2734109


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Universidad de los Andes (www.uandes.cl) Innovation and Development Office Director: Matías Vial [email protected] (56-2) 26181370 Universidad de los Lagos (www.ulagos.cl) Directorate for Innovation and Technology Transfer Director: Amanda Ló[email protected] (56-64) 2333502 Universidad de Santiago (www.usach.cl) Technology Management Unit Director: Luis Magne [email protected] (56-2) 27180059 Universidad de Valparaiso (www.uv.cl) Technology and Licensing Unit Director: Jaime Urra [email protected] (56-32) 260 31 84 Universidad Mayor (www.umayor.cl) GestaMayor Incubator and technology transfer Director: Verónica [email protected](56-2) 2328 1192 Universidad Técnica Federico Santa Maria (www.usm.cl) Technology transfer Unit Coordinator: Tomas Santibañez tomas.santibañ[email protected] (56-32) 2652 701 Universidad del Bio Bio (www.ubiobio.cl) Directorate for Research, innovation and development Director: Christian Aguilera [email protected] (56-41) 3111664 Universidad Andres Bello (www.unab.cl) Directorate for technology transfer Director: Victor [email protected] (56-2) 2661 5801 Universidad de Antofagasta (www.uantof.cl) Technology Transfer Unit Coordinator: Christian [email protected] (56-55) 2637 714

5. General strategic guidelines for R+I in Chile (main fields of research) Public stakeholders in Chile have recognised the importance of both basic and applied research. The government agrees that there should be no ‘competition’ between these two areas. On the contrary, the two areas should complement one another. Nevertheless, the government supports the view that strategically-orientated research should be developed with greater intensity, that is to say, those research areas that are directly related to the nation’s economic and social priorities, both at national and regional level.


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The National Innovation Council for Competitiveness has made significant progress in recent years so as to define national priorities for strategically-orientated research in cooperation with representatives from the academia, the productive sector, the regions and civil society. A number of thematic priorities have been thus defined for general economic development (e.g. energy, water, the environment and IT), taking into account the development of those economic sectors currently displaying the greatest potential for growth. Other sectors have also been identified according to issues currently concerning civil society (e.g. healthcare, safety and education). The following describes general aspects of development in the key areas of R+I activities in Chile.

5.1. Biotechnology

In 2009 there were around 200 institutions in Chile actively working on biotechnology (biotechnology companies, research facilities) and an annual growth of 30% is expected. Reinforcing that fact, Biotechnology has received investments for over US$93 million over the last four years from national funds, and around US$170 million from abroad. Surveys made by CORFO have shown that firms operating in biotechnology are primarily concerned with the agricultural industry (41%) and medicine (27%). The remaining 32% operates in fisheries, the food sector and industrial biotechnology. A key area of biotechnological development in Chile is bio-mining, whereby specific bacteria are used in the extraction of metals, such as copper, in order to exploit layers that have a lower metal content, taking into account the different protection parameters of the environment. Some estimates predict that as much as 9% of the copper production in Chile will take place using this method. Principal participants in this field include BioSigma and BHP Billiton, who have jointly invested around US$20 million in biotechnology over recent years in Chile. Another area displaying high rates of growth is biofuels, in which the government has so far invested around US$30 million.1

5.1.1. Research institutions

Centre for Biotechnology – Universidad de Chile

The Centre for Biotechnology aims to develop interactive management mechanisms between Universidad de Chile and the industrial sector, intending to create resources through the integration of several productive sectors.

1Source: http://latingene.wordpress.com.


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Director:Víctor Cifuentes [email protected] (56-2) 2978 7346

Centre of Excellence for Biochemicals and Biotechnology CIBYB(www.cibyb.uchile.cl/spanish/index.htm)

CIBYB operates in the field of fundamental research with the aim of developing a powerful national biotechnology industry (to include domestic production of insulin, vaccines against AIDS, hepatitis and cholera). It also deals with innovations such as the cloning or fusing of enzymes and recombined proteins in animal and plant cells, as well as bacteria.

Director: Juan Asenjo [email protected] (56-2) 2978 4288 , 2978 4723 Deputy Director: Barbara Andrews [email protected] (56-2) 2978 4710 Technological Centre for Wine and Grapevines (ctvv.utalca.cl/link.cgi) A centre that focuses on the following areas of research:

Genetic resources for grapevines and wine

The eco-physiology of grapevines

Achieving sustainable production

Food security (pesticide residues in wine)

Director: Yerko Moreno [email protected] (56-71) 2201 556

Manager: Patricia Rodríguez [email protected] (56-71) 2201556

Research and Transfer Centre for Irrigation and Agroclimatology (www.citrautalca.cl/new) Its areas of research are:

Bio-mathematical modelling

Precision agriculture

Irrigation programming

Evaluating the standardisation of irrigation systems and installations

Climate change Director: Samuel Ortega [email protected] (56-71) 2200 426 Secretary: Gloria Tapia [email protected] (56-71) 2200 426 Alamo Technological Centre (ctalamo.utalca.cl) This is a technological timber laboratory that works on CTA clone banks and CTA quarantine enclosure. Its areas of research are:

Industry for the production of durable products (furniture, building industry, joinery, etc.) Industry for engineering products (strengthened products such as sterling board, LVL, PSL I

joist panels, laminated wood, etc.)


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Industry for solid biofuels (chips, pellets and briquettes for cogeneration (electricity + heat), trigeneration (electricity + heat + cold), and heating in residential properties)

Environmental improvement: (phytoremidiation and phytostabilisation of tailings and sanitary fillings)

Director: Francisco Zamudio [email protected] (56-71) 2200 379 Coordinator: Samuel Ortega [email protected] (56-71) 2200 426 Centre Pomacea (pomaceas.utalca.cl/html/index.html) This center works as a laboratory for fruit physiology; laboratory for post-harvest (postcosecha); and laboratory for eco-physiology. Director: José Yuri [email protected] (56-71) 2200 366 Assistant: Carolina Guerrero [email protected] (56-71) 2200 366 Technological Soil and Cultivation Centre (www.ctsyc.cl) This center serves as soil laboratory and cultivation laboratory. Manager: Juan Castro [email protected](56-71) 2200 424, 2201 650 Assistant: Evelyn Trujillo [email protected] (56-71) 2200 424 Institute for Plant Biology and Biotechnology (biologia.utalca.cl) This institutes focuses on plant biology and biotechnology development. Director for Biotechnology: Simon Ruiz [email protected] (56-71) 2200 268 Director for Plant biology: Claudio Ramirez [email protected] (56-71) 2200 289 Secretary: Cecilia Sepúlveda [email protected] (56-71) 2200 277 Centre for Biotechnology UdeC (www.centrobiotecnologia.cl) This center researches on water, biofuels, physical chemistry, forestry and environmental microbiology. Its objectives are:

To develop high-quality research in biotechnology

To contribute towards the education of specialised human capital in the application of biotechnological tools

Transfer of technology into the productive sector

To establish networks through interaction with national and international research groups

To promote and participate in the development and use of biotechnology as an instrument for economic and social development in the country

Director: Jaime Rodrí[email protected] (56-41) 2203 850 Deputy Director: Juanita Freer [email protected] (56-41) 2203 850 Centre for Advanced Polymer Research CIPA (www.cipachile.cl)


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The research areas of CIPA are: functional polymers, thermoplast materials, adhesive agents and recycling, management and linkage. Its objective is to support the development and competitiveness of the regional polymer sector through the creation and transfer of scientific and technological knowledge. Director: Claudio Toro [email protected] (56-41) 316 8686

Secretary: Fabiola Lefiñanco [email protected] (56-41) 316 8686 Centre for Fertilisation CIA (www.uach.cl/centro/inseminacionartificial) CIA provides services such as technical advice and professional training, promotion of national genetics in Chile and abroad, marketing, scientific teaching and research. Its objectives are:

Improving livestock genetics in Chile and countries that use the products and services of the CIA.

Preserving the genetic national heritage by maintaining and updating the sperm and embryo database with high genetic quality.

Training and technical support for animal reproduction.

Teaching, research and marketing. Director: Jorge Oltra [email protected] (56-63) 293 250 Regional Centre for Analysing Resources and the Environment – CERAM

CERAM researches on the fields related to Water and its sustainability Director: Miriam Seguel [email protected] (56-65) 2277 160 Secretary: Ibis Fernández [email protected] (56-65) 2264 596 Forestry Research Centre CEFOR - UACH The main goal of CEFOR is to research on forestry development. Director: Felipe Leiva [email protected] (56-63) 2216 186

Trapanada Centre in Coyhaique (patagonia.uach.cl/investigacion/centro-trapananda) This centre works for the development of applied research into the use and extraction of natural resources, primarily in southern Chile. Director: Eduardo Aedo [email protected] (56-67) 2526 954 Secretary: Siria Sabath [email protected] (56-67) 2526 955

Research Centre for Food, Food Technology and Sustainability CIEN (www.cienaustral.cl) CIEN is a technological research center for the development of the water and fishing industry.

Director: Mauricio Lorca [email protected] (56-65) 2257 085


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Research Coordinator: Rommy Zúñiga [email protected] (56-65) 2487 446

Rehabilitation Centre for Wildlife CEREFA (www.veterinaria.uach.cl/cerefas/index.htm) CEREFA mainly focuses on the Rehabilitation of wildlife/fauna. Director: Angelo Espinoza [email protected] (56-63) 2293 570

National Centre for Education and Training in Animal Management CENEREMA (www.uach.cl/centro/cenerema) This centre is in charge of the development and implementation of projects about livestock breeding and agriculture.

Director: Jorge Oltra [email protected] (56-63) 2293 250 Secretary: Silvia Silva [email protected] (56-63) 2293 284

Centre for Natural Sciences and International Sustainability - UACH This is the result of an agreement between the UACh and Virginia Tech on joint education, research and development, public service in animal medicine, agroforestry and biology. Director: Germán Reinhardt [email protected] (56-63) 2293 845 Assistant: Loreto Quintana [email protected] (56-63) 2293 845

Centre for Environmental Studies - UACH This centre does research on environmental issues with a transdisciplinary focus (scientific and social).

Director: Andrea Pino [email protected] (56-63) 2221915 Researcher: Teodoro Kausel [email protected] (56-63) 2221915

Research Centre for Agricultural Land CEPA - UACH CEPA focuses on the research and teaching about agricultural land.

Coordinator: Carlos Villagra [email protected] (56-63) 229 3031 Coordinator: Juan Colin [email protected] (56-63) 222 1661

Centre for Agroindustrial Technological Development CDTA (www.cdta.cl) This Centre has probing units that undertake several projects related to measurement processes, fruit and vegetables, dairy products, and meat products so as to develop new food products. Director: Rudi Radrigán [email protected]@udec.cl (56-9) 7 147 34 73 Secretary: Loreto Sepúlveda [email protected] (56-42) 2208 797

Centre for Environmental Research EULA (www.eula.cl)


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EULA has a long-lasting experience on the research of water systems, environmental engineering and spatial planning.

Director: Ricardo Barra [email protected] (56-41) 220 40 02 Secretary: Lorena Valencia [email protected] (56-41) 220 40 02 San Ignacio del Huinay Foundation (www.fundacionhuinay.cl) This Foundation was created with the purpose of facilitating ongoing scientific research as well as seeking to preserve the biogeographical heritage of Huinay by means scientific research and sustainable development techniques. Today this is the only scientific field station in all the vast Chilean Patagonia pioneering research in a variety of fronts, such as the biological and physical potential of the marine, terrestrial, and atmospheric systems at the Chilean fjord region. Scientific Director: [email protected] (56-65) 2972 147 Assistant: Carolina [email protected] (56-65) 2972 142

AguaMarina BioMineria (www.aguamarina.cl)

Aguamarina is a company that offers biotechnology services and products, in constant search towards developing improved and innovating processes. It is supported by a team of highly knowledgeable experts. They have obtained funding support through programs ofCorfo-Innovaand Fondef-CONICYT. Aguamarina has developed innovative services and products for large scale mining designed to streamline processes, reduce costs and ensure environmental conservation. It also provides services such as evaluation, monitoring and research in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. It also provides services in Biocorrosion and Biomining.

CEO: Pamela Chávez [email protected] (56-55) 2892 851 Secretary: Elizabeth Mundy [email protected] (56-55) 2892 851

Biofiltro (www.biofiltro.cl)

Biofiltro is a global company that has developed and patented an innovative, environmentally friendly and sustainable technology for domestic and industrial wastewater treatment at low cost. Through a unique process known worldwide as BIDA® System, they are capable of obtaining water suitable for irrigation and other uses without using chemical products and saving up to 80% of the energy used by conventional solutions, free of polluting waste. On the contrary, from this process two very valuable by-products are produced for agricultural and feeding industries, such as organic fertilizers and important sources of protein and amino acids.

General Manager: Matías Sjogren [email protected] (56-2) 2897 3100 Operations: Alex Villagra [email protected] (56-2) 2897 3101

BIOGRAM (www.biogram.cl)


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This company provides biotechnology services and products related to microbiology and process engineering such as bio fertilizers and bio controllers. Other than their own source for funding, BioGram has been granted for excellence projects by FONDEF-CONICYT and INNOVA CHILE.

General Manager: Jaime Quiroz [email protected] (56-2) 2434 5144 Tech Director: Marta Granger [email protected](56-2)24345145 BIOSIGMA (www.biosigma.cl)

This company has a technological support and a vast experience in copper mining. Its modern laboratory focuses on border areas of biotechnology, biochemical engineering, biomass production, molecular microbiology, biohydrometarllurgy and the characterization of minerals. Biosigma’s developments are protected by 17 invention patent applications, being one of them granted in Chile, Japan, South Africa, and China.

General Manager: Ricardo Badilla [email protected] (56-2) 2437 9030 Secretary: Soledad Cortez [email protected] (56-2) 2437 9030

Biotecnor (www.biotecnor.cl)

This is a spin-off by the Northern Catholic University which provides services in biotechnology for

mining companies mainly. It has leased with the Humboldt Foundation, the European Union, BBVA

Foundation, the International Agency for Atomic Energy, BHP Billiton and CONICYT.

Director: Cecilia Demergasso [email protected] (56-55) 235 5496

BioTecnos (www.biotecnos.cl)

This firm is specialized in innovation on engineering and environment. It provides pioneer services on biotechnology and bio-remedy for hydrocarbon-polluted soils since 1999.

Manager: Humberto Díaz [email protected] (56-32) 2481851 Head of the biotechnology lab: Carlos Calderon [email protected] (56-32) 2481 851

Cell for Cell (www.C4C.cl)

This is the first Chilean company that works on research and innovation related to cellular novel therapies based on adult stem cells.

Director of Research: [email protected] (56 -2) 2618 1370 Communications: Carola Amenábar [email protected] (56 -2) 2618 1370

Biomedical Research Consortium BMRC (www.bmrc.cl)


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BMRC develops new technologies aiming to generate novel products and services that tackle human health problems through the implementation of both basic and applied research projects.

Head Researcher on public health: Jorge Jimenez [email protected] (56 2) 2354 1958 Researcher: Gareth [email protected] (56 2) 2354 1958

Covarrubias & Silva IP (www.cs.cl)

CS Intellectual Property protects in Chile and abroad the creativity and the entrepreneurship of researchers for their successful commercial development. The team is cast by lawyers, biologists, chemists, engineers, designers and paralegals that have a deep knowledge in IP regulation.

Manager: Arturo Covarrubias [email protected] (56-2) 28872300 Communications: Jeannette Lasserre [email protected] (56-2) 2887 2300 Nativ for Life (www.nativforlife.cl)

This firm aims to produce and commercialize healthful products made with foods and medicinal plants that are organic and kosher certified by national and international quality norms. It also works on the development of the social economic promotion and of conservation of the biodiversity that contributes to different participants in pertinent productive chains to improve their quality life.

General Manager: Claudia Guiloff [email protected] (56-9) 9 885 80 36 Research Manager: Isabel Lecaros [email protected] (56-9) 9 540 32 53

NEOS (www.neos.cl)

As a technology and innovation consultant, NEOS is able to offer a multiplicity of services in order to completely fulfill all requirements of the projects related to research, patenting, in any kind of knowledge.

Director: Allan [email protected] (56-2)2953 8162 Patent Coordinator: Fernanda Cordero [email protected] (56-2) 2953 8162

ONCOBIOMED (www.oncobiomed.cl)

Oncobiomed is a Chilean biotechnology company oriented towards commercializing, licensing and transferring the technology developed by a group of scientists that research in the area of cancer therapy based on immunological approaches.

Research Director: Flavio Salazar [email protected] (56-2) 2348 2149 General Assistant: Eugenio Rivas [email protected] (56-2) 2236 4716


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OPESSA (www.opessa.cl)

In northern Chile, this is the leading enterprise for marketing, logistics and maintenance of sanitary systems by the implementation of integrated R&D projects.

General Manager: Jorge [email protected] (56-55) 2470061 Management: Marino Cavour [email protected] (56-9) 92004849

VIDACEL (www.vidacel.cl)

This firm does research that points to deal with arterial illnesses by analyzing stem cells taken from the umbilical cord. It uptakes the regenerative advantages of the stem cells that are concentrated in the newborn’s Wharton’s Jelly. Currently deemed as a biological waste, this material is the base for the development of a product that helps to alleviate the consequences of damaging illnesses.

Representative: Yolanda Revesz [email protected] (56-9) 88278799 Assistant: Claudia Cabello [email protected] (56-2) 2 945 5410

Fraunhofer Chile (www.fraunhofer.cl)

Its research is focused on addressing the needs of local and regional industries. It aims to provide research solutions to problems of certain customers. Working in multidisciplinary teams, they lease with local scientists and industrial innovators to produce research results, processes or products needed by local firms. At present, these are addressed to customers in agriculture, aquaculture, food production, bio-computing with particular emphasis on bioinformatics and in the future in forestry, the energy sector, the mining industries and the health care market.

General Manager: Wolfgang Schuch [email protected] (56-2)23781650 Project Manager: Juanita Castañ[email protected] (56-2)23781650

5.2. Renewable energies

Energy supplies in Chile are generated almost entirely by thermal and hydroelectric power plants. Following the energy crisis in 2007, the construction of natural gas-based power plants began and combined both heat and power generation. As for 2010, the capacity in Chile was 13.14 GW, being renewable energies 4% of that. Average consumption is 3.4 KWh per person. 60% of the energy that is currently consumed by the country’s most important power network, Sistema Interconectado Central (SIC), is generated in thermal power stations. SIC takes 75% of the installed energy-generation capacity, and it supplies electricity to 93% of the population. A large proportion of power plants in Chile are coal-fired, which gives Chile one of the highest air-pollution values in the world. There are just two atomic reactors in Chile, which have research purposes only and are used by the National Nuclear Energy Commission and the main universities in Chile.


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5.2.1. The potential of unconventional renewable energy in Chile

In 2008, a survey conducted by Universidad de Chile and Universidad Federico Santa María about the possibilities of energy generation in Chile by unconventional energy sources and its resulting reduction in CO2 emissions, highlighted that the gross potential, or physical availability, of unconventional energy sources in Chile, taking account of different sources, is estimated at 130,000 to 190,000 MW. These figures are 10 to 15 times greater than current energy generation in Chile, which would mean that the country’s energy requirements could be met for several decades. In the first scenario, a reduction in CO2 emissions of 16 million tonnes would be achieved, in the second scenario; it would be a reduction of 22 million tonnes. In addition, there would be considerable cost and impacting benefits for healthcare and the environment. Furthermore, Chile would be in a position to become an energy exporter, and become a cleaner country overall2.

The Centre for Renewable Energies was established in 2010 to promote related projects and to simplify access to renewable energies. The Centre aims at safeguarding and maximising the proportion of renewable energy in Chile’s energy grid, in order to expand its use. In recent years, the government has turned its focus into developing specific programmes for individual types of unconventional renewable energies.

Solar energy

In 2008, a report was published concerning solar measurements in Chile. It informed about solar irradiation throughout the country. The 250-page analysis was funded by the United Nations through the relevant development programme (UNDP) and conducted in Chile by Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María.3

Tax exemptions have been available for the installation of solar panels on domestic properties since August 2010. This exemption enables construction companies to deduct 100% of the investment from their tax payment when installing solar panels on domestic properties, up to an amount of 2,000 UF4.

Geothermal energy

In September 2010, a new bill was brought before Congress pointing to adjust and improve the Act N°19.657 on geothermal concessions. 32 exploratory concessions for geothermal energy were granted by the Ministry of Energy in the same year. The number of existing concessions in 2011 was 54, being 59.2% of these granted in 2010. The majority of the exploratory concessions were requested by mining companies. 2Source: PRIEN, Universidad de Chile y CIE Universidad Técnica Federico Santa María, “Aporte potencial de energías renovables no convencionales (ERNC) y eficiencia energética a la matriz eléctrica 2008-2025”, Santiago de Chile 2008, p. 84. 3The document can be downloaded here: http://energiarenova.blogspot.com/2009/12/irradiancia-solar-en-

territorios-de-la.html 4UF = Unidad de Fomento = Accounting unit used in Chilean economics, the value of which is recalculated daily. One UF is currently equivalent to €36.50 (june 2013)


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Hydro power

A total of 15 preliminary studies into mini irrigation power plants in southern Chile were performed in 2010. The studies aim to provide water-related authorities with valuable information and understanding of the main elements linking the efficiency and technical feasibility of hydro power projects. One of these studies, ‘Generación hidroeléctrica en pequeñas centrales asociadas a obras de riego’, was able to determine that the theoretical potential for energy generation in small power plants is up to 20 MW. The total potential identified is around 400 MW.

Bioenergy

A number of consortia have been established for the production of biofuels based on algae. There are also initiatives in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture which seek to develop bioenergy based on forest biomass.

5.2.2. Research institutions

Centre for Energy Innovation - CIE (www.cie.usm.cl)

The CIE is a centre for technological innovation whose principal purpose is to encourage human capital into a strong specialisation in energy and the ability to create and manage knowledge in order to safeguard and protect national energy requirements. It thus makes a contribution towards sustainable and economic development. The Centre funds the R+D+I of existing technologies and processes, whilst also creating the new technologies and processes that are required to develop solutions consistent with the actual conditions in the country. By so doing, the availability of natural and economic resources is taken into account. In addition, USM aims to establish itself as a reference for energy-related topics, initially through the implementation of applied and economically-sustainable projects at the University itself. These include heating swimming pool and showers with solar energy, developing efficient lighting and improving the use of rooms and laboratories.

Priority areas

Generation, storage and bio-climatic architecture Wind energy Photovoltaics Active and passive solar energy Hydro power and solar thermal energy Biofuels (biogas, methanol, biodiesel, biomass) Tidal power plants (waves, tidal energy) Geothermal energy

Energy efficiency Verifying energy consumption, savings programmes, training Energy-efficient construction (design, new materials, etc.)


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Combustion technologies, alternative fuels Energy management

Information technologies (expert systems, databases and intelligent algorithms)

Director: Jaime Espinoza [email protected] (56-32) 2652 729

Unit for Technological Development UDT (www.udt.cl)

Since its foundation in 1996, the Unit for Technological Development at Universidad de Concepción has excelled in creating a close relationship between processes and industry levels. This makes the UDT a unique centre for research in Chile, managing projects driven to breakthrough technologies. Since 2008, the UDT has been one of 13 centres of scientific and technological excellence to be granted by CONICYT, which enables it to cultivate relevant knowledge in five specific areas: biomaterials, bioenergy, chemical products, the environment and technology management. Fields of work and services:

Applied research

Development of products and processes

Formulation, performance and transfer of results from R&D projects

Laboratory analysis

Scaling demonstrative processes and production Director: Alex Berg [email protected] (56-41) 266 1811 Secretary: Karen Iturrieta [email protected] (56-41) 266 1812

Solar Energy Research Center- SERC

This is a joint initiative of 6 universities and one research foundation in order to uptake the unique natural conditions of northern Chile in terms of solar light. It focuses on the solar energy potential for the mining industry, high power electric systems, energy coordination systems for rural and urban communities, solar energy storage, and the socio-economic component of the solar energy development.

Director: Rodrigo Palma [email protected] (56-2) 2978 4201

Andean Geothermal Centre of Excellence CEGA (www.cega.ing.uchile.cl)

In 2009, an agreement was signed between the state of North-Rhine Westphalia, the International Geothermal Centre in Bochum (GZB) and Chilean partners, paving the way for a geothermal centre in Chile according to the Bochum model. This led to the founding of the Andean Geothermal Centre of Excellence (CEGA) in Santiago, a centre for the study of geothermal energy.

The CEGA is a joint initiative of the five most important universities in Chile and aims to become a driving force in the exploration and use of geothermal energy in the Andes. The five universities (Universidad de Chile, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Universidad Católica del Norte,


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Universidad de Atacama and Universidad de Concepción) pursue a common goal: to pool and expand the knowledge about the use of geothermal energy in Chile and the Andean region, in order to accelerate the use of geothermal energy as a renewable source. To support the implementation of this plan, the CEGA received funds for €5.5 million after successfully applying to the third FONDAP call for proposals by CONICYT. The funds will enable CEGA to finance its work over the next five years. Funding may be extended for five years ahead if the centre’s activities prove to be successful.

As part of the efforts to internationalise the activities of the GZB, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the GZB and CEGA. This is to define concrete steps setting out how cooperation will work in practice, one aspect of which will be the opening of a branch of the GZB in Santiago5.

Director: Diego Morata [email protected] (56-2) 2978 4539 Deputy Director: Miguel Parada [email protected] (56-2) 2978 4538 Asisstant: Bernardette Vásquez [email protected] (56 2) 2978 0645 Centre for the energy development of Antofagasta (www.uantof.cl/cdea) It aims to bolster innovation, applied research and development by means of creating strong networks with mining industries in the region of Antofagasta. Its products are technology innovations, patents, intellectual properties and products alike. Director: Edward [email protected] (56-55) 263 7329 Secretary: Romina Herrera [email protected] (56-55) 263 7526 Centre for Global Change (cambioglobal.uc.cl) This research centre tackles all areas related to the massive transformation that have a direct impact into the planet functioning. This includes a multidisciplinary approach to water, air, soil, biodiversity, communities, and ecosystem issues. Director: Francisco Meza [email protected] (56-2) 2354 4000 Secretary: [email protected] (56-2) 2354 4137

Energy Centre (www.centroenergia.cl) Its main areas of interest are distribution and generation, smart grids, gathering systems, electric vehicles, and decision-making tools. Researcher: Rodrigo Palma [email protected] (56-2) 2978 4201 Secretary: Paola Silva [email protected] (56-2) 29784203

5 Source: www.Erdwärme-Zeitung.de


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Domeyko Research Programme on Energy (www.uchile.cl/domeykoEnergia) This programme studies the issues related to the energy production, distribution and use (biogas, wind, bioethanol, biomass, and non conventional renewable energies). It also links public and private stakeholders either in Chile or abroad.

Researcher: María Lienqueo [email protected] (56 2) 2978 4709 Researcher: Rene Carmona [email protected] (56-2) 2978 5909 Centre for energy innovation CIEN (www.uai.cl) CIEN’s mission is to bolster novel solutions in regard to the energy challenges that Chile faces, all bearing in mind the technology progress, policies, business feasibility and its environmental impact. Director: Carlos Silva [email protected] (56-2) 2331 1456 Researcher: Marcelo Villena [email protected] (56-2) 2331 1000 Research Centre on Energy resources CERE (www.cere-umag.cl) CERE offers novel solutions related to the energy planning and the use of natural resources for productive purposes, all in harmony with the Patagonia environment.

Director: Humberto Vidal [email protected] (56 – 61) 2207182 Research Centre on Architecture and Energy (www.escueladearquitecturaucn.cl/ciae) CIAE conducts research and outreach about energy efficiency, thermal comfort, acoustics and building lighting. Director: José Guerra [email protected] (56-55) 2355 391 Assistant: Emilia Palma [email protected] (56-55) 2355 391 Thermonuclear Plasma Unit CCHEN (www.cchen.cl) This unit seeks to develop basic research in plasma physics so as to bolster the generation of applications related to this area. Head: Leopoldo Soto [email protected] (56-2) 2364 6105 Mario Molina Centre (www.cmmolina.cl) This centre bolsters cleaner energies and the low-emission technologies by the development of novel initiatives that pave the way towards its implementation. Director: Pedro [email protected] (56-2) 2247 9650


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Coordinator: YeaniceVá[email protected] (56-2) 2247 9650 Programme of Studies and Research on Energy - PRIEN (www.prien.cl) PRIEN’s goal is to set the basis for the instrumentation of feasible actions for the energy development in the following areas (i.a.): energy planning, legal framework, energy efficiency, and rural energy. Director: Alfredo Muñoz [email protected] (56-2)2978 2387 Deputy Director: Pedro Maldonado [email protected] (56-2)2978 2386 Laboratory for Solar assessment - LES (www.labsolar.utfsm.cl) Other than developing an extensive activity of teaching at various levels, LES has developed a significant research activity in solar energy for more than 40 years. It also presents a section of meteorological data, including global solar radiation, UV radiation and beam radiation. Head Researcher: Andrés [email protected] (56-32) 2654362 Head of evaluation: Roberto [email protected] (56-32) 2654172 Renewable Energies Programme – PER (www.per-udec.cl) This initiative gathers fully qualified researchers in the following areas: combustion-gasification, biofuels, biomass, environment, solar energy, wind energy, and hydroelectricity. Contact Researcher: Claudio Roa [email protected] (56-41) 2203510 Assistant: [email protected] (56-42) 2208 818

5.2.3. CORFO instruments for funding the development of unconventional sources of

renewable energy

As part of its funding for economic development, CORFO supports the use of unconventional sources of energy by means of two specific instruments:

Concentrated Solar Power Program: support for project that bring together all the factors needed for the implementation of a CSP plant, and that is viable and eligible for financing by commercial banking criteria. This grants up to 20 million US dollars to support the materialization of a CSP plant. Additionally, the Government of Chile has enlisted the collaboration of several different funding sources – including a grant from the European Community of up to 15 million Euros – for the CSP project.

Novel Renewable Energies Programme: funding for the innovative activities that generate technological solutions aiming to meet the energy needs of a partner entity by means of renewable energies. Maximum funding: €800.000 (est.)


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5.2.4. CONICYT and renewable energies

Over the past four years, CONICYT has granted eight research projects on renewable energies, having a strong support for projects with clearly defined possible uses and applications for the new energy sources and thus a strong link to applied research in this area.

5.2.5. Ministry of Energy and CER

Depending on the ministry of Energy, the Centre for Renewable Energies - CER (cer.gob.cl/en)is a public agency that has four principal lines of action:

The promotion and advancement of energy projects

To provide valuable information

Formation of capabilities

To promote participation in order to foster cooperation

These four lines of action are conducted primarily through the Regional Program, an intersectional coordination initiative, which supports the development of medium and small-scale renewable energy projects through the technical support of CER in line with relevant stakeholders throughout the country.

Regarding the promotion and advancement of large projects, CER identifies national level NCRE projects in their final stages that face challenges related to financing, the commercialization of energy, the process of obtaining permits from government agencies, and in some cases, opposition from local stakeholders. In so doing, this unit creates a plan of action that incorporates a support and assistance strategy that reduces or eliminates barriers to implement these initiatives. Director: María De La Cruz [email protected] (56-2) 2496 9600 Head of Communications Unit: Carolina [email protected] (56-2) 2496 9600

5.3. Seismology and technology in earthquake-resistant construction

Chile experiences more seismic activity than any other country in the world, with three times as many earthquakes as Japan. In 1960, Chile recorded the largest earthquake to occur in the 20th century. In spite of this, the destruction of industrial buildings and residential properties, paralysis of economic and social activity and loss of life throughout the country’s seismic history is lower than the ones presented in more developed countries such as the USA, Russia, and New Zealand. Increased seismic activity is a consequence of Chile’s geographical location at the convergence of two tectonic plates: the Nazca and South-American plate. The natural phenomenon is caused by a disturbance to the movement of the Nazca plate under the South-American plate, which usually moves at a speed of 68 mm/year. The last earthquake occurred in 2010 and registered an intensity of 8.2 on the Richter scale. 46.5% of the seismic energy generated on the planet in the 20th century has been released in Chile, making the country the perfect natural laboratory for the exploration and development of technologies aiming to


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reduce the effects of these natural events. Universities and research centres have also invested heavily in the development of warning measures and technologies to ensure that buildings and structures are better able to endure earthquakes. Research in the field of engineering is primarily concentrated in two areas: seismic isolation and energy dispersion. In particular, Seismic isolation enables low-rise buildings to ‘separate’ from the ground during an earthquake so as to prevent them from being affected by the energy that is released. Chile can boast great advances in this area, and new laws stipulate that such technologies must be employed in the construction of new hospitals throughout the country. Scientific research into seismology is primarily the focus of Universidad de Chile, while progress in the development of earthquake-resistant technologies can be seen at Pontificia Universidad Católica. Important relationships with the Helmholtz Institute Potsdam help to support the development of joint research projects in these areas. Main contact at PUC: Hernán Santa Maria [email protected] (56-2) 2354 4076 Main contact at Universidad de Chile: Sergio Barrientos [email protected] [email protected] (56-2) 2978 4562 Likewise, over the past two years CONICYT has granted seven research projects related to seismology and earthquake-resistant construction.

5.3.1. Research Institutions

Applied Geology Institute - GEA (www.institutogea.cl) This institute has geology projects of applied research aiming to solve some problems related to the industry, mining and energy areas. Director: Sonia [email protected] (56-41) 220 4867 Deputy Director: Marcos Pincheira [email protected] (56-41) 220 4857 National Research Center for Integrated Natural Disasters Management - CIGIDEN (www.cigiden.cl) As a FONDAP-funded research, this center aims to develop and transfer the R&D knowledge needed to alleviate the impact of natural disasters in Chile. It takes an interdisciplinary approach pointing to tackle the natural disasters’ jeopardy by means of a strong collaboration with public bodies in charge of Chilean communities and infrastructure. Director: Luis Cifuentes [email protected] (56-2) 2354 4836 Deputy Director: Rodrigo Cienfuegos [email protected] (56-2)2354 4227,2354 4219


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Millennium Nucleus on seism-tectonics and seismic hazard (www.peligrosismico.cl) This is a multidisciplinary research team that manages a grid of seismological stations by GPS along central Chile. This aims to determine the tectonic charge of the tectonic fissures and thus elaborate a seism-tectonic map of the region. Head: Jaime Campos [email protected] (56-2) 29784307, 26966563 Researcher: Sergio Sepulveda [email protected] (56-2) 2678 4102 Research Centre for vulnerability and socio-natural disasters - CIVDES (civdes.uchile.cl) Driven by an interdisciplinary approach, CIVDES researches on the jeopardy and vulnerability factors (social, economic and cultural) observed in communities that have undergone socio-natural disasters both in rural and urban contexts, such as landslides, volcano eruption and earthquakes. Head: Hugo Romero [email protected](56-2) 29787827 Researcher: Sonia Pérez [email protected] (56-2) 2978 7827 Seismic Protection Technologies - SIRVE (www.sirve.cl) This is a firm that provides novel technology solutions on engineering and seismic protection for buildings, hospitals, mines, industries, and infrastructures as a whole. It aims to transfer the knowledge from the university to the industry by means of innovative projects that tackle problems of structural engineering. President: Juan De La [email protected] (56-2) 2433 7100 Manager: Ignacio Vial [email protected] (56-2) 2433 7100

5.4. Mining

Chile is one of the leading countries concerning mining activities in Latin America and the world. Most activity takes place in the northern and central regions of the country, between the regions of Arica Parinacota and O’Higgins. This zone is home to ‘metallurgic bands’, along which the majority of mining companies are currently concentrated and where most mining takes place. Since 1990, copper production in Chile has increased three-fold up to its current annual level of 4.6 million tonnes. Up until 2002, Chile’s contribution to worldwide copper production increased from 16% to 30%. Likewise, Chile’s contribution to the global production of other metals such as nitrate, lithium and molybdenum is also high. Thus, Chile remains in a privileged position within Latin America, as shown by the following table6:

6Source: USGS, cited in Compendio de la Minería Chile 2011, p. 42.


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Position in Latin

America, 2010 Global position,

2010

Copper 1 1 (34%) Molybdenum 1 3 (15.3%) Silver 3 6 (6.0%) Gold 6 18 (1.5%) Nitrate 1 1 (100%) Boron 2 3 (18.6%) Lithium 1 1 (35%) Iodine 1 1 (62%)

Despite cyclical fluctuation, mining remains the most important productive activity in Chile. Nevertheless, mining accounts for only 2.9% of employment in the country. A higher percentage is seen in regions that have a stronger mining activity, such as Antofagasta or Atacama. In this case, employment provided by mining reaches 20% of the total figure. Indirect employment as the result of mining is even higher in mining towns such as Iquique, Calama, Antofagasta and Copiapó. These towns can attribute a large proportion of their income to mining activity. The mining industry’s contribution to Chilean gross domestic product (GDP) in 2010 was 19.2% thanks to metal high prices. The mining industry represents one of the Chilean principal export sectors, increasing from 40% in 2001 to 60% in 2010. Its total exports (FOB) were worth US$45,054 million; accounting copper for almost 90% of the mining exports. Exports of the red metal generated US$39,217 million in 2010 (FOB), outperforming the previous year by 43% thanks to the metal’s record-high prices on international markets. For 2011, the Sociedad Nacional de Minería (SONAMI) foresaw a growth surplus of 6%, with a copper production of 5.9 million tonnes and exports for US$53,000 million. As a whole, the State copper company, CODELCO, intends to invest US$20 billion. Private firms, on the other hand, will also do so for US$60 billion.

5.4.1. Mining Innovation in Chile

Ministry of Mining (www.minmineria.cl)

The Ministry of Mining is the principal public institution in connection with this industry. The following institutions are dependent on the Ministry of Mining: • National Copper Corporation (CODELCO) • Chilean Copper Commission (COCHILCO) • National Geology and Mining Service (SERNAGEOMIN) • Chilean National Mining Corporation (ENAMI) • National Petroleum Company (ENAP) Contact: Ruth [email protected] (56-2) 473 3000


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Chilean Copper Commission - COCHILCO (www.cochilco.cl) Founded in 1979, COCHILCO advises the government on matters relating to copper production and its by-products, plus all other metallic and non-metallic substances excluding carbon and hydrocarbons. In addition, COCHILCO checks and evaluates the administration and investments of State mining companies. It also advises the Ministries of Finance and Mining about the development and progress of several proposals.

The Institution is regarded as a reliable source of information by both national and foreign mining industries, which is capable of predicting the major problems that the sector is likely to face and suggesting proposals to solve them. It also devises relevant strategies and actions.

Furthermore, the Institution boasts an integrated character, providing space for debate between the public and private sector which is intended to carry out initiatives to strengthen the development of the national mining industry. Head of the communications department: Paula Maldonado [email protected] (56-2) 2382 8209 Chilean Copper Corporation - CODELCO (www.codelco.cl)

CODELCO is the world’s major copper producer and accounts for 20% of its global activity.

This corporation is an autonomous company belonging to the Chilean State, whose principal tasks include the exploration, development, mining, processing and marketing of copper and its by-products.

Comunications Manager: Pablo Orozco [email protected] (56-2) 2250 6131 , 2690 3000

Chilean National Mining Corporation - ENAMI (www.enami.cl) The Chilean National Mining Corporation is the Chilean State mining company that aims to support the development of small and medium-sized enterprises by providing services such as the recognition of mining resources, technical and financial assistance, the acquisition, processing and marketing of the production of mining SMEs.

Thousands of mining producers across the country have taken advantage of this support, enabling the access of an important production sector to the refined metals market under optimum competitive conditions.


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ENAMI has been committed to this goal for over 52 years. Thanks to ENAMI’s support, more than 2000 producers are now able to operate and this is opening up 20,000 direct job opportunities and contributing significantly to the development of the local and national economies.

Head of Environment unit: Alejandro [email protected] (56-2) 2435 5447 Head of Quality unit: Jorge Escalona [email protected] (56-2) 2435 5386 Head of Corporate Social Responsibility: Claudia [email protected] (56-2) 2435 5295

Geology and Mining National Service – SERNAGEOMIN (www.sernageomin.cl)

SERNAGEOMIN advises the Ministry of Mining and supports the development of mining and geological projects. It also supports the State via inspections and training in safety, as well as technical support and publishing in the fields of geology and mining. Head of the Communications Department: Jennifer Greig [email protected] (56-2) 2482 5500

Mining Council (www.consejominero.cl) The Mining Council was established in 1998 as a body to gather the major copper, gold, molybdenum and silver companies operating in Chile, regardless of their source for capital (national or international). Its strategic objectives are: •To promote competitive and sustainable development of the Chilean mining industry in order to support the country’s welfare. •To disseminate the reality of the mining industry, its challenges and its contribution to development in Chile. •To support the development of modern integral policy programmes that offer stability for the mining industry and its environment. •To facilitate the overcoming of challenges in the industry related to human capital, sustainability, energy and water. General Manager: Carlos Urenda [email protected] [email protected] (56-2) 2347 2200 National Society of Mining – SONAMI (www.sonami.cl)

In order to provide representation before the Chilean State, SONAMI comprises small and medium-sized enterprises as well as larger companies that are active in the mining industry.

In practice, SONAMI acts as an association of SMEs in the mining industry.

Director: Felipe Celedó[email protected] (56-2) 2282 0700 Director for Environment unit: Carlos Gajardo [email protected] (56-2) 2282 0700


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Mining at Universidad de Atacama (www.uda.cl) Universidad de Atacama started a project funded by Innova Chile Corfo to recover pyrite from the tailings of copper production. In addition to Innova-Chile, the project also received funding from the University, ENAMI, Minera Candelaria, Pucobre and Atacama Kozan. The project is a point of interest for several reasons. Chile has long imported pyrite from Brazil, the USA, Peru and Spain, plus tailings left over of pyrite represents a threat to ground water as it decays over time, enabling it to enter into the water system. Tailings contain between 3% and 7% pyrite, which can be marketed both nationally and internationally. UDA maintains close relations with Freiberg University of Mining and Technology, particularly through its Department of Geology via Dr Wolfgang Griem. Researcher: Luis Valderrama [email protected] (56-52) 2206 684 Researcher: Wolfgang [email protected] (56-52) 2206 684 Mining at Universidad de Santiago de Chile (www.usach.cl) Significant work has been undertaken at Universidad de Santiago de Chile in recent years in order to improve and optimise processes in mining, which are considered a national necessity due to the country’s particular social and economic dependence on this productive sector. The results of these R+D+I projects, which have received public funding, are used both in Chile and abroad. The University has so far received 14 patents related to mining, all of which have been adopted by related companies. Contact Person: Luis Magne [email protected] (56-2) 2718 3222 Mining at Fundación Chile (www.fundacionchile.com)

Fundación Chile is a non-profit private corporation supported by the Chilean government and two mining companies: BHP Billiton and Minera Escondida. Its principal task is the introduction of sophisticated innovations into the productive processes and the funding of advanced human capital in order to enhance the competitiveness of the Chilean economy. By performing its work, the Foundation relies on the cooperation with key local and international networks. Further information about this institution, please see above. Centre for Scientific and Technological Research in Mining – CICITEM (www.cicitem.cl) CICITEM was officially established in 2008 by Universidad Católica del Norte (UCN), Universidad de Antofagasta (UA), the Regional Government of Antofagasta and CONICYT. It began working two years earlier though, in 2006.


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The Centre’s objective is to support the implementation of a regional mining cluster by establishing a scientific and technological research centre for mining. At the same time, the Centre is intensifying the regional development in Antofagasta region by fostering scientific and technological R&D related to mining. Process Coordinator: Teófilo Graber [email protected] (56-55) 222 0647 Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation CSIRO (www.csiro.au) The Australian institution CSIRO and Chile have been conducting a joint work in the field of mining for over 15 years. Their work set the ground leading to the establishment of the CSIRO International Centre of Excellence for Mining and Mineral Processing in Chile. The cooperation has focused on the following areas along the years:

• Processing of low-quality ores • Underground engineering • Dry areas • Water restriction • Increased energy costs

The aim of the cooperation is to improve the productivity and life cycle of the mining sector in Australia and Chile by developing state-of-the-art technologies and improving current services and equipment. CSIRO has succeeded in bringing benefits to both countries in terms of:

• Creating new bilateral business opportunities for the services industry in Australia and Chile. • Seeking opportunities to improve safety in mining. • Minimising the impact of mining on the environment. • Creating employment opportunities for those having complex skills and opportunities for postgraduate training. Director CSIRO Chile: Neal Wai Poi [email protected] (56-9) 9251 7388 Communication Manager: Liz [email protected] , [email protected] (56-9) 9251 7388

Research Centre for Operations in the Mining Industry – CIOMIN The CIOMIN is an initiative of the Department of Mining Sciences at Universidad de Chile. It aims to foster knowledge in operability so as to enhance the competitiveness of the national mining industry.

CIOMIN unites the mining industry, services industry and science with the purpose of developing knowledge and technologies that can be applied in the conceptualisation and execution of mining projects. Director: Rafael Epstein [email protected] (56-2) 2978 4046


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Secretary: Maritza Arancibia [email protected] (56-2) 2978 4046

Advanced Mining Technology Centre – AMTC (www.amtc.cl)

The Centro Avanzado de Tecnologíapara la Minería was launched in March 2009 after being granted a Basal Fund by CONICYT. This research centre is part of the Universidad de Chile and its mission is to generate world-class multidisciplinary research, to transfer new technologies and to educate advanced human capital, all related to the challenges that Chilean mining faces in order to contribute to Chilean and world development. To that effect, AMCT is supported by CODELCO and BHP Billiton and has over 140 researchers.

Director: Javier Ruiz [email protected] (56-2) 2978 4207 Executive Coordinator: María Ramírez [email protected] (56-2) 2977 1004

5.4. Astronomy as a cross-discipline

Northern Chile has more than 300 dry, clear nights a year, making the Atacama Desert the preferred location for scientists when it comes about developing the most ambitious astronomical projects in the southern hemisphere. These natural characteristics have led to the world’s principal observatories to invest millions of USD in the region over the last decade, plus the arrival of staff and technicians hoping to discover the origins of the cosmos.

In mid-2010, the ESO (European Southern Observatory) decided to construct the European Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT) in the region, which will be the largest telescope in the world when it enters into operation by 2018. The foundations for the Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA) a joint initiative of Europe, Japan and the USA were laid seven years earlier.

Chile actively supports these developments with a generation of scientists who have been trained at home and have had the opportunity to consolidate their knowledge abroad. They go on to educate new generations of students and conduct research projects using the state-of-the-art technologies that have been installed in northern Chile. They also benefit from being able to utilise 10% of the observation time.

In the academic field, five universities currently offer study programmes in astronomy (U. de Chile, PUC, U. de Concepción, U. Andrés Bello and U. de Valparaíso). Four of these universities also offer postgraduate studies in astronomy (U. de Chile, PUC, U. de Concepción and U. de Valparaíso). The local boom in astronomy has also contributed to create a new type of tourism in Chile: ‘astronomy tourism’. This entails that the tourists are given the opportunity to visit observatories and carry out observations under the supervision of astronomers.

Equally worthy to mention is the contribution made by the Chilean State. Financial and logistical backing came along with a rise in the popularity of ‘astronomy tourism’ in Chile and abroad. Likewise it played an active role in commemorating the International Year of Astronomy 2009.


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Centre of Excellence for Astrophysics (www.cenastro.cl)

The Centre of Excellence for Astrophysics enjoys cooperation by Universidad de Chile, Pontificia Universidad Católica and Universidad de Concepción. It receives funding through the FONDAP programme. The Centre’s objective is to pave the way for new problems to be tackled with a new generation of instruments, particularly the ALMA (Atacama Large Millimeter Array), and to train students in astrophysics at several national universities (doctorate programme).

More specifically, the Centre focuses on elements of astrophysics such as the birth and evolution of the structures of the universe, quasars and active galactic nuclei, extra-galactic distance scales, the formation of stars and studies of brown dwarfs and planetary systems.

Director: Maria Ruiz [email protected] (56-2) 2977 1115 Communications: David [email protected] (56-2) 2977 1112

Astro Engineering Centre (www.aiuc.puc.cl)

The Centre for Astro-Engineering at PUC was founded in 2009 to reinforce innovation and research in astronomy and to act as an interface between engineering and astronomy. In doing so, the Centre aims to foster new technological innovations that help the development of additional knowledge about the universe.

Researcher: Nelson Padilla [email protected] (56-2) 2354 2000 Researcher: Miguel Torres [email protected] (56-2) 2354 2000

Atacama Large Millimetre Array ALMA (www.almaobservatory.org)

The brand new ALMA observatory is composed of 66 high-precision antennas working together at millimetre and sub millimetre wavelengths. Thanks to its high resolution and sensitivity, ALMA will open an entirely new "window" into the Universe, allowing scientists to unravel longstanding and important astronomical mysteries, in search of our Cosmic Origins.

Researcher: Juan Cortes [email protected] (56-2) 2467 6100 Researcher: Antonio Hales [email protected] (56-2) 2467 6416

Astronomy Institute (www.iaucn.cl)

This group researches on Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN), Star Formation, Extra-solar Planets, Galactic Dynamics, and Globular Clusters.

Director: Rolf Chini [email protected] (56–55)2651626 Researcher: Gazinur Galazutdinov [email protected] (56–55) 2355490


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Astronomy Unit UAntof (www.astro.uantof.cl) The Unidad de Astronomía of the Universidad de Antofagasta was founded in 2012, with two main goals: to produce original research and to establish strong links with both public and private organizations so as to give a clear answer to the expectations that people in this region have about astronomy. These range from views on public education to several touristic ventures in which the dialogue with local experts can only influence for the better the final outcome of those projects. Director: Eduardo Unda-Sanzana [email protected] (56-55) 2637599 Secretary: Carol Pinilla, [email protected] (56-55) 2637390 Group of Astronomy GAULS (www.dfuls.cl/astrofisica) This team of astronomers seeks to develop frontier research, to teach astronomy and to disseminate its results with the society. Their research areas range from stellar physics to galaxy cluster especially focused on the observational field. Coordinator: AlexandreRomá[email protected] (56-51) 2204128 Researcher: Rodolfo Barbá [email protected] (56-51) 2204547 AstroUdeC (www.astroudec.cl)

The Astronomy Group based at the University of Concepción was founded in 1994. Thus began the best-in-class astronomical research of this institution - the third and most important Chilean university outside Santiago. AstroUdeC is a source of intense scientific research. Its teachers, postdoctoral researcher and PhD students are involved in a series of scientific projects, covering a wide variety of areas of modern Astrophysics and Astronomy such as Formation and evolution of galaxies; local galaxies and at high redshift; Clusters of galaxies; Active galaxies; Dynamics of elliptical galaxies; and Extragalactic distance scale.

Director: Wolfgang Gieren [email protected] (56-41) 2203103

Researcher: Douglas [email protected] (56-41) 2204240

Centre of Astrophysics Valparaiso – CAV (www.cav.uv.cl) This Centre is performing research projects in several key areas of astrophysics ranging from planet formation to theoretical cosmology. The research programs include astronomical observations using the arsenal of excellent telescopes located in Chile as well as extensive computer modeling of astrophysical phenomena.

Director: Michel Curé [email protected] (56-32)250 5519

Secretary: María Figueroa [email protected] (56-32) 2508426


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5.5.2. CONICYT and astronomy

The endeavours done by CONICYT in the field of astronomy has increased considerably in recent years, focusing on three specific programmes: the ALMA-CONICYT Fund, the Quimal Fund and the GEMINI-CONICYT Fund. The astronomy programme is set out to deal with these funds, in order to ensure the funding for the development of this discipline and related sciences in Chile. Funding is granted through annual calls for proposals which provide then the resources for research and human capital projects, as well as the instrumentation, teaching and dissemination of astronomy.

To provide support to this science branch, the ALMA-CONICYT and GEMINI-CONICYT funds hold the major astronomical instruments: ALMA, a radio-astronomical project installed in Chajnantor plateau in the region of Antofagasta, and GEMINI, the observatory located in the northern region of Coquimbo.

5.6. Antarctic research

In 2011, Chile invested more than US$2 million in research projects in Antarctica, thus contributing to make 2011 a record year for the number of Antarctic research projects conducted. These included 52 ongoing scientific initiatives reaching a total funding of CLP$ 674 million granted by a range of public schemes. Besides, CLP$ 600 million more were granted for logistical support in line with the expeditions to the Antarctic, all financed by the Chilean Antarctic Institute (INACH).

Although the available funds were lower than the preceding year, the record number of projects clearly reflects the level of local interest for this field of research. Scientists are also able to apply for funds from CORFO’s Innova-Chile programme.


Fundación Biociencia (www.bioscience.cl) It is one of the leading institutions in Research and Development, related to microorganisms from extreme environments. Biociencia interacts globally with industrial and academic research centres that require specialized knowledge on Extremophiles. In this field of life sciences and biotechnology, Biociencia carries out activities from the basic, applied and industrial point of view. In Latin America, Fundación Biosciencia is a pioneering Extremophiles Research and Development. As an example, Jenny Blamey, Scientific Director of Fundación Biociencia, was able to obtain US$1 million, for the largest project regarding Chilean science on the white continent. This project aims to create a platform that facilitates access to Antarctic resources in order to support the development of Chilean biotechnology in the region. The existing research points to significant discoveries that have an industrial potential, based on microorganisms and living creatures that are unique on the planet. The research run by Jenny Blamey led to the discovery of 300 microorganisms, 70% of which were unknown up to date. A proportion of these organisms are resistant to UV radiation thanks to


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biomolecules that help to isolate harmful substances, enabling the microorganism to survive. This discovery could well support the development of sunscreen for humans. Even more significant is the discovery of microorganisms capable of resisting the gamma radiation released during nuclear disasters. Furthermore, research at Fundación Biociencia is looking at whether an enzyme decomposed at

high temperatures by lipids could bring benefits for applications in the pharmaceutical, textile and

food industries.

President: Olivier Rickmers [email protected] (56-2) 2343 2578 Scientific Director: Jenny Blamey [email protected] (56-2) 2343 2578

National Antarctic Institute - INACH (www.inach.cl)

The INACH aims to strengthen Chilean research activity in the Antarctic through cooperation between local scientists or institutions and the Antarctic programmes being conducted by other countries. In the last four years, the following cooperation agreements have been signed by INACH: - The Czech Republic - The Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI, Germany) - The Climate Change Institute (CCI, USA) - The German Aerospace Centre (DLR, Germany) - KORDI (South Korea) - British Antarctic Survey (BAS, United Kingdom) - Academy of Sciences (Malaysia) The discovery of a common origin for Antarctic and Patagonian flora by Marcelo Leppe, scientific Director at INACH, has also paved the way for a project in the field of special-interest tourism, which is currently in its pilot phase in the area around Torres del Paine. However, the projections for these sciences are likely to face certain limitations. Better infrastructure is certainly required in the Antarctic, and by working together with the military, scientists hope to be able to install new laboratories at their bases.

Head of the Scientific Department: Marcelo [email protected] (56-61) 2229810 Head of communications: Elí[email protected] (56-61) 2229810 Centre for Ecosystem Research in Patagonia - CIEP (www.ciep.cl) This centre focuses in the following R&D areas: Water ecosystems, Land ecosystems, Traditional fishing, Sustainable tourism, and Aquaculture. Persons of contact: Giovanni [email protected] (56-67) 2247 817 Humberto González [email protected] (56-63) 2221 559


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Oscar Parra [email protected] (56-41) 2203 301 Centre for Oceanographic Research in the Eastern South Pacific - COPAS (www.copas.cl)

COPAS was established in 2002 as a response to the necessity to strengthen and consolidate expertise in high-quality research in oceanography in Chile. With a lengthy coastline, Chile is a leading figure when it comes about oceanography. The Centre funds national and international cooperation and is a leader in the exploration of this large, remote and relatively unknown, but climatically important, part of the world. In addition, COPAS informs and interacts with the public and those responsible for policy programmes, as well as providing education on the ocean’s resources and topics related to the effects of climate change on the ecosystems of the Eastern South Pacific.

COPAS is thus a centre of excellence committed to scientific research into the circulation, ecology, bio-geochemical cycles and paleo-oceanography of the Eastern South Pacific. Its work focuses on the understanding of current and past changes in climate and analysing their effects on the ecosystems and productivity of the region. Research is both multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary as it comprises a variety of space and time scales. Research is based on direct observation, retrospective analyses, experimental work and modelling by six research programmes.

The Centre trains young scientists through a range of activities such as postgraduate programmes in oceanography, international summer academies and postdoctoral programmes at Universidad de Concepción and Universidad Austral de Chile (participating universities).

Since its beginning COPAS has published over 341 ISI-indexed articles.

Director: Carina Lange [email protected] (56-41) 2207 252 Outreach Coordinator: Luis Pinto [email protected] (56-41) 2207 212 UdeC Antarctic Programme - PRANUDEC (www2.udec.cl/~pranudec/index.htm) This programme researches on the troposphere-stratosphere relations in regard of the Antarctic interaction with middle latitudes. By so doing PRANUDEC takes four approaches: geology, meteorology, oceanography, and paleobotany. Director: Alberto Foppiano [email protected] (56-41) 220 4136 Researcher: Aldo [email protected] (56-41) 2204136 Antarctic and Sub-Antarctic Programmes - DPA (www.umag.cl/investigacion/dpa) DPA’s purpose is to make a contribution to the development, promotion, and implementation of extension lines for scientific and technological research of the University of Magallanes. These are related to various natural systems of Antarctica. Dean: Carlos Cardenas [email protected] (56-61) 2207 187


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Secretary: Patricia [email protected] (56-61) 2207180


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ANNEX 1

1. Framework conditions for research, development and innovation in

Chile Various political and economic groups in Chile are confident that Chile will be able to achieve the status of ‘developed country’ by 2018. (For some years now, international bodies and national governments have classed Chile as an ‘emerging nation’ rather than a ‘developing country’). To achieve this goal, Chile must evolve from a country that relies (almost entirely) on the export of natural resources, to one that understands the importance of giving added value to these natural resources. This will only be possible by targeting the development of research, science and innovation. Recent governments have gone to great lengths so as to devise and implement coherent plans in pursuit of this, and this has resulted in frequent debates about the notions of ‘short-term thinking’ and ‘strategic planning’. This has become evident by the emphasis put on applied research on the one hand and on the promotion of fundamental research at universities and other research institutes on the other. These measures must be accompanied and supported by relevant research, development and innovation (R+D+I) plans and programmes in order to bridge the division between R&D and the productive fields

5.5. Political framework conditions

Chile is a unitary State and its central government is located in the capital, Santiago, in the central and landlocked Región Metropolitana. The rest of the territory is divided into 14 administrative regions, all of which have access to the Pacific Ocean.

1.2 Economic framework conditions

The Chilean economy continues to show strong economic growth rates driven by well-built domestic demand and high copper prices. GDP is expected to grow by 5.1% in 2013, which is in line with an annual increase of more than 6% since 2010.

The most significant short-term challenge facing macroeconomic policy is the need to prevent the economy from overheating. With signs of an increasing inflationary pressure, it seemed appropriate to maintain a neutral position in 2013 with regard to monetary policy, so as to keep inflationary expectations under control. By introducing cuts in expenditure, the government has attempted to counter the strong appreciation of the local currency, which has been driven by unusually high copper prices. At the same time, it has been modestly pursuing a reduction in the structural budget deficit to 1% of GDP by 2014, taking into consideration the need for


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reconstruction expenditure. By floating the currency and achieving a more ambitious financial target, it is expected that internal demand will be subdued and inflationary pressure be avoided.

Key Chilean economic indicators7

2010 2011 2012

GDP (millions of US$) 218,311 251,148 268,412 Inhabitants (millions) 17.1 17.3 17.4

GDP per capita PPP (US$) 16,147 17,310 18,419 Exports (millions of US$ – f.o.b.) 76,090 80,022 80,791 Imports (millions of US$ – f.o.b.) 78,299 89,651 94,027

1.3 Legal framework conditions

Chile has a series of laws, regulations and other legal instruments that define the general framework within which R+D+I activities can take place, as well as how these activities are funded. The National Science, Technology and Innovation System is regulated by a series of norms related to research and innovation such as norms on scientific intellectual property, industrial property, on funds for financing scientific and technological research and tax incentives for scientific and technological research, among others. These instruments ensure that these activities are efficiently regulated and provide the basis for the participation of national institutes from the public, private and academic sectors in international research initiatives. In particular, the law n° 20,241 regulates tax incentives for private investment in research and development. This regulation aims at increasing private investment in research and development as well as strengthening the ties amongst universities or research centres and companies. It allows enterprises to obtain a tax credit equivalent to 35 per cent of the total payments of research and development contracts signed with Research Centres registered in the Research Centres List and certified by CORFO. This law will be in force until December 31, 2017.

2. Indicators on research, development and innovation

2.1. Expenditure and principal political guidelines for research, development and

innovation

Research and development began to gain significance in Chilean policy-making during the 1990s.

7Source: Banco Central de Chile, May 2013


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President Ricardo Lagos’ administration (in office 2000–2006) increased funding for research and technological development by the introduction of various programmes. Investment in research doubled between 2001 and 2004, and the Chilean government invested around €634.9 million in R&D in 2004. R&D accounted for 0.53% of GDP in 2000, rising to approx. 0.67% in 2006. Information from CONICYT states that this figure needs to be corrected according to the methodology adopted by the OECD for calculating the proportion of R&D in the gross domestic product. According to this, R&D accounted for only 0.4% of GDP in 2006, rather than 0.67%. In 2005, Ricardo Lagos announced new legislation introducing a special tax, known as ‘Royalty Minero’, in order to collect an additional 5% on the taxable income of mining companies. It was decided that a portion of these additional receipts would be used to aid the modernisation, strengthening and adaptation of the national innovation system and its regional sub-systems. As a result, the Innovation Fund for Competitiveness (FIC) was implemented. It aligns the various public innovation programmes. Since then, the FIC has secured a substantial proportion of all resources allocated to the National System for Innovation (SNI) by the State. President Michelle Bachelet (in office 2006–2010) continued the policies of Ricardo Lagos, aiming to significantly improve standards in the following areas by 2010:

Innovation and entrepreneurship

Infrastructure

Public sector management

Education

Social welfare and standards of living

Sustainable development and the environment During the administration of President Sebastian Piñera (2010-2014) the accent on R&D has followed a significant line of continuity. A salient focus has been set though on innovation as a result of the Agenda de Innovación initiative that gathers several public services in order to bolster a supporting culture for novel endeavours. As a matter of fact, the year 2013 has been named as the “Año de la Innovación - Imagina Chile”, an initiative that coordinates a call for proposals all along Chile which will grant a CLP$6.000.000.- prize for the three best novel ideas submitted.

2.2. Publications

Chile has undergone a remarkable scientific development over the last 20 years; an achievement reflected in the intensified international relationships of Chilean scientists, the increase in doctorate programmes and the diversification of research topics. Today’s landscape is the result of political programmes that have been established to promote scientific development in certain areas. Various indices allow the level of success to be measured, two of which can be mentioned at this point: the productivity and the growth of scientific production.


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The global impact of scientific production (ISI) in countries with more than 25,000 publications

(1981–2004).

Country Citations Publications Impact Country Citations Publications Impact USA 103,702,768 5,324,806 19.48 Argentina 445,454 62,295 7.15 Switzerland 4,610,522 241,119 19.12 Greece 504,373 71,407 7.06 Sweden 4,702,118 274,852 17.11 Mexico 434,415 64,433 6.74 Denmark 2,286,664 137,905 16.58 Serbia and Montenegro 192,118 29,046 6.61 The Netherlands 5,475,887 337,668 16.22 Poland 1,052,975 164,670 6.39 United Kingdom

1 41,760,635 2,646,818 15.78 Brazil 849,548 135,712 6.26

Canada 10,391,707 689,780 15.07 Czechoslovakia2 326,443 54,197 6.02

Finland 1,694,650 121,627 13.93 Taiwan 732,894 126,925 5.77 Belgium 2,333,041 171,895 13.57 Singapore 236,955 42,579 5.57 Israel 2,362,438 177,701 13.29 Czech Republic

3 242,895 44,750 5.43

Australia 4,896,203 376,566 13.00 South Korea 15,121 140,383 5.09 Norway 1,147,104 88,485 12.96 Bulgaria 159,379 33,088 4.82 France 10,941,864 855,597 12.79 China

4 1,618,653 50,036 4.62

Germany 14,909,029 1,175,275 12.69 Saudi Arabia 112,533 25,712 4.38 Italy 5,933,372 509,312 11.65 India 1,545,450 356,671 4.33 Austria 1,323,732 113,799 11.63 Romania 113,032 28,417 3.98 New Zealand 879,157 76,812 11.45 Egypt 175,490 45,038 3.90 Japan 13,463,653 1,225,057 10.99 Turkey 267,481 70,639 3.79 Ireland 443,870 42,017 10.56 Russia

5 1,090,198 302,726 3.60

Spain 2,837,374 315,673 8.99 Soviet Union6 1,261,765 366,214 3.45

Chile 265,626 31,466 8.44 Ukraine 166,169 64,273 2.59 South Africa 622,693 77,318 8.05 Other countries 14,582,324 2,987,868 4.88 Portugal 292,918 38,218 7.66 Total 252,466,935 18,111,722 13.94

Source: ISI, National Science Indicators, 1981–2004 Remarks:

1. Includes: England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland

2. Data to 1993

3. Data from 1994

4. Includes Hong Kong

5. Data to 1989

6. Data to 1993

This table shows that 31,466 scientific articles were authored in Chile between 1981 and 2004, and were subsequently published in ISI journals. These articles were cited more than 265,000 times, which is an indicator of their scientific quality. The impact factor for Chile is 8.44, which is the highest in Latin America and slightly behind Spain. In 2003, Chile published 18.8 scientific articles per 100,000 inhabitants, while Argentina, Brazil and Mexico published 15.2, 9.1 and 6.4 articles


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per 100,000 inhabitants respectively. The figures were obtained in the year 2005. No update to these figures has been made available hitherto8.

2.3. Patents

The registration of patents by scientific institutes and universities in Chile remains relatively low. However, it should be noted that the majority of patents that are registered have their origins in research projects at university that are members of the Consejo de Rectores de las Universidades Chilenas (CRUCH) – Chilean Universities Rector’s Board. Patents are generally related to developments in mining, agriculture, chemistry and biochemistry, pharmaceuticals and mechanical engineering (mechanics, electrical engineering).

Selection of universities and their national and international patent registrations

University National patent

requests

International patent

requests

National patents

International patents

Total

Universidad de

Concepción 73 45 34 4 38

Universidad Austral de

Chile 10 4 4

Universidad de Talca

1 1

Universidad de Chile

52 118 17 13 30

2.4. Research infrastructure and human capital

R+D+I infrastructure in Chile is primarily part of the university infrastructure: research institutes and laboratory facilities, etc. In addition to these, there are a number of research facilities that are not necessarily affiliated to a university, but which often make use of their laboratories and other facilities in order to accomplish their research projects. The development of human capital, namely advanced human capital, is concentrated at universities that are members of the CRUCH. State funding for research infrastructure and human-capital development lead the actions of CONICYT. As a matter of fact, from 2006 until 2012, over 4650 scholarships have been granted by CONICYT in order to pursue PhD and master degrees.

8Source: www.umag.cl


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3. National R+D+I system The National Science, Technology and Innovation System in Chile is made up by public and private entities such as government agencies, companies, universities, technological institutes and research centres which aim at developing research, technology, human capital training and innovation, as well as creating policies to support this. As part of this system, the government creates public policies, develops research at the national level and supports research and innovation performed in companies, research centres and universities through different funding schemes and financial incentives. State participation is essential for the coordination of the different actors of the System and the development of networks. The State sets priorities and objectives in this area and defines the National Innovation Strategy to drive the System. Although industry does not conduct a significant amount of research, it funds an important percentage of the research performed by universities and private institutions. Enterprises are the key area where innovation is produced and used. Therefore, a higher participation of the industry sector in research projects must be encouraged since they play a fundamental role in technological innovation, developing concepts, ideas and the knowledge produced by scientific institutions. The education sector educates specialised human capital who participates then in innovation processes at universities and private companies. Universities and research centres develop most of the fundamental research and also contribute to applied research and technological development. This activity is funded by direct government contributions, government grants, private company funds and international resources. In Chile there are several public sector agencies in charge of executing Science, Technology and Innovation activities. Some of these are independent institutes and others are under the supervision and dependence of a Ministry. These agencies focus on research, development, transfer and dissemination of technologies in different areas such as agriculture, forestry, mining, fisheries, defence, and public healthcare. Among these agencies, there are two that are considered salient. The National Commission for Scientific and Technological Research (CONICYT) has positioned itself as an important agency, responsible for funding the education of human capital and strengthening the scientific and technological basis of the country. As a matter of fact, CONICYT is in charge of promoting the education of advanced human capital, disseminating scientific and technological research and strengthening the Chilean scientific and technological basis. CONICYT is an autonomous public institution which is part of the National Science, Technology and Innovation System and it is administratively related with the government through the Ministry of Education (MINEDUC). Furthermore, The Chilean Economic Development Agency (CORFO) is responsible for increasing competitiveness in Small and Medium Scale Enterprises through innovation and technological dissemination. With this main aim, CORFO supports entrepreneurship, technology transfer and


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innovation in SMEs. It also seeks to attract foreign investment, and supports the optimisation of procedures management. CORFO is part of the Ministry of Economy, Development and Tourism (MINECON). The key criteria for the division of work are as follows: 1.- CONICYT concentrates on the funding of human capital and the strengthening of the scientific and technological research. 2.- Complementing this, CORFO focuses on improving the competitiveness of companies, chiefly by enhancing innovation, entrepreneurship and technology transfer.

3.1. National institutional system for research, technology and innovation in Chile

In 2005, the National Council of Innovation and Competitiveness (CNIC) was created in order to propose guidelines for a National Innovation Strategy. Council members include high level authorities from the public, scientific, academic and private spheres. Taking into consideration the opinion of the academia, productive sector, regional representatives and the civil society, this Council integrates diverse visions in order to define national priorities for strategically-driven scientific activities, public policies and the development of an efficient National Innovation System. Following a recommendation of the Council, the Interministerial Committee for Innovation and Competitiveness was formed in 2007. It is integrated by representatives of seven ministries to serve as a counterpart of the Council and to implement public innovation policies for competitiveness. The Committee of Ministers defines the National Innovation Strategy after consideration of the recommendations drawn by the authorities from CONICYT and CORFO. The national system for research, technology and innovation has an institutional basis that can be illustrated as follows:


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By establishing an institutional system, the government intends to increase the level of coordination amidst participants in the different areas and optimise the use of financial sources and infrastructure. A large amount of the research CONICYT supports and funds corresponds to the areas of Environment and Energy due to their importance for the development of the country in general. It also funds areas related to Education and Health since these impact significantly the population’s quality of life. CONICYT also focuses on Chile’s unique natural conditions in order to develop research in the areas of (i.a.) Astronomy, Earth Sciences and Oceanography. It is in the country’s best interest to take the number of professionals working on science to a higher level, comparable to countries of similar size and productive profile which excel for their economic growth and innovation. In this sense, the National Innovation Strategy aims at educating advanced human capital that will contribute to the economic, social and human development of Chile. In 2009 the National Statistics Institute of Chile (INE) conducted the first national R&D survey which follows OECD standards. The 2012 survey presented that the national expenditure allocated for R&D in Chile was USD 1.230 million representing 0.5% of the Chilean Gross Domestic Product. In more advanced countries, a close relationship is observed between the level of development and the quality of life on the one hand, and the relevance that RTD has in public policies, on the other hand. Chile should therefore continue increasing its investment in science, technology and


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innovation for the forthcoming years. This country should also better involve the business sector in this effort. It is noticed that in countries that highly invest in RTD, the participation of the private productive sector is essential and reaches more than 60% of the total investment. The aforementioned survey revealed that the industry sector in Chile financed 41.3% of the expenditure in R&D during20109. According to the National Innovation Council for Competitiveness, Chile’s RTD expenditure should reach 2.3% of the GDP by 2020 and about half of the resources should be contributed by the private sector.

Public Funding – National Innovation System10

A key political factor in the planning and implementation of innovation programmes is the special emphasis on regional funding as this is an important tool to overcome centralism in Chile. Over recent years, governments’ innovation policies have proved successful in promoting the regionalisation of innovation processes. The first phase involved identifying potential and establishing regional agencies for productive development. This was followed by the establishment of a substantial capital fund (FIC Regional), which is available for the regions, to complement the public transfers. Between 2005 and 2009, regions (save for the Región Metropolitana) increased their contribution to the total expenditure for the system from 34% up

9 Sources: OECD RICYT; Encuesta I+D 2009-2010 (Chile)

10Source: Budget Office (DIPRES).

Note: Average peso/dollar exchange rate of last quarter: US$1= 469.19 Chilean pesos. Calculated in 2010 pesos


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to 54%. In 2010, the regions had more than US$50 million at their disposal to finance regional innovation strategies11. An additional important step towards decentralising innovation is pursued by the RED project, which aims to network innovation in the different regions. The project is part of the political programme of the Undersecretariat for Regional Development, which in practice functions as a ‘Ministry for the Regions’.

The RED project, “Networking Innovation in the Regions”, is a pathfinder project in Latin America supported by the EU and the State of Chile in conjunction with seven regional governments and national institutions. The aim of the project is to decentralise innovative capabilities which will contribute to the development of the regions together with local start-up companies and different regions of Europe. In turn, this will create a network of contacts, cooperation, innovation and knowledge. Furthermore, the programme also aims to establish connections with officials and executives in various institutions, as well as with the European Commission, the OECD, national institutions, and regional governments in France and Spain.

A further notable example of decentralisation is the ‘Innova Bio Bio’ programme, which came forward from a joint project run by the Bio Bio Regional Government, the Ministry of Economy and CORFO in 2011. Innova Bio Bio provides funding for innovation, technology transfer and technology capabilities in the Bio Bio region.

3.1.1. The role of the Ministry of Economy

Chile’s Ministry of Economy plays a vital role in the funding of industry’s innovation and other economic sectors. The government of Chile takes the view that innovation in all economic sectors is crucial if the competitiveness of the national economy is to be improved. This view is shared by all major business organisations in Chile. The Ministry of Economy is the principal public institution in the planning, financing and implementation of the government’s main funding programmes for R+D+I. This Ministry is in charge of the coordination of all the activities of relevant participants in the public sector in order to implement innovative policies formulated by the government with direct support from the National Innovation Council.

In order to put the political objectives of R+D+I into practice, a variety of funding programmes and instruments have been initiated or adopted from previous governments. Some of these have been updated. These programmes are implemented by the Ministry itself, or by participants such as CORFO and CONICYT.

11

Source: Política Nacional de Innovación. Memoria 2006–2010, p. 14, in: http://www.economia.gob.cl/areas-de-trabajo/subs-economia/innovacion/memoria-fic-2006-2010/


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3.1.1.1. The Innovation department of the Chilean Ministry of Economy

The Innovation department of the Ministry of Economy manages the Ministry’s innovation instruments and programmes. It is responsible for the coordination of public facilities connected to the implementation of plans and programmes contained in the innovation policy as defined by the Interministerial Committee for Innovation. In addition, the department assists the Minister of Economic and his/her Undersecretary on technical matters related to drafts, decisions, plans and programmes as defined by the Interministerial Committee for Innovation. The department is also responsible for the implementation of the Innovation Fund for Competitiveness (FIC).

3.1.1.2. Innovation Fund for Competitiveness

The Innovation Fund for Competitiveness was established in 2006 and acts as the most important instrument when it comes about the State’s endeavours in innovation with new or additional funding. By so doing, the Fund acts according to the seven strategic axes of innovation policy as defined by the Interministerial Committee for Innovation.

Appointed public agencies are in charge of disbursing money from the Innovation Fund to scientific research projects, innovation in business and entrepreneurs. The principal agencies are Innova Chile, CORFO and CONICYT, who collectively accounted for 93% of all expenditure in 2007. Moreover, a number of additional programmes are implemented by the Foundation for Agrarian Innovation (FIA), the Millennium Scientific Initiative and certain programmes by the Ministry of Education.

The various agencies are responsible for the allocation of capital from the Innovation Fund on the basis of regional, national, external and internal evaluation processes. Where the sum of the funds and the relevance of the initiative require it, an evaluation may be performed by foreign experts in some cases, being the final decision made by a committee of public and private participants and multi-sector representatives. Members of the committee are figures from public life.

Payments to the beneficiary are allocated according to the agreements and contracts, whose provisions include critical milestones and final/interim reports. Evaluation criteria for selecting projects include: innovation value, merits of the application, impact of the project, social returns, viability and quality of the proposal.

3.1.2. Agencies

Other instruments of the Chilean government are implemented by agencias ejecutoras. These are responsible for funding innovation and entrepreneurship. CORFO is the principal agency for productive development in the country, and CONICYT is in charge of the promotion, strengthening and dissemination of scientific and technological development through the education of human capital. The agencias ejecutivas also include the FIA and the Millennium Scientific Initiative, which funds research centres of excellence.


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CONICYT and FIA are described and analysed in more detail in other specific sections (see 3.1.3 and 3.1.4).

3.1.2.1. Economic Development Corporation - CORFO (www.corfo.cl)

The Corporación de Fomento de la Producción- CORFO was founded in 1939 and functions as the Chilean State body in charge of funding the support for productive activities. CORFO is tasked with the following points:

Strengthening R&D in the field of technology with significant economic impact and strong application across several productive sectors.

Promoting relations between companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, in order to enhance competition through cooperation.

Simplifying management modernisation in private companies so as to increase competitiveness in diverse markets.

Promoting access to finance opportunities and new financing instruments for new companies, exporters and companies with low production volumes.

CORFO provides support to innovative companies and R&D centres for the following objectives:

Launching an innovative business

Financing new companies

Transferring technology

Business innovation

Process optimisation

Developing business in an associative form

Investing in Chile and its regions

Improving the innovation infrastructure

Financing higher education

Performing audio-visual projects

3.1.2.1.1. Innova Chile

Innova Chile supports the funding of initiatives related to innovation and the transfer of technology. It coordinates the activities of different schemes within CORFO whose collaboration is crucial to the success of such initiatives. Innova Chile’s objectives include: promoting the values of entrepreneurship and innovation; supporting businesses with high economic and social impact; and ensuring the application of good innovation practices in companies and organisations.

Innova Chile supports local and international entrepreneurship, companies, universities and research centres, the government and NGOs in the following areas: innovative entrepreneurship, transfer of technology and good practices, improving the management of private and public innovation, integrating R&D into the market, creating infrastructure to facilitate and simplify


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innovations, and developing a culture that supports innovation and entrepreneurship. The latter should contribute towards a sustainable growth of the Chilean economy, which in turn, should generate wealth and a wider range of high quality employment opportunities.

Innova Chile supports projects in the following areas:

Biotechnology and energy

Information and communication technologies

Food industry

Mining, environment and infrastructure

Special-interest tourism

The following instruments support the entrepreneurial activities and investments in R+D+I:

Seed Fund for SMEs Entrepreneurship and Innovation Ecosystem Program Business Incubator Program Attraction of International R&D Centers of Excellence Research and Development Investment Tax Incentive12 Applied R&D Profile Competition Registry for Market and Intellectual Property Assessment Entities Intellectual Property Assessment and Protection High Technology Business Innovation Program Technology Consortiums for Innovation Development and Growth Fund Early Stage Fund

3.1.2.2.Millennium Scientific Initiative (ICM)

The Scientific Millennium Initiative started after a meeting convened by former president Eduardo Frei Ruiz-Tagle with foreigner experts and the World Bank in 1998. The meeting sought to devise and implement an innovative model aiming to include the country in the globalisation circuit linked to the field of research and technologies. Implementation of the programme was transferred to the Ministry of Planning in January 1999, thus merging the activities of the Ministries of Education, Economy, Agriculture and Mining plus other private and public bodies.

Later, the Scientific Millennium Initiative was transferred to the Ministry of Economy on 1 January 2011. It is now in the sphere of activity of this Ministry, and its primary objective is to fund the development of scientific and technological frontier research in Chile. The ICM provides finance for establishing and developing research centres (Millennium institutes and centres), which are assigned on the basis of their scientific merit and via open calls for proposals. Millennium

12 This is a law that rules the tax incentives to encourage companies to invest in R&D. The firm receives a tax credit for up to 35% of the expenditure related to contracts with research centres registered by CORFO. Tax benefits for the company can reach up to 46% of the total investment in R&D.


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institutes and centres conduct high-level scientific research in natural and pure sciences as well as in social sciences. This research focus on the development of four components: scientific and technological frontier research; educating young people; encouraging joint work in networks with other centres of excellence throughout the world; and projecting the successes of these centres.

Scientific institutes:

Scientific institutes are centres that include a director, a deputy director, around ten associated scientists and a similar number of senior academicians, young academicians, postgraduate students and postdoctoral students.

A Millennium institute receives funding for five years initially. Funding may be extended for five years ahead. Along with the respective budget availability, the extended funding is subject to continuous evaluation as well as a comprehensive review by the end of the five-year term.

Scientific centres:

Scientific centres include a chief scientist, a deputy chief scientist and two additional associate scientists, plus an appropriate number of senior scientists, young researchers, postgraduate students and postdoctoral students. Millennium centres receive funding for three years. After this initial three-year period, centres can apply for a one-off extension of three years. To that purpose, they have to compete with other new or follow-up applications, within an open call for proposals.

3.1.3. The Ministry of Agriculture and FIA

The Chilean Ministry of Agriculture is actively involved in the formulation and implementation of policy programmes in R+D+I along Chile through the Foundation for Agrarian Innovation (FIA), which has the role of a ministerial funding agency. The Foundation promotes a culture of innovation, supports related initiatives, formulates strategies and transfers information and results from innovative projects and programmes. The FIA is supported by specialists who help to identify and support the initiatives that are set off by the institutes.

In pursuit of these objectives, the FIA operates on four levels:

Technology: to understand the main trends in different industries.

Strategic development: to identify future axes for innovation in the agrarian/food and forestry industries.

Co-financing of innovation projects in the productive sector with a range of instruments and calls for proposals.

Supporting and developing marketing promotions by seminars, lectures, courses and continuing education workshops.


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The Foundation operates primarily by co-financing various initiatives, and organises calls for proposals open to innovation projects. It also develops complementary instruments on an annual basis: national and international mobility; consultancy and coordination of technical events.

The Foundation operates through the following calls:

Projects of Innovation: aims to increase, by means of innovation, the competitiveness and profitability of enterprises related to agro/food or forestry, regardless of their size.

Working visits of Innovation: these intend to better know novel solutions, in Chile or overseas, that provide a chance or handle a problem which have been clearly identified by stakeholders of the agro/food or forestry arena. By creating networks and links, this scheme seeks to implement innovative solutions in Chile.

Consultancies on innovation: it points to bring into Chile the applied knowledge needed to implement a novel solution regarding a problem that has been clearly identified by a group of firms in the agro/food or forestry sector.

Regional Calls for proposals: these are lines of support that FIA jointly coordinates with Regional Governments in order to strengthen specific initiatives in the local agro/food or forestry arena.

Thematic Calls for proposals: this scheme aims to increase, by means of innovation, the competitiveness and profitability of firms in specific targeted areas. For instance, previous calls have tackled issues related to water management, chains of production or horticulture.

Events on Innovation: this call supports the organisation of events enabling the exchange of innovative ideas, dissemination of successful solutions, knowledge and experiences that encourage enterprises to innovate.

3.1.4. The Ministry of Education and CONICYT

Dependent on the Ministry of Education, CONICYT is the Chilean principal authority for R+D+I. It was founded in 1967 as an advisory body to the President of the Republic regarding the matters related to scientific development. The two main pillars of CONICYT’s work (funding education of human capital and improving infrastructure for science and technology) are supported by specific funding programmes.

CONICYT Funding per Programme 2012 (total USD 467,4 MM)13

13

Source: DIPRES. Note: the budget is in Chilean Pesos CLP.


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CONICYT’s Budget Evolution14

14

Source: CONICYT Note: Average peso/dollar exchange rate of last quarter: US$1= 486.75 Chilean pesos,

Central Bank of Chile. Calculated in average USD 2012.

137 167 231

190

311

442 466 507

546

0

100

200

300

400

500

600MM USD


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CONICYT has been involved in every initiative to enhance science and technology in Chile for over 40 years. It also has consistently focused its efforts on the main objective of contributing to economic, social and cultural advancement. The development of human capital is currently being supported through an integrated policy of education, inclusion and attraction of outstanding scientists and academicians. In addition, CONICYT’s endeavours also support the development of a scientific culture in society, and particularly in schools. An overview about the main programmes of CONICYT is presented as follows.

3.1.4.1. Funding for the strengthening of the scientific and technological base.

a) FONDECYT programme – National Fund for Scientific and Technological Development

It is the country’s main public fund aiming to support and strengthen individual fundamental research. It funds research projects of excellence in all areas of knowledge and has produced a significant impact in the generation of a critical mass of researchers.

Programme Director: María Elena Boisier [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4471 Head of the calls unit: Erika Saavedra [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4487 Project coordinator: Eileen Raby [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4478

b) FONDEF programme –Scientific and Technological Development Fund

This funding scheme aims at promoting a relationship among research institutions and companies for the development of applied research projects, pre-competitive development and technology transfer. All projects must have a high socio-economic impact and be oriented to the creation or improvement of products, processes and services. Programme Director (a.i.): Victor Manríquez [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4544 Secretary: Alejandra Gajardo [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4544

c) FONDAP programme – Fund for Research Centres of Excellence

This funding scheme supports the establishment or strengthening of centres that work in research areas which are relevant for the country and where basic national science has reached a high development level. Besides promoting research of excellence, these centres are oriented towards the training of advanced human capital and collaborative networking. Programme Director: María Elena Boisier [email protected] (56-2) 2435 4327 Programme Coordinator: María Eugenia Camelio [email protected] (56-2) 2435 4325

d) PIA - Programme for Joint Research

This programme aims to promote the articulation and partnership between different groups of researchers and other national and/or international groups from the academy and/or the private and public sectors. PIA supports the strengthening of structured groups in research areas of excellence at national level, thus contributing to Chilean economy and competitiveness.


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Programme Director: Isabel Meneses [email protected] (56-2) 2435 4305 Assistant: Luis Gárate [email protected] (56-2) 2435 4308

e) Programme for the Regions This scheme supports units of scientific and technological development located in the regions all along Chile in order to promote decentralised research. Programme Director (a.i.): Claudio Bustamante [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4351 Secretary: Diana Pacheco [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4452

f) Astronomy Programme It seeks to support and strengthen the development of astronomy in Chile by providing grants in this field, managing observation time at telescopes in the northern Chile, and providing doctoral and post doctoral scholarships in astronomy. Astronomy Advisor: Mónica Rubio [email protected] (56-2) 2435 4409 Secretary: Paola Jarpa [email protected] (56-2) 2435 4345

g) FONIS Programme – National Fund for Research and Development in Healthcare

Its mission is to create greater technological and scientific development, which enable better public health decisions to be made by both the policy level, the clinical and the management level. In order to achieve its objective, this programme finances projects which contribute to the improvement of decision-making in health. FONIS’ beneficiaries are universities, research centres related to health, academicians or health-related personnel.

Programme Director: Ximena Luengo [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4604 Secretary: Tamara Sazo [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4678

3.1.4.2. Funding for the development of advanced human capital

In addition to the instruments above, important steps are being taken to uphold the development of advanced human capital in the long term. To this purpose, a number of specific budget are available during 2013: Programme Millions of US$

Educating advanced human capital 189,68 Attracting and integrating advanced human capital 9,2 EXPLORA 11,7


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a) Formation of Advanced Human Capital

This programme focuses its actions on supporting and strengthening the education of advanced human capital in every area of knowledge, either in Chile or abroad. In order to achieve its goals, this programme has several postgraduate and complementary scholarships. Programme Director: Denise Saint-Jean [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4608 Secretary: Marcia Castillo [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4616

b) PAI - Programme for attracting and integrating advanced human capital Its purpose is to increase the scientific, technological and academic capabilities of Chilean institutions working on science and technology, by attracting foreigner researchers and by inserting highly qualified professionals in the academia and the productive sector. Programme Director: Carmen Latorre [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4565 Assistant: Katiuska Farías [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4686

c) EXPLORA Programme EXPLORA seeks to create a culture of science and technology in the community- particularly among those who are at elementary and secondary school- through education and outreach activities. Programme Director: Mariano Rosenzvaig [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4571 Programme Deputy Director: Marianela Velasco [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4495

3.1.4.3. Cross-cutting Funding

The following two Programmes provide cross-cutting support to the two key components of CONICYT; strengthening human capital on one hand and improving the scientific and technological basis on the other:

a) International Relations Programme It is in charge of promoting and supporting the integration of the Chilean and international scientific community, based on scientific excellence, mutual benefits, and common interests. It has different collaboration schemes within the framework of S&T cooperation agreements with foreign agencies. Programme Director (a.i.): Gonzalo Arenas [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4421 International Relations Coordinator: María Mesonero [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4423 International Cooperation Coordinator: Rodrigo Monsalve [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4427


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Secretary: Ingrid Tapia [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4421

b) Scientific Information Programme Its purpose is to strengthen and ensure access to national and international scientific information for research, education, and innovation. This programme is a benchmark point for the management of scientific information in Chile. Programme Director: Patricia Muñoz [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4451 Secretary: Andrea Yáñez [email protected] (56-2) 2365 4451

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